Bulgaria and Romania Join Schengen – Introduction
Bulgaria and Romania have officially joined the Schengen Area, removing internal air and sea border checks on March 31, marking a significant milestone after a 13-year long journey.
This expansion increases the number of Schengen states to 29, with 25 being EU members, enhancing the freedom of movement for millions and strengthening the bond within the European community.
What will change?
While land border controls between these countries and the rest of the Schengen Area will persist until further decisions are made, expected before the end of 2024, the removal of air and sea checks represents a historic moment for both nations and the Schengen Area at large.
This change means that travelers flying from Bulgaria and Romania will now enjoy seamless borderless travel to other Schengen countries, embodying the EU’s principle of free movement.
The European Union’s institutions and officials have hailed this achievement as a testament to Bulgaria and Romania’s commitment to European integration.
Margaritis Schinas, Vice-President for Promoting our European Way of Life, emphasized that the enlargement of the Schengen Zone not only strengthens it but also makes the common area more attractive, benefiting the internal market, economies, and European citizens everywhere.
The first stage of accession, focusing on air and sea borders, comes after Austria lifted its veto last year, proposing a gradual integration into the Schengen Zone.
Both Bulgaria and Romania, with the support of other Member States, have implemented the necessary measures to align with Schengen regulations as of March 31.
New Rules for Travelers
With the accession, travelers to Bulgaria and Romania will notice several changes. Notably, border checks will no longer be required for air travel within the Schengen Area, and Schengen visas obtained through consulates of these countries will be valid for travel across the entire zone.
Additionally, stays in Bulgaria and Romania will count towards the total number of days allowed in the Schengen Area, and short-stay visas issued by Cyprus will no longer grant entry into the two countries.
The Future of Land Border Controls
The European Commission, alongside Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson, has committed to prioritizing the removal of internal land border controls.
Johansson expressed pride in the efforts made by Romania and Bulgaria and looks forward to the next step of lifting land border checks.
The Council is currently deliberating on this matter, with a decision anticipated within the year.
Bulgaria and Romania Join Schengen – Conclusion
The integration of Bulgaria and Romania into the Schengen Area symbolizes a momentous step towards deeper European integration and cooperation.
It reinforces the Schengen Zone as a cornerstone of the European way of life, ensuring the free movement of people across the continent.
As the Schengen Area grows, it continues to foster unity, economic growth, and mutual understanding among its Member States.
Final thoughts
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