Croatia is set to join the Schengen Zone on January 1, 2023, after receiving unanimous support from the 26 Schengen member states. This is a significant development for both Croatian citizens and travelers, as it will bring numerous benefits and convenience.
What is the Schengen Zone?
The Schengen Zone is a group of 26 European countries that have abolished border control at their common boundaries and passports. It is named after the 1985 Schengen Agreement, which was signed in Luxembourg. It has since been expanded to include non-EU countries such as Iceland, Norway, and Switzerland.
The Schengen Zone allows for the free movement of people, goods, and services within its member states. Croatia became an EU member state in 2013 and has since made significant progress in aligning its laws and regulations with those of the EU. Its membership in the Schengen Zone is a further step towards full integration into the EU and its common market.
Easy Travel
With the removal of border controls, travelers can move freely between member states without needing a visa or other documentation. This will make planning trips and travel around Europe easier and will likely lead to increased tourism to Croatia.
Increased Opportunities for Croatian Citizens
For Croatian citizens, membership in the Schengen Zone will mean easier travel within the EU and the ability to work and study in other member states without needing a visa. This will be especially beneficial for young people looking to study or work abroad, as it will remove many of the current administrative barriers.
Positive Economic Impact
Businesses in Croatia will also benefit from membership in the Schengen Zone. It will make trading and moving goods and services easier within the EU, leading to increased economic growth and development. Croatia’s accession to the Schengen Zone is also expected to positively impact the country’s economy. It will likely lead to an increase in tourism, an influx of foreign investment, and an overall improvement in the business industry.
Requirements for Membership
To join the Schengen Zone, Croatia had to meet several strict criteria. This included the establishment of effective border management and the implementation of a comprehensive immigration policy. It also had to demonstrate that it could effectively cooperate with other member states regarding security and justice.
Aso, on January 1, 2023, Croatia will officially join the Eurozone as its 20th member. This is made possible by the EU’s Ecofin Council’s approval of the legal requirements for Croatia to adopt the euro on July 12, 2022. From January 1, 2023, the euro will replace the kuna as the official currency of Croatia.
Croatia’s membership in the Schengen Zone is a significant development that will benefit both Croatian citizens and travelers. It is an exciting development that will likely positively impact the country’s economy and its relationship with other member states. It will make travel within the EU easier and more convenient and is expected to lead to an increase in tourism and foreign investment.
