Home World Huge EU passport rule change for two of Europe’s cheapest countries

Huge EU passport rule change for two of Europe’s cheapest countries


The European Union is set to usher in a significant change in passport rules for two of Europe’s most cost-effective destinations, Bulgaria and Romania.

The move will see these nations join the Schengen area, heralding the elimination of border controls at air and sea entry points starting March 2024.

This development marks a pivotal moment as Bulgaria and Romania become integrated into the Schengen area, recognised as the world’s largest zone of unrestricted movement.

Although discussions regarding the lifting of land border controls are slated for later in the year, the immediate effect will allow seamless travel for individuals and businesses entering or exiting Bulgaria and Romania via air and sea routes.

The decision to include Bulgaria and Romania in the Schengen area was initially confirmed by the EU Commission in 2011. Since then, both countries have diligently met the rigorous conditions set forth for Schengen membership.

Reaffirmations of their readiness occurred in 2022 and 2023, with additional security, police, and judicial cooperation measures implemented to fortify the EU against potential security threats.

This enlargement, the ninth of its kind for the Schengen area, is anticipated to catalyse enhanced travel, trade, and tourism, thereby bolstering the internal market of the European Union.

The Schengen area’s border-free status ensures uninhibited movement for nearly 450 million EU citizens, as well as non-EU nationals residing in or visiting the EU.

Under this arrangement, every EU citizen enjoys the freedom to travel, work, and reside in any EU member state without the need for special formalities. The elimination of border checks within the Schengen area further solidifies this liberty, facilitating seamless movement across its constituent countries.

It’s important to note that this development will not affect British travellers, as the United Kingdom is neither part of the European Union nor the Schengen area. However, for citizens within the EU and visitors to the EU, the inclusion of Bulgaria and Romania into the Schengen fold represents a significant milestone in the evolution of European travel and integration.

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