Unraveling the Mystery: Why Norway is a Schengen Member but not Part of the EU

Do you want to travel to Norway and wonder why it is Schengen but not EU? Norway is a beautiful country located in Northern Europe, known for its stunning fjords, glaciers, northern lights, and the midnight sun. It is also known for being a Schengen country but not a member of the European Union (EU). In this article, we will explain why Norway is Schengen but not EU.
What is Schengen and EU?
Before answering why Norway is Schengen and not EU, it is important to understand what Schengen and EU are.
Schengen is a territory that includes 26 European countries that have abolished passport and other types of border control at their mutual borders. This means people can move freely between these countries without requiring visas or other types of authorisations.
In contrast, the European Union (EU) is a political and economic union of 27 member countries, primarily located in Europe. The EU operates through several institutions that act on behalf of the member states, with the European Commission acting as the executive branch of the European Union.
Why is Norway Schengen but not EU?
While Norway is not a member of the EU, it is a part of the Schengen area, which allows free movement of people across countries without border checks. Norway is part of Schengen due to its geographical location and its history.
Norway and the EU have a long-standing relationship, with Norway being one of the founding members of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) in 1960. EFTA is a group of countries that promote free trade and economic cooperation between its members and the EU.
In 1994, Norway, along with Iceland and Liechtenstein, signed the EEA Agreement with the EU, which allows them access to the EU’s single market and guarantees freedom of movement of goods, services, capital, and persons.
While Norway is not a member of the EU, it is obliged to comply with the EU’s regulations and directives on the single market. The country also contributes to the EU’s budget, though it does not have a say in the decision-making process of the EU institutions. Additionally, Norway’s relationship with the EU allows it to participate in a number of EU programs and initiatives.
Conclusion
There is no conclusion or summary of this article, but we hope that we have solved your search intent on why Norway is Schengen but not EU. Norway’s relationship with the EU is a complex and nuanced one, but it is important to understand the country’s position within the Schengen area and its relationship with the EU before travelling to Norway.
If you’re planning a trip to Norway, be sure to learn more about the country’s history, culture, and geography to make the most of your visit. From the natural beauty of the fjords to the rich history of its cities, Norway is a country that has something to offer for everyone.