Planning a trip to Europe? Entry rules depend on your passport—not just your destination country. Below: quick guides for UK and US travelers (our largest visitor groups), then the full Schengen country list and visa overview.
UK Travelers & the 90/180 Rule
Since Brexit, UK passport holders are visa-free for short stays in Schengen but must follow the same 90 days in any 180-day period rule as other non-EU visitors. You cannot stay 90 days in France and another 90 in Spain—it is one shared limit across the whole Schengen Area.
Visa: Not required for tourism/business stays up to 90 days (short-stay rules)
ETIAS: Required from late 2026 for visa-exempt nationals—apply online before travel
Passport: Must be valid at least 3 months after planned departure
US citizens can visit Schengen countries for up to 90 days within 180 days without a visa for tourism or business. The limit applies to the entire Schengen zone, including multi-country trips (e.g. Italy + France + Germany).
Visa: Not needed for stays under 90 days if you qualify for visa-free entry
ETIAS: Mandatory travel authorization expected for US passport holders from 2026
Proof: Return ticket and proof of funds may be requested at the border
Calculator: Track your EU days calculator / Schengen days with our free online tool or Android app
Germany, Spain & Other Schengen States
There is no separate "90-day rule Spain calculator" or per-country day limit— days in Spain, Germany, Italy, and all other Schengen members count toward the same 90-day pool. Check our 90/180 guide and use the Schengen stay calculator before long trips to popular destinations.
As of 2026, the Schengen Area comprises 29 countries:
Austria
Belgium
Bulgaria
Croatia
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Hungary
Iceland
Italy
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Malta
Netherlands
Norway
Poland
Portugal
Romania
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
Note: Bulgaria and Romania fully joined the Schengen Area on January 1, 2026.
Entry Requirements by Nationality
Visa-Exempt Countries (Require ETIAS from 2026)
Citizens of the following countries can enter the Schengen Area for short stays (up to 90 days within any 180-day period) without a visa. However, starting in late 2026, they will need to obtain an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) authorization before travel:
United States
United Kingdom
Canada
Australia
New Zealand
Japan
South Korea
Singapore
Brazil
Mexico
Argentina
Chile
Israel
Malaysia
United Arab Emirates
And many others
Note: ETIAS is not a visa but a mandatory travel authorization aimed at enhancing security and border management. It will be valid for three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first, and will cost €7 for applicants aged 18 to 70.
Countries Requiring a Schengen Visa
Citizens of the following countries must obtain a Schengen visa prior to entering the Schengen Area:
India
China
Russia
South Africa
Philippines
Pakistan
Indonesia
Egypt
Nigeria
Bangladesh
Algeria
Morocco
Turkey
Thailand
Vietnam
And many others
Note: The visa application process involves submitting required documents, attending an interview, and paying a fee. Processing times can vary, so it's advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.
Special Cases
Ireland: Although an EU member, Ireland is not part of the Schengen Area. It maintains its own visa policy.
Cyprus: Cyprus is an EU member but not yet part of the Schengen Area. However, it allows entry to holders of valid Schengen visas.
Microstates: Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City are not Schengen members but have open borders with neighboring Schengen countries.
Determine Your Entry Requirements
To find out your specific entry requirements based on your nationality and travel plans, please consult the official European Commission visa policy page.
For more detailed information on visa applications, required documents, and travel tips, visit our Visa Guide and use our Schengen Calculator App to plan your trip effectively.