id card eu travel

Travelling in the EU

Your rights & eu rules.

As an EU national, you enjoy the right of free movement. This means you’re entitled to travel, work and live in another EU country. If you’re a citizen of a Schengen country  – which is most EU countries – you’re also free to travel to other Schengen countries without the need for border checks.

As an EU national, you can also benefit from EU-wide passenger rights for travel into, out of or within the EU by air, rail, bus/coach or ship. You can travel with pets and other animals in the EU provided you comply with the rules (pet passports). There are EU limits on taking alcohol, tobacco or cash with you to another EU country. Each EU country can set its own limits or restrictions, so check before you go.

Travelling to or within the EU? Follow the links below to check which documents you need to take.

Documents you need to travel in the EU

Information on travel documents needed by EU nationals, non-EU national family members, non-EU nationals and children when entering the EU or travelling across it. Find out what to do if you lose your passport or it expires when travelling in the EU.

Public Register of Authentic travel and identity Documents Online (PRADO)

View authorised travel and identity documents issued by EU countries and Iceland, Norway and Switzerland.

Schengen – ID-free travel zone

What is it.

The Schengen area is a travel zone without borders between the 29 Schengen countries. It allows EU nationals and many non-EU nationals to travel freely without border checks. Since 1985, it’s kept growing, and now covers almost all EU countries and a few non-EU countries (Liechtenstein, Norway, Iceland, Switzerland). It guarantees free movement to more than 400 million EU nationals.

Any person, irrespective of nationality, can travel between Schengen countries without going through border checks. However, national authorities can carry out police checks at borders between these countries and in border areas.

Having abolished their internal borders, Schengen countries have also tightened controls at their common external borders on the basis of Schengen rules to ensure the security of those living or travelling in the Schengen area.

See all the Schengen countries

Common visa policy

The common visa policy enables non-EU visitors to make transit or short stays to the Schengen area. A short-stay visa issued by one of the Schengen countries generally entitles them to travel through all Schengen countries for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

In practice, this means that if you’re cleared to enter one Schengen country, you can travel to any of the other Schengen countries without having to show your travel document again.

Follow the links below for more information about your rights when travelling in the EU.

What can you take with you?

Information on what you can take with you when travelling in the EU, including pets, food, alcohol, tobacco and cash. Find out the luggage restrictions when flying from an airport in the EU and which EU countries use the euro.

Air passenger rights

Information on where and when EU air passenger rights apply and how to make a complaint. Find out who to contact if you need help or advice with your claim.

Assistance for travellers with disabilities or reduced mobility

Information on your rights if you’re travelling in the EU with a disability or reduced mobility. See if you’re entitled to an EU disabled parking permit.

Further information

Using the euro.

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European ID Cards: Changes at the UK Border from 1st October 2021

It is estimated that almost a third of EU, EEA and Swiss nationals currently travel to the UK using national identity cards, rather than passports. However, on 01 October 2021 , the rules governing entry to the UK with an EU, EEA or Swiss national identity card will change.

Up to and including Thursday 30 September 2021, all EU, EEA and Swiss citizens can use their national identity card to enter the UK. However, from Friday 01 October 2021, this will no longer be possible for most EU, EEA and Swiss citizens. Instead, a valid passport must be shown at the UK border. The passport must be valid for the entire duration of the traveller’s stay in the UK.

While this change will apply to the majority of EU, EEA and Swiss citizens, some exceptions apply. Certain EU, EEA and Swiss citizens may continue to enter the UK using only their national identity cards, up until at least 31 December 2025 . This will only apply to you if you fall into one of the categories below:

You have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme

If you have been granted either pre-settled status or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you can enter the UK by showing the identity document linked to your online status. This could be your passport, or your national identity card.

Before you travel, you should ensure that you update your online account with all valid travel documents (such as passports or national identity cards) that you hold and intend to use for travel, to avoid any unnecessary delays at the border. You can check, or change, the identity document linked to your status under the EU Settlement Scheme on the GOV.UK website .

You have applied to the EU Settlement Scheme, but not yet received a decision

On 25 August 2021, the UK government updated its guidance to confirm that EU, EEA and Swiss citizens who applied to the EU Settlement Scheme before the 30 June 2021 deadline, but have not yet received a decision, can continue to use their national identity card to enter the UK after 01 October 2021, while they are waiting for the decision on their application.

If your application is pending, UK border guards will be able to check your pending status automatically at the border using the documents registered, so your travel in and out of the country will not be affected while your application is being processed. 

You have an EU Settlement Scheme Family Permit

If you have an EU Settlement Scheme Family Permit , you may continue to enter the UK after 01 October 2021 by showing an EU, EEA or Swiss national ID card.

You have a Frontier Worker Permit

If you have a permit under the Frontier Worker Permit Scheme , you may continue to enter the UK after 01 October 2021 by showing an EU, EEA or Swiss national ID card.

You are an S2 Healthcare Visitor

If you have been authorised to receive planned healthcare in the UK under the ‘S2 arrangement’ , or you’re accompanying or joining someone who is, you may continue to enter the UK after 01 October 2021 by showing an EU, EEA or Swiss national ID card.

You are a Swiss national and have a Service Provider from Switzerland visa

If you work for a company based in Switzerland and have a Service Providers from Switzerland visa, you may continue to enter the UK after 01 October 2021 by showing a Swiss national ID card.

British and Irish citizens

If you are a British citizen and have a Gibraltar identity card, you can continue to use this to travel to the UK after 01 October 2021.

If you are an Irish citizen and have a passport card, you can continue to use this to travel to the UK  after 01 October 2021.

Non-EEA citizens

Please note that if you’re a non-EEA family member of an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen, you will need to show your valid national passport. You cannot use an Article 10 or Article 20 residence card issued by an EEA member state to enter the UK.

If you are a non-EEA citizen, you must travel with a valid national passport.

Other Documents That EU or Swiss Visitors May Need to Show at the UK Border

Whether you are entering the UK with a national identity card or a passport, there may be other documents that you will need in order to enter the UK as a Visitor .

Contact Our Immigration Barristers

EU, EEA or Swiss nationals who wish to visit the UK and wish to discuss their visit with one of our immigration barristers should contact us on 0203 617 9173 or complete our enquiry form below.

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German ID Card

The electronic residence title

eID Card for citizens of the EU and the EEA

Electronic Identification

On-site reading

Security and data protection

• Offering electronic identification
• For Service Providers
• For Identification Service Providers
• Approval procedure for user accounts
• eIDAS-compliant remote signature with eID
• The Digital Identities project
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type: Article

The new eID card for citizens of the European Union (EU) and the European Economic Area (EEA) was introduced on 1 January 2021.

Source: Federal Ministry of the Interior, Building and Community

Its legal basis is the “ Act on a Card with an Electronic Identification Function for Citizens of the European Union and the European Economic Area ” (eID-Karte-Gesetz – eIDKG), which came into force on 1 November 2019.

With the new eID card you can identify yourself on the internet, at vending machines (i. e. to confirm your age) and the self-service terminals in public authorities - in an easy, quick and secure way.

To do this, you use the electronic identification (eID) function of the eID card. Technical basis for the eID function is the same as it is in the German ID card.

The new eID card – some facts

Citizens of the European Union and the European Economic Area that are not Germans can apply for an eID card.

Please note that the eID card for citizens of the EU and the EEA with eID function is intended only for use of digital services. It does not replace the recognized and valid foreign passport or identity card for identification, e. g. when travelling. The eID card therefore can never be used as an official travel document.

The eID card is issued to you for a period of ten years and for a fee of € 37.00.

Applicants must be at least 16 years old.

The validity of your eID card cannot be extended.

Before your eID card expires, you may apply for a new one if you can demonstrate a legitimate interest in having a new one issued.

In Germany, you can apply for an eID card at the identity card authority of your local municipal office.

If you are not resident in Germany, you can apply for an eID card outside Germany since 1 November 2021 at the German missions abroad designated by the Federal Foreign Office.

Necessary documents

To apply for your eID card, you need the valid identity document issued by your home country, e.g. a passport or a national identity card.

Your address is also stored in the chip of the eID card. If you live and are registered in Germany, the responsible eID authority (Bürgeramt) knows your address. If you have just moved to Germany, you must register with a German registration office. You can find out which documents are required for registration from your registration office.

If you do not have a residence in Germany, you will need to provide other proof of your residence. You can enquire at the relevant German mission abroad (embassy or consulate) about which documents are required.

This information is visible on the eID card

Front of the eid card.

On the front of the eID card the following data are visible.

on the left

• logo of the eID function

on the right

• serial number
• surname and forename(s)
• date of birth
• date of expiry
• card access number (CAN)

Here you can use your eID card

Public or private service providers that wish to make registration procedures easier and more secure for you offer the eID function.

With your eID card, you can use digital administration services on the administrative portals of the federal and state governments and set up your own user account for the electronic proof of identity.

Some companies, such as mobile telecommunications providers and financial service providers, also offer you the use of the eID function.

Example of the digital services with eID identification that are offered in Germany by authorities and businesses are listed here .

Much more applications you will find on the German site of the Personalausweisportal .

More and more authorities of EU member states also offer digital services that may be used with the German eID function. This option will be indicated on their websites.

On-site reading with the eID card

Another function of your new eID card is the so called on-site reading. Please note that for using the on-site reading at first you have to identify yourself at the point of sale by using your valid passport or official photo ID. This is different from using the German ID card for on-site-reading.

More information on on-site reading you find here.

Broschure: The eID card for citizens of the European Union and the European Economic Area type: Download ​ , Date: 15 December 2020

In December 2020, the Federal Ministry of the Interior, Building and Community published a new brochure providing information about the eID card for citizens of the European Union and the European Economic Area. On 16 pages, you will find the most important information about your eID card with eID function briefly and clearly explained.

PDF, 442KB, accessible file

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Travel from EU to Norway: ID Card Accepted for Tourists?

Are you an EU citizen planning a trip to Norway and wondering if you can travel there with just your ID card? You’re in the right place! In this article, we’ll answer your question and give you all the information you need for a smooth and hassle-free trip to this beautiful Scandinavian country.

• 1 Can EU Citizens Travel to Norway with ID Card?
• 2 What is the Schengen Agreement?
• 3 What Do You Need to Travel to Norway with an ID Card?
• 4 Do You Need a Visa to Travel to Norway?
• 5 What Can You Do in Norway?
• 6 Final Thoughts

Can EU Citizens Travel to Norway with ID Card?

The short answer is yes, EU citizens can travel to Norway with just their ID card. This is because Norway is a member of the Schengen Agreement, which allows for free movement of people within its borders without the need for a passport. However, it is important to note that not all ID cards are accepted. Only national ID cards issued by EU/EEA member states and Switzerland are accepted as valid travel documents.

What is the Schengen Agreement?

The Schengen Agreement is a treaty signed in 1985 between five European countries – France, Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands – with the aim of abolishing internal borders and allowing for free movement of people and goods within their territories. Today, the Schengen Area comprises 26 European countries, including Norway, and covers most of the European Union (EU) as well as some non-EU countries such as Norway, Switzerland, and Iceland.

What Do You Need to Travel to Norway with an ID Card?

If you are an EU citizen planning to travel to Norway with just your ID card, you need to make sure that your ID card is valid and accepted as a travel document. You also need to make sure that you have your travel documents with you at all times during your trip. This includes your ID card, travel insurance, and any other relevant documents such as a visa or a vaccination certificate if required.

Do You Need a Visa to Travel to Norway?

If you are an EU citizen, you do not need a visa to travel to Norway as long as your stay does not exceed 90 days. You can enter Norway with just your valid ID card or passport. However, if you are planning to work or study in Norway, you may need to apply for a visa or a work permit depending on your circumstances.

What Can You Do in Norway?

Norway is a country of stunning natural beauty, with breathtaking fjords, mountains, and glaciers. It is also a country of rich cultural heritage, with medieval churches, historic cities, and traditional wooden architecture. Some of the top things to do in Norway include:

• Exploring the Norwegian fjords, either on a scenic drive or on a fjord cruise
• Hiking in the mountains and national parks, such as Jotunheimen, Rondane, and Hardangervidda
• Visiting the picturesque cities of Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim
• Experiencing the Northern Lights and the Midnight Sun depending on the season
• Tasting the local cuisine, including seafood, meat, and dairy products

Final Thoughts

Now that you know that EU citizens can travel to Norway with just their ID card, it’s time to start planning your trip! Make sure to check your ID card’s validity and bring all the necessary travel documents with you. And don’t forget to pack your sense of adventure and wonder, as Norway is a country that will take your breath away with its natural and cultural wonders.

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European Digital Identity: easy online access to key services

Improved rules for the European Digital Identity - a personal digital wallet for EU citizens - will make it easier for people to access public services and make online transactions.

Since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, more public and private services have become digital. This requires secure and reliable digital identification systems. In February 2024, the European Parliament adopted an update of the European digital identity framework .

Find out more about the digital transformation , one of the EU's priorities.

What is the European Digital Identity?

The European Digital Identity (eID) enables the mutual recognition of national electronic identification schemes across borders. It allows EU citizens to identify and authenticate themselves online without having to resort to commercial providers. It also allows people to access online services from other EU countries using their national electronic identity card.

What are the benefits of the European Digital Identity?

The European Digital Identity can be used for:

• Public services such as requesting birth certificates, medical certificates, reporting a change of address
• Opening a bank account
• Filing tax returns
• Applying for a university in your own country or in another EU country
• Storing a medical prescription that can be used anywhere in Europe
• Proving your age
• Renting a car using a digital driving license
• Checking into a hotel

Improved rules

The 2014 Electronic Identification, Authentication and Trust Services (eIDAS) Regulation required EU countries to establish national schemes for electronic identification that meet certain technical and security standards. These national schemes are then connected allowing people to use their national electronic identity card to access online services in other EU countries.

In 2021, the European Commission put forward a proposal building on the eIDAS framework , aiming to enable at least 80% of people to use a digital identity to access key public services across EU borders by 2030.

Parliament’s position on the proposed update emphasised the importance of ensuring that national systems work with each other, are simple to use and that people have control over their personal data.

In negotiations with the Council about the final legislative text, MEPs pushed to safeguard people’s rights and promote a fair digital landscape, ensuring that those who opt out of participation are not discriminated against.

Parliament approved the provisional agreement with the Council in February 2024.

Check out more EU measures to boost the digital economy

• The European strategy for data
• Cryptocurrency dangers and the benefits of EU legislation
• New EU cybersecurity laws explained
• Five ways the European Parliament wants to protect online gamers
• Chips Act – the EU’s plan to overcome semiconductor shortage

European Digital Identity

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Visiting the UK as an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen

What you need to know about crossing the UK border and visiting the UK.

What you need to enter the UK

If you’re an eu , european economic area ( eea ) or swiss citizen.

Irish citizens can continue to enter and live in the UK .

EU , EEA and Swiss citizens can travel to the UK for holidays or short trips without needing a visa. In other cases, find out if you need to apply for a visa to enter the UK .

You can cross the UK border using a valid passport which should be valid for the whole time you are in the UK .

EU , EEA and Swiss citizens can continue to use the automatic ePassport gates to pass through the border on arrival.

You cannot use an EU , EEA or Swiss national ID card to enter the UK unless you:

• have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme , or Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man’s settlement schemes
• have an EU Settlement Scheme family permit , or the equivalent from Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man
• have a frontier worker permit
• are an S2 Healthcare Visitor
• are a Swiss national and have a Service Provider from Switzerland visa

In these cases, you can continue to use your national ID card to enter the UK until at least 31 December 2025.

If you’re waiting for a decision on your application for settled or pre-settled status

You can still use your EEA or Swiss national identity card to enter the UK if all of the following are true:

• you’ve applied for settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, or Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man’s settlement schemes
• you’ve been issued with confirmation your application is valid
• you’re not applying as a joining family member

Other types of cards

British citizens can continue to use a Gibraltar identity card to travel to the UK .

Irish citizens can continue to use a passport card to travel to the UK .

You must have the correct documents to show at the UK border if you’re travelling to the UK . You cannot use any documents to enter the UK that are not listed here.

If you’re a non- EEA family member of an EU , EEA or Swiss citizen

You need a valid national passport, and one of the following:

• an EU Settlement Scheme family permit
• a UK -issued EEA family permit
• a UK -issued biometric residence card

You cannot use an Article 10 or Article 20 residence card issued by an EEA member state.

If you’re from a non- EEA country

Your passport (and visa if you have one) will be checked at border control. You’ll usually be asked why you’re coming to the UK . You can use the UK / EEA immigration lanes and the automatic ePassport gates if you’re from:

• New Zealand
• South Korea
• United States

Travelling from within the Common Travel Area (CTA)

The Common Travel Area (CTA) is made up of the UK , Ireland and the Crown Dependencies (Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man).

There are different document requirements if you are travelling to the UK within the CTA.

Business travel to the UK

If you’re an EU , EEA or Swiss Citizen travelling to the UK for a short business trip, you may not need to apply for a visa.

Under the UK ’s new points-based immigration system , you can continue to visit the UK without applying for a visa. In most cases you can stay for up to 6 months. You may participate in a wide range of activities including business-related activities such as meetings, events and conferences. You may enter the UK multiple times during that period but you may not live in the UK by means of frequent or successive visits.

As a business visitor, you cannot:

• do paid or unpaid work for a UK company or as a self-employed person
• do a work placement or internship
• sell directly to the public or provide goods and services

Read more about visiting the UK on a business trip and check whether you need to apply for a visa to carry out your intended activities.

Check the Visitor Rules and see the full list of business and academic activities you can do as a visitor to the UK .

Read more about what you can do when visiting from Ireland or one of the Crown Dependencies and check whether you need to apply for a visa.

Working in the UK or sending employees to work in the UK

If you require EU , EEA or Swiss citizens to work in the UK for longer than 6 months, they need to apply for a visa. Find out more about working in the UK .

If you employ or intend to employ an EU , EEA or Swiss citizen who commutes to the UK , see the guidance for frontier workers .

Trading with the UK

EU business can find out more about trading with the UK .

Commercial goods (merchandise in baggage)

You must tell customs (‘declare’) if you are bringing commercial goods into the UK in your accompanied baggage or small motor vehicle. Commercial goods are things to sell.

You need to make a full customs declaration if you are bringing commercial goods that are any of the following:

• above the total value of £1,500 into Great Britain
• above the total value of £873 into Northern Ireland
• excise , restricted or controlled goods
• weigh above 1,000 kilograms

Check the rules on merchandise in baggage .

Professional qualifications

Find out how to get your EU , EEA or Swiss qualification recognised in the UK .

School travellers entering the UK

Schools in france.

You can visit the UK using the France- UK school trip travel information form .

This allows:

• children who are EU , EEA or Swiss citizens to enter with their national identity card instead of a passport
• children who are citizens of other countries to enter without a visa, even if they would normally need one to visit the UK

Schools in other countries

All schoolchildren need a passport to visit the UK .

Children who are citizens of other countries may also need a visa - check if you need a UK visa .

What you can bring into the UK

Read the updated guidance on:

• how you bring horses to and from the UK
• how you bring endangered plants, animals or their products to and from the UK

Bringing your pet to and from the UK

Find out about pet travel to Europe .

Bringing goods into the UK

Some rules have changed when you bring goods for your own use from the EU to the UK . Find out more about bringing goods into the UK .

Controls on cash

Individuals travelling from the EU to the UK with £10,000 or more in cash will need to make a declaration. Find out about taking cash in and out of the UK .

Healthcare in the UK

EEA and Swiss citizens visiting the UK should check the guidance on healthcare for the latest information on access to NHS healthcare.

Driving in the UK

If you have a non- uk licence.

Visitors with a non- UK driving licence can drive in the UK . You do not need an international driving permit ( IDP ).

If your vehicle is not insured in the UK

If you have vehicle insurance issued in the EU , Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Serbia or Switzerland, you should carry an insurance green card or other valid proof of insurance.

To be valid, other proof of insurance must be a document issued by the vehicle insurance provider which includes the:

• name of the insurance provider
• number plate or other identifying particulars of the vehicle
• period of insurance cover

Contact your vehicle insurance provider before you travel.

If your vehicle is insured in a country outside the EU , Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Serbia or Switzerland, what you’ll need to do will depend on if your country is a member of the green card system .

If your country is a member, you will need to carry a green card.

If your country is not a member, your vehicle will need UK vehicle insurance .

Using your mobile phone in the UK

How much you pay for calls, texts and mobile data in the UK and the EU will depend on your operator. Please check before you travel.

Updated the section on school travellers with information on the France-UK school trip travel information form.

Updated 'School travellers entering the UK' as the List of Travellers scheme is no longer in operation.

Updated to remove information about travelling to England during coronavirus (COVID-19).

Updated information on use of ID cards to enter the UK if you're an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen.

Updated information for Irish citizens travelling to the UK from Ireland or the Crown Dependencies.

Those with an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen national ID card who have applied to the EU Settlement Scheme will be able to use it to enter the UK whilst they wait for the decision on their application.

Added information for EU, EEA and Swiss citizens who have applied to the EU Settlement Scheme by 30 June 2021 but not yet received a decision. Added guidance for Gibraltar identity card holders. Added guidance for Irish citizens.

First published.

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European Digital Identity

A personal digital wallet for EU citizens and residents

The EU Digital Identity will be available to EU citizens, residents, and businesses who want to identify themselves or provide confirmation of certain personal information. It can be used for both online and offline public and private services across the EU.

Every EU citizen and resident in the Union will be able to use a personal digital wallet.

Every time an App or website asks us to create a new digital identity or to easily log on via a big platform, we have no idea what happens to our data in reality. That is why the Commission will propose a secure European e-identity. One that we trust and that any citizen can use anywhere in Europe to do anything from paying your taxes to renting a bicycle. A technology where we can control ourselves what data is used and how.

Benefits of the EU Digital Identity

The right of every person eligible for a national ID card to have a digital identity that is recognised anywhere in the EU

A simple and safe way to control how much information you want to share with services that require sharing of information

Operated via digital wallets available on mobile phone apps and other devices to:

• identify online and offline
• store and exchange information provided by governments e.g. name, surname, date of birth, nationality
• store and exchange the information provided by trusted private sources
• use the information as confirmation of the right to reside, to work, or to study in a certain Member State

Following a Commission Recommendation from 3 June 2021, a Member States Expert Groups is developing a Toolbox including a technical Architecture and Reference Framework (ARF), a set of common standards and technical specifications and a set of common guidelines and best practice, to make European Digital Identity Wallets truly a practical tool for all. The Commission regularly publishes the results of the work of the expert group . 

Prior to its roll-out in Member States, the EU Digital Identity Wallet is piloted in four large scale projects , that launched on 1 April 2023. The objective of these projects is to test digital identity wallets in real-life scenarios spanning different sectors. Over 250 private companies and public authorities across 25 Member States and Norway, Iceland, and Ukraine will participate. 

The European Commission will also provide a prototype of a EU Digital Identity Wallet (EUDI) as set out in the proposed European Digital Identity Regulation. 

Why is it needed?

Digital identification systems offered by governments in the EU today have several important shortcomings: they are not available to the whole population, they are often limited to online public services and not allow for seamless access cross-border.  

Only 14% of key public service providers across all Member States allow cross-border authentication with an e-Identity system, for example to prove a person’s identity on the internet without the need for a password. The number of successful cross-border authentications per year is very small, though on the increase. 

72% of users want to know how their data is processed when they use social media accounts. 63% of EU citizens want a secure single digital ID for all online services (Eurobarometer survey)

Key principles

Available to any EU citizen, resident, or business in the EU who wants to use it

Widely useable as a way of identification or to confirm certain personal attributes for the purpose of access to public and private digital services across the EU

Giving full control to users to choose which aspects of their identity, data and certificates they share with third parties, and keep track of such sharing

Practical use

With the EU Digital Identity Wallets, citizens will be able to prove, across the EU, their identity where necessary to access services online, to share digital documents, or simply to prove a specific personal attribute, such as age, without revealing their full identity or other personal details. Citizens will at all times have full control of the data they share and by whom. 

The EU Digital Identity can be used for any number of cases, for example:

• public services such as requesting birth certificates, medical certificates, reporting a change of address
• opening a bank account 
• filing tax returns
• applying for a university, at home or in another Member State
• storing a medical prescription that can be used anywhere in Europe 
• proving your age
• renting a car using a digital driving licence
• checking in to a hotel 

Using the EU Digital Identity: applying for a bank loan

Applying for a bank loan is a process that typically includes numerous steps, from setting up appointments and having physical meetings, to collecting and signing all the paper documents - and repeating the operation if documents are missing.

By using the EU Digital Identity, the user only has to select the necessary documents that are stored locally on his digital wallet to reply to the bank’s request. Then, verifiable digital documents are created and sent securely for verification to the bank, who can then continue with the application process.

Making things easier for citizens and businesses

The following identification and trust services can already be used with legal effect across the EU thanks to the trust framework created by the eIDAS Regulation. They are key tools to enable trust and security in the Digital Single Market. Some services, like eSignatures, will be integrated into the wallet to facilitate their use.

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What to know about Schengen zone, Europe’s ‘border-free’ travel system

Schengen countries allow international travelers to move freely across borders without additional passport checks.

Europe’s “border-free” Schengen zone has added travel protections for two more countries, making it easier for more people to explore the southeastern region of the continent.

Romania and Bulgaria partially joined the Schengen area on Sunday, which means visitors who arrive by air or sea from other countries in the zone can cross their borders without an ID check. Land borders will remain subject to ID checks because of opposition led by Austria, which has long cited irregular migration as a concern when it comes to welcoming the two Eastern European states into the Schengen agreement. The move comes more than a decade after Romania and Bulgaria joined the European Union.

The European Commission had previously recommended that Bulgaria and Romania be admitted to join the Schengen zone, starting in 2011 and most recently in 2023. A combination of internal problems in the two countries and opposition from other countries citing irregular migration concerns — especially after the so-called “migrant crisis” of 2015 — meant they were caught in “Schengen purgatory” until now, according to Leon Züllig, a researcher and Schengen expert at Germany’s Justus Liebig University Giessen.

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9 facts about the EU Digital Identity Wallet

The EU Digital Identity Wallet is an ambitious digital identity project launched by the European Commission with the aim of boosting the single market and creating EU champions by streamlining cross-border identity verification. Pilots have been launched both to test the infrastructure and work on the EUDI Wallet’s technical features alongside its legal aspects—a rather unusual process, but one that should speed things up. The regulation should be approved by the end of 2023, along with the implementation timeline—the EU Digital Identity Wallet should be available within the next 2 to 3 years.

The EU Digital Identity Wallet aims to streamline and secure a wide range of eGovernment services for EU citizens such as requesting birth certificates, medical certificates, reporting a change of address or filing tax returns. It should also benefit the private sector whenever identity verification is required—opening a bank account, renting a car, checking into a hotel, etc.

• How will this digital ID wallet co-exist with existing ID documents and national digital identity systems?
• Who will issue the EU Digital Identity Wallet?
• Can we trust the EU wallet to protect our identities and respect our privacy?

Read on to get some answers as well as a better understanding of the EU Digital Identity Wallet.

1. The EU Digital Identity Wallet will be available for every citizen throughout the EU

Today, only 60% of the EU population in 14 Member States are able to use their national eID across borders 1 . The new version of the eIDAS (Electronic IDentification Authentication and trust Services) regulation, will make the EU Digital Identity Wallet available to any EU citizen, resident, or business who wishes to use it. Unlike eIDAS I, which introduced a preliminary framework for digital identity deployment and usage in the EU, the eIDAS II regulation will mandate EUDI wallet implementation for all member states , with a strong focus on interoperability. The eIDAS II regulation will also provide access to private sector players. The aim is that by 2025/2026, every European citizen will have access to a digital identity compliant with EU standards and accepted by authorities and service providers across all member states.

2. The EU Digital Identity Wallet is NOT going to replace existing ID documents

The EU Digital Identity Wallet will provide a digital version of ID documents and other personal documents: identity cards, driving license, passports, payment cards, transport cards, travel passes, etc. One of the main advantages of the EU Wallet is that it will facilitate online identity verification . Because it will be standardized at the EU level and recognized by all member states, the EU Digital Identity Wallet will open up new cross-border use cases such as opening a bank account, applying for a university or filling in a medical prescription in another member state. It will also allow EU citizens to travel throughout Europe without their physical ID documents . Border control authorities will only need a smartphone or tablet with a specific application to check the wallet holder’s identity.

However, for the present, the EU Digital Identity Wallet is intended to complement rather than totally replace existing physical ID documents. Both will have the same use and value. Physical and digital ID documents will coexist , not only because the smartphone containing the EUDI wallet can always break down or run out of battery, but also because the physical ID document should still play a key role in securing the EU Digital Identity Wallet in most countries—but more on that later.

3. The EU Digital Identity Wallet will be implemented at national level

The regulations and technical standards will come from Brussels but implementation will take place at national level. There is no EU wallet just yet, but certain Member States have already developed digital identity apps with similar features, including France, Portugal and Austria, although they are not interoperable just yet. The objective is to make these national apps evolve to integrate eIDAS protocols and standards.

4. All EU Digital Identity Wallets must be interoperable, but their features may vary

While the European standard will define interoperability at national level for the EU Digital Identity Wallet, each member state will be free to implement it however they wish. This means that each member state will be able to use its own designs and features , but that every EU wallet will share certain common features and be interoperable across the EU. In addition to compliance with EU interoperability standards , EUDI wallets will also have to obtain security certifications implemented at national level .

5. The EU Digital Identity Wallet may be developed by the government or by a private sector provider

Member states may create the wallet by themselves or commission a private-sector provider (most likely from the banking, telecoms or utilities sector). However, these private players will not be allowed to monetize the wallet, which must remain free of charge for all citizens.

Different approaches exist within current working groups. France uses framework agreements with the private sector while Belgium relies on a consortium of banks and mobile network operators. In any case, while the EU Digital Identity Wallet will primarily be a public-sector initiative , the private sector will be involved to a greater or lesser extent. And, unlike its first version, eIDAS II will place a strong emphasis on private sector use. All service providers and major platforms will have an obligation to accept the wallet for identity verification—especially in regulated sectors such as finance and telecoms.

6. The EU Digital Identity Wallet will be highly secure

As a native digital solution , the EU Digital Identity Wallet will be more effectively adapted to – and help to prevent fraud in – remote and digital inspection. Authentication checks will be quick and easy—users will simply have to scan a QR code, tap a PIN code and/or hold their eID card up to their smartphone.

The new European regulation should define two levels of security for EU wallets: a high and a substantial level of security . Each country will be required to have at least one high-level security wallet. However, other wallets may be created within the same country either by private or other public actors. Whether these additional EU digital identity wallets implement a substantial or high level of security will depend on the use cases . For instance, a Health Ministry could implement a separate EUDI wallet to provide specific features that streamline patient care and such a wallet is likely to require a high level of security. Other wallets providing slightly lower—but still “substantial”—levels of security while offering greater ease of use may be considered for less demanding use cases .

7. A secure element will be used to secure the data

The level of security (high or substantial) will depend directly on the certification of the secure element hosting the keys of the EU Digital Identity Wallet. These keys will prevent unauthorized access to sensitive personal data using encryption. Ideally, this would be based on an existing secure element embedded in a smartphone but there is no guarantee that all smartphones will be compatible. This could also pose problems of sovereignty if phone manufacturers retain control of the technology and are in position to prevent governments from gaining access at some point. Hence the current discussions between Big Tech and the European Union.

The easiest way of solving these sovereignty and security certification challenges at present is to use the secure element already embedded in national eID cards —as is the case in France. The ID card chip is issued by the government and therefore poses no problems in terms of sovereignty or security. The wallet holder will need an NFC-enabled smartphone to unlock the wallet using their eID card and share any sensitive personal data.

For member states preferring to use a secure element already embedded in the phone for better ergonomics , another alternative could be to use the SIM card. In any case, the EU Digital Identity Wallet security level will only be considered high if the secure element is certified by the government and guarantees sovereignty over the EUDI wallet keys. If the smartphone-embedded secure element or the SIM card are not certified, they may still be used for less critical, more ergonomic EU wallet applications.

8. The wallet will protect personal data

Ultimately, the EU Digital Identity Wallet will provide enhanced privacy and safety for citizens and consumers who need to confirm their identity either online or in-person . The user may share only those ID attributes and personal data that are relevant for a specific transaction—no copies can be made without the user’s knowledge.

In concrete terms, the user will receive a validation request on their smartphone to share the attribute requested. No more paper copies of ID documents at hotel check-in desks or car rental companies, no more electronic receipts of ID cards, passports or driver’s licenses sent by email. For example, wallet users will be able to prove the validity of their driver’s license without displaying their address. In terms of privacy protection, they may even be able to access services reserved for adults without revealing their identity—if permitted by national regulations.

Moreover, there will be no centralized data system . Each citizen’s EUDI wallet will store their personal data—attacks against EU Digital Identity Wallets will not be scalable.

• 9. Using pseudonyms rather than unique identifiers will avoid cross-linking databases

A unique identifier is a single number associated with one individual and cannot be changed during the user’s lifetime. Creating different pseudonyms sector-based or even service-based (for banking, healthcare, insurance, etc.) is a way of preventing that number from being used for cross-linking databases and tracking users. The European regulation should allow each Member country to assess whether using a unique identifier is a concern at national level or not. It should also allow for more flexibility and greater privacy protection through the use of pseudonyms that may even change over time. In any case, a unique identifier or pseudonym must remain independent of the digital ID wallet as users will need to keep these codes in case they need to change their phone and reinstall their wallet on the new phone.

As regards the numbers to be used for the unique identifier or pseudonyms, this is also likely to differ from country to country . Italy could use people’s tax ID as a unique identifier while France or the Netherlands would likely prefer to have sector-based pseudonyms, such as social security numbers in France for health-related matters.

1 https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/priorities-2019-2024/europe-fit-digital-age/european-digital-identity_en

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Society | Iceland’s New ID Cards Double as EEA Travel Documents

Iceland’s New ID Cards Double as EEA Travel Documents

• Ragnar Tómas
• March 6, 2024
• News , Society

Registers Iceland has introduced new ID cards as valid personal identification for all Icelandic citizens, featuring options for standard ID or travel documents within the EEA. Cards issued before January 1, 2013, expired on December 1, 2023, while those issued up to March 1, 2024, will expire by December 31, 2025.

Valid passports within the EEA

Registers Iceland has begun issuing new ID cards, available as standard personal identification or travel documents valid within the European Economic Area (EEA) serving as an alternative to passports.

Standard ID cards, which do not display the holder’s nationality, are not valid as travel documents. ID cards as travel documents can be used within the European Economic Area (EEA) instead of a passport and “contain a chip like passports and comply with international standards and EU regulation,” a press release on Registers Iceland’s website reads .

As noted on the website, the difference between ID cards as travel documents and passports is that passports are valid as travel documents to all countries worldwide. In contrast, ID cards are valid within the countries of the European Economic Area (EEA).

Upgraded security features

The latest rollout of ID cards also introduces upgraded security features to address growing requirements for personal identification documents. These cards, now available in a user-friendly size, sport a refreshed design that is based on a new standard from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

“Iceland is the first country in the world to issue documents according to this new standard. The main change is that the facial image is much larger, facilitating easier comparison with the cardholder,” Registers Iceland’s website notes .

The changes align with European Union regulations aimed at bolstering the security of personal and travel documents across the EU and EEA: “With the new issuance of ID cards, their security is being increased to meet the heightened demands made on personal identification documents, while also being conveniently sized and updated in design.”

The new rollout also addresses society’s increased demands for individuals to identify themselves with valid personal identification documents, which makes it necessary to accommodate groups that cannot present, for example, a driver’s licence.

“With the new ID cards, young people and other groups can prove their identity by presenting them, especially domestically.”

Must apply in person

Applying for the new ID cards requires a specific application process. Applications are submitted to District Commissioners along with embassies and consulates abroad, similar to passports.

“Even if an applicant has a valid passport with a photo, they must still appear in person at the application site, both domestically and abroad, to specifically apply for an ID card. The same photo as in the passport cannot be used,” Registers Iceland’s website notes .

According to Registers Iceland’s website, the new ID cards are valid personal identification documents that all Icelandic citizens can apply for regardless of age and use for identification. Older ID cards issued before January 1, 2013, expired on December 1, 2023, and cards issued from that time until March 1, 2024, will expire on December 31, 2025.

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Romania and Bulgaria join Europe’s Schengen travel zone but keep land border checks

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Romania and Bulgaria partially joined Europe’s ID-check-free travel zone on Sunday, marking a new step in the two countries’ integration with the European Union.

After years of negotiations to join the Schengen Area , there is now free access for travelers arriving by air or sea from both countries. However, land border checks will remain in place due to opposition primarily from Austria, which has long blocked their bid over illegal migration concerns.

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen hailed the change as a “huge success for both countries” and a “historic moment” for what is the world’s largest free travel zone.

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The Schengen Area was established in 1985. Before Bulgaria and Romania’s admission, Schengen consisted of 23 of the 27 EU member countries, along with Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein. Around 3.5 million people cross an internal border each day.

Austria vetoed Romania and Bulgaria’s admission into the Schengen zone at the end of 2022 but allowed Croatia full accession. Bulgaria and Romania joined the EU in 2007 and Croatia in 2013.

Siegfried Muresan, a Romanian member of the European Parliament, told the Associated Press that it is “an important first step” that will benefit millions of travelers annually.

“Bulgaria and Romania have been fulfilling all criteria for joining the Schengen Area for years — we are entitled to join with the terrestrial border as well,” he said, adding that it “will offer additional arguments to the last EU member state that has been vetoing the full accession.”

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Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu called it a “well-deserved achievement” for Romania that he said will benefit citizens who can travel more easily and will bolster the economy.

“We have a clear and firmly assumed government plan for full accession to the Schengen Area by the end of the year,” he said.

The EU’s executive branch, the European Commission, has said for more than a decade that Romania and Bulgaria both meet the technical criteria for full accession, which requires unanimous support from their partners. Both countries have agreed to implement random security screening at airports and maritime borders to combat illegal migration and cross-border crime.

“Bulgaria’s full accession to Schengen will happen by the end of 2024,” Kalin Stoyanov, Bulgaria’s interior minister, told reporters on Sunday. “We showed and continue to show to illegal migrants that they should not take the road to Europe through Bulgaria.”

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The lifting of border control is expected to facilitate operations at Bulgaria’s four international airports, which in 2023 saw nearly 11 million passengers, according to official data.

The airport in the capital, Sofia, serves as the biggest hub for Schengen flights, which constitute 70% of all flights, airport representatives said.

While the eased regulations are expected to positively impact the tourism sector, members of the European Parliament have voiced concerns about long queues at the EU’s land borders and the impact it can have on trade in the bloc’s single market, as well as the health and safety of drivers.

Truck drivers are frequently stuck in kilometers-long queues at the borders of both Romania and Bulgaria. The Union of International Carriers in Bulgaria estimates delays cost the sector tens of millions of euros each year.

Stephen McGrath and Veselin Toshkov write for the Associated Press. McGrath reported from Sighisoara, Romania.

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Romania and Bulgaria partially join Europe’s Schengen travel zone, but checks at land borders remain

Romania and Bulgaria partially joined Europe’s ID-check-free travel zone on Sunday, marking a new step in the two countries’ integration with the European Union. (AP Video shot by Nic Dumitrache and Valentina Petrova)

Flight attendants arriving at the Henri Coanda International Airport pass under a Schengen Information sign, in Otopeni, near Bucharest, Romania, Sunday, March 31, 2024. Romania and Bulgaria joined Europe’s passport- and visa-free Schengen Area, applying only to travelers arriving by air and sea. (AP Photo/Andreea Alexandru)

• Copy Link copied

A passenger that arrived with a flight from Vienna shows his passport after being one of the first people to take advantage of Romania’s entry in the Schengen Area without border checks by air and sea at the Henri Coanda International Airport in Otopeni, near Bucharest, Romania, Sunday, March 31, 2024. Romania and Bulgaria joined Europe’s passport- and visa-free Schengen Area, applying only to travelers arriving by air and sea. (AP Photo/Andreea Alexandru)

Passengers pass a sign that reads “Welcome to Schengen!” at the Henri Coanda International Airport in Otopeni, near Bucharest, Romania, Sunday, March 31, 2024. Romania and Bulgaria joined Europe’s passport- and visa-free Schengen Area, applying only to travelers arriving by air and sea. (AP Photo/Andreea Alexandru)

Passengers arriving at the Henri Coanda International Airport pass under a Schengen Information sign, in Otopeni, near Bucharest, Romania, Sunday, March 31, 2024. Romania and Bulgaria joined Europe’s passport- and visa-free Schengen Area, applying only to travelers arriving by air and sea. (AP Photo/Andreea Alexandru)

Passengers coloured by green light attend a welcoming ceremony announcing Bulgarias’ accession in Schengen by air and water, at Sofia airport, Bulgaria, Sunday, March 31, 2024. Romania and Bulgaria partially joined Europe’s ID-check-free travel zone on Sunday, marking a new step in the two countries’ integration with the European Union. (AP Photo/Valentina Petrova)

Passengers make a selfie as they at Sofia airport, Bulgaria, Sunday, March 31, 2024. Romania and Bulgaria partially joined Europe’s ID-check-free travel zone on Sunday, marking a new step in the two countries’ integration with the European Union. (AP Photo/Valentina Petrova)

Ebasa, a border police service dog, climbs on her handler during a media tour at the Henri Coanda International Airport in Otopeni, near Bucharest, Romania, Sunday, March 31, 2024. Romania and Bulgaria joined Europe’s passport- and visa-free Schengen Area, applying only to travelers arriving by air and sea. (AP Photo/Andreea Alexandru)

From left: Yordanka Chobanova, the head of the Representation of the European Commission in Bulgaria, Maria Gabriel, deputy Prime Minister, Nikolay Denkov, Prime Minister, Jesus Caballero, Sofia Airport’s CEO, press the red button during an official opening of Schengen borders by air, at Sofia airport, Bulgaria, Sunday, March 31, 2024. Romania and Bulgaria partially joined Europe’s ID-check-free travel zone on Sunday, marking a new step in the two countries’ integration with the European Union. (AP Photo/Valentina Petrova)

Passenger passes posters announcing Bulgarias’ accession in Schengen by air and water, at Sofia airpot, Bulgaria, Sunday, March 31, 2024. Romania and Bulgaria partially joined Europe’s ID-check-free travel zone on Sunday, marking a new step in the two countries’ integration with the European Union. (AP Photo/Valentina Petrova)

Passengers pass posters announcing Bulgarias’ accession in Schengen by air and water, at Sofia airport, Bulgaria, Sunday, March 31, 2024. Romania and Bulgaria partially joined Europe’s ID-check-free travel zone on Sunday, marking a new step in the two countries’ integration with the European Union. AP Photo/Valentina Petrova)

A journalist passes Non-Schengen automatic border control gates during a media tour at the Henri Coanda International Airport in Otopeni, near Bucharest, Romania, Sunday, March 31, 2024. Romania and Bulgaria joined Europe’s passport- and visa-free Schengen Area, applying only to travelers arriving by air and sea. (AP Photo/Andreea Alexandru)

Passengers ride an escalator at Sofia airport, Bulgaria, Sunday, March 31, 2024. Romania and Bulgaria partially joined Europe’s ID-check-free travel zone on Sunday, marking a new step in the two countries’ integration with the European Union. (AP Photo/Valentina Petrova)

A passenger that arrived with a flight from Vienna talks to media members after being one of the first people to take advantage of Romania’s entry in the Schengen Area without border checks by air and sea at the Henri Coanda International Airport in Otopeni, near Bucharest, Romania, Sunday, March 31, 2024. Romania and Bulgaria joined Europe’s passport- and visa-free Schengen Area, applying only to travelers arriving by air and sea. (AP Photo/Andreea Alexandru)

A woman passes a sign that reads “Welcome to Schengen!” as she arrives at the Henri Coanda International Airport in Otopeni, near Bucharest, Romania, Sunday, March 31, 2024. Romania and Bulgaria joined Europe’s passport- and visa-free Schengen Area, applying only to travelers arriving by air and sea. (AP Photo/Andreea Alexandru)

A man touches a sign that reads “Welcome to Schengen!” as he arrives at the Henri Coanda International Airport in Otopeni, near Bucharest, Romania, Sunday, March 31, 2024. Romania and Bulgaria joined Europe’s passport- and visa-free Schengen Area, applying only to travelers arriving by air and sea. (AP Photo/Andreea Alexandru)

A flight attendant passes a sign that reads “Welcome to Schengen!” as she arrives at the Henri Coanda International Airport in Otopeni, near Bucharest, Romania, Sunday, March 31, 2024. Romania and Bulgaria joined Europe’s passport- and visa-free Schengen Area, applying only to travelers arriving by air and sea. (AP Photo/Andreea Alexandru)

SOFIA, Bulgaria (AP) — Romania and Bulgaria partially joined Europe’s ID-check-free travel zone on Sunday, marking a new step in the two countries’ integration with the European Union.

After years of negotiations to join the Schengen area, there is now free access for travelers arriving by air or sea from both countries. However, land border checks will remain in place due to opposition primarily from Austria which has long blocked their bid over illegal migration concerns.

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen hailed the change as a “huge success for both countries” and a “historic moment” for what is the world’s largest free travel zone.

The Schengen Area was established in 1985. Before Bulgaria and Romania’s admission, it was comprised of 23 of the 27 EU member countries, along with Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein. Around 3.5 million people cross an internal border each day.

Austria vetoed Romania and Bulgaria’s admission into the Schengen zone at the end of 2022 but allowed Croatia full accession. Bulgaria and Romania joined the EU in 2007 and Croatia in 2013.

Siegfried Muresan, a Romanian Member of the European Parliament, told The Associated Press that it is “an important first step” that will benefit millions of travelers annually.

“Bulgaria and Romania have been fulfilling all criteria for joining the Schengen area for years — we are entitled to join with the terrestrial border as well,” he said, adding that it “will offer additional arguments to the last EU member state that has been vetoing the full accession.”

Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu called it a “well-deserved achievement” for Romania that he said will benefit citizens who can travel more easily and will bolster the economy.

“We have a clear and firmly assumed government plan for full accession to the Schengen Area by the end of the year,” he said.

The EU’s executive branch, the European Commission, has said for more than a decade that Romania and Bulgaria both meet the technical criteria for full accession, which requires unanimous support from their partners. Both countries have agreed to implement random security screening at airports and maritime borders to combat illegal migration and cross-border crime.

“Bulgaria’s full accession to Schengen will happen by the end of 2024,” Kalin Stoyanov, Bulgaria’s interior minister, told reporters on Sunday. “We showed and continue to show to illegal migrants that they should not take the road to Europe through Bulgaria.”

The lifting of border control is expected to facilitate operations at Bulgaria’s four international airports, which in 2023 saw nearly 11 million passengers, according to official data.

The airport in the capital, Sofia, serves as the biggest hub for Schengen flights which constitute 70% of all flights, airport representatives said.

While the eased regulations are expected to positively impact the tourism sector, members of the European Parliament have voiced concerns about long queues at the EU’s land borders and the impact it can have on trade in the bloc’s single market, as well as the health and safety of drivers.

Truck drivers are frequently stuck in kilometers-long queues at the borders of both Romania and Bulgaria. The Union of International Carriers in Bulgaria estimates delays cost the sector tens of millions of euros each year.

McGrath reported from Sighisoara, Romania.

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Romania and bulgaria partially join europe’s schengen travel zone, but checks at land borders remain.

Stephen Mcgrath And Veselin Toshkov

Associated Press

Valentina Petrova

Passenger passes posters announcing Bulgarias' accession in Schengen by air and water, at Sofia airpot, Bulgaria, Sunday, March 31, 2024. Romania and Bulgaria partially joined Europe's ID-check-free travel zone on Sunday, marking a new step in the two countries' integration with the European Union. (AP Photo/Valentina Petrova)

SOFIA – Romania and Bulgaria partially joined Europe’s ID-check-free travel zone on Sunday, marking a new step in the two countries’ integration with the European Union.

After years of negotiations to join the Schengen area, there is now free access for travelers arriving by air or sea from both countries. However, land border checks will remain in place due to opposition primarily from Austria which has long blocked their bid over illegal migration concerns.

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EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen hailed the change as a “huge success for both countries” and a “historic moment” for what is the world’s largest free travel zone.

The Schengen Area was established in 1985. Before Bulgaria and Romania’s admission, it was comprised of 23 of the 27 EU member countries, along with Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein. Around 3.5 million people cross an internal border each day.

Austria vetoed Romania and Bulgaria’s admission into the Schengen zone at the end of 2022 but allowed Croatia full accession. Bulgaria and Romania joined the EU in 2007 and Croatia in 2013.

Siegfried Muresan, a Romanian Member of the European Parliament, told The Associated Press that it is “an important first step” that will benefit millions of travelers annually.

“Bulgaria and Romania have been fulfilling all criteria for joining the Schengen area for years — we are entitled to join with the terrestrial border as well,” he said, adding that it “will offer additional arguments to the last EU member state that has been vetoing the full accession.”

Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu called it a “well-deserved achievement” for Romania that he said will benefit citizens who can travel more easily and will bolster the economy.

“We have a clear and firmly assumed government plan for full accession to the Schengen Area by the end of the year,” he said.

The EU’s executive branch, the European Commission, has said for more than a decade that Romania and Bulgaria both meet the technical criteria for full accession, which requires unanimous support from their partners. Both countries have agreed to implement random security screening at airports and maritime borders to combat illegal migration and cross-border crime.

“Bulgaria’s full accession to Schengen will happen by the end of 2024,” Kalin Stoyanov, Bulgaria's interior minister, told reporters on Sunday. “We showed and continue to show to illegal migrants that they should not take the road to Europe through Bulgaria."

The lifting of border control is expected to facilitate operations at Bulgaria’s four international airports, which in 2023 saw nearly 11 million passengers, according to official data.

The airport in the capital, Sofia, serves as the biggest hub for Schengen flights which constitute 70% of all flights, airport representatives said.

While the eased regulations are expected to positively impact the tourism sector, members of the European Parliament have voiced concerns about long queues at the EU’s land borders and the impact it can have on trade in the bloc’s single market, as well as the health and safety of drivers.

Truck drivers are frequently stuck in kilometers-long queues at the borders of both Romania and Bulgaria. The Union of International Carriers in Bulgaria estimates delays cost the sector tens of millions of euros each year.

McGrath reported from Sighisoara, Romania.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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Romania, Bulgaria partially join Europe's Schengen travel zone

B RUSSELS, Belgium: After years of negotiations, Romania and Bulgaria partially joined Europe's ID-check-free travel area, Schengen, on March 31, marking a new stage in their integration with the European Union (EU).

However, mainly due to opposition from Austria, which expressed illegal migration concerns, land border checks will remain in place, but travelers arriving by air or sea from both countries will now have free access within the zone.

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the move was a "huge success for both countries" and a "historic moment."

Austria vetoed Romania and Bulgaria's admission into the world's largest free travel zone at the end of 2022 but allowed to Croatia fully join.

In an interview with The Associated Press, Siegfried Muresan, Romanian Member of the European Parliament, said the move was "an important first step" that will benefit millions of travelers annually.

"Bulgaria and Romania have been fulfilling all criteria for joining the Schengen area for years. We are entitled to join with the terrestrial border as well," he said, adding that it "will offer additional arguments to the last EU member state that has been vetoing the full accession."

Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu called the move a "well-deserved achievement" for Romania. It will benefit citizens by allowing them to travel more easily and boost the country's economy.

"We have a clear and firmly assumed government plan for full accession to the Schengen Area by the end of the year," Ciolacu said.

The European Commission, the EU's executive branch, said that for more than a decade, Romania and Bulgaria have both met the technical criteria for full accession, which requires unanimous support from formal member countries.

He added that both countries have agreed to implement random security screening at airports and maritime borders to combat illegal migration and cross-border crime.

On March 31, Kalin Stoyanov, Bulgaria's interior minister, said, "Bulgaria's full accession to Schengen will happen by the end of 2024. We showed and continue to show to illegal migrants that they should not take the road to Europe through Bulgaria."