The European Council voted unanimously on Thursday to officially lift internal land border controls with Bulgaria and Romania, effective January 1, 2025, making them full members of the Schengen Area.
In December 2023, the Council decided to admit Bulgaria and Romania into the Schengen Area, and on March 31, 2024, it lifted controls on internal air and sea borders with the two countries. Yesterday, Austria lifted its veto on the expansion of the Schengen Area, enabling both Bulgaria and Romania to achieve full membership.
“Today is a day of joy for all Bulgarians, Romanians, and for our entire Union. Both Member States will fully join the world’s largest free movement area. This is important for all of us—European citizens and businesses,” said Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.
