The Schengen area

Before you travel

• Identify your main destination

  An application is lodged with the consulate of the country that is the main destination of the trip.

• Check whether your nationality needs a visa

  Citizens of some non-EU countries need a visa for a Schengen short stay, while others are exempt; the requirement depends on nationality.

• Count your days across the whole area

  A Schengen short stay is limited to 90 days in any 180-day period across the Schengen Area as a whole, not per country.

• Gather evidence for your circumstances

  Supporting documents vary with individual circumstances; applicants are generally asked to evidence the purpose of the trip, means of subsistence, accommodation, and the intention to return.

• Confirm the fee, biometrics and appointment rules with the consulate

  Awaiting official verification

How an application works

1. 1

   Determine the consulate you must apply to

   An application is lodged with the consulate of the country that is the main destination of the trip.

2. 2

   Check whether your nationality requires a visa

   Citizens of some non-EU countries need a visa for a Schengen short stay, while others are exempt; the requirement depends on nationality.

3. 3

   Prepare supporting evidence

   Supporting documents vary with individual circumstances; applicants are generally asked to evidence the purpose of the trip, means of subsistence, accommodation, and the intention to return.

4. 4

   Plan your stay within the 90/180 limit

   A Schengen short stay is limited to 90 days in any 180-day period across the Schengen Area as a whole, not per country.

5. 5

   Book, pay and attend the appointment

   Awaiting official verification

Frequently asked questions

How long is a Schengen short stay?

A Schengen short stay is limited to 90 days in any 180-day period across the Schengen Area as a whole, not per country.

Do I need a visa?

Citizens of some non-EU countries need a visa for a Schengen short stay, while others are exempt; the requirement depends on nationality.

Which country do I apply to?

An application is lodged with the consulate of the country that is the main destination of the trip.

What documents will I be asked for?

Supporting documents vary with individual circumstances; applicants are generally asked to evidence the purpose of the trip, means of subsistence, accommodation, and the intention to return.

Can I work or stay longer than 90 days on it?

Awaiting official verification

What does it cost and how long does it take?

Awaiting official verification

A Schengen short-stay visa is not a long-stay or national visa and does not grant the right to work. Stays beyond 90 days, study, and employment are governed by each member state's national rules, which are not seeded here.