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The European Parliament on Wednesday almost unanimously approved the introduction of a European disability card and an improved European parking card for people with disabilities.
Wednesday, April 24, 2024 at 3:02 PM
Holders of such cards, just like their companions and any assistance animals, will have access to almost all facilities that holders of national cards can also use, such as free or priority access and reserved parking spaces. However, the new rules will only apply to short stays abroad.
The European Disability Card will be delivered in physical format and, if possible, also in digital format. The card will be free and will also be renewed free of charge. Persons with disabilities who need more assistance or who are entitled to a personal assistant can add a letter ‘A’ to their card.
The parking card for people with disabilities will then be delivered in physical format. EU countries are encouraged to also issue the card in digital format and will be allowed to charge administrative costs.
The intention is that both cards will be issued within 90 days of application, unless medical checks are required that take more time.
Approval
The new rules were approved by 613 MPs, with 7 votes in favor and 11 abstentions. It is now up to the Council (the Member States) to formally ratify the text.
Belgium has been participating in a European pilot project since 2017, together with Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, Italy, Malta, Slovenia and Romania, which is now being expanded to the entire EU. “Since January 1, 2024, the European Disability Card (EDC) has been automatically issued in our country with every new recognition of a disability. It currently offers more than 700 benefits to 190,000 people through 500 partners,” says Minister Karine Lalieux of Social Integration, responsible for Persons with Disabilities. “Because the card is now recognized in all 27 Member States, these benefits will also be available to European tourists with disabilities in the future.”