Schengen Countries List 2025: New Member States and Visa Updates

The Schengen Area remains one of Europe’s most powerful agreements, allowing millions of travelers to cross borders freely without internal passport checks. By 2025, the Schengen zone includes 29 countries, with Romania and Bulgaria officially joining as full members.

For travelers, investors, and families seeking residency by investment in Europe, these updates make the Schengen visa even more valuable.

Current Schengen Countries List (as of 2025)

EU Member States in Schengen:
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden

Non-EU Schengen States:
Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland

👉 Note: Cyprus is still a candidate for Schengen membership, while Montenegro continues its alignment process. Ireland and the UK are not part of Schengen.

EU vs. Schengen: What’s the Difference?

• European Union (EU): A political and economic union of 27 states.

• Schengen Zone: A travel zone of 29 states (2025) with free borderless movement.

Not all EU countries are in Schengen (Ireland opted out), and some Schengen members (Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein) are not in the EU.

Tips for Smooth Stays in the Schengen Area

• Track the 90/180 rule to avoid overstays.

• Carry valid ID or passport even though borders are open.

• Stay updated on digital entry/exit systems being rolled out across Europe.

Schengen Expansion in 2025: Romania and Bulgaria Join

The most notable update in 2025 is the formal entry of Romania and Bulgaria into Schengen. Both countries upgraded border facilities, integrated EU-wide databases, and strengthened anti-corruption measures to meet membership standards.

Timeline:

• 2024 – EU approval for accession.

• January 2025 – Formal membership begins; border checks removed.

• 2025 onward – Post-accession monitoring to ensure compliance.

This expansion makes it easier for travelers and businesses to include these countries in multi-country trips without additional visa hurdles.

Schengen Visa Requirements in 2025

While core rules remain the same, there are important updates for 2025:

• Digital Visa Systems: Many consulates now accept eVisa applications.

• Enhanced Security: Biometric data and electronic authorizations are standard.

• ETIAS Implementation: From late 2026, visa-exempt travelers will need authorization before visiting Schengen.

• Entry/Exit System (EES): Launching in October 2025, fully operational by April 2026 to track non-EU travelers electronically.

👉 Travelers must still comply with the 90 days in 180 days rule. Overstays can lead to bans and penalties.

Benefits of Schengen Expansion

• Economic Growth: Easier movement of goods, services, and business.

• Travel Flexibility: Romania and Bulgaria added to the same Schengen visa itinerary.

• Business Opportunities: Investors gain broader market access across Southeastern Europe.

Global Mobility and Investment Opportunities

For global investors and families, Schengen expansion boosts opportunities in residency by investment programs across Europe. A residence permit in one Schengen country allows free travel across the zone.

Top European Residency Programs (2025):

• Malta: Real estate from €455,000 | 3–4 months approval.

• Portugal: Investment funds from €500,000 | PR eligibility after 5 years.

• Greece: Real estate from €250,000 | Residency in ~3 months.

• Latvia: Business investment from €50,000 or real estate from €250,000 | 4–6 months approval.

These programs are popular with investors seeking visa-free mobility and long-term settlement options in Europe.

Future Schengen Candidates

• Cyprus: EU member, expected to join soon pending border readiness.

• Montenegro: EU candidate, working toward alignment with Schengen rules.

Both countries already recognize valid multi-entry Schengen visas for travelers, making them convenient destinations while awaiting full accession.

Schengen’s Impact Beyond Borders

The Schengen Area represents more than open borders—it embodies European cooperation, security, and mobility. With its 2025 expansion, it further strengthens Europe’s position as one of the most accessible and attractive regions for travel, study, and investment.

For travelers and investors in the UAE, this development creates new pathways for global mobility.

FAQs About Schengen Area Changes 2025

1. Are the Schengen and EU borders the same?
No. Most EU countries are in Schengen, but not all. Non-EU states like Switzerland are Schengen members.

2. Can I travel visa-free in Schengen?
Nationals from visa-exempt countries can stay 90 days within 180. Residence permits from Schengen states also allow short-term visa-free travel.

3. Which residency program is best for investors?
Depends on your goals. Greece offers low entry real estate investment, while Portugal is popular for long-term citizenship.

4. What is the Schengen Area?
A zone of 29 European countries (2025) with no internal borders and unified visa policies.

5. Why isn’t the UK part of Schengen?
The UK opted out and enforces its own visa and border policies.

6. Can I enter the UK with a Schengen visa?
No, a Schengen visa does not allow UK entry.

Why Choose The Global Axis Immigration Consultants?

At The Global Axis Immigration Consultants, Dubai’s trusted government-licensed consultancy (partnered with AMER 247), we specialize in European residency and citizenship programs.

We guide clients in:

• Applying for Schengen visas and residency permits.

• Selecting the best residency by investment program.

• Structuring long-term plans for European mobility and citizenship opportunities.

Final Thoughts

With Romania and Bulgaria joining Schengen in 2025, Europe’s border-free zone is more powerful than ever. For families, investors, and frequent travelers, the expansion means greater travel flexibility, stronger investment prospects, and simplified mobility across Europe.

👉 If you’re planning to apply for a Schengen visa or residency by investment program, contact The Global Axis Immigration Consultants today. Our experts in Dubai provide end-to-end support to help you secure your future in Europe.