When planning a trip to Europe, it’s important to know which countries require a Schengen visa and which ones don’t. The Schengen area is made up of 26 European countries that have abolished border controls between them, allowing travelers to move freely within the area. However, there are several non-Schengen countries in Europe that require a separate visa for entry. In this article, we will explore the non-Schengen visa countries in Europe and what you need to know before traveling to these destinations.
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom (UK) is made up of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. While the UK was once part of the European Union, they have never been part of the Schengen area. This means that travelers from outside the UK will need to apply for a separate visa to enter the country. The UK offers different types of visas depending on the purpose of your visit, such as tourist, study, or work visas. It’s important to check the visa requirements before booking your trip to the UK.
Ireland
Ireland is another non-Schengen country in Europe that requires a separate visa. While it’s technically part of the European Union, it has opted out of the Schengen area. Travelers from outside the EU will need to apply for a visa before traveling to Ireland. However, citizens of certain countries may be eligible for a short-term visa waiver program, which allows them to stay in Ireland for up to 90 days without a visa. It’s important to check the visa requirements before traveling to Ireland.
Croatia
Croatia is a non-Schengen country in southeastern Europe that requires a separate visa. However, the country is working towards joining the Schengen area in the future. Travelers from outside the EU will need to apply for a visa before traveling to Croatia. The country offers different types of visas depending on the purpose of your visit, such as tourist, study, or work visas. It’s important to check the visa requirements before booking your trip to Croatia.
Romania
Romania is another non-Schengen country in southeastern Europe that requires a separate visa. The country is not currently part of the Schengen area but is working towards joining in the future. Travelers from outside the EU will need to apply for a visa before traveling to Romania. The country offers different types of visas depending on the purpose of your visit, such as tourist, study, or work visas. It’s important to check the visa requirements before booking your trip to Romania.
Bulgaria
Bulgaria is a non-Schengen country in southeastern Europe that requires a separate visa. The country is not currently part of the Schengen area but is working towards joining in the future. Travelers from outside the EU will need to apply for a visa before traveling to Bulgaria. The country offers different types of visas depending on the purpose of your visit, such as tourist, study, or work visas. It’s important to check the visa requirements before booking your trip to Bulgaria.
Cyprus
Cyprus is a non-Schengen country in the eastern Mediterranean that requires a separate visa. The country is not currently part of the Schengen area but is working towards joining in the future. Travelers from outside the EU will need to apply for a visa before traveling to Cyprus. The country offers different types of visas depending on the purpose of your visit, such as tourist, study, or work visas. It’s important to check the visa requirements before booking your trip to Cyprus.
Conclusion
While most of Europe is part of the Schengen area, there are several non-Schengen countries that require a separate visa for entry. It’s important to check the visa requirements before booking your trip to these destinations. Each country offers different types of visas depending on the purpose of your visit, so be sure to research the options available. With the right preparation and planning, you can enjoy a memorable trip to these non-Schengen countries in Europe.
