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EU Unanimously Approves Romania and Bulgaria Joining Schengen in 2025 After Austria Lifts Veto

Dec 12, 2024, 10:15 AM

Romania and Bulgaria have received unanimous approval from the European Union Council to become full members of the Schengen Area starting January 1, 2025. This historic decision concludes a nearly two-decade effort since the two countries joined the EU in 2007. The move will eliminate controls at land borders, complementing the lifting of air and sea borders in March 2024. With this expansion, the Schengen Area grows to encompass 29 countries, strengthening unity and freedom of movement within the EU. The accession is expected to boost their economies significantly, with Bulgaria estimating an annual benefit of 500 million leva. As the new eastern external border of the EU, Romania and Bulgaria's inclusion enhances border security. Austria, which had previously opposed their membership, has lifted its veto, enabling full integration into the passport-free zone.