Bulgaria (Washington Insider Magazine)—After a 13-year wait, Bulgaria and Romania have partially joined Europe’s Schengen Area, marking a significant milestone for both nations. On Sunday, air and sea borders were opened, allowing free movement of people without internal checks. However, due to Austria’s concerns over irregular migration, land borders are not yet included in the Schengen rules.
The partial membership is seen as a major achievement for both countries, with many travelers celebrating the easing of border controls. “It feels like we’re truly part of Europe,” said Mincho Yurukov, a Bulgarian traveler arriving in Sofia from Berlin.
The Schengen Area, established in 1985, allows 29 countries—25 EU members along with Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein—to travel freely without internal border checks.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen welcomed the partial integration, calling it a “great success for both countries,” and stressing the importance of building a stronger, united Europe.
While travelers enjoy the benefits, truck drivers and businesses have expressed frustration. Romanian transport unions have called for swift action to extend Schengen membership to land borders, highlighting the financial losses caused by long waiting times at border crossings. Truckers often wait up to 30 hours at land borders, severely impacting trade.
Bulgaria, where most goods are transported by land, also voices concerns. “Only 3% of Bulgarian goods are transported by air and sea,” said Vasil Velev, president of the Bulgarian Industrial Capital Association.
Despite these challenges, both countries are committed to completing their full Schengen integration by the end of 2024, which includes opening land borders.
Austria has raised concerns about migration management in Bulgaria and Romania, delaying full membership for land crossings. However, both countries are actively addressing these concerns, with Bulgaria working closely with the EU border agency, Frontex, and neighboring countries to improve border security and reduce irregular migration.
Romanian and Bulgarian officials are confident that full Schengen membership, including land borders, will be achieved soon. “This process is irreversible,” said Romanian Interior Minister Catalin Predoiu.
