The European Union has decided to fully admit Romania and Bulgaria into the Schengen Area. Starting January 1st, 2025, land border controls with these countries will end.
This step, delayed by political and migration issues, will strengthen and expand the Schengen Zone.
Austria, Netherlands lift objections
Romania and Bulgaria faced many hurdles on their way to joining the Schengen Area.
Austria and the Netherlands had blocked their entry, citing issues with irregular migration and border security. Recent changes, including stronger border controls and fewer migrants traveling through the Western Balkans, led Austria to remove its veto.
Bulgaria and Romania’s efforts to fight organized crime and improve border security were key to this progress.
“Romania and Bulgaria have fulfilled all the necessary criteria, and their inclusion strengthens the Schengen zone,” remarked Ylva Johansson, EU Commissioner for Home Affairs, in Budapest on November 22nd, 2024.
A milestone decision in Budapest
The breakthrough occurred during a meeting of interior ministers from Austria, Hungary, Bulgaria, and Romania in Budapest. Hungary, which currently holds the EU presidency, led the talks.
Officials reported a 40% drop in migration pressures in the region and highlighted new measures to strengthen external borders, including joint personnel at the Bulgarian-Turkish border.
Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán praised the agreement as a result of EU cooperation.
“After 13 years of waiting, Romania will achieve full Schengen membership by the end of the year,” Ciolacu stated.
Border policy shifts
Joining the Schengen Area will make travel and trade easier for Romanian and Bulgarian citizens and businesses.
Removing land border controls will speed up the movement of goods and people, cutting delays that have disrupted supply chains and economic activity.
Prime Minister Ciolacu highlighted the economic advantages, stating, “Romanian growth will be boosted with full accession.”
Tourism is expected to grow as simpler cross-border travel attracts more visitors from neighboring countries. Bulgarians and Romanians will also gain the same travel freedoms as other Schengen residents, strengthening EU unity.
Travel, migration changes impacting Schengen
This decision comes as the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is about to launch.
Soon, non-EU travelers to the Schengen Zone will need prior authorization, improving security across the region. Migrants and visitors will benefit from faster border crossings, reducing delays at Romanian and Bulgarian land borders.
In the long run, Romania and Bulgaria’s Schengen membership shows that meeting strict requirements brings real benefits. It also highlights the EU’s dedication to inclusivity and integration.
Impact on EU immigration policies
This decision could mark a shift in EU immigration policies. By recognizing Romania and Bulgaria’s improvements in border management, the EU highlights the value of cooperation and shared responsibility in managing migration.
Enhanced monitoring of external borders, backed by Austria and Germany, shows a united effort to improve regional security.
The decision also strengthens the EU’s ability to address migration challenges as a group. It reinforces external border controls while keeping internal borders open, ensuring the Schengen zone remains stable and effective.
A new chapter for Schengen
With Romania and Bulgaria joining in January 2025, the Schengen Area will grow to 30 countries, improving its efficiency and strengthening its role in European unity and mobility.
This expansion shows the EU’s ability to adapt and evolve. European Parliament President Roberta Metsola said, “A stronger Schengen means a stronger Europe.” This milestone highlights the importance of collaboration, integration, and trust within the EU.