The European Union is in the process of creating a system designed to assist those with disabilities to travel more smoothly between EU member countries. The voluntary system will mean that a disability status can be mutually recognized in different countries.
What Exactly is an EU Disability Card?
For over a decade, the development of an EU card that proves disability outside of one’s member state has been advocated for. The project began under the name “European Mobility Card” but when the European Commission launched their own pilot project it was renamed to the “European Disability Card.”
The pilot project ran between 2016 and 2019 in eight member states including:
- Belgium
- Cyprus
- Estonia
- Finland
- Italy
- Malta
- Romania
- Slovenia
During this time, the waters were tested. The project made it voluntary to request a card, which was designed to ensure free and equal access to the benefits of disabled people across borders. This applies to spheres such as leisure, culture, transport and sport.
What Can You Use an EU Disability Card For?
The primary objective of the card is to assist with the recognition of any given disability status when traveling to another member state. This is mainly helpful to those who are temporarily abroad like students, interns or tourists.
For those who have moved abroad permanently, the regulations of the new member state are applicable. Within the pilot project, the EU Disability card permits those traveling with disabilities to benefit from discounts on leisure, culture, transport and sport in the same way as locals would.
The Disabled Rights Strategy: Future of the EU Disability Card
After the completion of the pilot project, an evaluation study was conducted by the European Commission. Results indicated a positive response to the widening of the project to each and every member state.
In March 2021, among the flagship initiatives proposed was the European Disability Card. The commission has committed to delivering the card within all member states before the end of 2023.
Who is Eligible to Apply for an EU Disability Card?
The EU disability card doesn’t change any national eligibility rules or criteria. Member states maintain their ability to decide who qualifies for the card in accordance with the national description of disability. That being said, anyone with either a psychological, intellectual, sensory or physical impairment may apply for the card.
What is the Procedure to Get the Document: What Documents Do You Need?
According to the Commission for the Rights of Persons with Disability you can apply to get the document right here online. Alternatively, you can download the application here. You will need to fill out your personal details, and have a doctor sign the medical certificate section. You will also need a certified passport photograph.
How Long Does it Take to Get the Document?
After submitting an application it typically takes around four weeks for the EU disability card to arrive at your doorstep.
How Much Does it Cost to Get the Document?
The EU disability card is free. In the event of theft or loss you may benefit from a duplicate being issued only once.
For How Long is the Document Valid?
The EU disability card is valid for five years. At the end of this period a person must apply for a whole new card from the relevant authorities.
