Explanation
Bulgaria and Romania became Schengen members in March 31 2024 , gaining access to open borders via sea and air routes . This expansion aims to enhance regional integration and facilitate travel within the Schengen Area. The Schengen Area encompasses 29 European countries that have abolished border controls at their mutual borders . The 29 Schengen countries are: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg , Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden , Switzerland, Croatia, Bulgaria and Romania.