Over the past 40 years, Schengen has enhanced freedom, fortified security, and opened up economic opportunities, making it a cornerstone of European identity and a strategic asset for Europe and beyond. Discover how EU countries and institutions commemorated this extraordinary European achievement.
Schengen Agreement
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Frontex has become a key actor in European integrated border management, playing a crucial role in the management of the EU external borders, returns and the security of the Schengen Area. In 2025, it celebrates its 20th anniversary, a period marked by significant milestones and achievements.
This year is the 40th anniversary of the signature of the Schengen Agreement. During the last four decades, Schengen has shaped how we live, work, do business and travel every day.
The European Commission welcomes yesterday’s provisional political agreement by the European Parliament and the Council on the Commission’s proposal for a progressive rollout of Europe’s new digital border system, the Entry/Exit System (EES).
Learn how the Schengen area is evolving: from the progress made in applying rules and preventing irregular border crossings, to where more action is needed
On 23 April, the Commission adopted its annual report on the State of Schengen. The report provides a comprehensive assessment of the functioning of the Schengen area of freedom, security, and justice without internal frontiers, marking 40 years since the Schengen Agreement was signed.
A new network of laboratories will support border control and customs operations.
