Bulgaria and Romania partially join Schengen
Bulgaria and Romania have officially partially joined the European visa-free travel area, Schengen.
This decision, which has been widely welcomed in both countries and in the European Union, comes into force after years of negotiations.
"This is a great success for both countries. A historic moment for the Schengen area – the world's largest area of free movement. Together, we are building a stronger and more united Europe for all our citizens," said the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, in a statement issued on March 30.
From midnight there is free movement of those traveling by plane and ship in both countries, but not by land.
This is due to opposition from Austria, as Vienna has argued that the land routes of Romania and Bulgaria could make it easier for migrants to enter other EU states.
Both Bulgaria and Romania, which began negotiations to join Schengen in 2011, are hoping to have their land borders open by the end of 2024.
Romania and Bulgaria are the only EU countries that do not fully benefit from the benefits of the Schengen treaty.
