Which Country Is Next to Join Schengen in 2025?
As of 2025, Croatia is the most recent country to join the Schengen Area, having officially become a member in January 2023. Currently, there is no definitive announcement regarding which country will be next to join the Schengen Area. However, several countries are in various stages of the application process and could potentially join in the near future.
What is the Schengen Area?
The Schengen Area is a zone comprising 27 European countries that have abolished passport and other types of border control at their mutual borders. This allows for the free and unrestricted movement of people, goods, and services across these countries. Established in 1995, the Schengen Agreement has been a cornerstone of European integration, facilitating seamless travel and trade.
Benefits of Joining the Schengen Area
- Free Movement: Citizens can travel freely between member countries without passport checks.
- Economic Growth: Enhanced trade opportunities and tourism.
- Security Cooperation: Shared resources and information to combat crime and terrorism.
Which Countries Are Potential Candidates for 2025?
Several countries are in the pipeline to join the Schengen Area. These countries are at different stages of the application process and must meet specific criteria related to border control, visa policy, and data protection.
1. Bulgaria and Romania
Bulgaria and Romania have been members of the European Union since 2007 and are actively seeking to join the Schengen Area. Both countries have made significant progress in meeting the technical requirements necessary for entry. However, political considerations and concerns over corruption and rule of law have delayed their accession.
2. Cyprus
Cyprus is another EU member state that is working towards joining the Schengen Area. As of now, Cyprus is not part of the Schengen Zone due to complex geopolitical issues and the division of the island. The Cypriot government continues to work on aligning with Schengen regulations, focusing on security and border management.
3. Croatia’s Recent Accession
Croatia’s successful entry into the Schengen Area in January 2023 serves as a recent example of the accession process. Croatia underwent rigorous assessments to ensure compliance with Schengen standards, which included enhancing border security and implementing biometric data systems.
How Does a Country Join the Schengen Area?
To join the Schengen Area, a candidate country must fulfill several stringent criteria:
- Border Control: Implement effective external border controls.
- Visa Policy: Align national visa policies with Schengen regulations.
- Data Protection: Ensure robust data protection measures.
- Police Cooperation: Enhance cooperation with other Schengen countries in law enforcement.
The Accession Process
- Application: The country submits a formal application.
- Evaluation: A comprehensive evaluation of the country’s readiness.
- Approval: Unanimous approval from existing Schengen members.
- Implementation: Adoption of Schengen rules and regulations.
People Also Ask
What are the Schengen Area requirements?
Countries must meet criteria related to border security, visa policy, data protection, and police cooperation to join the Schengen Area. These requirements ensure that new members can maintain the security and integrity of the Schengen Zone.
Why is Bulgaria not in Schengen?
Bulgaria is not yet in the Schengen Area due to political concerns among existing members about corruption and rule of law issues. Despite meeting technical requirements, political consensus is necessary for accession.
What is the difference between the EU and Schengen?
The European Union (EU) is a political and economic union of 27 countries, while the Schengen Area is a zone where internal border checks have been abolished. Not all EU countries are in Schengen, and not all Schengen countries are in the EU.
How does Schengen affect travel?
Schengen allows for borderless travel between member countries, facilitating easier and faster movement for travelers. This enhances tourism and business opportunities across Europe.
Can non-EU countries join Schengen?
Yes, non-EU countries like Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein are part of the Schengen Area. These countries have agreements with the EU to participate in Schengen without being EU members.
Conclusion
While there’s no official announcement on the next country to join the Schengen Area in 2025, Bulgaria, Romania, and Cyprus remain strong candidates. Each of these countries is working diligently to meet the necessary criteria, and their accession would further enhance the integration and cooperation within Europe. As the Schengen Area continues to evolve, its expansion remains a topic of interest for both policymakers and travelers alike. For more insights into European travel and policy, explore related topics on European Union integration and border security.
