Schengenmaassa

Schengenmaassa refers to the geographical area encompassing countries that have abolished internal border controls and implemented a common visa policy. This area, known as the Schengen Area, is named after the Schengen Agreement signed in 1985 in the Luxembourgish town of Schengen. The primary objective of the Schengen Area is to facilitate free movement of people, goods, services, and capital within its borders.

Citizens of Schengen member states, as well as many third-country nationals, can travel within the Schengen Area without undergoing passport and immigration checks at internal borders. This creates a de facto common external border for the area. While internal border controls have been lifted, external borders are monitored according to common rules.

The Schengen Area includes most European Union member states, as well as some non-EU countries like Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. Countries that join the European Union are generally expected to adopt the Schengen acquis, though implementation can take time and some countries have opt-outs. The free movement facilitated by the Schengen Area has significant economic and social implications, simplifying travel and trade. However, it also presents challenges related to security and immigration management, leading to ongoing discussions and policy adjustments among member states.