Romania and Bulgaria fully join the Schengen area: new opportunities for travelers

From January 1, 2025, Romania and Bulgaria will be fully integrated into the Schengen area, providing seamless travel across borders and simplifying visa requirements for tourists and business travelers. This significant event will expand travel opportunities in Europe and make trips to these countries more convenient.

The European Council confirmed that from the beginning of 2025, border controls for land travel from other Schengen countries will be lifted. This decision became possible after Austria lifted its veto, which had blocked the entry of both countries into Schengen from 2022 due to concerns about illegal migration.

Although Bulgaria and Romania officially joined the Schengen area on March 31, 2024, border controls on land borders will remain in effect until the end of 2024. However, travelers can already enjoy unhindered air and sea transportation.

From January 1, 2025, the following benefits are expected for travelers:

• Travelers will be able to move freely across the territory of Romania, Bulgaria, and other Schengen countries by land, in addition to existing air and sea routes.
• Authorities will lift border controls on land borders, reducing waiting times and simplifying cross-border travel for tourists, business people, and passengers.
• Access to car trips and tours will become easier, providing greater flexibility in travel planning.

To cross the border of Romania, it is sufficient to have a Schengen visa from any country, as well as a national visa from Romania or a visa from Bulgaria (double or multiple), issued before March 31, 2024.

This integration into the Schengen area will be an important step in enhancing the tourist attractiveness of Romania and Bulgaria, as well as in developing business ties in the region. 

Stay tuned for news on the website Buch-dein-Visum.de to stay informed of all changes in visa policy and receive up-to-date travel planning advice.