Bulgaria and Romania have officially joined the Schengen Area, following the European Council’s decision to lift controls at air and sea borders in March. The first flight between these countries and other Schengen member states has now taken place, marking the beginning of a new era in border management and travel facilitation.
As of March 31, travelers crossing EU internal air and maritime borders between Bulgaria, Romania, and other Schengen countries will no longer undergo checks on persons. This move not only streamlines travel but also allows non-EU/European Economic Area nationals to consider time spent in Bulgaria and Romania as part of their total stay in the Schengen Area. However, it’s crucial to adhere to the 90/180-day rule, which stipulates that non-EU/EEA nationals can only stay in the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period.
While air and maritime border checks have been lifted, the European Council is in the process of establishing a date to lift checks at internal land borders. This announcement is expected within a reasonable timeframe, further enhancing the connectivity and openness of the Schengen Area.
The decision to include Bulgaria and Romania in the Schengen Area underscores the region’s commitment to unity and cooperation. With their accession, the Schengen Area now spans over 4.5 million square kilometers and encompasses a population of approximately 450 million people. This expansion reinforces the Schengen Area’s position as one of the world’s largest areas of free movement.
Bulgaria and Romania’s readiness to join the Schengen Area was affirmed through voluntary fact-finding missions conducted in 2022 and 2023. These missions highlighted the countries’ adherence to Schengen standards and paved the way for their inclusion in the area.
With Bulgaria and Romania now part of the Schengen Zone, tourists arriving by air will benefit from simplified travel procedures, as they no longer require separate visas. However, travelers entering by road will need to ensure they have the necessary documentation to comply with border regulations.
The addition of Bulgaria and Romania brings the total number of Schengen Area members to 29, encompassing various European Union states, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. Romania is set to implement Schengen rules comprehensively, further enhancing border management and cooperation within the region.
The inclusion of Bulgaria and Romania in the Schengen Area represents a important step forward in European integration, fostering closer ties and facilitating seamless travel across the continent.
