Simpler rules and more support for farmers

The changes focus mainly on simplifying the obligations that farmers have to fulfil in order to be eligible for EU support. One of the key steps is the principle of "one check per year" - farmers will no longer face repeated checks within a year, which should significantly reduce the administrative burden.

Support for small farms is also strengthened. They will be able to benefit from up to €3,000 a year in direct support, plus a one-off business development grant of up to €75,000. The aim is to help smaller farmers remain economically viable, especially at a time of rising costs.

The environmental rules are also affected. Agricultural land that was registered as arable at the start of 2026 will retain this status even if it is not ploughed again each year. This is to protect biodiversity and save farmers costs and labour.

In addition, farmers in organic farming will automatically be considered as meeting the requirements for good agricultural and environmental condition of the land. However, Member States can limit this exemption if controls would impose too great an administrative burden.

The approved changes are now awaiting formal confirmation by Member States. Once in force, they are intended to bring more practical rules that better reflect the reality of European farmers' daily work.