EU Enlargement from 2007

Posted by Amanda Kendle Dec 28, 2006

Like we talked about back in September, the European Union will accept Bulgaria and Romania as members from January 1, 2007. That's real soon!

The last expansion took place back in 2004, when I was living in Slovakia. Living in a place that joined the EU seemed a little exciting, and some changes were immediate: I could cross borders much more easily! For example, the restriction that Australian citizens still needed visas to enter Poland, the Czech Republic or Hungary was lifted immediately as EU membership occurred.

So what will change in Bulgaria and Romania in a couple of days? With regards to rules and regulations, many things, but the local people are not all expecting miracles. Most reports suggest they are hoping for slow, positive change. In any case, to welcome Bulgaria and Romania to the EU, you can learn about sightseeing in Romania's capital - just read this week's article, Hitting Bucharest’s Highlights.