• The Schengen Area consists of 29 European countries that have relaxed their internal border controls to allow free movement. 

• This border-free zone was created to simplify travel, improve cooperation, and boost economic interaction within the Schengen countries. 

• However, not all EU countries are part of the Schengen Zone, and some non-EU countries like Norway and Switzerland are included. 

Traveling across Europe has never been easier, thanks to the Schengen Area, a region consisting of 29 European nations known as Schengen countries. Understanding the Schengen countries is key whether you’re planning a multi-country trip or a business trip to Europe. 

This guide will provide everything you need to know about traveling within the Schengen countries, from visa requirements to the freedom of movement that makes exploring Europe so effortless. With the proper preparation, your European adventure across the Schengen area will be unforgettable. 

What is the Schengen Area 

The Schengen Area is one of the most outstanding achievements in European history, with millions of people able to move freely across borders. It’s a group of 29 countries that have abolished visas and border controls on their borders with each other, like traveling between states in the US. The Schengen Area is not just a political agreement but also a reflection of European values of freedom, security, and justice. 

What is the History and Purpose of the Schengen Agreement 

The Schengen Agreement is named after the small village of Schengen in Luxembourg, where it was signed in 1985. Initially, it was an intergovernmental agreement between 5 countries, Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands, to abolish internal borders and facilitate the movement of goods, services and people. 

Over time, it evolved into a more complex framework and now includes 29 countries. The Schengen Agreement has a big impact on European travel as it creates a borderless travel experience for EU citizens and visitors. 

It abolishes border controls between member states, reduces travel time, and simplifies logistics and tourism and business travel. It also made member states cooperate more on issues like border security, immigration policies, and police cooperation so the benefits of open borders don’t compromise security. 

List of Schengen Countries 

The Schengen Zone includes 29 European countries, each contributing to the fluidity of travel within the continent. Here’s a list of all the Schengen countries.  

The latest addition to this list is Bulgaria and Romania, wherein, since March 2024, air and maritime internal controls between Bulgaria and Romania and the other Schengen countries have been lifted.  

EU Countries That Are Not Part of the Schengen Zone 

While most EU countries are part of the Schengen Area, a few have opted out or have unique arrangements. These include Cyprus (yet to fully implement Schengen rules) and Ireland (opted out and maintains its own border controls as part of the Common Travel Area with the UK) 

Schengen Countries That Are Not in the EU 

There are also several Schengen countries that are not part of the European Union, reflecting the flexible nature of the Schengen Agreement. These countries include Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. These countries participate fully in the Schengen Area's border-free travel arrangements while maintaining their independence from the EU’s legislative framework. 

Importance of Schengen Countries in Global Travel 

The Schengen Area is a key player in global travel and is the main entrance to Europe. For international travelers, a Schengen visa means access to 29 countries with one visa, one of the most coveted travel permissions in the world. Traveling within the Schengen Area without border checks boosts tourism and attracts global business and cultural exchange. 

For European residents, the Schengen Area simplifies travel; they can move freely for work, study, or leisure without a passport or visa as long as they stay within the member states. This ease of movement also benefits businesses, smoothes supply chains, and facilitates cross-border trade and labor mobility. 

Plus, the Schengen Area is a global benchmark for regional cooperation on border management, migration policies, and internal security. The balance it achieves between openness and security is an example for other regions that are thinking of similar agreements. 

Travel Requirements for Schengen Countries 

When traveling to Schengen countries, it’s important to know the travel requirements that may vary depending on your nationality, purpose of visit, and length of stay. 

For U.S. Citizens 

U.S. citizens can travel to Schengen countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa. However, starting in 2025, US travelers will need to get an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before entering the Schengen Area. ETIAS is a quick online pre-screening process to enhance security. The application process is easy, just basic personal info and a small fee and approval is usually within minutes. 

When traveling, U.S. citizens must have a valid passport that is valid for at least 3 months beyond their intended departure date from the Schengen Area. It’s also recommended to carry proof of onward travel and sufficient funds for your stay but these are rarely asked for. 

For Non-U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders 

Non-U.S. citizens living in the U.S., including Green Card holders, should check if they need a Schengen Visa based on their nationality. Many non-EU nationals will need to apply for a Schengen Visa which allows entry into multiple Schengen countries with a single visa.  

General Entry Requirements for the Schengen Area  

Regardless of nationality, all travelers to the Schengen Area must comply with the following: 

• Valid Passport: Valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure. 

• Schengen Travel Insurance: with €30,000 coverage for medical emergencies and repatriation. 

• Sufficient Funds: Documentation to show you can cover expenses during your stay. 

• Return or Onward Travel Ticket: Proof of departure from the Schengen Area before the visa or 90 days expires. 

Schengen Visa: How to Apply and Eligibility 

The Schengen Visa is a short-stay visa that allows you to enter and move around the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in a 180-day period. There are three types of Schengen Visas: 

• Single-entry Visa: Allows you to enter the Schengen Area once. Once you leave, the visa expires even if you haven’t used all your allowed days. 
• Double-entry Visa: Allows two entries into the Schengen Area. You can leave and return once during the validity of the visa. 
• Multiple-entry Visa: The most flexible allows you to enter and exit the Schengen Area multiple times within the validity of the visa as long as the total stay does not exceed 90 days in a 180-day period. 

To apply for a Schengen Visa, you’ll have to go through the following application process. 

1. Determine the type of visa you need: Identify the purpose of your visit (tourism, business, study, etc.) to apply for the correct type of visa. 
2. Choose the right consulate: Apply at the consulate or embassy of the country where you will spend most of your time during your visit. 
3. Fill up the application form: Fill up the Schengen Visa application form, available online or at the consulate. 
4. Submit required documents: These are a valid passport, recent photos, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, travel insurance, and proof of financial means. 
5. Book an appointment: Attend a visa appointment at the consulate or visa application center to submit your application and biometric data (fingerprints and photos). 
6. Pay the visa fee: The fee varies but is around €80 for adults. 

Schengen visa processing time may vary, but it’s usually 15 calendar days before a decision is made. 

How Borders and Security Measures Work Within the Schengen Area 

Even though there are no internal borders, the Schengen Area has strong security measures in place for its external borders. Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, is key to this. It coordinates border control among Schengen countries so the external borders are secure and travel and trade can flow freely. 

Frontex’s tasks include monitoring migration patterns, risk assessments, and providing support to member states during peaks such as migration crises. The agency also helps with the return of people who don’t have the right to stay in the Schengen Area and collaborates on search and rescue missions in the Mediterranean. 

Schengen countries also have strong law enforcement cooperation to keep the area secure. This is done through shared databases and communication networks such as the Schengen Information System (SIS) where member states can exchange information on criminal activities, missing persons, stolen objects, and other security concerns in real-time.

Also Read: Schengen Travel, Schengen France, Schengen Greece, What is ETIAS

FAQs About Schengen Countries 

Q. What is the difference between the EU and the Schengen Area? 

The EU is a political and economic union of member states, and the Schengen Area is a group of 27 countries that have abolished internal border controls for the free movement of people. Not all EU countries are in the Schengen Area and vice versa. 

Q. How many countries are in the Schengen Area? 

As of now, the Schengen Area comprises 29 countries. This area allows for passport-free travel across member countries, facilitating easier movement and economic interaction. 

Q. Is the UK part of the Schengen Zone? 

No, the UK was never part of the Schengen Zone, even before Brexit. 

Q. How long can I stay in a Schengen Country with a visa? 

With a Schengen visa, you can stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.