Romania and Bulgaria to join Schengen Area on New Year’s day

On January 1, 2025, Romania and Bulgaria will officially join the Schengen Area, marking a historic moment in their European integration journey. The two countries will eliminate border controls at their shared land borders, ensuring the free movement of people and goods within the 31-member passport-free zone.

The decision follows a decade-long effort, beginning in 2011 when the European Commission first deemed both nations ready for accession. The final approval came in December 2024, after overcoming years of opposition from some EU members, including Austria and the Netherlands, over concerns related to irregular migration.

While border checks at air and sea points were lifted earlier in 2024, the removal of land border controls promises to significantly ease travel and trade. Romanians and Bulgarians are celebrating the decision, as it eliminates long queues at over 30 land crossing points between the two nations. This development is expected to save time for travelers and reduce delays for goods transporters, who have faced substantial losses due to border wait times.

The Schengen Area, one of the EU’s most visible successes, currently spans 29 countries and covers nearly 450 million people. With the addition of Romania and Bulgaria, the region will further expand its footprint, fostering greater connectivity and economic cooperation across Europe.