Schengen expands: Romania and Bulgaria fully join Europe’s borderless travel zone
The Schengen Area now encompasses 25 member countries, free movement for 425m citizens
As of January 1, 2025, Romania and Bulgaria have officially become full members of the European Union’s Schengen Area, bringing to a close nearly two decades of anticipation and diplomatic negotiations.
The historic moment was marked by fireworks and celebratory ceremonies at key border crossings, such as the Friendship Bridge that connects the two nations.
With this move, internal border checks between Romania, Bulgaria, and the rest of the Schengen Zone have been lifted, resulting in a seamless travel experience across 25 of the EU’s 27 member states.
A warm welcome to Bulgaria and Romania as full Schengen members! ???????? ????????
— EU Council (@EUCouncil) January 2, 2025
Bulgarians and Romanians can now enjoy the freedom to move within the Schengen area.
This step benefits not only Bulgarian and Romanian citizens, but the EU as a whole. pic.twitter.com/htTa3Yh0XP
The Schengen Area expands
The journey to full Schengen membership for Romania and Bulgaria has been anything but swift.
Romania and Bulgaria first applied for Schengen accession in 2005, two years before they joined the EU in 2007. While the European Commission declared them ready for membership in 2011, their full integration was delayed by political opposition, notably from Austria. For years, Austria maintained a veto, citing concerns over irregular migration management.
However, in December 2024, Austria lifted its objections, allowing the final step towards integration. This decision came with conditions. Both Romania and Bulgaria committed to maintaining strict anti-migration measures, particularly along their borders, to prevent illegal migration into the broader Schengen Area.
Today marks both the 18th anniversary since we became EUMS & our full accession to Schengen. The European integration process has deeply transformed our country and society. It is up to us to protect what has been achieved & to foster the development of our European journey!
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Romania ???????? (@MAERomania) January 1, 2025
Migration and security measures
As part of the transition to full membership, Romania and Bulgaria will continue conducting border checks for at least another six months. These checks are meant to ensure smooth integration and mitigate any shifts in migration patterns, particularly in light of concerns over border security. While these measures are unlikely to disrupt the general flow of travellers, they serve as a precautionary step to ensure that the Schengen Area’s security is not compromised.
Although the Schengen Area now boasts 25 EU members, migration remains a prominent issue. The zone, which spans 29 countries, including non-EU members like Norway and Switzerland, is the world’s largest area for unrestricted travel.
Hungary’s key role
Hungary, under its EU presidency, played a pivotal role in pushing for Romania and Bulgaria’s full integration into the Schengen Area. The country prioritised Schengen expansion during its term, facilitating the necessary diplomatic efforts to resolve the long-standing issue.
While challenges remain, especially regarding migration, Romania and Bulgaria’s entry into the Schengen Area enhances the free movement of over 425 million EU citizens, as well as non-EU nationals visiting or living within the EU. It further strengthens the EU’s position as a unified region where citizens can move, work, and live across borders without passport checks.