Headline: Romania to Close Over 30 Border Crossings by 2025 as it Joins Schengen Area
Subhead: The move, aimed at streamlining travel and enhancing security, is expected to significantly impact borders with Bulgaria and Serbia.
Romania, a European Union member since 2007, is set to join the world’s largest free-travel zone, the Schengen Area, on January 1, 2025. This significant stride towards/European integration will, however, come with a notable change: the closure of over 30 border checkpoints. Currently, 26 border crossings are operational along Romania’s 3,149 kilometers of external EU borders, primarily with Bulgaria and Serbia. Bulgaria, though also an EU member, is not part of the Schengen Area, leading to additional border controls.
The shift towards the Schengen regime, which eliminates internal border checks between member countries, is a strategic move that will facilitate smooth travel for EU citizens and visitors alike. It’s expected to boost economic cooperation and tourism. However, it also raises concerns, particularly for Romania’s neighboring countries like Bulgaria, which may see an increased strain on its own border control infrastructure.
This development is part of a broader trend in EU border management, with Poland and other countries already planning to close some of their borders once they join the Schengen Area in late 2022. The integration process also includes improving security measures, with Italy, for instance, planning to install advanced cameras and sensors along its northern border with France.
What does this mean for travelers? In practical terms, Romanians traveling to other Schengen countries will enjoy free movement without passport checks. Conversely, visitors to Romania from non-Schengen states will still face checks, as neighboring countries may be stricter with their border controls in light of the expected influx. However, Romanian officials stress that the focus is on ensuring a seamless travel experience for all.
Equally notable is the potential impact on transport infrastructure. With the closure of border checkpoints, investments are expected to focus on modernizing and upgrading remaining crossings, as well as improving road and rail connections. This could pave the way for increased use of high-speed trains and enhanced cross-border connectivity.
As Romania prepares to embrace this new phase in its European journey, the country, along with its neighbors and the wider EU community, is navigating a delicate balance between border security, free movement, and enhanced cooperation. The coming years will undoubtedly bring both challenges and opportunities as the shake-up in border controls continues to ripple across Europe.
