On December 12, 2024, the Council of the European Union made a historic decision: Bulgaria and Romania will fully join the Schengen area from January 1, 2025. This event will be significant for EU citizens, businesses, tourists and anyone planning to move or buy property in Bulgaria. Let's consider what benefits this decision will bring.
What is the Schengen area?
The Schengen area is a territory of 27 European countries between which there is no passport control at internal borders. Schengen members ensure the free movement of people, which makes traveling and living in Europe as convenient as possible.
What changes await Bulgaria?
Bulgaria has long been preparing to join Schengen. In March 2024, the country joined the "air" Schengen, abolishing passport control at air and sea borders with other states in the area. From January 2025, this rule will apply to all internal borders, including land crossings.
Key changes:
1. Easier travel. Now, traveling from Bulgaria to other Schengen countries will not require crossing the border, which is especially important for property owners planning to travel.
2. Increased tourist flow. Free access to Bulgaria without border control will attract more tourists, which will increase the investment attractiveness of local housing.
3. Increased property prices. The demand for real estate in Bulgaria may increase, as the country will become even more convenient for living and working in Europe.
4. Acceleration of economic development. Joining Schengen will create additional business opportunities, which will strengthen the country's economy.
Why is this important for property buyers?
For those planning to buy a home in Bulgaria, joining Schengen opens up new prospects:
• Investment benefits. Property prices in Bulgaria remain among the most affordable in the EU, but with increasing demand, they may begin to rise. Buying now is a chance to make a profitable investment.
• Ease of travel. Free movement within the Schengen area will be an additional advantage for property owners who want to use their home as a base for travel.
• Improved infrastructure. Joining Schengen will attract additional investment in infrastructure, which will improve the quality of life in the country.
Benefits for immigrants
For those planning to move to Bulgaria, joining Schengen will facilitate integration into the European space:
• Easy adaptation. Free movement and a visa-free regime with EU countries speed up the legalization and paperwork.
• International relations. International communities are actively developing in Bulgaria, and now participating in them will be even more convenient.
Conclusion
Bulgaria's entry into the Schengen area is a step that will make the country even more attractive to investors and immigrants. Convenient geographical location, low taxes and affordable real estate prices make Bulgaria one of the best places to live and invest.
If you have been thinking about buying a home or moving, now is the perfect time to make a decision. We are ready to help you choose the best property and provide full information about investment opportunities.
Contact us to find out more!