Today, the Commission has published its fourth State of Schengen report, which reviews developments over the past year and outlines priorities for the upcoming year. As we mark 40 years since its establishment, it is clear that the Schengen area has provided significant benefits to the EU and its citizens. It is the backbone of the EU’s internal market and makes life easier for nearly 450 million people. Last year, Schengen remained the world’s most visited destination, welcoming over half a billion visitors and contributing to economic growth throughout the Union.
Over the years, Schengen has evolved into a strong and comprehensive system in which Member States, with support from the EU, effectively manage external borders, security, and migration in a coordinated manner.
The Commission has been evaluating the State of Schengen annually since 2022, following the establishment of the Schengen Council, the Schengen cycle, and the new Schengen evaluation framework. This ongoing exercise signifies the Commission’s commitment to strengthening the common governance of the Schengen area and ensuring a structured, coordinated, and uniform response to its challenges.
The report released today assesses the functioning of the Schengen area. It serves as the Commission’s contribution in advance of the upcoming June Schengen Council, which will commemorate 40 years since the signing of the Schengen Agreement.
The 2025 State of Schengen
The 2025 State of Schengen report highlights the achievements and challenges faced in the Schengen area during 2024-2025. The accession of Bulgaria and Romania enhances the EU economy and underscores Member States’ commitment to improved cooperation. Schengen requirements are now crucial for EU enlargement, as candidate countries must establish fully functional national governance systems before joining.
EU efforts have led to a decline in irregular crossings at external borders, with around 240,000 detections, the lowest since 2021. The report confirms the effective application of Schengen rules but identifies a need for stronger political and operational governance, which relies on trust and the shared implementation of rules and resources.
The Commission will continue to monitor progress through the annual Schengen Scoreboard and expedite the digitalisation framework to address security risks. Investments in research and innovation are essential for future security, along with adapting to evolving threats through enhanced law enforcement cooperation.
The Commission aims to establish a High-Level Group to improve operational law enforcement across the Schengen Area and deepen relations with partner countries. Increased efforts are being made to handle the returns of illegal migrants, with a nearly 12% increase in returns noted in 2024, although overall rates need improvement.
Coordinated action and effective information exchange among law enforcement authorities are vital for combating crime. The EU has robust tools for situational awareness, and the Commission will continue to support Member States in cross-border operational law enforcement.
The Schengen Area will continue to adapt to changing geopolitical realities. The European Commission will work with Member States to enhance free movement and address current challenges. The 2025-2026 governance cycle will focus on improving policy coordination and police cooperation and accelerating the digitalisation of systems for better security. The Commission invites the Schengen Council to discuss the 2025 State of Schengen report in June and set priorities for the upcoming cycle.
