Last Updated on December 17, 2024
The Schengen Zone is an area made up of 29 member states across Europe. Except for Ireland, Switzerland, Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein, Schengen member states are sometimes also members of the European Union (EU). The Schengen region is a group of European countries united politically and economically by the Schengen Agreement.
Schengen countries have a reciprocal travel and free movement arrangement that functions as a unified jurisdiction for international travel and shares a common visa policy. This grants free movement to over 400 million EU citizens and non-EU nationals living in the EU. In addition to travel rights for exchange students, business travelers and tourists. Free movement allows EU citizens to live and travel in an EU country without being subject to entry restrictions and border control policies that impact non-EU citizens.
Below is a map highlighting the visa requirements for nationals from Schengen and EU member states, travelers from EU-only member states and travelers from Schengen Area-only member states.
Schengen-EU Member States
Schengen area member countries maintain a reciprocal entry visa system. This means a Schengen Visa issued by one country is valid for travel and transit across the entire Schengen region.
Non-EU Schengen Member States
Travelers from Schengen member states who are not in the European Union (Non-EU Schengen Member States) will be subject to additional border checks. When non-EU nationals require a visa, the Schengen Visa permits short-term stays and travel through the Schengen Area.
Travelers from these countries may benefit from visa-free travel arrangements with EU member states.
Non-Schengen EU Member States
Travelers arriving from non-Schengen member states often face additional immigration checks and must present proof of identification.
Schengen Area: Looking Ahead
In the coming years, more countries will complete accession into the Schengen Area. Most recently, the government of Croatia has taken steps towards becoming a member state. However, candidate states must meet specific rules and conditions before completing this process.
The EU will also introduce its European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) in 2025. ETIAS will serve as the basis for entry for many international travelers. Third-country visa-exempt nationals must register their travel before traveling to a Schengen member state under ETIAS.
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Content in this publication is for informational purposes only and not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. For additional information on the issues discussed, consult an attorney at Corporate Immigration Partners, P.C., or another qualified professional of your choosing. On non-U.S. immigration issues, consult your Envoy representative, or another qualified representative of your choosing.
