Liechtenstein became the latest country to become a member of the Schengen area on December 19, which now benefits more than 400 million Europeans from 26 countries.

Home Affairs Commissioner Cecilia Malmström stressed that the Schengen Area has grown rapidly, “allowing for increasing numbers of European citizens and third country visitors to enjoy free movement across more and more countries”.

“With Liechtenstein joining today, we are further developing one of the most cherished achievements of the EU," Malmström added.

From 19 December, checks on persons will be abolished at the borders with Liechtenstein, which will fully implement the rules enshrined in the Schengen treaty that the tiny principality signed with the EU on February 28, 2008.

The decision on to lift internal border controls was made by the Council on December 13, after consulting the European Parliament and following an evaluation of the country's readiness for the full implementation of the Schengen rules, New Europe reported.