Bulgaria and Romania Fully Join Schengen Zone Amid Border Control Concerns

Baku, The Gulf Observer: Bulgaria and Romania officially became full members of the Schengen zone on Wednesday, following the European Union Council’s decision on December 12, 2024.

The two nations had initially gained Schengen access by air and sea in March 2024, but their full integration for land travel was delayed due to vetoes from Austria, Hungary, and the Netherlands, which raised concerns about migration management and corruption. Austria eventually withdrew its opposition, paving the way for Bulgaria and Romania’s inclusion in the EU’s visa-free travel area.

Despite this milestone, Hungary announced on Monday that it would reinstate border controls with Romania starting Wednesday, citing threats to public order and internal security. This development has raised questions about the practical impact of Romania’s full Schengen membership.

Bulgaria and Romania, members of the EU since 2007, had been pursuing Schengen membership for over a decade, bolstered by a 2011 European Commission recommendation. Their accession expands the Schengen area to 29 countries, encompassing both EU members and non-EU states such as Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland, enabling seamless travel without border checks.

The inclusion of Bulgaria and Romania marks a significant step in European integration, though challenges surrounding migration and security persist.