Since January 1, 2025, Romania and Bulgaria have officially become full members of the Schengen Area. Both countries joined the European Union in 2007, and although they met the technical criteria for joining the Schengen Zone as early as 2011, political obstacles had delayed the process.

The main skeptics of Romania and Bulgaria’s integration feared that illegal migrants would flood into the EU through these countries. The so-called "Balkan migration route" was often used by illegal migrants seeking to enter Western Europe. Romania and Bulgaria had not been effectively controlling their external borders, which led to the main flow of migrants passing through these countries during the 2015-2016 migration crisis.

However, after decades of intensified efforts, in March 2024, document checks for citizens of other Schengen Area member states were finally abolished for those arriving by sea or air. Land borders remained under control until Austria lifted its veto in December 2024, acknowledging the significant reduction in illegal migration.

By the way, Austria had been blocking the accession of these countries to the Schengen Area since 2011, because illegal refugees from third countries adjacent to Romania and Bulgaria were ultimately trying to enter Austria. The country was particularly affected by the influx of migrants as it is situated at the crossroads of two major migration routes — through the Balkans and through Italy.

Contents:

  1. What was Required?
  2. Advantages for Romania and Bulgaria

What was Required?

After joining the EU, Romania and Bulgaria were required to ensure the security of their borders. In addition, they had to implement modern control systems and legislative reforms. Specifically, the countries were asked to:

  • Strengthen border control. Both countries had to modernize their infrastructure at external borders by introducing modern surveillance and control systems. This was necessary because both Romania and Bulgaria had a shortage of border guards, and much of their extensive border was not equipped with surveillance systems.
  • Cooperate with the European Union. Romania and Bulgaria participated in joint EU operations to combat illegal migration, and exchanged information and practices with other member states. Both countries took part in programs by the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex), providing resources and personnel for joint missions. This helped integrate the countries into a unified network for controlling the flow of illegal migrants.
  • Implement biometric systems. One of the main requirements was the introduction of biometric control and biometric passports. The most time and resources, particularly in Romania, were spent on this.
  • Training and skills development for staff. Border services underwent specialized training to detect counterfeit documents, combat human trafficking, and address other aspects related to illegal migration. Additionally, both countries undertook efforts to reduce corruption in migration authorities and among border officers, as required by the EU.
  • Strengthen internal control. Measures were introduced to detect and counteract the activities of organized criminal groups involved in illegal migration and smuggling.
  • Legislative reforms. New laws and amendments were adopted to tighten penalties for aiding illegal migration and enhance measures for deporting illegal migrants.

Advantages for Romania and Bulgaria

The Schengen Area offers more than just freedom of movement. Joining it benefits not only the citizens of Romania and Bulgaria but also the economies of both countries through the free movement of capital, facilitated by tourism and reduced transportation costs. The key advantages include:

  • Elimination of border controls. Simplified transit of goods speeds up transportation, reduces logistics costs, and increases the countries’ attractiveness as logistics hubs. According to internal estimates, Romania lost approximately €2.33 billion annually due to delays and duties, while Bulgaria lost around €834 million.
  • Growth in tourism. Simplified travel stimulates tourism, which is particularly beneficial for both countries given their location on the Black Sea coast. In Bulgaria, for instance, the tourism sector has traditionally been popular among citizens of third countries. However, an influx of tourists from Western Europe will make the market more appealing to EU investors.
  • Strengthening political status. Despite the declared equality among EU members, there has been skepticism regarding countries requiring additional modernization investments. This often impacts public opinion about such member states. Full Schengen membership demonstrates that Bulgaria and Romania meet European standards, both in border management and politically.
  • Impact on citizens. For the 25 million citizens of Romania and Bulgaria, joining the Schengen Area means the ability to travel across Europe without border controls, as well as easier access to labor markets and educational institutions in other Schengen countries.

Despite the advantages, joining the Schengen Area places responsibility on Romania and Bulgaria to safeguard the EU’s external borders. Both countries have committed to enhancing security measures, particularly along the border with Turkey, to prevent illegal migration and smuggling.

The challenge is especially significant for Bulgaria, which has a mutual visa-free travel agreement with Turkey. This allows illegal migrants from Turkey to enter the EU potentially. Moreover, despite active efforts by Turkish authorities, migrants from countries with visa-free agreements with Turkey often illegally cross into Bulgaria via the Black Sea.

Overall, European leaders welcomed the integration of Romania and Bulgaria into the Schengen Area. The President of the European Commission stated that accepting new members into the Schengen Zone strengthens Europe’s unity and supports the concept of collective security. Austria’s Interior Minister emphasized that, despite ongoing risks, the flow of illegal migrants through these two countries has significantly decreased compared to previous years, which was the basis for Austria’s positive decision.

The accession to the Schengen Area was met with enthusiasm in both Bulgaria and Romania. Celebrations were held on the Friendship Bridge near the city of Ruse, a key transit point between the two countries. Fireworks marked the opening of borders and the strengthening of ties between the two nations.