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Romania and Bulgaria Attain Full Membership in the Schengen Border-Free Zone.

International | Dated: 04 Jan 2025

On January 1, 2025, Romania and Bulgaria officially joined the European Union (EU)-led Schengen free-travel zone as full members. This milestone follows the approval granted by EU ministers during a meeting on December 12, 2024.

🎯 Key Highlights:

  • - The inclusion of Romania and Bulgaria expands the Schengen area to 29 European countries, enabling residents to travel without passport checks.
  • - This marks the end of a 13-year wait for both Eastern European nations.

💡 Other Important Facts:

  • (i) Bulgaria and Romania successfully completed the Schengen evaluation process outlined in their Accession Treaties, implementing all necessary measures to apply the Schengen acquis. In 2011, the European Commission (EC) confirmed that both countries had met the technical requirements for full accession. Austria further supported their full accession to the Schengen area in 2022.
  • (ii) Both Romania and Bulgaria, EU members since 2007, had partially integrated into the Schengen zone on March 31, 2024, enabling air and sea travel without border checks. In December 2024, Austria lifted its veto, clearing the path for both nations to achieve full membership in the Schengen area.
  • (iii) The Schengen Area, the world's largest free travel zone, includes 25 EU countries (excluding Ireland and Cyprus) and 4 EFTA (European Free Trade Association) nations. Established by the Schengen Agreement in 1985, it enables borderless travel. Croatia joined as a full member in 2023.

📚 Test Your Knowledge:

Recently Which country, along with Bulgaria, became a full member of the Schengen Border-Free Zone on January 1, 2025?

Correct Answer: Romania

🚀 Quick Recap:

About Bulgaria

  • Capital : Sofia
  • President : Rumen Radev