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Starting January 1, 2025, Romania and Bulgaria will officially join the Schengen Zone, simplifying travel to and from these countries. This long-awaited inclusion comes after years of delays, though some border controls will remain temporarily.

The Road to Schengen Membership

Romania and Bulgaria became EU members in 2007, but their entry into the border-free Schengen Zone faced repeated delays. In 2011, the European Commission declared both countries ready for Schengen accession. However, concerns about corruption and migration led countries like Germany, France, and the Netherlands to block their inclusion.

In 2023, the Netherlands withdrew its opposition, leaving Austria as the final holdout. By November 2024, Austria lifted its veto, clearing the way for Romania and Bulgaria to become Schengen members.

Air and Sea Travelers Benefit First

Starting in 2025, passengers arriving in Romania and Bulgaria by air or sea from other Schengen countries will no longer need to show passports. This change streamlines travel for those flying, cruising, or taking ferries, eliminating border checks for these routes.

Land Border Checks to Continue Temporarily

While air and sea travel will see immediate changes, land border controls will stay in place for at least six months. The European Commission has decided to maintain checks at the borders between Hungary and Romania and between Romania and Bulgaria to address security concerns, particularly to accommodate Austria’s reservations. Travelers entering by car, train, or bus should carry valid passports during this period.

Important for Non-EU Citizens

For travelers from non-EU countries, visits to Romania and Bulgaria will count toward the 90-day limit within a 180-day period allowed in the Schengen Zone. For instance, if you spend 30 days in Romania, you will have only 60 days left for other Schengen countries like Greece or Spain. Overstaying this limit may lead to fines or entry bans.

Schengen Zone Expands to 29 Countries

With Romania and Bulgaria’s inclusion, the Schengen Zone will grow to 29 countries. This includes 25 EU members and four non-EU nations: Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.

Since its creation in 1995, the Schengen Zone has enabled 1.25 billion trips annually, with 3.5 million people crossing internal borders each day. The most recent addition was Croatia in 2022. Romania and Bulgaria’s accession strengthens Europe’s commitment to seamless travel and cooperation.