EU Roaming Remains Beneficial for Consumers and Sustainable for Operators
The European Commission has published the first review of the functioning of the "Roam-like-at-Home" (RLAH) regime — allowing mobile phone users to use services within the EU at no extra cost — since the updated Regulation was adopted in 2022.
Key findings of the review:
- Tangible benefits for consumers – since 2017, mobile data usage while roaming has significantly increased, confirming the practical value of RLAH.
- Stable prices – despite growing demand, RLAH has not led to an increase in domestic mobile tariffs for users.
- Competition and fair conditions – the RLAH regulation is functioning effectively, ensuring a level playing field for mobile operators.
- Geographic expansion – the EU is working to extend the RLAH regime to new countries, including Ukraine.
The RLAH framework holds strategic importance for Ukraine, which is actively pursuing integration with the EU. The review confirmed that Ukraine’s participation in this regulatory framework does not harm the market — on the contrary, it supports market development and reduces financial burdens on consumers.
On 17 June 2025, the European Commission completed its assessment of Ukraine’s roaming legislation and recommended granting Ukraine access to the EU internal market regime. A decision by the EU Council on this matter is pending.
Background:
Since June 2017, EU citizens have been able to use their mobile phones across the EU under the same conditions as at home — thanks to the “Roam-like-at-Home” (RLAH) regime.
In 2022, the regime was renewed and extended until 2032. The new rules include:
- improved quality of mobile services while roaming,
- better access to emergency communications and value-added services,
- notifications about satellite network connections to avoid unexpected charges.
Wholesale caps are also gradually decreasing and will remain in effect until 2027.
The review published in June 2025 was prepared in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2022/612 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 6 April 2022.