Romania and Bulgaria would, in April, begin issuing Schengen visas for emigrants into Europe as struggles for better jobs and improved living conditions persist.

Officials of both countries are expected to issue the Schengen C visa type, which would permit entry and stay in the area for up to 90 days within 180 days. 

The short-stay visas by the two countries were closely linked to the EU Council’s decision to allow Romania and Bulgaria to access the Schengen area partially.

European Commission initially confirmed Romania and Bulgaria’s readiness to join the Schengen area in 2011 and over the years. However, the two countries have consistently demonstrated that they meet the necessary conditions, with experts reaffirming their readiness in 2022 and 2023. 

Romania and Bulgaria would be welcomed this year in March after Europe decided to lift air and sea border controls for the countries. 

Although the decision to land border controls is still pending, the latest move benefits people, including businesses, by granting them the right to free movement. 

The Schengen area – covering almost 450 million EU citizens and foreign nationals in or visiting the EU, guarantees free movement while citizens can travel, work, and live in any member state without special formalities.