Schengen visa holders can now explore two more countries in Europe; find out details here

As previously reported, border controls were lifted for air and sea travel, while the two Balkan countries that joined the European Union in 2007 were granted partial membership in the Schengen Area in March 2023. However, due to worries about illegal migration, especially those expressed by Austria, which had banned their entry into the zone, there were restrictions at land borders.
Recent discussions in Budapest involving Austria, Bulgaria, Hungary, and Romania’s interior ministers have led to Austria lifting its opposition. This breakthrough allows for a final decision to be made by EU interior ministers in December 2024.

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A step closer to full Schengen membership

Romania and Bulgaria are now “one step closer” to joining Schengen as full members, according to Hungarian Interior Minister Sándor Pintér. The deployment of at least 100 border guards along the Bulgaria-Turkey border to improve migratory control is a crucial need for this advancement. EU authorities, notably European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson, have mostly praised the action. Romania and Bulgaria now “fully belong” to the Schengen Area, according to Johansson, who hailed the move as a step towards complete freedom for the people of both countries.

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Significance of Schengen expansion

The Schengen Area, which currently consists of 23 of the 27 EU member states as well as Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein, facilitates simple borderless travel. Its advantages for free movement help millions of travellers every day.

The full integration of Romania and Bulgaria will enhance the Schengen Area’s accessibility and strengthen its external borders. This expansion signifies a growing sense of unity within the European Union and highlights the progress Romania and Bulgaria have made in addressing migration and security concerns.

What it means for travellers

Travelling across borders will be easier for visitors now that Romania and Bulgaria are part of the Schengen Area. Lower administrative barriers will benefit enterprises and tourists, and these countries’ inhabitants will have greater mobility.

With this development, the Schengen Area is moving toward its goal of creating a more interconnected and cohesive Europe as Romania and Bulgaria are ready for full integration. Travellers can anticipate a more uniform and accessible Schengen experience beginning in January 2025.