The Schengen Area, often referred to as “Schengen,” is a zone where 26 European countries have abolished their internal borders, allowing for passport-free and border control-free travel. The term “Schengen” comes from the Schengen Agreement, signed in a small village named Schengen in Luxembourg, which lies at the border with Germany and France.
What is “Schengen-Raum”?
The Schengen Area is one of the most significant achievements of European integration, facilitating “borderless travel” among its member states. It was established with the signing of the Schengen Agreement in 1985 by five EU countries—France, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg—and has since expanded to include 26 countries. The area allows for the free movement of people within its borders, enabling residents to travel, work, and live in any member state with minimal restrictions. This freedom of movement is a cornerstone of the European Union’s project, enhancing economic, social, and cultural exchanges across the continent[1][2].
More information about “Schengen-Raum”
The Schengen Area covers over 4 million square kilometers and includes both EU and non-EU countries. All EU member states except Ireland are part of the Schengen Area, along with four non-EU countries: Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. The area operates with a common visa policy, allowing travelers from non-Schengen countries to enter and travel within the area with a single visa. It also involves cooperation among member states in areas such as police, judicial, and security matters to ensure safety within the borderless zone[2][3].
Related to “Schengen-Raum”
Here are some additional terms that are related to the Schengen Area:
- Visa Schengen: A visa that allows non-EU citizens to travel freely within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Schengener Informationssystem (SIS): A security database used by Schengen countries to share information on individuals and goods for security and border management purposes[4][5].
- Freizügigkeit: The freedom of movement within the Schengen Area, allowing citizens of member states to live and work in any other member state without the need for a work permit or residence visa.
The Schengen Area represents a significant step towards European unity, offering both practical benefits for its residents and symbolizing the ideals of open borders and cooperation.