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Austria may soon lift its longstanding veto on Romania and Bulgaria joining the Schengen Area, following notable improvements in border security and reductions in migration flows. This shift comes as Magnus Brunner, Austria’s designated EU Commissioner for Migration, has expressed support for the two nations’ full membership in the Schengen zone, a move that would extend Europe’s border-free travel area to include both countries.

Austria has blocked Romania and Bulgaria’s full entry into Schengen for the past two years, citing concerns over illegal migration routes through the Western Balkans, which led to a high number of refugees reaching Austria. Although limited travel flexibility was granted last year, allowing air and sea access without checks, Austria maintained its veto due to persistent security concerns. However, recent statements from Interior Minister Gerhard Karner highlight a marked improvement: “The numbers of illegal migrants passing through these countries have decreased significantly, indicating we’re on the right track, though further work remains.”

The minister pointed out that Austria’s veto has prompted stronger border measures and repatriation efforts, with the ultimate goal of reducing illegal migration close to zero.

In Romania, optimism is rising. Romanian MEP Victor Negrescu recently declared that the country is in the “final stretch” toward achieving Schengen membership, laying out several possible paths forward: a decision this year, negotiations with the upcoming European Commission, or, potentially, delays tied to political dynamics in Bulgaria. Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu shared his confidence that Romania might fully enter Schengen by spring 2025, with hopes for a formal decision before the December 8 presidential election runoff.

If approved, the integration process could begin in March 2025, allowing Romanian citizens to enjoy unrestricted travel across EU land borders as early as Easter.

Discussions surrounding Schengen expansion have seen promising advances, and Brunner recently reported “good progress” in his hearing before the EU Parliament. A breakthrough may come during a November 22 meeting in Hungary, where representatives from Austria, Romania, and Bulgaria will convene to discuss next steps.

Lifting Austria’s veto would mark a pivotal moment, bringing Romania and Bulgaria closer to the full benefits of Schengen membership and streamlining movement across the EU.