In December, EU member states agreed to grant limited access to the Schengen area for Bulgaria and Romania, paving the way for the removal of internal border controls at sea and air borders by March 31.
However, a decision on passport-free travel at land borders, a more contentious issue, is still pending.
The journey to this point has been challenging. Both countries became EU members in 2007, and in 2018, the European Commission recommended their inclusion in the Schengen area. However, opposition from some EU member states caused delays.
The December decision, marked by Austria reversing its objection, has received praise from European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen as a ‘significant step forward.’ The Commission emphasized the anticipated positive impact on travel, trade, and tourism
Schengen Benefits, Bulgaria Romania Schengen, Visa Overselling, EU Access Controversy, Schengen Agreement ConcernsTop of Form