Is Romania Part of the Schengen Agreement?
For many travelers planning a trip to Europe, the Schengen Agreement is an important factor to consider. The agreement, which was signed in 1985, allows for the free movement of people within the Schengen Area, which includes most countries in the European Union (EU) as well as a few non-EU countries. However, not all EU countries are part of the Schengen Area, and one of those countries is Romania.
Romania joined the EU in 2007 but has not yet become a full member of the Schengen Area. While the country has made significant progress in meeting the requirements for membership, it has not yet been able to meet all of them. One of the reasons for this is concerns about corruption and organized crime in Romania, which have been cited as obstacles to joining the Schengen Area.
Despite not being part of the Schengen Area, Romania has recently taken steps to increase its integration with the rest of Europe. In 2019, the European Commission recommended that Romania be allowed to join the Schengen Area, citing progress in areas such as border management and the fight against corruption. However, the decision to allow Romania to join the Schengen Area ultimately rests with the member states of the EU.
For travelers visiting Romania, it’s important to remember that while the country is not part of the Schengen Area, it does have its own visa policy for visitors. Depending on your nationality, you may need to obtain a visa before traveling to Romania. However, citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia, can enter Romania visa-free for up to 90 days.
In conclusion, Romania is not currently part of the Schengen Area, although it has made progress towards membership. While this may be disappointing for some travelers, there are still many reasons to visit Romania, from its breathtaking natural landscapes to its vibrant cities and rich cultural heritage. If you’re planning a trip to Romania, be sure to check the country’s visa policy and any travel restrictions that may be in place due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.