The Schengen area, which entered into force in 1995, is a territory of free movement of persons made up of 29 European states. Focus on some key dates and figures that represent this unique conglomerate in the world.
France, Germany, Italy, Greece, Malta, Sweden… While these countries are distinguished by their culture, politics, history, heritage and lifestyle, they have in common that they are part of the Schengen area, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.
Within this area, individuals are not subject to any internal border controls. Thus, nationals of Schengen States may cross the border between two Member States without being subject to controls.
5 founding countries
In 1985, Germany, Belgium, France, Luxembourg and the Netherlands met and decided to create a territory without internal borders between them. These were the beginnings of the Schengen area, named after the Luxembourg city where the first agreements were signed.
1990: The Schengen Convention
In 1990, the Schengen Convention was officially signed, organizing the opening of borders between the signatory European countries. It was not until March 1995 that its provisions were applied in practice, with the establishment of technical and legal conditions.
30 years of existence
This year, the entry into force of the Schengen area therefore celebrates its 30th anniversary on March 26. A significant anniversary, reflecting the free movement of people and the harmonization of traveler controls within it that continue today.
29 states
The Schengen area comprises 29 states, with the entry of Romania and Bulgaria at the beginning of 2025. These countries have joined Germany, Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Denmark, Spain, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden and Switzerland.
June 2024
A reform of the Schengen Code came into force in June 2024. This reform modifies the rules relating to the temporary reintroduction of border controls. In the event of a serious threat to its security, such as terrorist attacks, a State may authorize these controls for a maximum period of two years, renewable for one year, while studying alternative measures.
420 million inhabitants
Spread over four million km2, almost 420 million inhabitants reside in the Schengen area and can move freely within it. A godsend for tourism and business.
3.5 million people cross internal borders
Every day, no fewer than 3.5 million people cross internal borders to work, study or visit family and friends. Nearly 1.7 million people reside in one Schengen area country while working in another. According to estimates reported by the European Council, Europeans make 1.25 billion trips within the Schengen area each year.
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Featured photo : © Unsplash
