The European Parliament has voted to end roaming charges in all EU member states by the end of 2015.

Narem Shaam, CEO of GoEuro, said: “This is a positive step towards a EU with fewer barriers. The next step is a simplified, united transportation network- a goal we are striving for.”

From December 2015, it will be illegal for telecom companies to charge customers more when they use their phone outside their home country. The vote supports the ‘Connected Continent’ regulation proposed in September 2013, which aims to create a single market for telecoms in European Union.

The announcement was well received by companies in the travel sector, as it will allow European travellers to use their mobile phones without fear of being charged exorbitant roaming fees. It also paves the way for ending other barriers still in place between EU member states, like the strict regulations currently in place for transport providers expanding to other countries.

European Commission Vice President Neelie Kroes said: “This vote is the EU delivering for citizens. This is what the EU is all about – getting rid of barriers to make life easier and less expensive.”