The European Schengen Area increased by nine countries on December 21st, 2007. Approximately 400 million people in 24 countries may now travel from Finland to Portugal without encountering any border controls. Mandatory border checks have ceased immediately for land and sea borders but, in March, they will also stop for air travel as well.

The Schengen Agreement features an enormous database that allows government agencies to coordinate and exchange information on citizens, visitors and immigrants traveling between signatory countries. European Union nations don’t have to become part of the Schengen Zone, and non-EU countries may join the agreement if they qualify. ?