Schengen Agreement 90 Days
The Schengen Agreement: What You Need to Know About Staying for 90 Days
If you`re planning on traveling to the European Union, there is a high chance that you will be staying for less than three months, especially if you`re a tourist. But did you know that there are regulations in place for non-EU citizens who stay for more than 90 days? This is where the Schengen Agreement comes into play.
The Schengen Agreement, signed in 1985 and later implemented in 1995, is an agreement between 26 European countries to remove internal borders and allow free movement of people within the Schengen Area. As a non-EU citizen, you are allowed to travel within the Schengen Area without a visa, but only for up to 90 days. This includes countries such as France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and many others.
If you`re planning to stay for more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a long-stay visa. The duration of your visa may vary depending on the country you`re in, but it usually allows you to stay for up to a year. You will need to apply for this visa before your 90-day limit is up and provide evidence that proves you have a valid reason for an extended stay, such as studying, working, or family reasons.
It`s essential to note that the 90-day period is cumulative, meaning that it includes all your time spent within the Schengen Area within a 180-day window. For instance, if you spend 60 days in France, then go to Spain for a week, then return to France for another 30 days, you have already spent a total of 97 days in the Schengen Area. In this scenario, you may face consequences such as being banned from entering the Schengen Area for a specific period or fined.
To avoid any issues, it`s crucial to keep track of your time spent within the Schengen Area and plan your travels accordingly. If you`re unsure about your visa requirements or have any other questions, it`s best to consult an embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit.
The Schengen Agreement has made traveling within Europe a lot more accessible, but it`s essential to follow the regulations to avoid any legal issues. Whether you`re traveling for leisure or educational purposes, always make sure to research the visa requirements and duration of stay before embarking on your journey. Safe travels!