Bulgaria and Romania's Schengen Accession: European Commission Clarifies Migration Quotas Ahead of Partial Entry

As Bulgaria and Romania prepare for their anticipated partial accession to the Schengen Area, the European Commission has provided clarity on the absence of additional conditions regarding migrant quotas for land border accession. Despite concerns surrounding irregular migration that contributed to the delay in their full Schengen membership, Bulgaria and Romania will not be subjected to additional migration quotas for their accession.

Fiorella Boigner, a press officer for Home Affairs of the European Commission, emphasized the commitment of both Romania and Bulgaria to swiftly and diligently apply the Dublin acquit in full. This commitment ensures the immediate return of all asylum seekers for whom the two countries are responsible.

Boigner elaborated that effective March 31, the Council's decision on the full application of all provisions of the Schengen acquis will come into effect. This decision will take into account the provisions outlined in the Visa Code. Additionally, both Bulgaria and Romania, similar to all other Schengen Zone countries, will be authorized to issue multiple-entry visas with a validity of up to five years.

"Romania, like all other Schengen Member States, will be required to adhere to the rules of the Visa Code. This grants them the authority to issue multiple-entry visas with a validity of up to five years," Boigner stressed.

Moreover, national short-term visas issued by authorities in Bulgaria and Romania before March 31, 2024, will remain valid for transit or stays in Member States throughout their period of validity. However, this period should not exceed 190 days.

Romania's Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated the country's consistent fulfilment of all necessary requirements for Schengen accession. "Romania actively participated in the negotiations of the Pact on Asylum and Migration," the Ministry affirmed.

As the end of the month approaches, Bulgaria and Romania will commence their Schengen journey through air and sea routes, excluding land border accession for now. Kalin Stoyanov, Bulgaria's Minister of Interior, confirmed the readiness of the country's airports for Schengen entry by air. Additionally, new passport-checking rules will be implemented on March 31, 2024, marking a significant step in the accession process.

By fLEXI tEAM