The difference between the EU and the Schengen area
The differences between the European Union (EU) and the Schengen Area can be elaborated from multiple dimensions, including their background, objectives, member states, policies, and legal frameworks.
Background and Objectives:
EU: Established in 1993, it is an international organization aimed at promoting economic and political cooperation and integration among its member states. The EU was founded with the goals of achieving peace, stability, and prosperity, by promoting economic integration, establishing a common market and currency (the Euro), and developing common policies in areas such as environmental protection, justice, and internal affairs cooperation.
Schengen Area: Originating from the Schengen Agreement in 1985, its purpose is to eliminate border controls between signatory countries to facilitate the free movement of people. The Schengen Area focuses more on simplifying cross-border travel and transport, ensuring internal security through a unified visa policy and strengthened external border controls.
Member States:
EU Member States: There are 27 member states (as of April 2023), including most European countries. Not all EU countries are part of the Schengen Area; for instance, Ireland opts not to participate.
Schengen Area Member States: Includes 22 EU member states and 4 non-EU members (Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein), totaling 26 countries. Within the Schengen Area, member countries have abolished border checks amongst themselves but apply a unified visa policy and border controls for travelers from outside the area.
Policies and Legal Framework:
EU: Has a broad policy and legal framework covering economic, political, social, and other areas. EU institutions, such as the European Commission, European Parliament, and the Council of the European Union, are responsible for formulating and implementing common policies. The EU also has its judicial body—the Court of Justice of the European Union, tasked with interpreting and enforcing EU law.
Schengen Area: Mainly focuses on border control, visa policy, and police cooperation. The Schengen Agreement and its subsequent treaties established a set of rules on the free movement of persons and border management, implemented primarily through cooperation among member states.
Economic and Currency:
EU: Established a single market allowing the free movement of goods, services, people, and capital. Nineteen member states have also adopted a common currency—the Euro.
Schengen Area: While facilitating the free movement of people, it does not directly involve currency or economic policies.
In summary, although the EU and the Schengen Area differ in their objectives and scope, they complement each other in promoting European integration and facilitation. The EU provides a more comprehensive framework for integration, while the Schengen Area focuses on realizing the free movement among member states.
Furthermore, for individuals planning to visit Schengen Area countries, including France, arranging a France visa appointment or France Schengen visa appointment through reliable schengen visa agents is essential. Securing a Schengen visa appointment ensures a smooth travel experience, allowing visitors to explore the integrated and facilitated European space.
