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As of the beginning of 2025, Bulgaria and Romania are fully part of the Schengen Area, making traveling to Europe even smoother for residents and citizens of these two countries. This opens new opportunities for the whole area and will facilitate the transition of goods and people between the member states. Let’s explore what this change means for your travel plans and how it simplifies movement across Europe.
Understanding the Schengen Area
The Schengen Area is a group of European countries that have abolished internal border controls, allowing for free movement of people. It currently includes 29 countries, including Bulgaria and Romania, making travel across these nations much easier.
There is no longer passport control on the borders which will reduce time for waiting significantly. The benefits for the Bulgarian economy and the boost can be measured in billions for the upcoming years. Of course, every person should be aware of the 90-day rule for staying in the countries they are not residents of.
Traveling from Bulgaria to Other Schengen Countries
For Bulgarian citizens:
Citizens of Bulgaria can travel freely to any Schengen country for tourism, business, or short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period without any visa. Only a valid passport or ID card is needed for identification purposes (as in almost every country).
For Third-country nationals residing in Bulgaria:
Non-EU citizens legally residing in Bulgaria could benefit from the same ease of movement within the Schengen Area. As long as your Bulgarian residency is valid you no longer need a separate Schengen visa for short-term travel within the area.
This provides additional opportunities mainly to businesses and Bulgarian residents from third countries. Before that, third-country residents could not travel freely within the EU area without a separate visa for every other Schengen country they wanted to visit.
Key Benefits of Schengen Membership for Bulgaria
No More Internal Border Checks:
Bulgarians and Bulgarian residents can now travel to Schengen countries without border delays or the need for additional paperwork. This is a game changer when it comes to time-saving and no more (or at least less) border breakdowns.
Unified Travel Policy:
Travel policies are now streamlined, reducing complications for Bulgarian citizens and residents traveling across Europe. Don’t forget to always carry with you a personal document – Passport/ID and a residence card if you have such.
Boosted Opportunities for Digital Nomads:
Third-country nationals residing in Bulgaria can easily explore Europe, opening up opportunities for tourism, education, and business. As we know the lifestyle of a digital nomad, and how important it is to move now and then. Compared to other continents, Europe is not that big, but it has everything, and it can perfectly fill the needs of any digital nomad wanting to explore new places while boosting the professional experience.
Economic Growth:
Full Schengen membership enhances Bulgaria’s tourism and business appeal, as visitors from other Schengen countries can now enter without restrictions. As neighboring countries within the Schengen area, the economic relations between Bulgaria, Greece and Romania will get stronger and stronger.
Important Tips for Travelers from Bulgaria
Documents to Carry:
Always travel with a valid passport or national ID card, even though internal border controls are no longer in place. Some airlines and hotels may require identification or even authorities if they decide a check is needed.
Know Your Rights:
As a citizen or resident of a Schengen country, you are entitled to free movement within the area. But ensure your stay in other member countries doesn’t exceed 90 days within a 180-day period unless you have a long-term visa or residence permit issued in the country you are staying for a longer period.
ETIAS in 2025:
Starting in 2025, ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) will require non-EU travelers who don’t need a visa to pre-register online before entering the Schengen Area. While this doesn’t affect Bulgarian citizens, expats from non-EU countries should be aware of this update. While this is yet to be accepted, you should prepare yourself carefully and be aware of the procedures before you take the trip to another Schengen country.
Travel Beyond the Schengen Area
While Schengen membership removes many barriers to travel across Europe, destinations outside the Schengen Area (like the UK, Ireland, and non-EU Balkan countries) still have their own entry requirements. If you are a third-country citizen who is also a Bulgarian resident, you should check visa and travel policies before planning trips to these nations.
Bulgaria is now a full member of the Schengen Area, making travel across Europe easier and faster. Citizens and residents can enjoy the benefits of free movement, while the elimination of border checks provides greater connectivity and opportunities.
Make sure to stay informed about upcoming changes like ETIAS and enjoy your seamless European adventures. If you have any questions or need some help, don’t hesitate to contact us!