Romania and Bulgaria have taken a significant step in their integration with the European Union by partially joining the Schengen travel zone. While travelers arriving by air or sea now enjoy ID-check-free access, land border checks persist due to opposition from Austria.
Land Border Checks Remain
- Austria’s opposition over concerns of illegal migration has led to the retention of land border checks.
Free Access for Air and Sea Travelers
- Travelers arriving by air or sea from both countries now have unrestricted access to the Schengen zone.
Historic Moment in European Integration
- EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen describes the partial inclusion as a “huge success” and a “historic moment” for European integration.
Background of Schengen Area
- Established in 1985, the Schengen Area previously consisted of 23 EU member countries and additional non-EU states.
Austria’s Previous Veto
- Austria vetoed Romania and Bulgaria’s admission into the Schengen zone in 2022, citing concerns over illegal migration.
Fulfillment of Criteria
- Both Romania and Bulgaria have met the technical criteria for full accession to the Schengen zone for years.
Plans for Full Accession
- Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu expresses a government plan for full accession by the end of the year.
Bulgaria’s Future Accession
- Bulgaria’s Interior Minister anticipates full accession by the end of 2024, aiming to deter illegal migrants from using Bulgaria as a transit route to Europe.
Impact on Airports
- Bulgaria’s international airports, particularly Sofia, are expected to see improved operations and increased Schengen flights.
Concerns about Border Queues
- Members of the European Parliament voice concerns about potential long queues at EU land borders, affecting trade and driver safety.
Challenges for Truck Drivers
- Long border queues pose significant challenges for truck drivers, impacting trade and incurring substantial financial losses.