Romania and Bulgaria Join Schengen Area
The border-free Schengen Area in Europe expands as Romania and Bulgaria are set to become members, following an agreement by EU member states. Austria withdraws its opposition, paving the way for unrestricted movement within the bloc.
In a significant development for European integration, EU countries have reached an agreement to include Romania and Bulgaria in the Schengen Area, according to an announcement made on the X platform by the Spanish presidency. The decision entails lifting border controls at internal air and sea borders by the end of March 2024, with a later decision expected regarding land borders.
The Schengen Area aims to facilitate the free movement of people across Europe. Prior to this expansion, 23 of the 27 EU member countries, along with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland, were already part of the Schengen Area.
The foreign ministers of both Romania and Bulgaria expressed their delight about the decision on the X platform. Romanian Foreign Minister Luminita Odobescu highlighted the positive outcome for Romanian citizens while extending gratitude to EU partners and institutions for their support. Odobescu reiterated Romania’s commitment to a strong and secure Schengen Area. Bulgarian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Maria Gabriel also emphasized that the inclusion of Bulgaria and Romania would fortify the Schengen Area.
Previously, Austria had opposed the inclusion of Romania and Bulgaria in the Schengen Area due to concerns about unregistered migrants. However, the Austrian government withdrew its opposition, allowing for a unanimous decision on the matter. Romania and Bulgaria have been awaiting this decision since 2011.
The European Commission in Brussels welcomed the decision and highlighted the benefits it will bring, such as promoting travel, trade, tourism, and reinforcing the internal market. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described this as an important step forward for both countries and the Schengen Area as a whole. She emphasized that all EU member states would become full members of the Schengen Area when they meet the necessary requirements, considering it both a right and an obligation.
One of the lingering concerns regarding Romania and Bulgaria’s inclusion in the Schengen Area has been related to corruption and organized crime. However, in September, the European Commission officially ended the special surveillance on these countries’ justice and legal systems, affirming their readiness for membership. Both countries joined the EU in 2007.
The German Foreign Office congratulated Romania and Bulgaria on this milestone, noting that Europe is moving closer together. In the near future, internal border controls at air and sea borders with both countries will be lifted, with ongoing efforts to achieve the same for land borders, further facilitating travel and integration within the European Union.