Grid reinforcement and expansion are essential to accommodate increasing shares of variable renewable energy sources (VRES), but investment lead times may not align with the rapid deployment of distributed photovoltaic (PV) generation. This paper examines whether Distribution System Operators (DSOs) can increase grid hosting capacity through improved connection-study practices and operational measures, in addition to conventional reinforcement. A questionnaire covering voltage assumptions, connection studies, technical solutions, cost allocation and network planning was answered by 13 distribution system operators or national experts from 11 countries. The results reveal substantial differences in the voltage headroom reserved for photovoltaic connections to low-voltage networks, ranging from 1% to 6%, as well as in the use of measured voltage data, reactive-power control, curtailment, smart transformers, storage and demand-side management. Simplified connection-study thresholds also vary significantly across jurisdictions. The comparison indicates that conservative static assumptions can materially restrict photovoltaic hosting capacity, while measured data and more adaptive technical criteria may enable additional connections without immediate grid reinforcement. Greater transparency, common metrics and comparative assessment of connection practices could support more efficient and proportionate integration of distributed renewable generation.