On 1 October 2026, the European Commission opened a call for evidence on the possible introduction of common European training and certification standards for fishers working on vessels from EU Member States.
Member States currently apply different training and certification rules. Recognition of qualifications across borders can therefore be complex, making recruitment and crew mobility more difficult.
Common standards aim to improve safety on fishing vessels and make professional certificates easier to recognise. Future rules could affect fishers, vessel owners, employers and training institutions.
The call for evidence is open until 29 October 2026. A public consultation will follow, while a possible legislative proposal is planned for the first quarter of 2028. The initiative is therefore still at a preparatory stage.
The fishing sector can already provide the Commission with evidence on certificate recognition, labour shortages, training costs and the particular needs of smaller fishing businesses.