Romania is on track to achieve full membership in the Schengen Area by January 1, 2025, following recent discussions among European leaders. This development marks a significant milestone for Romania, which has been striving for complete Schengen integration for over a decade.
Key Takeaways
- Romania and Bulgaria are expected to join the Schengen Area fully by January 1, 2025.
- The final decision will be made during the Justice and Home Affairs Council meeting on December 12, 2024.
- Austria has lifted its objections, paving the way for Romania’s accession.
Background
Romania and Bulgaria have been partial members of the Schengen Area since March 2024, with air and maritime border controls lifted. However, land border controls remained due to Austria’s veto, citing concerns over illegal migration. Recent negotiations have led to a breakthrough, with Hungary announcing that both countries could fully join the Schengen Area by early 2025.
Recent Developments
During a meeting in Budapest, Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban confirmed that Romania would achieve full Schengen membership, including land borders, starting January 1, 2025. Ciolacu expressed confidence that all necessary criteria have been met and that the final decision will be made at the upcoming EU Council meeting.
Austria’s Change of Stance
Austria’s previous objections were primarily based on concerns regarding illegal migration. However, recent discussions have indicated a shift in Austria’s position, with officials stating that they no longer have demands regarding Romania’s Schengen accession. This change is seen as a diplomatic victory for Romania, which has been actively working to address migration issues.
The Role of European Leaders
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has publicly supported Romania and Bulgaria’s full integration into the Schengen Area, emphasizing that both countries belong in the Schengen zone. The upcoming Council meeting will be crucial in finalizing the decision, with all EU interior ministers expected to vote on the proposal.
Implications for Romania
The full accession to the Schengen Area is anticipated to have significant economic benefits for Romania. It will enhance trade and travel, further integrating Romania into the European market. Additionally, Romania’s commitment to securing the EU’s external borders will be reinforced, contributing to regional stability.
Conclusion
As Romania prepares for its full Schengen accession, the upcoming Council meeting on December 12 will be pivotal. With Austria’s objections lifted and strong support from European leaders, Romania is poised to enter the Schengen Area, marking a new chapter in its European integration journey.
Sources
- România ar putea intra deplin în Schengen în ianuarie 2025, anunţă Ungaria | Digi Economic, Digi24.
- Gheorghe Falcă: România va intra în Schengen terestru la 1 ianuarie, RFI.
- VIDEO România va adera pe deplin la Schengen la 1 ianuarie 2025, anunță Ciolacu de la Budapesta. Viktor Orban: Decizia va fi luată pe 12 decembrie – HotNews.ro, HotNews.ro.
- Declarație comună: România şi Bulgaria vor adera deplin la Schengen. Controalele la granițele terestre vor mai fi menținute încă 6 luni | Digi24, Digi24.
- Ciolacu: „Sunt încrezător că România va reuşi o aderare completă la Schengen până la finalul anului” | Digi24, Digi24.
