Schengen accession is set to be a game changer for Bulgarian and Romanian hauliers, but land border checks will continue for an indefinite period.
The European Commission has welcomed the unanimous decision by the Council to welcome Romania and Bulgaria into the Schengen area.
Hauliers from both of the aforementioned countries will nonetheless likely be disappointed. Although the sector has craved accession to Schengen, the process of both countries entering the zone will only see restrictions lifted on air and sea borders in March.
In its announcement concerning the Schengen expansion, the European Commission said Bulgaria and Romania’s accession will boost travel, trade and tourism, as well as further consolidating the internal market.
It was also confirmed that there is no specific timetable for land border controls being removed. The Commission’s statement noted that “discussions on a further decision to lift controls at land borders will continue in 2024″.
The Commission added that those discussions “will continue in 2024 and a decision by the Council on this matter is expected to be taken within a reasonable time frame”.
Commenting on the Schengen expansion, President von der Leyen said: “Today marks a historic moment for Bulgaria and Romania. And a day of great pride for Romanian and Bulgarian citizens. As of March, they will be able to freely cross internal sea and air borders, without border controls. This is a major step forward for both countries and for the Schengen area as a whole. Congratulations to Bulgaria and Romania: this great achievement is possible thanks to your hard work, commitment and perseverance. Thanks to you the Schengen area will become even stronger to the benefit of all EU citizens.”
The Commission also stated that in order to assist Bulgaria and Romania in protecting the external borders of the Union, substantial financial support and Frontex assistance will continue to be provided.
