In a momentous decision on December 31, 2023, the European Council unanimously voted in favor of welcoming Romania and Bulgaria into the Schengen area. This historic move marks the commencement of the ninth enlargement plan under the "Schengen acquis," with the initial step being the elimination of controls at air and sea borders. Starting in March 2024, citizens of Romania and Bulgaria will enjoy the freedom to cross internal sea and air borders without encountering border controls.
This landmark decision comes after 13 years of persistent negotiations, highlighting the unwavering political commitment and determination of all involved parties. Ylva Johansson, Commissioner for Home Affairs, expressed her satisfaction, stating, "Discussions regarding the potential lifting of checks at internal land borders will continue throughout 2024, with the Council expected to reach a decision within a reasonable timeframe."
In this endeavor, the EU will provide vital assistance to Bulgaria and Romania in safeguarding the Union's external borders, extending substantial financial support, and offering Frontex assistance when required. Furthermore, the Schengen borders code allows member states to introduce "temporary border controls" in response to severe threats to public policy or internal security.
Schengen - A Monumental Achievement
The Schengen area, symbolizing the pinnacle of European integration, stands as one of Europe's greatest accomplishments, treasured by EU citizens. Presently, the Schengen area encompasses over 4 million square kilometers and boasts a population of nearly 420 million people, spanning across 27 countries. With this expansion, the new Schengen area will encompass 29 member states.
Recent Additions:
The introduction of the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) electronic travel authorization is scheduled for mid-2025. This system will be enforced for travelers from all visa-waiver countries, including over 60 visa-exempt nations such as the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. These travelers will be required to obtain a travel authorization to enter most European countries.
Cyprus's Schengen Aspiration
Cyprus has not yet become a part of the Schengen area. Nevertheless, Cyprus has reiterated its commitment to undergo regular evaluations once an assessment has been completed, demonstrating its dedication to meeting all Schengen acquis conditions as mandated by the Council.
Schengen: A Gateway to Europe
Millions of travelers cross Schengen borders, making the European Union the world's most welcoming destination. In 2022, 65% of international tourists chose Europe as their destination, solidifying Schengen's position as the most attractive and visited area globally. Each day, approximately 3.5 million people traverse internal borders for work, study, or to visit loved ones, with nearly 1.7 million individuals residing in one Schengen country while working in another. Europeans undertake an estimated 1.25 billion journeys within the Schengen area annually, significantly benefiting the tourism and cultural sectors.
Margaritis Schinas, Vice-President for Promoting our European Way of Life, expressed his belief that "Romania and Bulgaria's accession will make Schengen stronger."
Certainly, here are some pros and cons of Romania and Bulgaria joining the Schengen area:
Pros:
This landmark decision comes after 13 years of persistent negotiations, highlighting the unwavering political commitment and determination of all involved parties. Ylva Johansson, Commissioner for Home Affairs, expressed her satisfaction, stating, "Discussions regarding the potential lifting of checks at internal land borders will continue throughout 2024, with the Council expected to reach a decision within a reasonable timeframe."
In this endeavor, the EU will provide vital assistance to Bulgaria and Romania in safeguarding the Union's external borders, extending substantial financial support, and offering Frontex assistance when required. Furthermore, the Schengen borders code allows member states to introduce "temporary border controls" in response to severe threats to public policy or internal security.
Schengen - A Monumental Achievement
The Schengen area, symbolizing the pinnacle of European integration, stands as one of Europe's greatest accomplishments, treasured by EU citizens. Presently, the Schengen area encompasses over 4 million square kilometers and boasts a population of nearly 420 million people, spanning across 27 countries. With this expansion, the new Schengen area will encompass 29 member states.
Recent Additions:
- Croatia became a part of Schengen on January 1, 2023, fully embracing the Euro and implementing acquis rules.
- Ireland, the only EU nation opting out of the Schengen area, has chosen not to participate in certain EU policies, a practice known as opting out. Examples of such opt-outs include Schengen Agreement (Ireland), economic and monetary union (Denmark), defense (Denmark), EU Charter of Fundamental Rights (Poland), and freedom, security, and justice (Denmark and Ireland, with the latter potentially opting in for specific initiatives if desired).
The introduction of the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) electronic travel authorization is scheduled for mid-2025. This system will be enforced for travelers from all visa-waiver countries, including over 60 visa-exempt nations such as the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. These travelers will be required to obtain a travel authorization to enter most European countries.
Cyprus's Schengen Aspiration
Cyprus has not yet become a part of the Schengen area. Nevertheless, Cyprus has reiterated its commitment to undergo regular evaluations once an assessment has been completed, demonstrating its dedication to meeting all Schengen acquis conditions as mandated by the Council.
Schengen: A Gateway to Europe
Millions of travelers cross Schengen borders, making the European Union the world's most welcoming destination. In 2022, 65% of international tourists chose Europe as their destination, solidifying Schengen's position as the most attractive and visited area globally. Each day, approximately 3.5 million people traverse internal borders for work, study, or to visit loved ones, with nearly 1.7 million individuals residing in one Schengen country while working in another. Europeans undertake an estimated 1.25 billion journeys within the Schengen area annually, significantly benefiting the tourism and cultural sectors.
Margaritis Schinas, Vice-President for Promoting our European Way of Life, expressed his belief that "Romania and Bulgaria's accession will make Schengen stronger."
Certainly, here are some pros and cons of Romania and Bulgaria joining the Schengen area:
Pros:
- Freedom of Movement: Citizens of Romania and Bulgaria will enjoy the freedom to travel within the Schengen area without encountering border controls. This facilitates easier travel, tourism, and business opportunities within the European Union.
- Economic Benefits: Membership in the Schengen area can boost economic growth by promoting trade and investment. It simplifies cross-border business activities and encourages foreign investment, contributing to economic development.
- Enhanced Security: While Schengen abolishes internal border controls, it strengthens external borders. Romania and Bulgaria will receive support from other Schengen members and agencies like Frontex, improving overall security.
- Greater Integration: Joining the Schengen area is a significant step toward deeper integration within the European Union. It signifies political and diplomatic alignment with existing member states.
- Tourism: Easier travel and reduced bureaucratic hurdles can attract more tourists to Romania and Bulgaria, benefiting their tourism industries and local economies.
- Security Concerns: The removal of internal border controls raises concerns about potential security risks, such as illegal immigration and transnational crime. Proper monitoring and border management are essential.
- Capacity Challenges: Romania and Bulgaria may need to invest in infrastructure and resources to manage increased traffic and border security effectively, which could strain their budgets.
- Sovereignty: Joining the Schengen area entails surrendering some control over border management to supranational institutions, which some may view as a loss of sovereignty.
- Adjustment Period: Adapting to the Schengen rules and regulations may require time and resources, potentially causing initial challenges and disruptions.
- Migrant Influx: There is a concern that membership in Schengen may attract migrants seeking better opportunities within the EU, potentially leading to increased migration pressure and associated social and economic issues.
Been putting off a trip for ages, but now that it’s part of Schengen, no more border hassle!! 
But in all seriousness, I do think Bulgaria and Romania will adapt well.