Bulgaria and Romania officially joined the Schengen Area at midnight on January 2, 2025, after a 13-year wait. This marks the end of border checks for the two countries, allowing free movement for their citizens.
Their membership brings the Schengen Area to 29 countries and is expected to boost both nations’ economies, with estimated GDP growth of at least 1%. Austria, which had previously blocked their accession, lifted its veto following recent measures that reduced migration crossings.
This milestone fulfills a key goal for Bulgaria and Romania since joining the EU in 2007.
