New Horizons: Romania and Bulgaria in Schengen Area from 2025

Romania and Bulgaria will become full members of the Schengen Area on January 1, 2025, marking a significant step forward in the integration of these countries into a single European free movement system. This development is expected to create new opportunities for travelers and businesses, simplifying travel and ensuring smooth border crossings.

The decision was made possible by the lifting of Austria's veto, which had blocked Bulgaria and Romania from joining Schengen since 2022 due to concerns about illegal migration. The European Council confirmed that border controls at land borders will be abolished from the beginning of 2025, ensuring easy and fast movement between Schengen countries.

Although formal accession took place on March 31, 2024, controls at land borders will remain in place until the end of 2024. Nevertheless, residents and tourists can already enjoy freedom of movement by air and sea. This improvement strengthens the attractiveness of Romania and Bulgaria as tourist destinations and creates favorable conditions for business.

The abolition of border controls at land borders will reduce waiting times and make travel more comfortable for everyone. Travelers will be able to move freely within Romania, Bulgaria and other Schengen countries by land, air and sea. Free movement will make travel planning easier for both locals and tourists.

To cross the border of Romania, it will be enough to have a Schengen visa of any country, as well as a national visa of Romania or a visa of Bulgaria (double or multiple entry), issued until March 31, 2024. Experts are confident that this innovation will contribute not only to the growth of tourist attraction, but also to the strengthening of business ties in the region.

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