November 26,2024 - Romania and Bulgaria are likely to become full members of the Schengen Area in January 2025. This is a big step forward for the two countries, which joined the European Union in 2007 but have waited years to join Schengen completely.

The Schengen Area allows people to travel between member countries without needing a passport. Right now, Romania and Bulgaria are partial members. Border checks for air and sea travel were removed in March 2023, but land borders still have controls.

Austria had blocked their full membership because of worries about illegal migration. However, a recent meeting in Budapest with Austria, Hungary, Bulgaria, and Romania led Austria to remove its objection.

A final decision will be made by EU interior ministers in December 2024. Hungary’s Interior Minister said Romania and Bulgaria are now closer than ever to joining the Schengen Area.

To move forward, at least 100 extra border guards will be placed on the Bulgaria-Turkey border to manage migration better.

EU leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, support this development. Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson said Romania and Bulgaria already belong in the Schengen Area and praised this progress for bringing more freedom to their people.

Source: Media Reports