Bulgaria and Romania, which joined the European Union (EU) in 2007, have finally joined the Schengen Area after years of efforts. The two countries will be included in the Schengen Area by air and sea from March 31, 2024.
The Schengen Area is a zone of 26 countries with no border controls. To join the area, countries must meet certain criteria set by the EU.
Bulgaria and Romania worked hard to meet these criteria. However, some EU countries, especially the Netherlands, Hungary, and Austria, opposed the two countries’ accession to the Schengen Area.
The Netherlands opposed the accession of the two countries because of Bulgaria’s plan to raise transit fees for Russian natural gas flowing through the TurkStream pipeline to its country. Hungary criticized Bulgaria’s record on corruption. Austria opposed the accession of the two countries for security reasons.
However, after the concerns of these countries were addressed, the European Council unanimously decided to include Bulgaria and Romania in the Schengen Area by air and sea.
The accession of Bulgaria and Romania to the Schengen Area is a major milestone for the two countries. This accession will accelerate the two countries’ integration process with the EU and contribute to their economic development.
What is a Schengen Visa?
A Schengen visa is valid for short-term travel and can be used for purposes such as tourism, business, and family visits. However, the person applying for a visa must apply for a visa from the consulate or embassy of the country they are applying to. The documents required for the application include documents proving your travel purpose, financial status, and accommodation arrangements. The application procedures may vary slightly from country to country. A Schengen visa is valid for a certain period of time and allows for free movement within the Schengen Area during that time.
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