From 1 January 2025, Romania and Bulgaria are becoming full members of the Schengen Zone, marking a historic milestone in their journey into European integration. The decision, which has been in the making for years, was finalised during negotiations hosted in Budapest under the Hungarian EU presidency. This outcome has been celebrated as a significant achievement, not only for the two countries but also for the European Union as a whole, reflecting a commitment to strengthening unity and mobility across member states.

The inclusion of Romania and Bulgaria in the Schengen Zone will eliminate border controls at land, sea, and air crossings with other Schengen members, enhancing connectivity and fostering economic ties. This move is particularly impactful for communities on both sides of the borders, who will now benefit from improved accessibility and strengthened local relationships. Roads that previously operated with limited access will now open fully, symbolising a new chapter of integration for the region​.

This achievement is also a success for Hungary’s EU presidency, which prioritised removing the final obstacles to Romania and Bulgaria’s accession. In recent months, both countries addressed concerns raised by Austria and other states regarding migration and border security, making significant progress in reducing illegal border crossings and aligning with Schengen standards. These efforts, combined with coordinated EU border initiatives, paved the way for this long-anticipated agreement​.