Access Romania and Bulgaria for the Schengen area It will promote trade and tourism and contribute to the further integration of the internal market – according to the European Commission website. It added that the expanded zone would strengthen the Union both domestically and internationally.
“Today is a historic moment for Bulgaria and Romania. It is a very proud day for the citizens of Romania and Bulgaria“- said Ursula van der Leyen, President of the European Commission.
“From March, they will be able to freely cross internal sea and air borders without border controls. This is a big step for both countries and the entire Schengen area,” he said.
EC: Bulgaria and Romania are ready to join the Schengen area
The Commission confirmed for the first time the readiness of Bulgaria and Romania to join the Schengen area without internal border controls in 2011. Since then, Bulgaria and Romania have demonstrated that they meet the criteria for joining the Schengen area. – mentioned on the EC website.
This is confirmed again By three fact-finding missions on the external borders of Bulgaria and Romania in 2022 and 2023. In March 2023, the Commission launched pilot projects with Romania and Bulgaria to improve the management of external borders, strengthen cooperation with neighboring countries and ensure faster asylum procedures.
As mentioned, This is the ninth enlargement of the Schengen area. It ensures and strengthens mutual trust and solidarity between Schengen-based member states and will help implement this important project.
The Schengen area is expanding. Romania and Bulgaria join from March 2024.
Discussions about The dates for the abolition of checks on persons at internal land borders will continue in 2024.And the EC said that the decision of the council in this matter should be taken within a reasonable time frame.
Bulgaria and Romania to help protect the Union's external borders, Significant financial support and assistance from Frontex will continue to be provided.
See: Will the EU have a new immigration deal? There is agreement
Currently, Schengen – an area without border controls – covers 27 countries and stretches over 4 million square kilometers. Almost 420 million people. Together with Romania and Bulgaria, The Schengen area will expand to 4.5 million square kilometers with 450 million people.
The Schengen Area is an integral part of the EU legal framework. According to the contracts All EU member states should become full members of the Schengen area when they are ready.
read more
. “Hardcore internet junkie. Award-winning bacon ninja. Social media trailblazer. Subtly charming pop culture advocate. Falls down a lot.”