On 14 October, the Council of the European Union has adopted two new directives, one establishing the European Disability Card and the other broadening the European parking card for persons with disabilities to all EU countries. The Cards aim to ensure equal access to special conditions or preferential treatment for persons with disabilities during short stays throughout the EU, for example, reduced or zero entry fees, priority access, assistance and reserved parking spaces. The directive extends these provisions to non-EU citizens who legally reside in EU countries, meaning they will also be able to use these cards during short-term stays in other member states. National authorities will be responsible for issuing physical and digital European disability cards in an accessible format. The cards will be recognised throughout the EU as proof of disability or entitlement to specific services based on a disability. The European parking cards for persons with disabilities will be produced in physical format, with member states having the option to also issue them in digital format. The directives will be signed by both the Council and the European Parliament and will enter into force following publication in the EU’s Official Journal. Member states will have two and a half years to adapt their national legislation and three and a half years to apply the measures. Further details on the Cards are available at:
