The wait is finally over. On December 12th, 2024, the European Commission announced that Romania and Bulgaria are officially becoming full members of the Schengen Zone as of January 2025.
The announcement has been met with delight from both countries. Since Romania and Bulgaria joined the European Union in 2007, the wait has been on to join the Schengen Zone to ensure smoother travel and trade across borders.
The 25 million people of Bulgaria and Romania could not be happier, particularly those in the logistics industry. This change could see travel times cut by 12 hours between each border crossing.
Benefits for Citizens of Romania and Bulgaria
Both countries being part of the Schengen Zone will mean citizens will not have visa requirements or extra paperwork when traveling through the Schengen Zone, reducing internal border controls.
While partial admission in March 2024 lifted maritime and air border checks, full membership will extend these benefits to land borders, making travel and business even more straightforward. For example, one could travel from Romania to France, Norway, or Spain without the need for a passport.
Increased Digital Nomad Opportunities
Romania and Bulgaria’s inclusion in the Schengen Zone enhances their appeal as destinations for digital nomads.
Romania, for example, ranks high on the Global Citizen Solution’s Global Digital Nomad Report, ranking 5th out of 65 countries across the world. The report is based on data compiled on cost of living, quality of life, technology and innovation, and tax optimization, showing that Romania is one of the top places for digital nomads to live and work in Europe.
As Romania is now going to be a full Schengen country, the opportunities are endless for those looking to work and live in the country as a digital nomad. As there will be no visa requirements to enter from other Schengen countries, it makes the entire process more straightforward and inviting.
According to Laura Madrid of Global Citizen Solutions:
“Romania and Bulgaria’s long-awaited full accession to the Schengen Area is a transformative milestone for both citizens and residents, offering seamless access to one of the world’s largest border-free zones. By eliminating internal border controls, this step enhances freedom of movement and opens up new opportunities for work, travel, and business across the European Union.”
As the popularity of digital nomadism increases, more digital nomads from across the globe are looking for the best countries to work and live, growing economies in leaps and bounds. This is much more of a possibility for Romania and Bulgaria as being part of the Schengen Zone makes both countries much more attractive for not only digital nomads but business owners and entrepreneurs too.
Business and Economic Implications
As members of the Schengen Zone, both countries are set to see a significant boost in their economies. Easier cross-border movements will attract potential investors and entrepreneurs. Additionally, the low cost of living and lower cost of operating a business in Romania and Bulgaria will add additional incentives.
These factors make both countries attractive options for companies looking to establish new businesses or branches within the European Union.
Transport and logistic sectors are vital for both countries economically and this is set to thrive with the admission to the Schengen Zone. The reduced border procedures and less delays will have a significant impact on both sectors improving. Additionally, the broader appeal to digital nomads and startups could spur innovation, improving the economies.
A Promising Future
The full potential of Romania and Bulgaria’s Schengen membership remains to be seen, but the benefits are clear. Citizens will enjoy greater freedom of movement, businesses will find new opportunities for growth, and both countries’ profiles on the global stage will rise. As full members of the Schengen Zone, Romania and Bulgaria are poised for a brighter future.
How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?
Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments.
We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application.
