Read all about Romania and Bulgaria joining the Schengen area. Discover the benefits of visa-free travel in 29 countries.
'Romania and Bulgaria to be fully part of the Schengen area from January 2025'
From January 2025, Romania and Bulgaria will be fully part of the Schengen area. After years of negotiations, an agreement has been reached that will allow travel without border controls. This step will not only mean more freedom for travellers, but also economic growth and a stronger position for both countries within the EU.
Romania and Bulgaria are taking steps towards full Schengen integration
In a major development within Europe's Schengen area, Romania and Bulgaria have strengthened their positions by partially joining the area, lifting border controls at their airports and seaports.
Policy change: The Netherlands supports Bulgarian accession to Schengen
The Netherlands has decided to support Bulgaria's accession to the Schengen zone. This policy change, announced by State Secretary Eric van der Burg, comes after years of resistance to Bulgaria's accession, and marks a significant change in the attitude of the Dutch government.
Croatia admitted to Schengen zone but Bulgaria and Romania not
Croatia is the 27th country to join the Schengen area. Bulgaria and Romania, on the other hand, are not admitted to the Schengen zone. EU interior and justice ministers met yesterday to vote on the first extension of Schengen in more than a decade.