Romania and Bulgaria Embrace Schengen: A New Era of Free Travel

Romania and Bulgaria joined the Schengen area, removing land border controls to allow passport-free travel. Celebrations marked this change, which signifies easier transit and trade. The decision follows Austria's lifting of its veto, expanding the Schengen zone to include most EU members.

Romania and Bulgaria have officially joined the European Union's Schengen free-travel area, eliminating land border controls to enable unhindered travel for residents. This milestone move was celebrated with fireworks at the Friendship Bridge near Ruse, a vital point for cross-border trade along the Danube River.

Earlier this year, aerial and maritime checks were abolished, but land crossings remained under scrutiny until Austria withdrew its opposition. This decision marks a significant expansion of the Schengen area, facilitating hassle-free travel across much of Europe.

With this expansion, the Schengen zone now includes 25 of the 27 EU member nations, alongside Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. Ireland and Cyprus remain outside this agreement.

(With inputs from agencies.)