Romania and Bulgaria Achieve Full Schengen Membership

Romania and Bulgaria have been approved to join the EU's border-free Schengen travel zone starting January 1, 2025, allowing passport-free travel across most of Europe. This decision is a significant relief for the 25 million residents of these countries, marking their full acceptance into the EU. However, challenges remain for truck drivers due to continued border inspections, particularly at the Romania-Hungary crossing, which could persist for at least six months. The move is expected to benefit private travelers more immediately, while the transport industry anticipates gradual improvements.