Croatia officially joined the Schengen Area in 2023 and fully adopted the euro. However, Bulgaria and Romania were denied membership in the same vote. All three countries are EU members and must meet criteria to join the Schengen region. Concerns over security and border control protocols delayed Croatia's entry. Croatia is now the 28th member of the Schengen Area, which includes 23 EU member states and four EFTA members. Romania and Bulgaria continue to face opposition from certain member states.

When is Croatia expected to join the Schengen Area?

On January 1, 2023, Croatia officially became a part of the Schengen Area, marking a significant milestone in its journey towards full membership. This decision eliminates border controls between Croatia and other Schengen countries, including Slovenia and Hungary.

Path to Membership

Croatia's road to Schengen membership has been a long one. As the last nation to join the European Union in 2013, it has taken almost a decade to achieve this goal. The European Commission evaluated Croatia's readiness from 2016 to 2020 and found that the country had successfully implemented all of Schengen's rules and regulations, including meeting border control standards.

Positive Recommendations

In November 2022, the European Parliament provided a positive recommendation for Croatia's Schengen membership. This paved the way for the final vote on December 8, where the EU Council unanimously approved Croatia's entry into the Schengen zone.

Historic Moment

The Presidency of the Council of the European Union acknowledged the significance of this achievement, describing it as a historic moment. In a tweet, they stated, "The Schengen Area is growing for the first time in more than a decade. Ministers approved Croatia's membership as of January 1, 2023!"

This development marks a new chapter for Croatia as it embraces the principles of free movement and closer integration within the Schengen Area.

The impact of Croatia's Schengen Area membership on travel: Explained

Croatia has officially become a member of the Schengen zone, thereby eliminating border checks for travelers arriving from other member states. The primary objective behind this inclusion is to facilitate unrestricted movement across the entire Schengen bloc. As a result, individuals will only be required to present their passports and visas when entering from countries outside the Schengen Area.

• Croatia aligns its visa policy with other Schengen countries, enabling seamless travel within the zone.
• The implementation of the ETIAS visa waiver platform, slated for late 2023, will further harmonize Croatia's visa procedures with the rest of the Schengen Area.
• Travelers can expect a hassle-free experience, as border controls will no longer be conducted for intra-Schengen travel in Croatia.
• The integration of Croatia into the Schengen zone aims to strengthen cooperation and enhance the freedom of movement among member states.

Croatia Officially Adopts the Euro as Its Currency, Joining the Eurozone

Along with becoming a member of the Schengen zone, Croatia has also joined the eurozone, becoming the 20th nation to adopt the euro as its official currency. While the euro was already in use across Croatia for bank deposits and in certain tourist areas, the country has now become an official member of the eurozone.

The new currency in Croatia includes the following features:

1. A map of the country, showcasing its geographical representation.
2. The image of Nikola Tesla, the renowned inventor.

The Reasons behind Romania and Bulgaria's Rejection from Schengen Membership

Croatia celebrates its achievement as an official member of the Schengen Area, while also adopting the euro. This milestone signifies the country's commitment to open borders and economic integration.

Obstacles for Bulgaria and Romania:

Unfortunately, Bulgaria and Romania face disappointment once again in their pursuit of Schengen membership. Despite widespread support, unanimous approval from all EU member states is required, leading to opposition from certain countries.

Austria's Opposition:

Austria, as the sole dissenting country, blocks Romania's bid for membership. Their concerns about illegal migration and unresolved border issues drive their objection.

Additional Obstruction by Austria and the Netherlands:

1. Bulgaria faces opposition from Austria and the Netherlands.
2. Austria and the Netherlands express concerns about illegal migration.
3. Both countries obstruct Bulgaria's aspirations.
4. The opposition from Austria and the Netherlands adds additional hurdles to Bulgaria's goals.

Austrian Position Questioned:

Austria's stance raises eyebrows among European politicians, including German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser. Germany continues to support Romania and Bulgaria, expressing confusion over Austria's position and acknowledging Austria's domestic debates on the matter.

Reactions from Romanian and Bulgarian Officials:

Romanian President Klaus Iohannis condemns the decision as profoundly unfair to his country and its citizens. Bulgarian Interior Minister Ivan Demerdzhiev emphasizes that Bulgaria should not be held responsible for Austria's internal problems, advocating for the proper functioning of the Schengen Agreement before enlargement.

Promises from European Commissioner:

European Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson assures both countries that their bids for Schengen membership will persist. Recognizing their fulfillment of requirements, she emphasizes their deserving inclusion in the Schengen Area.

Future Prospects:

Although Bulgaria and Romania face setbacks, they remain committed to their Schengen aspirations. The possibility of another vote looms on the horizon, offering a chance for renewed efforts. Until then, both countries continue to strive for membership while remaining outside the Schengen Area.