Traveling to Europe is a dream for many people around the world. With its rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking landscapes, it’s no surprise that Europe is among the most popular tourist destinations in the world. But if you’re planning to visit Europe and you’re not a citizen of a European Union (EU) country, you may need to apply for a Schengen visa. In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about the Schengen Visa 90 Days Rule.
What is the Schengen Visa?
The Schengen Visa is a type of visa that allows non-EU citizens to travel freely within the Schengen Area, which is a group of 26 European countries that have abolished passport and other types of border control at their mutual borders. The Schengen Area includes countries such as France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and many others.
To apply for a Schengen Visa, you will need to submit an application to the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit. The application process may vary depending on the country you are applying to, but generally, you will need to provide documents such as your passport, travel itinerary, proof of financial means, and travel insurance.
What is the 90 Days Rule?
The Schengen Visa 90 Days Rule refers to the maximum period of time that non-EU citizens can stay within the Schengen Area without a residence permit. This rule applies to travelers who are visiting the Schengen Area for tourism, business, or other non-immigrant purposes.
According to the 90 Days Rule, non-EU citizens can stay within the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period. This means that if you stay in the Schengen Area for 90 days, you will need to leave and wait for another 90 days before you can enter the area again.
How to Calculate the 90 Days?
Calculating the 90 days can be confusing, especially if you plan to travel to multiple Schengen countries within a short period. To calculate the 90 days, you will need to count backwards from the date of your planned departure from the Schengen Area.
For example, if you plan to leave the Schengen Area on August 31st, you will need to count backwards 180 days from that date. This will give you the starting date of your 180-day period. Within that 180-day period, you can stay in the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days.
What Happens if You Overstay?
If you overstay in the Schengen Area, you may face consequences such as fines, deportation, and a ban on re-entering the area. Overstaying can also make it difficult for you to obtain a Schengen Visa in the future.
If you think you may need to stay in the Schengen Area for longer than 90 days, you may need to apply for a residence permit or a long-stay visa. These types of visas allow you to stay in the Schengen Area for more than 90 days, but they have different requirements and application procedures.
Conclusion
The Schengen Visa 90 Days Rule is an important aspect to consider when planning your trip to Europe. Make sure to calculate your 90 days carefully and avoid overstaying to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. If you have any questions or concerns about the Schengen Visa, it’s best to consult with the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit.
