The European Union (EU) has approved Croatia's accession to the Schengen area. Croatia's permanent representative to the EU said in a statement on his Twitter account, "The final step has been completed! The Council decision has been taken. Croatia's admission to the Schengen area has been officially approved as of January 1, 2023."
EU Rejects Bulgaria and Romania's Request
Authorities rejected Bulgaria and Romania's offers to join the Schengen area, but Croatia's offer was approved.
Ylva Johansson, the member of the European Union (EU) Commission responsible for internal affairs, stated that the two countries deserve Schengen membership and said, "The decision disappointed me as well."