Schengen Area is a borderless region of Europe excluding Ireland and Cyprus. Created in 1985 following Schengen Agreement, signed in Luxembourg. Bulgaria and Romania lifted internal border checks from March 2024
First successful English colony established in Jamestown, Virginia in 1607. Settlers often became indentured servants for transportation costs. Pilgrims arrived in 1620 seeking religious freedom. New England colonies grew rapidly due to high birth and low death rates
Customs collects tariffs and controls goods flow into and out of countries. Traditionally focused on taxation, now includes security and trade facilitation. Each country has its own import/export laws enforced by customs authorities
Border checkpoints inspect travelers and goods for passage authorization. Authorization often required to enter countries through borders. Checkpoints prevent undesirable individuals and illegal goods. Uniformed service staffed at checkpoints
Schengen Agreement signed in 1985 by five EEC member states near Luxembourg. Agreement aimed to abolish internal border checks and harmonize visa policies. Three signatories had already abolished border controls in Benelux
Directive 2004/38/EC grants EU citizens and families freedom of movement. Regulation 492/2011 regulates freedom of movement for EU workers