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Thursday, December 5, 2024

Romania’s Full Schengen Accession Expected by January 2025

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

Emre Emehet
Emre Emehet
Emre Emehet is a 45-year-old journalist from the Balkans, best known for his dedication to telling stories that reflect the everyday lives of people in his region. Growing up in a small town in northern Bosnia, Emre always had an interest in local history and storytelling, which drew him to pursue a degree in journalism and communications at the University of Sarajevo. He wasn’t the top of his class, but his professors admired his practical approach and natural curiosity, qualities that would later define his career.
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