Romania and Bulgaria to Fully Join Schengen via Land Borders on January 1, 2025

Romania and Bulgaria will officially join the Schengen Area by land on January 1, 2025. This milestone follows years of negotiations among European Union (EU) members. Consequently, it represents a major step toward deeper EU integration.

Partial Schengen Integration in 2024

Both countries joined the EU in 2007, but Schengen integration progressed slowly. In March 2024, authorities removed border checks for air and sea travel. However, Austria kept land border controls due to concerns about illegal migration.

Austria Lifts Veto: A Breakthrough for Full Membership

On November 22, 2024, Austria lifted its veto during a Budapest meeting with interior ministers. Romania and Bulgaria improved border security, especially along the Bulgaria-Turkey border. As a result, Austria agreed to support their full membership.

Hungarian Interior Minister Sándor Pintér praised their efforts and emphasized the value of regional cooperation. Moreover, he highlighted the strategic benefits of their inclusion in the Schengen Area.

Economic and Political Benefits

Romania’s Finance Ministry estimates Schengen membership could boost the economy by 0.5% annually. In addition, the move will:

Strengthen political influence within the EU

Simplify cross-border travel and logistics

Support tourism and business growth

What Happens Next?

EU interior ministers will vote on December 12, 2024. If approved, land border checks will end on January 1, 2025. Therefore, people and goods will move freely across Schengen countries without additional checks.

Conclusion

Romania and Bulgaria are preparing to fully enter the Schengen Zone. Their efforts clearly demonstrate a commitment to security, mobility, and cooperation. Ultimately, this shift marks a historic moment for both countries and the broader EU.