Starting 1 January 2025, Romania and Bulgaria will become full members of the Schengen Area.
The European Commission highlighted this vital step for the two countries and the European Union (EU) in a news release.
“This not only strengthens the Schengen area, but it will further strengthen the internal market, increase travel, trade, and tourism,” the EU Commission stated.
The Commission stressed that a strong Schengen Area enhances the EU’s unity and strength globally.
Romania and Bulgaria’s full Schengen membership comes after Austria finally lifted its long-standing veto.
This cleared the way for the two countries to enter Europe’s border-free travel zone completely.
Austria lifts veto, paving the way for integration
Austria had previously blocked Romania and Bulgaria’s full accession to Schengen, citing concerns over irregular migration along the Balkan route.
Austrian Interior Minister Gerhard Karner recently explained the rationale behind lifting the veto.
“We can take the next step at the EU (Justice and Home Affairs) Council. Without this veto, this massive reduction in illegal border crossings would not have happened,” he said.
The change follows Romania and Bulgaria’s progress in enhancing border security, leading to a significant drop in unauthorized entries.
According to Austrian reports, illegal crossings into Austria via Hungary fell from 70,000 in 2023 to just 4,000 this year.
The decision is a testament to Romania and Bulgaria’s commitment to meeting EU standards.
It also marks a shift in Austria’s stance, allowing the expansion of Schengen to its southeastern neighbors after years of delays.
Romania and Bulgaria’s path to Schengen
Romania and Bulgaria joined the EU in 2007 and have worked toward full Schengen membership ever since.
Both countries achieved partial membership in March 2024, eliminating border controls for air and sea travel.
However, land borders remained subject to checks due to objections from Austria and a few other EU states.
These objections were rooted in concerns about irregular migration and border management capabilities.
Over the years, Romania and Bulgaria implemented extensive reforms, upgraded border security infrastructure, and collaborated with EU agencies like Frontex.
Their efforts eventually won the trust of Austria and other Member States, paving the way for full membership.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen welcomed the decision, calling it “a day of joy” for all Europeans and businesses.
She added, “Together, we will reap the benefits of a stronger and more connected Union.”
Travel and economic benefits for Europe
The full inclusion of Romania and Bulgaria expands the Schengen Area to 29 countries, stretching from Scandinavia to the Black Sea.
Removing land border checks will save time and make passport-free movement between its 29 Member Countries more seamless.
For instance, road trips between Bucharest and Budapest or Sofia and Vienna will no longer involve lengthy stops at checkpoints.
This makes multi-country trips in the EU more convenient for tourism, business, or family visits.
Improved mobility is expected to boost tourism in Romania and Bulgaria, which are famous for their natural beauty, historical landmarks, and affordability.
Businesses in Romania and Bulgaria, especially in logistics and trade, will benefit from faster transport and reduced costs.
By eliminating land border checks, goods can move more efficiently across EU markets, making both countries more competitive.
Balancing free movement and security
While Schengen membership emphasizes free movement, it also requires robust external border security.
Romania and Bulgaria will now take on greater responsibility for safeguarding the EU’s southeastern borders.
Both countries will strengthen their collaboration on European initiatives to enhance security at the EU’s external borders and address migration issues.
They have significantly invested in surveillance systems and modernized border crossings.
The two countries are also building on successfully implementing the pilot projects for fast asylum and return procedures.
Additionally, the Commission will continue to provide financial assistance and Frontex support to both Member States.
This dual focus on mobility and security is a cornerstone of the Schengen Area’s success.
Complying with EU visa rules for visits to Romania and Bulgaria
Romania and Bulgaria started issuing short-stay Schengen visas in April 2024, a month after air and sea borders were eliminated.
Non-EU citizens and residents must comply with the Schengen Area rules when visiting Romania and Bulgaria.
Their stays in these two countries will be counted as part of the 90-day visa allowance within any 180-day period for short stays.
In 2025, the EU will launch two new border check systems, the Entry/Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).
The EES will require non-EU travelers to submit biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial scans, upon entering and exiting the Schengen Area.
It will replace manual passport stamping to more accurately track travelers and detect overstays in the bloc.
ETIAS, on the other hand, will require non-EU travelers, including those from the UK, to complete an online pre-travel authorization.
This system applies to all Schengen countries and aims to improve security while maintaining ease of travel.
Travelers are advised to stay updated on the latest regulations and when they would apply to avoid delays and disruptions.