Romania and Bulgaria have partially joined Europe’s identity check-free travel zone, marking a new step in the two countries’ integration with the European Union.
After years of negotiations to join the so-called Schengen area, there is now free access for travellers arriving by air or sea. Land border checks will remain in place, however, due to opposition primarily from Austria, which has long blocked their bid over illegal migration concerns.
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen hailed the change as a “huge success for both countries” and a “historic moment” for what is the world’s largest free travel zone.
