Roam Like at Home (RLAH) allows consumers to use mobile services while periodically travelling within the EU/EEA without additional roaming charges. The current framework safeguards these benefits while protecting competition and sustainability in domestic markets.

In its draft report of 20 October 2026, the European Parliament’s Committee on Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE) proposes removing permanent roaming as a ground for existing safeguards and further reducing wholesale data roaming caps. BEREC considers that such changes require careful assessment of their potential impact on competition, consumers and network investment.

Current framework remains relevant

In its 2025 Opinion, BEREC concluded that the current framework including the relevant retail and wholesale provisions remain relevant. These safeguards help prevent abusive usage, including permanent roaming, while ensuring consumers benefit from RLAH during periodic travel.

Potential risks for competition and investment

BEREC warns that weakening safeguards could encourage cross-border arbitrage due to differences in national prices and costs. This could distort domestic competition, increase retail prices, reduce data allowances or discourage network investment, potentially affecting network quality. Although no such effects have been identified under the current framework, BEREC stresses the need to assess these risks.

Next steps

BEREC is working with the European Commission on its interim review of the Roaming Regulation, due by 30 June 2027, which may lead to legislative amendments. BEREC will publish an Opinion in the first quarter of 2027 to support an evidence-based evaluation of the current framework and possible changes.