When Will Romania Fully Join Schengen?

The anticipation surrounding Romania's full integration into the Schengen Area has been a source of tension, excitement, and frustration over the last decade. You might be surprised to hear that Romania has been ready for Schengen membership since 2011. Yet, as of 2024, Romania still remains on the waiting list, even though it ticks all the boxes for entry.

Why the hold-up? It boils down to more than just Romania’s internal preparedness—it’s a complex geopolitical issue, deeply rooted in European politics, trust, and economics. Countries like Austria and the Netherlands have stood in Romania's way, citing concerns about migration and the rule of law. However, Romania has continued to make strides in strengthening its border controls, improving its judicial system, and boosting its relationship with EU countries, which raises the big question: When will it finally happen?

Fast forward to December 2023. Romania was again rejected despite the European Parliament and the European Commission both reaffirming that Romania meets all technical criteria for Schengen accession. The surprise? Romania’s citizens felt deeply let down by the EU’s inner workings, sparking a wave of Euroskeptic sentiment in a country that had traditionally been pro-EU.

Romania joining Schengen isn't just about travel convenience or border-free movement. It’s symbolic of Romania’s integration into the heart of Europe. Being excluded from Schengen paints a picture of a Europe divided, where trust issues between the member states are unresolved. Yet, insiders believe that 2025 could be the year Romania finally crosses the finish line.

In the past, Romania’s anti-corruption efforts were cited as reasons for delayed membership, with concerns over rule-of-law issues. But, Romania has made headway on judicial reforms, and 2024 promises to be the year Romania finally builds enough political goodwill within the EU to sway skeptics. The fact that neighboring Bulgaria is in a similar position has helped foster joint diplomatic efforts to accelerate their Schengen membership.

One of the key drivers for Romania’s delayed entry is the migration crisis. Countries like Austria have been vocal about concerns that allowing Romania into Schengen would worsen illegal migration flows through Europe. This argument, however, does not hold much water, as Romanian officials and the EU Commission have pointed out that Romania has one of the strictest and most efficient border management systems in Europe.

In terms of economic impact, the delay in joining Schengen has had tangible effects on Romania’s economy. Joining Schengen would reduce border-related costs, improve trade within the EU, and bolster tourism. A study conducted in 2021 by the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs estimated that joining Schengen could boost Romania's GDP by as much as 1% annually, thanks to increased trade and smoother logistics.

So, what needs to happen next? First, Romania must continue to lobby key EU players, particularly Austria and the Netherlands, to drop their opposition. Romania’s government has been working hard on diplomatic negotiations, presenting updated data and reports to highlight how its systems meet all Schengen requirements. 2024’s EU elections are another crucial turning point. Many believe that the political landscape post-elections could shift enough to bring in more supportive voices, potentially smoothing Romania’s path to Schengen.

Meanwhile, Romanian citizens and businesses are eagerly awaiting the decision. The inability to fully access the Schengen Area has slowed down Romania’s integration into the EU’s economic zone, particularly affecting transportation companies, logistics businesses, and multinational corporations that operate across Europe. Cross-border transport and freight services bear the brunt of delays at the EU’s internal borders, leading to increased costs and operational inefficiencies. The Schengen free-movement framework would eliminate much of this friction.

Some political analysts suggest that Romania’s internal politics could also play a role. While the Romanian government has consistently expressed its desire to join Schengen, critics argue that the country needs to maintain the momentum of its reforms. Judicial reform and anti-corruption measures are still crucial, even if Romania technically meets the Schengen criteria today. There’s a perception among some EU member states that reforms need to be more deeply embedded before Romania can be fully trusted as a Schengen member.

In conclusion, Romania’s full membership in the Schengen Area has been a long, winding road, full of setbacks and dashed hopes. It’s not a question of if but when. 2025 seems like the most realistic target at this stage, as the political and diplomatic climate shifts in Romania’s favor. However, Romania’s government must keep pushing forward, making the necessary political and diplomatic moves to secure full integration into the Schengen Zone.

When Romania finally joins, it will mark a significant step forward not only for the country but for the EU as a whole, demonstrating that Europe is committed to its vision of unity and cooperation. Until then, the wait continues—but the finish line is in sight.