In the ever-evolving landscape of European travel, the Schengen Area represents a significant achievement in facilitating seamless movement across borders. With its current 27 member countries, the Schengen Zone is poised to expand. The question on many travelers’ minds is: Which country will be the next Schengen country? As of now, Croatia became the newest member in January 2023, and several other countries are actively seeking membership.
What is the Schengen Area?
The Schengen Area is a zone where 27 European countries have abolished their internal borders to allow for the free and unrestricted movement of people. This agreement simplifies travel for both citizens and tourists by eliminating the need for visas and border checks between member states.
Which Countries Are Candidates for Schengen Membership?
Several countries are currently candidates or have expressed interest in joining the Schengen Area. These include:
- Romania
- Bulgaria
- Cyprus
Each of these countries has unique circumstances and challenges to address before joining.
Romania and Bulgaria: What’s the Status?
Romania and Bulgaria have been members of the European Union since 2007 and have long sought to join the Schengen Area. Both countries have met the technical requirements for membership, which include implementing the Schengen Information System (SIS) and enhancing border security.
However, political considerations have delayed their accession. Some existing Schengen members have expressed concerns over corruption and the rule of law in these countries. Despite these challenges, there is growing support within the EU for their inclusion, and their membership could be realized in the near future.
What About Cyprus?
Cyprus is another EU member state aiming to join the Schengen Area. Its accession has been complicated by the ongoing division of the island between the Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, which is recognized only by Turkey. The political situation poses significant challenges to implementing Schengen rules uniformly across the island.
Steps for a Country to Join the Schengen Area
For a country to join the Schengen Area, it must undergo a rigorous evaluation process. Here are the key steps involved:
- Technical Evaluation: The country must demonstrate its ability to manage external borders effectively, issue biometric visas, and cooperate with other Schengen states in law enforcement.
- Political Approval: All existing Schengen members must unanimously approve the new member’s accession.
- Implementation of Schengen Rules: The candidate country must fully implement Schengen rules, including the Schengen Border Code and the Schengen Information System.
Benefits of Joining the Schengen Area
Joining the Schengen Area offers numerous benefits:
- Economic Growth: Increased tourism and trade due to easier cross-border movement.
- Enhanced Security: Improved cooperation in law enforcement and information sharing.
- Cultural Exchange: Greater opportunities for cultural and educational exchanges.
Potential Challenges for New Schengen Members
While the benefits are significant, new Schengen members may face challenges, such as:
- Increased Border Security Costs: Implementing and maintaining high-security standards can be expensive.
- Migration Management: Balancing open borders with effective migration control is crucial.
- Political Resistance: Overcoming political opposition from existing members can be a hurdle.
People Also Ask
What is the Schengen Agreement?
The Schengen Agreement is a treaty that led to the creation of Europe’s Schengen Area, where internal border checks have largely been abolished. It was initially signed in 1985 by five of the ten member states of the European Economic Community.
How does a country join the Schengen Area?
A country must meet strict criteria involving border control and security measures, gain unanimous approval from existing Schengen members, and implement the Schengen acquis, which includes various regulations and policies.
Why is Romania not in Schengen yet?
Romania has met the technical requirements for Schengen membership, but political concerns, such as issues related to corruption and the rule of law, have delayed its accession.
What are the advantages of being in the Schengen Area?
Countries in the Schengen Area benefit from free movement of people, increased tourism, enhanced security cooperation, and economic growth due to facilitated trade.
Is the UK part of the Schengen Area?
No, the United Kingdom was never part of the Schengen Area. Even before Brexit, the UK opted out of the Schengen Agreement, maintaining its border controls.
Conclusion
The next country to join the Schengen Area is likely to be one of the current EU member states actively pursuing membership, such as Romania, Bulgaria, or Cyprus. Each faces unique challenges but also stands to gain significantly from accession. As these countries work toward meeting the necessary requirements, travelers and businesses alike anticipate the benefits of an expanded Schengen Zone.
For more information on European travel or updates on the Schengen Area, consider exploring related topics such as the impact of Schengen on tourism or the history of the European Union’s expansion.
