A historic milestone shaping the future of EU integration

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has consistently emphasized the significance of the Schengen Area for European unity and integration. –Our citizens cherish and rely on the right to move freely in Europe. To continue enjoying the benefits of Schengen, we must ensure that it functions efficiently and remains resilient against challenges. Photo: European Parliament, Flickr

January 1, 2025, Romania and Bulgaria officially became full members of the European Union's Schengen area, marking a significant milestone in their integration into the EU's borderless travel zone.

This development allows for passport-free travel across most member countries, eliminating land border controls between these nations and their neighbors.

Reuters

Background and Integration Process

Romania and Bulgaria joined the European Union in 2007, but their accession to the Schengen Area was delayed due to concerns over corruption and migration management. In March 2024, they partially integrated into the Schengen Area by removing air and sea border controls. The final step, lifting land border controls, was achieved on January 1, 2025, following a unanimous decision by EU member states.

Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission says that she I warmly welcome today's decision to fully integrate Bulgaria and Romania into the Schengen Area.

–This is a testament to their commitment and the strength of our European Union.

Rihards Kols, Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Latvian Parliament, expressed also his support, saying: 

–Finally, welcome to Schengen, Bulgaria and Romania. This has been a long time coming and is long overdue!"

Implications for travelers and trade

The removal of land border checks facilitates smoother travel for citizens and tourists, enhancing economic and cultural exchanges. For instance, truckers will benefit from reduced bureaucracy at border crossings, streamlining the transport of goods between these countries and the rest of the Schengen Area.

BBC

Celebrations and symbolic events

To commemorate this achievement, ceremonies were held at key border crossings. Notably, the interior ministers of Bulgaria and Romania symbolically raised the border barrier at the Friendship Bridge over the Danube River, a significant transit route between the two nations.

Reuters

Future considerations

While the integration of Romania and Bulgaria into the Schengen Area is a positive development, some Schengen countries have recently reinstated certain border checks due to concerns over migration and security. This situation underscores the ongoing challenges in maintaining the integrity of the free travel area.