Schengen Integration Moves Forward
It’s been over a year since Bulgaria lifted its air and sea border checks in March 2024, following an agreement with Austria. As a result, travelers can now move more freely.
Later, on January 1, 2025, Bulgaria fully joined over 20 countries in the Schengen Area, removing land border controls. Overall, this integration marks a new era in Bulgaria’s accession journey.
Visa Issuance Soars for Bulgaria
According to official data from the European Commission (EC), Bulgaria issued 96,000 Schengen visas in 2024, a telling breakdown.
In 2024, Bulgaria smashed records, receiving 10.7 million foreign visitors from the months of January to September. This marked a significant increase from 200,000 tourists in 2019.
Specifically, it issued 52,417 multiple-entry visas, reflecting higher mobility levels. Meanwhile, the country granted 21,842 long-term Schengen visas, supporting business and family ties. Notably, it issued 74 visas at border checkpoints, aiding last-minute travelers. As for application rejections, Bulgaria had a rejection rate of 9.4% (12,246 applications).
Easier Travel for Tourism, Business
With these visas, travelers can move across all Schengen countries seamlessly. As a result, Bulgaria has become a key entry point into Europe’s border-free zone.
Consequently, the EU expects tourism to boom, with easier access for visitors. Additionally, business travelers can now connect more efficiently across the continent.
Parliamentary Committee on Tourism Chairman Taner Ali has noted that Bulgaria has some of the best conditions for tourism development.
Meanwhile, new data from the World Travel & Tourism Council indicates further recovery for Bulgaria’s travel and tourism sector. International visitor spending accounts for approximately 80% of travel spending, with 65% for leisure.
Authorities predict the tourism sector will support around 330,000 jobs in 2025, potentially increasing to 386,000 by 2035.
“The story is one of both growth and impact: Travel & Tourism now accounts for more than eight per cent of government revenues and plays a vital role in employment,” the WTTC report noted.
Broader Schengen Visa Trends
Across Europe, Schengen visa demand continues to grow.
In 2024, the Schengen Zone received 11.7 million applications—a 13.6% increase from 2023. Moreover, countries issued 9.7 million visas in total, reflecting a 14.1% rise.
Overall, China, Turkey, and India led the pack in applications. This surge highlights Europe maintaining its appeal as a travel destination.
Benefits for Bulgaria
Bulgaria’s robust visa issuance showcases its readiness for deeper European integration. As a result, travelers benefit from streamlined processing and improved mobility.
Notably, Bulgaria’s full Schengen membership will likely boost its economy. In time, this could attract more investment, tourism, and international cooperation.
What’s Ahead for Bulgaria
Bulgaria’s success in issuing Schengen visas suggests a bright future for travel. Hence, officials plan to enhance border management and streamline visa processing further.
These efforts will support even more travelers in 2025 and beyond.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Bulgaria’s record-breaking visa issuance underscores its growing role in Europe’s Schengen Area. Travelers now enjoy easier, faster access to Bulgaria and beyond.
Overall, this milestone not only strengthens Bulgaria’s European ties but also brings significant economic benefits.
Photo by Mikhail | luxkstn on Unsplash
