Romania and Bulgaria will become full members of the Schengen Area in January 2025. The EU announced on Thursday that this expansion will increase the number of countries in Europe’s free-travel zone to 29.
Romania and Bulgaria, both EU and NATO members, partially joined the Schengen Area in March following a preliminary agreement with Austria. This agreement allowed for lifting air and maritime checks but required further negotiations concerning land border entry.
After prolonged discussions and improvements in border management, Austria has removed its veto for the Schengen membership, originally placed due to concerns over illegal immigration. Starting on January 1, 2025, this change will eliminate checks at the land borders with Bulgaria and Romania.
Impact of Schengen’s Full Membership
Including these two countries in the Schengen Area is expected to bring substantial benefits. According to Hungarian Interior Minister Sandor Pinter, this development will positively affect the citizens of Bulgaria, Romania and the European Union.
Romania’s President Klaus Iohannis highlighted that joining Schengen will significantly reduce time spent at borders and lower logistics costs for companies, making Romania more appealing to foreign investors. He emphasized that the advantages of joining the free-travel area extend across multiple dimensions, positively impacting citizens, the economy, and the country’s international reputation.
Romania and Bulgaria officially join the Schengen area after Austria lifts its long-standing veto over concerns about migration and border security pic.twitter.com/nYJnPpxDL0
— TRT World Now (@TRTWorldNow) December 12, 2024Read: Bank Statement Requirement for Pakistanis For Greece Schengen Visa 2024
Despite the Schengen Area’s principle of free movement, some member states, such as Germany and the Netherlands, have recently increased controls to address illegal immigration. These measures reflect ongoing challenges within the zone that require balanced solutions to maintain security and freedom of movement.
Romania and Bulgaria’s full Schengen membership marks a critical step towards greater integration and cooperation within the EU. It promises enhanced mobility for individuals and economic opportunities for businesses, reinforcing the principles of unity and mutual benefit among member states.
