Brussels (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The European Commission has welcomed the EU Council’s decision to allow Bulgaria and Romania to become fully part of the Schengen zone.
The European Commission has welcomed the European Council’s unanimous conclusion to lift internal land border controls with Bulgaria and Romania as of 1 January 2025. The EU Council decision indicates that as of 1 January 2025, residents can travel without land border controls to and between Romania and Bulgaria.
How will Bulgaria and Romania’s inclusion impact Schengen?
The Commission stated that this crucial action completes the full inclusion of both nations into the Schengen area. This not only supports the Schengen area but will additionally strengthen the internal market and improve travel, trade, and tourism. A robust Schengen area supports the EU’s unity and drives the European Union to be more powerful on a global scale.
In her remarks, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, said:
Today is a day of happiness for all Romanians and Bulgarians and our entire coalition. Both Member States will fully enter the world’s biggest free movement area. This is significant for all of us, European citizens and businesses. Together we will reap the advantages of a stronger and more interconnected Union.
Since last December, when the European Council approved welcoming Romania and Bulgaria into the Schengen zone, both member nations have taken all required measures to ensure a soft application of the Schengen regulations as of 31 March 2024. The Cooperation Frameworks that the EU Commission established in March this year with Romania and Bulgaria build on the successful enactment of the pilot schemes for fast asylum and return policies. Both nations will further back joint European measures to address EU security at the EU’s external borders and fight migratory challenges.
