Bulgaria and Romania joined Europe’s Schengen area of free movement on March 31, 2024, joining the rest of Europe travelling freely by air and sea without border checks.
The implementation of Schengen rules in both Member States means that issuing Schengen visas and controls at internal air and sea borders will be lifted, aligning them with the rest of Europe.
The European Commission warmly welcomed this achievement, following the landmark Council decision in December 2023. The inclusion of Bulgaria and Romania in the Schengen area expands the world’s largest common area without internal border controls, making it more attractive for travellers.
In preparation for their Schengen accession, both Member States have undertaken necessary measures since December to ensure a smooth transition. Cooperation Frameworks established earlier in March by the Commission, alongside Bulgaria and Romania, aim to strengthen border and migration cooperation, as well as enhance security efforts at EU external borders.
Additionally, a regional initiative on police cooperation has been set up among Member States along the Western Balkan and Eastern Mediterranean routes, including Bulgaria and Romania. This initiative aims to address cross-border crime challenges jointly and sustainably.
Bulgaria and Romania have consistently demonstrated their commitment to protecting EU external borders and enhancing internal security within the Schengen area.
The next steps involve the Council deciding on a date for lifting checks at internal land borders between Bulgaria, Romania, and other Schengen countries. The Commission pledges continued support to ensure this decision can be made in 2024.
Background
Since 2011, the Commission has confirmed Bulgaria and Romania’s compliance with Schengen requirements, actively supporting their integration into the area. The Schengen area’s establishment, beginning in 1985 with five Member States, has grown into the largest free movement area globally, benefiting Europe’s economy and citizens alike.
This development marks a significant step forward in the European Union’s commitment to fostering unity, cooperation, and mobility across its Member States.
