Key Points
- The European Council voted to allow Bulgaria and Romania to join the Schengen area in 2024
Overview
On December 30, 2023, members of the European Council voted to allow Bulgaria and Romania to join the Schengen area. The first steps will involve lifting controls on entry ports at air and sea borders beginning in March 2024.
Further discussions on a date for a possible lifting of the checks on persons at internal land borders will continue in 2024. A decision by the Council on this matter is expected to be taken within a reasonable time frame.
Looking Ahead
Continue to check the European Council’s website for the latest updates and information.
Written by: Jessie Butchley, Global Immigration Writer, Envoy Global
Source: The European Commission
