Schengen Expansion: Romania and Bulgaria to Join Schengen Area in 2025

In a major Schengen visa update, Romania and Bulgaria are set to become full members of the Schengen Area starting January 2025. This marks a significant milestone for the two countries and the European Union, as the decision eliminates years of political and logistical hurdles. Austria has finally agreed to lift its opposition, paving the way for a seamless integration into the Schengen zone.

Background: A Long Journey to Schengen

Romania and Bulgaria joined the European Union in 2007. However, their accession to the Schengen Area has faced repeated delays. While air and maritime border controls were removed in March 2023, land border checks persisted, largely due to Austria’s concerns over illegal migration.

Recent discussions in Budapest among interior ministers from Austria, Bulgaria, Hungary, and Romania have resolved these issues. Austria has now dropped its objections, allowing the EU interior ministers to make a final decision in December 2024.

What Does the Schengen Area Expansion Means?

The Schengen Area currently includes 29 European nations, 25 of which are EU member states, along with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. Adding Romania and Bulgaria will further enhance the region’s seamless travel network.

Hungarian Interior Minister Sándor Pintér confirmed that Romania and Bulgaria have taken a crucial step toward full membership. One of the key agreements is deploying over 100 border guards to strengthen the Bulgaria-Turkey border, ensuring enhanced security for the Schengen zone.

Official Statements

EU leaders have celebrated this development.

• Ylva Johansson, the EU Home Affairs Commissioner, stated this would bring “full freedom” to Romanian and Bulgarian citizens.
• European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the importance of this integration for European unity and mobility.

These comments underline the EU’s commitment to fostering a more interconnected and efficient travel system.

What This Means for Travellers?

Starting January 2025, travelers holding Schengen visas can visit Romania and Bulgaria without additional border checks. This expansion simplifies cross-border movement, benefiting tourism, trade, and general travel convenience.

Key advantages include:

1. Simplified Travel: Easier movement between Schengen countries, including Romania and Bulgaria.
2. Boosted Tourism: Increased accessibility is expected to enhance tourism and regional development.
3. Trade Opportunities: Cross-border trade is likely to grow, benefiting local businesses and economies.

Cascade Regime for Indian Nationals

The Schengen visa system has become increasingly accessible for Indian nationals. In April 2024, the European Commission introduced a cascade regime allowing multi-year visa validity. Key benefits include:

• Indian travelers can receive two-year multi-entry visas after using two visas within three years.
• Upon passport validity, these two-year visas may extend to five years.

This initiative simplifies travel for Indian nationals, making the Schengen zone more accessible than ever.

Quick Facts

1. Romania and Bulgaria will join the Schengen Area on January 1, 2025.
2. Austria’s opposition was lifted after addressing illegal migration concerns.
3. Over 100 border guards will be stationed at the Bulgaria-Turkey border.
4. Indian nationals benefit from the new cascade regime for multi-year Schengen visas.
5. Schengen visas will cover travel to Romania and Bulgaria without border checks.

Conclusion

The inclusion of Romania and Bulgaria in the Schengen Area is a transformative step for European travel. With simplified border controls and enhanced regional cooperation, this expansion promises new opportunities for travelers, businesses, and EU citizens.

For those planning to explore the Schengen region, Eduland Immigration, the best immigration consultant in Chandigarh, can guide you. Whether it’s a tourist visa, or study visa consultation, Eduland Immigration ensures a hassle-free journey to Europe.