The European Parliament cleared the way for Croatia's admission to the Schengen Area, leaving the final decision to EU government leaders.

The parliament voted by a majority (534 to 53) to abolish the remaining border controls between Schengen and Croatia.

The final decision must now be made by the EU Council, made up of 27 EU government leaders, which already confirmed last December that Croatia meets all the criteria for applying for Schengen access.

"Croatia's place is in Schengen. Criteria have been met. The European Parliament has given its green light. Now the EU Council must deliver," European Parliament President Roberta Metsola said in a tweet following the vote.