90 days travel europe

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Guide to long-term travel in europe: how to stay longer than 90 days.

Discover how to stay in Europe for more than 90 days. Advice for dealing with visa issues, travel costs, accommodation, and saving money.

Long-term travel in Europe is a dream that many of us have, but dealing with visa issues, travel costs, accommodation, and saving money can be quite difficult. This guide will walk you through these important steps of staying in Europe longer than 90 days and will help you plan your big trip abroad.

Quick Outline To This Guide

Note About Staying in Europe For More than 90 Days

The Schengen Area Explained

How the schengen zone effects you.

• List of Schengen Countries
• List of Non-Schengen Countries and Visa Requirements 

Ways To Stay In Europe For More Than 90 Days

Split up schengen and non-schengen countries, working holiday visa, become a student at a european university.

• Long Term Tourist Visa

Language Assistant Program

Teaching english as a foreign language (tefl) jobs, self employment or freelance visa.

• European Passport

Stay Illegally

Money-Saving Advice for Long Term Travel

Quality Over Quantity

• Apartment Rentals and Hostels

Couchsurfing

Note about staying in europe for more than 90 days.

The very first step of planning your long-term travels through Europe is to ensure that you know the laws on how long you’re legally allowed to visit. Traveling more than 90 days gets a bit tricky because of visa issues. 

Unfortunately, these visa issues often make it very difficult to travel through Europe for an extended amount of time — but there are still options for determined travelers. This guide will explain what you need to know about long-term travel in Europe.

The first thing you need to know about is the Schengen Area…

From Wikipedia…

The  Schengen Area  is a group of 26 European countries that have abolished passport and immigration controls at their common borders. It functions as a single country for international travel purposes, with a common visa policy. Joining Schengen entails eliminating internal border controls with the other Schengen members, while simultaneously strengthening external border controls with non-Schengen states. — Wikipedia

When most travelers mention being able to stay in Europe for more than 90 days, they are generally referring to staying in the Schengen Area — this is because the Schengen Area encompasses  most  of the countries in Europe.

The map above is from the  BBC  and it does a good job of visually showing the difference between all the different zones.  For most travelers (Americans, Canadians, Australians, New Zealanders), you only need a valid passport to enter a Schengen Area country — but the bad news is that you need a visa (which is difficult to get) if you wish to stay more than 90 days.

Americans, Canadians, Australians, New Zealanders, etc. can only stay in the Schengen Area (without a special visa) for a period of 90 days within a 180 day period.

If you leave the Schengen Area, the countdown clock stops and doesn’t start until you enter it again. Once you reach your 90-day limit, you have to stay out for an additional 90 days.

Think of it this way… the day you enter the Schengen zone it starts a 180-day countdown. Of that 180 days, you can only stay there for a total of 90 days. You can stay for 30 days, then 10 days, then 2 days, etc. but once you hit that 90-day total you have to leave until that initial 180 days have elapsed.

List of Schengen Area countries

Non-schengen area countries.

Each non-Schengen member country has its own rules about how long a visitor can stay in the country without a special visa. Notable countries include:

• United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland) — 180 days
• Republic of Ireland — 90 days
• Romania — 90 day
• Croatia — 90 days
• Belarus — 30+ days (you need a visa here, but you apply for it in-country. Costs about $35.)
• Ukraine — 90 days
• Others — You’ll have to look up other countries’ visa requirements. The US State Department  does a good job explaining the requirements for US citizens.

I hate to say it but traveling for longer than 90 days in Europe is very difficult.

But it isn’t impossible!

I’ve listed all the methods I know of, but there could be other ways. Please let me know if you know of any other methods.

The easiest way to extend your trip past 90 days is to visit both Schengen and non-Schengen countries. Once your 90 days are up, travel to the UK, Ireland, or one of the many Eastern European countries that aren’t part of the agreement. Once you’ve spent 90 days there, you are free to return to the Schengen area for another 90 days. You can keep repeating this process until you run out of money.

Citizens of Canada, Australia, and New Zealand have working holiday agreements with many European countries that usually last between 1-2 years. These visas are intended to allow young people (18-35) to work while they travel. These visas normally have a few stipulations, but they’re easy to obtain. The United States does not have a working holiday visa program with any European country. You can view a list of working holiday agreements here .

Full-time foreign students are granted visas to complete their studies. There are many university courses taught completely in English throughout Europe (but your options will increase if you speak the local language).

Additionally, a few countries charge foreign students the same tuition as their citizens — which can be as low as a few hundred euros a year. Once you have a visa, you are free to move around any EU country without hassle. It isn’t exactly uncommon for students to pay the super cheap tuition, get their student visa, and then just travel and never actually go to school.

There are many full-time foreign language courses in Europe that will enable you to get a student visa — this is a nice option if you want to learn a foreign language and travel on the weekends and holidays. These courses normally don’t follow the same tuition guidelines as normal European Universities, so they’re more expensive.

For example, the intensive 25 hours/week French language course through the Sorbonne in Paris will cost a few thousand dollars for a semester. However, student visa holders are often entitled to work part-time. There are many options available throughout Europe, but you’ll have to scour the web.

Long-Term Tourist Visa

Many countries offer a long-term tourist visa that is generally valid for one year. I know France is one country that will allow you to apply for a one-year visa. However, you have to have a lot of money in the bank, and you won’t have any right to work. The French consulate never specifies how much money you need to have in savings, but most people say around $30,000+. You have to approve a few other things, but you can read what is required on the French Consulate of San Francisco  site. They really want to make sure you can fully support yourself while in France.

I know France and Spain (maybe other countries, too) have an English language assistant program that is run by the government. You normally do need to have some knowledge of the local language, but this is a good way to stay in Europe for a long period of time. I have friends who did the  language assistant program in France for seven months. Language assistants work 12 hours in class each week and get paid around €1000/month after taxes. Some assistants get lucky and don’t have any classes on Monday and Friday — which allows them to travel around Europe on the weekends.

I’m not super familiar with this, but I know some people who were able to get TEFL jobs in Prague, and they were granted 6-month visas (which could be renewed). You’ll need some type of TEFL training, but this could be a good way to stay in Europe for an extended period of time. This is also common in Spain.

If you’re self-employed and have the ability to work from anywhere in the world, then you might be eligible for a self-employment visa.

I know France has a version of this that can be pretty complicated and confusing, and I believe you have to get the visa before you arrive in France.

Germany is another country that issues this type of visa for foreigners, but you don’t apply for it until you get to Germany. Registering as a freelancer is surprisingly simple if you meet all the requirements. You just need to fill out a few forms and you’ll get a one-year visa. The most popular place to be a freelancer is Berlin since it is so cheap. This site will tell you what documents you need to get a freelance visa in Berlin.

Get A European Passport

Do your parents (or grandparents/great-grandparents in some cases) have citizenship in a European country? If so, you might be able to apply for a passport for that country. Once you have a passport from an EU country, you can work in any EU country without any paperwork or restrictions. This process can take a very long time, but it is worth looking into.

Important Note: With the recent immigration/refugee issues throughout Europe there have been increased border checks — even between Schengen members. Overstaying your stay is a bit riskier these days and it’s not recommended.

While I certainly don’t recommend it, many people choose to overstay the 90-day limit and continue to travel. This is mainly possible because there are no border checks between Schengen member countries. For example, if you travel from France to Italy, no one will look at your passport — whether you’re European or not. There will sometimes be immigration officials on trains, but they usually won’t look too closely at your passport if you look like your average western tourist. BUT, sometimes they do look closely, so do this at your own risk.

The biggest chance of getting caught is when you actually leave the Schengen zone (even if you’re going back to your home country) because the immigration officials will often add up the amount of time you’ve been there. After living in France for 18 months, I went back to the US via Iceland, and they questioned why I was in Europe for so long. Luckily, I had my valid French work permit card in my wallet because I had no other proof in my passport that showed I was allowed to stay in Europe that long.

I’ve found out that Scandinavian countries, as well as Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Poland are all pretty big sticklers about checking the length of time you’ve been in the Schengen area. Therefore, if you do overstay 90 days, I highly recommend that you don’t depart from those countries.

For whatever reason, France, Italy, and Greece seem to be the most relaxed with their immigration. They sometimes don’t even stamp the passports of people entering on flights straight from the US. Additionally, they seem to never even look at the passports of outgoing travelers. If you do overstay the 90-day limit, I highly recommend leaving from one of these countries — but make sure you don’t change planes in one of the countries listed in the previous paragraph. For example, when I flew from France, I changed planes in Iceland, and they checked my passport closely at the airport there.

So what are the penalties if you overstay the 90 days? It seems to vary. You might get a warning and be forced to leave the country right then. Or you might also get a big fine and be banned from entering the EU or any Schengen Area country for 1-5 years. Honestly, I wouldn’t want to risk it.

Money Saving Advice for Long Term Travel

Since most long-term travelers go without an income for a long period of time, it is important to find ways to live as inexpensively as possible. The ideas below will help extend your travel money.

One of the beautiful things about long-term travel is the ability to stay in one location for an extended period of time. Instead of rushing off to a new location every 3-4 days, you can now stay in the same city for weeks. This allows you to truly experience life like a local, and you’ll develop a greater appreciation for the place you’re visiting. You won’t feel guilty for spending a few hours relaxing in a park instead of trying to visit every cultural sight in the city.

Another benefit of moving around less often is the reduced transportation costs. Taking a train or a plane every week will seriously eat your savings away — especially if you’re traveling for an extended amount of time. Here are a bunch of articles about saving money on transportation .

Apartments and Hostels

If you stick to one location for an extended period of time, you’ll also be able to save money on accommodation. Sometimes hostels will give you a better deal if you stay over a week or two (it might be best to contact the hostel directly).

But the best bang for your buck will probably be renting an apartment. If you rent an apartment for a few weeks, it will often cost just about the same as staying in a hostel — and it will be much more comfortable (staying in a hostel for a month does start to wear on you). Plus, with an apartment, you can cook your own meals — which is a great excuse to check out local markets. I’ve written a more in-depth article about renting an apartment in Europe .

It is certainly difficult to travel long-term without having to pay a lot for accommodation, and Couchsurfing is probably the easiest way. Although you will have to be pretty flexible with your schedule and sometimes book a last-minute hostel if your hosts have to bail. But Couchsurfing is still a great way to travel if you don’t mind losing a bit of privacy. For more about Couchsurfing, you can read my post where I go into a lot more detail.

VOLUNTEER (WWOOF, HELPX, ETC.)

Many farmers in Europe need extra assistance during certain times of the year, so they get volunteers to help. They can’t legally pay you, but they can provide room and board. Volunteering can last anywhere from a few days to a few months (as long as you don’t overstay your visa). WWOOF and HelpX are the two biggest resources for finding volunteer opportunities.

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How to (Legally) Stay in Europe for More Than 90 Days

When I planned my move to Sweden a few years ago, I tried to figure out how to get past the 90-day limit placed on tourist visas in the Schengen Area. This is a problem encountered by thousands of travelers every year and a question that regularly (especially this time of year) pops up in my inbox.

“How can I stay in Europe for more than 90 days?”

It’s a simple question with a very complicated answer.

I always knew it was complicated, but until I started researching how to stay there longer, I never knew just how complicated.

Fortunately, in the process of this research, I came to learn there are a few ways to stay in Europe longer than 90 days; they just aren’t well known.

This post will teach you the options for staying in Europe over 90 days as well as give you tips on how to move to Europe. But first a few things:

It’s important to note that Europe isn’t just one place — there are varying visa rules throughout the continent. When people talk about the “90-day limit,” they’re talking about restrictions on the Schengen Area, which is the visa policy that governs 27 countries in Europe. It includes most of the European Union as well as a few non-EU countries.

Note: While I call it the “Schengen Visa,” it’s not an actual visa you necessarily need to apply for. Depending on your residency status and country of citizenship, you may need to apply in advance for a Schengen Visa, however, those with an American passport do not need to apply in advance.

However, it should be noted that as of 2025, visitors from 60 countries (including the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada) will need to apply for an online ETIAS, which is essentially a visa waiver, when entering the 23 EU member states and 4 non-EU countries of the Schengen. It is valid for 90 days within a 180-day period.

You can apply and pay online up to 96 hours beforehand. It is similar to the US version of ESTA (or the eTA in Canada). ETIAS cost 7 EUR for those 18-70 years old and are free for those under 18 years or over 70.

If you come from a country that requires you to get a Schengen visa you will not need to apply for ETIAS. It’s one or the other. Learn more here . (The ETIAS was originally set to launch in 2024, but has been pushed back.)

Table of Contents

• What is the Schengen Visa?

Part 1: Staying or Moving to Europe the Easy Way

Part 2: staying in the schengen area past 90 days.

• Take Advantage of the Bilateral Agreement
• Working Holiday Visas
• Long-Term-Stay Visas
• Student Visas
• Freelancer Visas
• Marriage Visas

What is the Schengen visa?

The Schengen visa is a 90-day tourist visa for Schengen Area countries, which are:

• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Switzerland

  Additionally, there are several microstates that are de facto members of the Schengen Area. These are Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City.

These Schengen countries have a border-free visa agreement that lets residents move throughout the Area without needing to show their passports every time they cross a border. Essentially, it’s as if they’re one country, and you can move as freely as you want.

Citizens of many countries are allowed to enter the Schengen Area without having to get a visa beforehand. Your passport simply gets stamped upon your arrival and departure from Europe. You’re allowed to enter and leave from any country you want — they don’t have to be the same.

Here is a map of the countries with visa waivers that can enter the Schengen without requiring a visa in advance.

Most visitors (including Americans) are allowed to spend 90 days in the Schengen Area in every 180-day period. The easiest way to think of it is that you can visit for 3 months and then you have to leave for 3 months before you can return.

However, you can also bounce back and forth between Schengen and non-Schengen countries — you just need to keep track of all your dates of entry/exit.

When I visit Europe, I fly in and out of different countries all the time. Your first entry in the 180-day period is when your 90-day counter starts. These days don’t need to be consecutive — the total is cumulative. Once day 181 hits, the count resets itself.

For example, if I come to the Schengen Area in January and stay for 60 days and then come back in June for 10 days, that counts as 70 days in 180 days. Only days you are in the zone during the period count. If you go on January 1st and stay 90 straight days, you have to leave and technically can’t come back until July 1st.

If you’re doing a lot of bouncing around, use the EU’s Schengen visa calculator . Simply input all your travel dates and it’ll tell you how many days you have remaining.

However, not all travelers are allowed such freedom.

Citizens from many countries need to apply for a Schengen visa ahead of time. You’ll be required to fill out paperwork beforehand and fly in and out of the country for which your visa is issued.

Even then, you still might not be granted a visa. Spoiler alert: citizens from African and Asian countries get screwed.

So, with that being said, how DO you stay in Europe longer? How do you get around that rule? Let me break it down for you.  

Most non-Schengen countries such as Moldova , Ireland , and some Balkan countries allow you to stay for up to 60 or 90 days. Albania even lets Americans stay up to a year!

So, all you need to do to stay in Europe longer than 3 months is spend 90 days in the Schengen Area and then visit the UK, go to the Balkans, drink wine in Moldova, and have a pint in Ireland. If you align your schedule right, you can easily be out of the Schengen Area for 90 days and then head back into the Schengen Area with a brand new Schengen visa.

Years ago, to get around this limit, I spent three months in Bulgaria , Romania , Ukraine , and England as I waited for my clock to reset.

After that, I headed back into the Schengen area for Oktoberfest .

If you want to travel the continent for a long time without having to go through the various visa processes described below, vary your travel by visiting non-Schengen countries. There are plenty of countries to choose from while you wait for your Schengen Visa clock to reset. This is the easy, hassle-free way of doing things.

—-> Need more tips for Europe? Visit my destination guide and get in-depth information on what to see and do and how to save money .  

After all, the Schengen Area spans 27 countries and visiting so many destinations in 90 days can be a little rushed (you would have an average of just 3.5 days per country).

If you want to stay longer to travel, live, learn a language, or fall in love, then the “move around” option suggested above isn’t going to work for you. You need something else.

Luckily, there are a few ways to do this — and I can’t stress enough the importance of the word “few.” Because staying more than 90 days in the Schengen Area isn’t easy.

First, let’s understand the rule:

The Schengen law states that you can’t stay in the Schengen Area for more than 90 days. If you do, you’re subject to a fine and possibly deportation and being banned from re-entering the Schengen Area. How that rule is enforced, though, varies greatly from one country to another. Overstaying by a day might not be the end of the world, however, some countries do not mess around with visitors overstaying.

For example, Germany, the Netherlands, Poland, Switzerland, and Scandinavian countries are all very strict about entry and exit rules. If you overstay your tourist visit, there’s a good chance they’ll pull you aside. Two Australians I know were detained leaving Switzerland due to overstaying their visa by two weeks. They were allowed to go with just a warning, but they missed their flights and had to book new flights.

I know of someone who overstayed by six months, tried to leave from Amsterdam, and now has an “illegal immigrant” stamp on her passport. In order to enter Europe again, she must apply for a visa at an embassy and be preapproved:

I made the mistake of attempting to leave from the Netherlands after overstaying a Schengen visa and was caught. I overstayed by about a month, and they hand-drew some sort of insignia in my passport to note my overstay. They told me I’d have to contact the IND and find out if I would be able to enter the Schengen states again.

Another blogger told me this happened to them too so don’t overstay your visa!

That being said, if you leave from Greece , France , Italy , or Spain you may be less likely to encounter an issue, provided you (a) haven’t stayed over too long and (b) didn’t catch the immigration officer on a bad day.

When I left Greece, no one even looked at my passport. One of my friends met a guy in France, fell in love, and decided not to leave. A year later, when she finally did, the French officials didn’t even look twice. Another friend flew into France and didn’t even get an entry stamp. Spain is another place notorious for not caring and Americans who decide to overstay for months mention that as the easiest country to exit from. Still, it’s a good idea not to take your chances.

Of course, I don’t think it’s wise to overstay. A day or two? Likely not the end of the world. But a few weeks? A few months? The risk is too great. The fines can be large and I love going to Europe too much to risk being banned.

But, Matt, can I extend just extend my Schengen visa/stamp?

Unfortunately not. Simply put, you cannot extend your tourist visa or entry stamp. There’s a 90-day limit, and that’s that.

So what’s a tourist to do?  

1. Take advantage of the Bilateral Agreement

There are 23 Schengen countries to date with bilateral agreements in place with Austria having the most visa waiver agreements (for 27 non-EU countries). Moreover, there are 12 countries that have bilateral agreements with Australia.

For example, France has a bilateral agreement that allows U.S. citizens to stay an additional 90 days beyond the Schengen limit. You can enter from any Schengen country, stay 90 days in France, and then fly home. But the catch is you have to go home — you can’t go elsewhere. You have to leave Europe so you can’t use your time in France as a sneaky way to reset your Schengen clock.

Now, the France/U.S. rule is tricky. It’s based on a post-World War II agreement that was never canceled. Multiple French consulates told me yes, they thought this law existed but couldn’t tell me where to find it. A few visa services told me I was crazy. One consulate told me it was possible but only with a long-term visa.

BUT, after many calls, the US, Canada, and UK French embassies told me that yes, this law does exist and that yes, this is still valid. Then they referenced me to the French national archives.

Well, we found the actual diplomatic papers that spell this out . It took us close to a year to find it but we did.

This is the note from the French government about it:

Hi, There is a bilateral agreement between French and the U.S. by exchange letters (March 16-31 mars 1949), which allows American citizens to stay in France 90 days over 180 days, irrespective of the stays already made in other Schengen countries. However, this agreement has been made before the Schengen agreement. Today, as there is no more border control between the Schengen countries, it is very difficult to determine how long a person has stayed in France and we heard that some people had troubles with the immigration police while leaving France. Therefore, we recommend American citizens to respect the Schengen regulation which allows a maximum of 90 days on 180 days in the whole Schengen area. Consulat général de France, Service des visas 4101 Reservoir Road, Washington DC, 20007

A follow-up to the London embassy gave me this response:

“Whilst the bilateral agreement you refer to has not officially been revoked, the French Border Police has sole authority on deciding whether to apply it or not, at the time of entering or exiting the Schengen area.”

So this is really a thing. And, while they don’t like you using it, it’s still the law. Just bring proof you stayed in France for 90 days! If you plan to use this rule, bring documentation as border guards may not be aware of it.

Additionally, Denmark, Norway, and Poland also have bilateral agreements with the United States that let citizens stay an additional 90 days in each country separate from the regular Schengen Zone visa. The Denmark rule applies exactly the same way as the French one. Denmark also has a bilateral agreement that is applicable for citizens of Australia, Canada, Chile, Israel, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, and South Korea .

That said, travelers can only use the Norwegian or the Danish bilateral agreement — they can’t use both (time in Norway under the bilateral agreement counts as time in Denmark and vice versa).

For Poland, you must enter and leave Poland via a non-Schengen country where you will be stamped again (i.e., direct flight from NYC). So you could do 90 days in the Schengen, fly to the UK, and then fly to Poland. Poland’s rules are simply laid out in an agreement letter the U.S. and Poland signed in 1991. ( Here’s a copy of the letter from the Polish government) .

In theory, there are also other bilateral agreements between the U.S. and Schengen countries. I’ve been told by multiple sources that Belgium, Italy, Hungary, Norway, Spain, Portugal, and the Netherlands all have their own bilateral agreements with the U.S. as well. This page outlines the existing bilateral agreements .

However, I reached out to each country’s consulate and none of them replied (save Portugal) in any meaningful way. They simply directed me to the standard visa FAQ page.

Regarding Portugal, a representative from the Portuguese consulate said this regarding their bilateral 60-day visa:

Please note that those 60 days are an exceptional extension that needs to be requested within Portugal at SEF office near your temporary address in Portugal.

Now, in theory, one could say thanks to borderless travel you could get your “extra 90 days in Denmark” and then just travel around, fly out of Denmark, and no one would be the wiser. One could say that. But I’ve noticed a lot more intra-Europe passport checks in recent years. I got yelled at in France for not having my passport with me while on a train to see a chateau. So, I wouldn’t recommend doing this.

Note: Most countries have bilateral agreements with other countries. Call the local embassy for more information (you’ll have better luck calling than emailing).  

2. Get a Working Holiday Visa

There is no single “working holiday” program for the Schengen or EU so applicants must apply for a visa from a specific country. Usually, applicants must be younger than 30, though age restrictions are becoming more relaxed in recent years.

Additionally, you can get consecutive working holiday visas. An Australian reader of mine got a two-year Dutch working holiday visa and then got one from Norway to stay two more years. While she and her boyfriend (who also got one) did odd jobs in Holland for a bit, they mostly used it as a way to travel around the continent.

Note : This type of visa won’t allow you to work in any other country than the one that issued it.

For Americans, there are only two options for working holidays in Europe: Ireland (non-Schengen country) and Portugal (Schengen country). Both programs are essentially the same, providing a 12-month work visa to those either currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a higher education institution.

While you must be at least 18 to apply, there’s no upper age limit, provided that you fit the other criteria. For the Portuguese visa, you can only work for 6 months out of the 12-month visa, while the Irish visa has no work restrictions.

3. Get a Long-Term-Stay Visa

However, in 2023, if you have a fully online business, there are countries within Schengen that allow digital nomad visas provided you make a certain amount of money per month and have your own health insurance. Countries that currently offer digital nomad visas include Portugal, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Germany, Hungary, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Malta, Romania, Spain, and Norway.

The countries that allow you to apply with the lowest online salary are Portugal, Hungary, Malta, and Croatia, which require around 2,500 EUR in income per month.

Schengen allows for a C- or D-class visa (the letter varies on the country), which is a temporary residence visa for up to one year. But the specific visa and requirements vary from country to country. Some countries are harder, some are easier, and others are nearly impossible despite being in the same visa treaty zone.

However, there are a few countries that do offer long-term visas that aren’t too hard to get:  

France offers a long-term visitor visa for a period of up to one year. According to the French Embassy, “The ‘visitor’ visa (or visa ‘D’) allows you to enter France and stay for more than three months. Long-stay visa holders will be allowed to reside in France for up to 12 months according to the validity of their visa and purpose of stay.”

To get this visa, you must set up an appointment at the French consulate near you. You can’t walk in — you must make an appointment.

At this appointment, you’ll need the following documents:

• One application form filled out completely and signed
• Three passport photos
• Your original passport, which must have been issued less than 10 years ago, be valid for three months after your return, and have at least two blank pages left
• A letter certified by a notary public that promises you won’t engage in work
• A letter of employment stating current occupation and earnings
• Proof of income (you’ll need copies of a pension certificate or your last 3 bank statements)
• Proof of medical insurance that includes evacuation insurance and medical coverage of at least €30,000 (a copy of your US health insurance card is not acceptable as proof, you need a detailed description of coverage)
• Proof of accommodation in France. (If you don’t have an official document such as a sublet agreement, you can include a letter describing your accommodation arrangements).

Note : You can’t apply for this visa more than three months before your arrival date.

France-Visas is the official visa website for France. It details all the types of visas and has a helpful “visa wizard” where you put in your situation and it tells you what type of visa you should apply for as well as all the documents that you need.

You can also visit the French Embassy website for links to local embassies and consulates for more information. Find your closest consulate here .

This post has some helpful information to get you started on long-term visas in particular .  

Sweden also offers a long-term stay tourist visa for a maximum period of one year. Here’s a brief overview of what you need:

• Residence permit for visitor’s application form
• Notarized copies of the pages of your passport that show your identity and the validity of your passport, as well as copies of all the other visas/stamps you have. Your passport also needs to be valid for 3 months after your stay.
• A bank statement showing your means of supporting yourself for the duration of your stay (450 SEK for each day of your stay)
• A return airplane ticket
• Proof of medical coverage of at least 30,000 EUR

Most people who apply for this visa have family in Sweden. If you don’t, you’ll need to have clear reasons as to why you need to stay longer and show ample proof that you can support yourself (i.e., “I want to meet Swedish guys/girls” won’t cut it!).

You can apply either in Sweden or outside the country. If you’re applying from Sweden, you can apply online, and then make an appointment at the consulate or embassy to show your passport and get fingerprinted. If you’re applying outside of Sweden, you need to file your application in person at the consulate or embassy. When you file your application abroad, you’ll also be interviewed about your intended trip and the purpose for staying in Sweden.

You can learn more about the process on this government page .

Spain offers a couple of long-term visas. The Golden Visa is based on a sizable financial investment in Spain, either into a company (minimum 1 million EUR), real estate (minimum 500,000 EUR), or invest in a new business such as in science or tech that creates local employment opportunities. The other more attainable and popular long-term visa targets retirees and is called the Non-Lucrative Residence Visa. It requires that you spend at least 183 days in Spain, which would make you a legal resident for tax purposes. During this time, you are unable to work in Spain (so you’ll need to have enough savings to get you by). However, studying and unpaid internships are permitted.

The big catch for this visa is that you need to have at least 26,000 EUR in your bank account (ideally more). Since the visa is designed for retirees, the assumption is that you’re coming here to rest on your financial laurels after a lifetime of saving up — hence the sizeable requirement.

The visa has been denied to people who are remote workers so I wouldn’t recommend this visa if you’re a digital nomad (Spain is supposedly working on a visa specifically for digital nomads, though it’s not currently available). This is a bit of a gray area though. If you can show enough savings to financially sustain yourself for a year without working, you can get this visa. You just cannot use monthly statements (such as from your remote job) to prove income; financial proof must be savings or passive income (such as a pension).

In addition to having sizable savings, you’ll also need to fill out the application, submit your passport and additional photos, pay a fee, and provide the following:

• Proof of private health insurance (from an authorized company in Spain not travel insurance)
• A doctor’s note certifying that you’re healthy
• A criminal background check translated into Spanish

You must apply for this visa in your country of residency (usually with the help of lawyers). The application varies per country, usually between 120-900 EUR (it’s around 125 EUR for Americans and over 500 EUR for Canadians).

This consulate page has all the specific details you need regarding the application .

Portugal has multiple long-term stay visas. First, there is a Golden Visa, which requires a minimum investment in the country of 280,000 EUR and takes around 18 months to process. The D7 Passive Income visa, which is similar to Spain’s non-lucrative visa, is more realistic for most people.

To apply for the D7 visa in Portugal you need:

• Proof of health insurance covering at least 30,000 EUR
• A background check
• Proof of financial means to stay in Portugal (8,460 EUR)
• Letter of purpose and intent in Portugal
• 2 passport photos
• Proof of accommodation

The main difference between the Portuguese and Spanish long-term visas is that you only need an income of around 8,460 EUR instead of the 26,000 EUR in savings that the Spanish visa requires. You still cannot work on this visa, so your income must be passive (investments, pension, rental property, etc.).

The D7 visa can work for digital nomad as it is valid for 4 months. Portugal is much more accepting of remote work as proof of income for the visa application than Spain.

Portugal also offers the D2 immigrant Entrepreneur visa, which isn’t designed specifically for digital nomads, but could be used by specific entrepreneurs. You’ll need to submit a business plan and demonstrate you have enough capital to get started. You’ll also need to explain why you want to start your business in Portugal (or move it there). You’ll have a much higher chance of getting approved if you have invested upwards of 5,000 EUR in your business and speak some Portuguese (it’s not required, but these visas are regularly rejected so it will give you a leg up).

In short, there are a lot of steps for a temporary visa. However, you can get this extended and eventually apply for permanent residency or citizenship after 5 years.

You’ll need to apply for both of these visas in your country of residency.

The official Portuguese visa website has more information about specific visas and requirements. You can locate your nearest Portuguese consulate here .

A note on long-term visas: Keep in mind that the information above is just for reference. There may be more requirements needed for your application and not all visas are open to everyone. You’ll want to contact your local embassy for specifics and additional information.  

4. Get a Student Visa

All Schengen Area countries offer student visas that are easy to obtain so long as you’re enrolled in a recognized university program. This would require you to pay for the course and you may also have to show proof of minimum fund requirements, but it will virtually guarantee you a visa if you are accepted.

One of the best countries to do this is Spain, where a whole industry has sprung up to help students study Spanish. There are tons of schools that will allow you to enroll and write letters stating you’re a student there. You’ll need to apply in your home country but the process is relatively straightforward. This post details the requirements .

Germany is another popular choice, as post-secondary schools there are essentially free. While there may be more competition, the costs are much lower. However, you need to show proof that you have money in a bank account to cover your expenses. As of October 2022, that amount is 11, 208 EUR in a blocked bank account.

In Germany, you might also be able to work up to 120 full days, or 240 half days (20 hours a week) while you study as well. You can learn about the application process here .

While most student visas allow you to stay in a country for one year, I would only consider getting one if you actually plan on studying. If you’re just getting a student visa to travel and play tourist, it’s not going to be worth the cost and paperwork since you’ll need to set up everything from a residential address to a bank account to a local phone number and more.  

5. Get a Freelancer/Remote Worker Visa

There are several countries that offer freelancer visas and visas geared towards the increasing number of remote workers. This process is a little more complicated and not for the casual tourist. These visas are meant for people who actually want to live and work in Europe. If you’re just a casual tourist, expect to be denied. But if you’re a digital nomad, this is the visa for you.

Schengen countries that offer freelancer or remote worker visas include:

• Germany (no set income amount, but you need a business plan and upwards of 10,000 EUR in savings)
• Estonia (3,500 EUR income/month)
• Czechia (5,600 EUR in savings)
• Portugal (2,800 EUR income/month)
• Greece (3,500 EUR income/month)
• Malta (2,700 EUR income/month)
• Hungary (2,000 EUR income/month
• Croatia (17,800 HRK (2,300 EUR income/month)

Non-Schengen countries that have them include:

• Romania (no set income, reports of successful applicants range from about 3,700 EUR/month)
• Georgia (2,000 USD income/month)
• Iceland (1,000,000 ISK income/month (6,617 EUR), only valid for up to 6 months)

Germany is the country most used by people who want to reside in Europe. If you’re a freelancer, digital nomad, artist, or have some form of income, this is the visa to get. If you are from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the U.S., Israel, South Korea, or Japan you can apply after you arrive in Germany (everyone else needs to apply in advance).

The visa only lasts for three months, however, it is designed to be extended into a residency visa which would then last for three years. I have many friends who have gotten this visa. As long as you follow the steps, you should be fine. This post has more information about the process .

Most of these visas follow a similar format: apply, pay a fee, submit proof that your business can stay afloat, then wait to be accepted. However, some have more stringent requirements.

For example, Estonia’s freelancer visa requires a monthly income of at least 3,500 EUR per month leading up to your application. For the Czechia visa, you need to have at least $6,000 USD in your bank account (the lovely folks at Wandertooth, who did this process a couple of years ago, can walk you through the steps ).

If you are a digital nomad and are considering working remotely from the EU you can compare these programs to see which one bests suits your goals (though Germany is likely the best place to start since it’s one of the easiest to get).  

6. Get Married to a European

Fall in love with a European (or at least a friend) and apply for a marriage visa! You’ll get to stay there while the application process goes through and then you can move to Europe and stay there forever with the love of your life! That’s a win-win! (This is a joke. Don’t get married just for a visa to stay in Europe!)

The best, easiest, and most effective way to stay in Europe long-term is to increase the number of countries you visit so you’re in the Schengen Area for only 90 days. As I said, there are a lot of countries not in the Area so this is easy to do.

If you’re like me and want to stay in the Schengen Area longer than 90 days (or just want to move to Europe because it’s awesome), be prepared to work the system. It’s not impossible to stay long-term in the Schengen Area. By understanding the system and using the few loopholes that do exist, one can legally stay past 90 days and enjoy all Europe has to offer without worrying about being barred for life.  

Get Your In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

My detailed 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel while in Europe. It has suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Book Your Trip to Europe: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

For suggestions on where to stay during your trip, here is a list of my favorite hostels in Europe .

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional repatriation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Europe? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Europe for even more planning tips!

NOTE: Due to the complexities of visas and the uniqueness of everyone’s situation, we do not answer any visa related questions in the comments or via email. Thank you.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Home » Europe » Long-Term Travel in Europe: How to Stay for More Than 90 Days

Long-Term Travel in Europe: How to Stay for More Than 90 Days

Mind-blowing history, delicious food, and charming cities with a history beyond imaginable — Europe is a fascinating place, and long-term travel here is a dream for many.

Unfortunately, visa issues & travel costs often make it difficult to travel through Europe for an extended amount of time, which can throw a lot of travelers away.

But don’t let this discourage you… there are still options for determined humans!

First, you gotta really sink in that Europe isn’t just one place, and when people talk about the 90-day limit, they’re talking about restrictions on the Schengen Area and the visa policy that governs a total of 27 countries. It includes most of the European Union as well as a few non-EU countries.

And that’s mostly what I’m covering here.

This guide will not only show you the options for staying more than 90 days, but also tips for long-term travel in Europe. It may not be easy, but there’s definitely a way or two to make it happen. 😉

Let’s make your dreams come true.

First Things First: The Schengen 90-Day Rule Explained

Money-saving advice for long-term travel in europe, faqs on long-term travel in europe and the schengen 90-day rule, final words of wisdom.

Simply put, the Schengen Area is a group of 27 European countries that work together to make traveling between them easier.

By removing passport controls and border checks, people (and goods) can travel freely in the area without too much hassle – kinda like traveling in a single big ass country.

All you need is a valid passport to enter a Schengen Area country and boom – you’re set.

The Schengen Area got its name after the 1985 Schengen Agreement, signed in the village of Schengen in Luxembourg, and it encompasses some of the most popular backpacker destinations in Europe (The Netherlands, France Portugal… you name them).

And now, while this all sounds like great news, the only issue is that you’ll need a visa (which is difficult to get) if you wish to stay more than 90 days.

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How the Schengen Area Affects You

Citizens from countries such as the US, Canada, or Australia, are allowed to stay in the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period. That’s not a whole lot of time, so you’ll want to make the most of it.

Once you hit that 90-day limit, you’ll need to take a break and stay outside the Schengen Area for another 90 days. But don’t worry, the countdown clock stops when you leave, and doesn’t start again until you come back.

So, in theory, you can stay for 30 days, leave for a bit, and come back for another 60 days, as long as it all adds up to 90 days or less.

It’s important to keep in mind that these rules apply to Schengen in general, not just one country. So, if you’re planning a grand European tour, make sure you’re keeping track of how long you’ve been in the area. You don’t want to get caught out and have to leave before you’re ready.

List of Schengen Area Countries

Non-schengen area countries.

There’s more to Europe than the Schengen zone, so it’s worth mentioning a few exceptions. Each of them will have its own set of rules on how long a traveler can stick around without a special visa.

These will be even more important when you lay out your strategy on how to stay in Europe for more than 90 days, but more on that later.

Some noteworthy countries include:

• United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland): 180 days
• Republic of Ireland : 90 days
• Bulgaria : 90 days
• Georgia : up to 365 days! (so you should definitely give it a go )
• Others : you’ll have to look into the particular country you’re planning to visit. The US State Department has compiled all this information for US citizens .

Alright, folks, now for the meat of it. The truly juicy question. The reason why y’all clicked on this article in the first place…

How the heck does one stay in Europe longer than 90 days?

It is NOT possible to extend a tourist visa to Europe, the Schengen 90-day rule is real, and exceeding it can result in fines, deportation, and a ban from re-entering. Enforcement of this rule varies greatly between countries — some may not enforce it as strictly, but it is still not advisable to overstay.

There’s an easy and a hard way to stay longer, though, and we’re gonna look into both. Baby steps.

The Easy Way: Splitting Things Up

There is indeed an easy way to stay in Europe for more than 90 days — you just have to split things up.

Most non-Schengen countries, such as Ireland, Romania, and some other Balkan countries , allow you to stay for up to 60 or 90 days. In the UK, you can stay up to 180 days, and countries like Albania and Georgia even let Americans stay up to a year!

So, in theory, all you need to do to extend your stay in Europe beyond 3 months is to spend 90 days in the Schengen Area, take a trip to Ireland for a couple pints of Guinness, immerse yourself in Bulgarian folk culture for a while, and then return to the Schengen Area with a renewed Schengen visa.

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The “Hard” Way: Longer Term Visas & Life Hacks

If you’re determined enough about moving to Europe, or just politely overstaying as long as possible, know that there is a way — you just gotta be determined enough.

Working Holiday Visa

A working holiday visa might be one of the easiest and best ways to actually travel long-term in Europe. This type of visa is designed with young travelers in mind, meaning people that want to work and travel abroad for a period of time.

In Europe, several countries (both in and outside the Schengen Area) offer working holiday visas. For example, people from Australia, Canada, and New Zealand can apply for a working holiday visa in several European countries, including Germany, France, and Spain.

They allow you to travel and work for up to 12 months , but may have restrictions on the type of work, hours, and specific qualifications or funds required. Make sure to check for specific requirements !

People looking to move to Europe from the US through this method will have a harder time though, as only a couple of countries offer this possibility. The next few options might give you a better chance.

Long-Term-Stay Visa

The majority of Schengen countries do not provide long-term-stay visas for tourists or visitors who do not plan to work in the country. To get a long-stay visa, one must typically apply for a work or residency visa.

The Schengen area does offer a temporary residence visa (C- or D-class, depending on the country) for up to one year, but requirements and availability vary among countries. Some may be more difficult to obtain than others.

Also, some countries may require you to have up to 20,000€ in savings before you can move.

Student Visa

International students can apply for a student visa once they’ve received an admission letter from a recognized European university program. This is the most common type of visa for international students, and it will allow you to enter the country to follow a specific course or program.

These are relatively easy to obtain if you do plan on studying abroad, and it gets better: even though each country has its own set of policies, the European Union advocates for international students to be allowed to stay for at least 9 months to find suitable jobs.

Freelancer/Remote Worker Visa

This one can be a little bit more complex for casual tourists, and you’ll likely be denied if that’s your case. If you live life as a digital nomad, though, then this visa is probably the right choice for you.

There are several countries that offer freelancer visas and visas geared towards the increasing number of remote workers, Germany being one of the most popular ones with their Freiberufle visa .

A freelance visa like this is typically granted for three months, after which it can and should be converted into a residence permit. You apply, pay a fee, submit proof that your business can survive, and then wait to be accepted.

Month to month payments, no lock-in contracts, and no itineraries required: that’s the exact kind of insurance digital nomads and long-term traveller types need. Cover yo’ pretty little self while you live the DREAM!

Get a European Passport/Marry a European

If your parents or grandparents (sometimes even great-grandparents) have citizenship in a European country, you may be able to apply for a passport. With one, you could work in any EU country without paperwork or restrictions! The process can be very time-consuming, but it’s worth it.

Alternatively, you can fall in love and apply for a marriage visa! You’ll get to stay there while the application process goes through and then you can move to Europe and stay there forever with the love of your life (a chocolate croissant).

All jokes aside, leave love out of your visa extension attempts as much as you possibly can.

If you’re planning to stay in Europe for a year or more, costs will definitely add up, even if you just wander around the cheapest countries .

And as you’re probably gonna spend part of this time without work, you’ll need to find ways to make life as inexpensive as possible.

Here are a few different ways you can make this process easier:

• Embrace Hostelling: Hostel life is the best life! Besides saving you a ton of money, hostels are places where you get to meet awesome, like-minded travellers. Just book yourself an epic hostel in Europe and let the magic come to you.
• Try Couchsurfing: For Broke Backpackers that want to go the extra mile, Couchsurfing is the way to go . The community is amazing, and you’re likely to have experiences you would never normally have had — I attribute many of my traveling highlights to it, and highly recommend looking into it.
• Experience Volunteering/Work-Exchange: Do good & experience the world fully by signing up for a volunteering program! There’s definitely a lot to it, as this strategy has gotten a bit of a bad rep over the years, but we address it all in our comprehensive guide to volunteering abroad .

Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

How long can you stay in Europe without a visa?

Travelers with a Schengen Visa can stay for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period. They have a 180-day countdown, during which you can only stay for a total of 90 days, regardless of how many times you enter or exit the area.

Are there any special visas for Americans looking to move to Europe?

There are no special visas specifically for Americans, but there are a variety of options for long-term stays, such as student visas, work visas, or long-term residency permits. It’s best to check with the specific embassy or immigration office of the country you’re interested in.

How long can an American stay in Europe?

Generally, Americans can stay in EU countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa. This can vary with the country though, as countries like Albania and Georgia let American citizens stay up to a year. Always check with the embassy or consulate before traveling.

Do all European countries use the euro?

Not all European countries use the Euro as their currency. Only the member states of the Eurozone use it, which currently includes 19 out of 27 European Union countries. Places like the United Kingdom, Denmark, and Poland, for example, are not in on that.

Can I stay in Europe longer if I start drinking wine like a true European?

If you can drink wine like a true European and make the border control officer believe that you can’t live without it, it might just work. But if you can’t hold your liquor, they might just think you’re a liability and send you back home. Best stick to the 90-day rule.

That’s all for today, my fellow dreamers. The main takeaway here is that long-term travel in Europe IS possible! Don’t let visa issues and travel costs give you a hard time — just tell ’em where to stick it.

With the right knowledge and trip planning , it is possible to travel through the Schengen Area and other parts of Europe for more than 90 days.

But remember: Europe is not just one place and there are options available for those who REALLY want it. Don’t let anything hold you back from exploring its beauty. And come say hi in Lisbon!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Tomás Monteiro

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An Easy Guide to the 90/180 Rule for the Schengen Area in Europe

Last Updated: April 5, 2023

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

If you’re here, you’re probably (like many travellers) attempting to navigate the confusing rules of the European Schengen Area. 

I mean, what is the 90/180 rule? How do you count the 90 days once you’re in Europe? When does the 90 day allowance ‘reset’? All valid questions, my friend, so let me help by explaining things so clearly, even a drunk corgi would get them.

Below is my easy breezy guide to understanding the Schengen Area, its confusing 90/180 day rule, and all the ways you can use it to legally stay in Europe far longer than 3 months.

Beware: I’m only speaking from my own research and personal experience a very privileged (Canadian) passport holder, so if you have more specific questions (especially related to applying for a visa), I am not your girl. I hope you find this general overview helpful though!

If you’re visiting Europe soon, be sure to also check out these posts:

• How to Find the Cheapest Flights to Europe
• The Cheapest Ways to Travel Around Europe
• The Best Travel Apps for Europe
• How to Avoid Pickpockets in Europe
• 40+ One Week Itineraries for Europe You’ll Want to Steal ASAP
• How to Pack for Europe in the Summer
• How to Pack for Europe in the Winter

Save this Guide to the Schengen Area 90/180 Rule for Later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

First: What is the Schengen Area?

A lot of first time visitors mistakenly assume there are no passport controls throughout Europe. This is untrue, and only applies to a select group of 27 countries in Europe known as the Schengen Area.

The name comes from the small Luxembourgish village of Schengen, where the agreement establishing the original Schengen Area (initially just France, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg) were first signed back in 1985.

Today, the Schengen Area encompasses a 27 country “area without internal border controls “ spread across over 4 million square kilometres.

Practically speaking, for travellers this means that once you enter the Schengen Area, you have free movement within Schengen countries, and won’t need to get your passport checked every time you cross the border (unless in extenuating circumstances). If you leave a Schengen Area country to go to a non-Schengen country however, passport control will proceed as usual.

This is why the maximum amount of time you’re allowed to stay (e.g. through a visa or through a visa waiver program) will apply to the entire Schengen Area and not just for one single country. In many cases, the allowance is 90 days out of every 180 days, AKA the 90/180 rule.

This is why many long-term travellers in Europe will strategically mix Schengen and non-Schengen countries to legally extend their time on the continent further… but more on this later!

List of Schengen Countries

As of 2023, the countries belonging to the Schengen Zone include…

• Liechtenstein
• The Netherlands
• Switzerland 

To re-iterate: You will typically only go through passport control upon your entry to the Schengen Zone, and upon exit as well, so if you are simply travelling between any of these countries, then you will not need to go through passport control each time.

How Long You Can Stay in the Schengen Area

For many passport holders (including Canadians, Americans, Brits, and Australians, plus over 50 other countries ), we are granted a visa exemption for tourism, and do not need to apply for a special Schengen visa.

This means that we are allowed to enter the Schengen Zone with just our passports. Generally, under these circumstances, we are allowed to stay for 90 days within a 180 day timeframe.

For other passport holders ( see here for a full list ), they must apply for a Schengen Visa in advance. The short stay Schengen Visas (Type C) used for tourism are typically issued for 90 days within a 180 day time frame.

But what exactly does “90 days within a 180 day time frame” even mean?

As taken from the official europa.eu website , “You can stay 90 days in any 180-day period within the Schengen area”, and the following things must be taken into account:

• Your date of entry = your first day of stay in the Schengen Area
• Your date of exit = your last day of stay in the Schengen territory
• The 180-day period is a moving window, “based on the approach of looking backwards at each day of the stay”

Confusing, right? The easiest way I can explain it is this: when you leave the Schengen Zone, you basically need to be able to look back on the past 180 days and say you have not exceeded a 90 day stay within this period.

If you have, then you may be subjected to certain penalties like a fine, deportation or even a ‘re-entry ban’.

How to Easily Calculate the Number of Days You’ve Been in the Schengen Area

The official Europa.eu website has a calculator you can use here that helps calculate for you, which allows you to create an account (so you can go back and edit dates as you see fit). 

Common Misconceptions About the Schengen Area

While the 90/180 Day rule doesn’t sound too complicated once you get the hang of it, there are a few common misconceptions that trip people up, so I want to quickly cover them to ensure you don’t make the same mistake.

First of all, contrary to popular belief, your 90 day allowance doesn’t just reset every time you leave the Schengen Zone.

For example, if you spend 30 days in the Schengen Zone and then go home to your non-Schengen country for 60 days, you do NOT get a fresh 90 days again the next time you re-enter. Those first 30 days you spent still count, so plan a trip assuming you have a new 90 days to work with.

Remember, what’s important is picturing yourself on your departure date exiting the Schengen Zone and looking back on the past 180 days. If you were in the Schengen Zone more than 90 days during that 180 day period, then that’s when you’ve overstayed and are potentially subject to penalties.

Another common mistake is when people simplify the 90/180 Schengen Area rule to “three months out of 6 months”. This simplification doesn’t really work since different months have a different number of days, so remember to count days, rather than months.

Lastly, remember that the Schengen Zone and the EU are not the same thing. Despite significant overlap, not all EU countries are in the Schengen Zone, and there are some non-EU countries in the Schengen Zone as well, so be sure to triple check before assuming a country’s Schengen status.

90/180 Schengen Rule with Extenuating Circumstances (e.g. Student Visas)

Now you might be wondering how the 90/180 day works when you have an overlapping visa, or other extenuating circumstances.

This was exactly my predicament when I did my Study Abroad, for which I had a student visa. I wanted to go backpacking after my semester, so how long would I have? What happens with the 90/180 day rule when you have a student visa? Does the 90 days automatically kick in after your student visa expires? Do you have to cross the border and come back in first?

I was so panicked and nervous that I read every single Reddit thread in the deep trenches of the Internet, reached out to MANY people, including the Canadian consulate in Munich, who firstly misunderstood my question then ghosted me when I clarified… and even still I couldn’t get an answer for the life of me.

The annoying thing is it really depends on the particular passport officer that you have that day.

The most official feedback I received though was when I was actually at the German border, leaving. I figured might as well try to get an official answer while I was there, and (no joke) the first passport officer paused, thought about it for a long time, and then had to call a superior on the phone and chat about it for 5 minutes.

In the end, he told me that the 90/180 day allowance would only kick in after I RE-ENTERED the Schengen Area after leaving on my student visa.

So, there you have it – the official word from a German passport control officer back in 2016.

If you want to be on the safe side then, assuming you plan to stay an extra 90 days in the Schengen Area after another visa of yours expires, you should ensure that you leave the Schengen Area before that visa and come back in with a new entry stamp that proves when you entered the Schengen Zone.

This way, there is official proof of your 90 days kicking in, and you don’t need to be a blubbering ball of anxiety like me.

How Strict Are They in Enforcing the 90/180 Rule?

As someone who has spent a LOT of time weaving in and out of the Schengen Area, I have one thing to say: everything comes down to the passport control officer you have on that day.

I’ve read a lot of generalizations about passport control in different countries, saying things like “Oh, well they’re stricter in countries like Germany but less strict in countries like Spain” and I really don’t think this kind of dialogue is helpful, because at the end of the day, it depends 100% on the individual passport control officer.

In every country, you’ll have some passport control officers who flip through every single page of your passport to identify stamps and do the math, while there will also be others who barely look and just stamp you in/out. It’s down to the individual, so don’t assume that they won’t check because you’re going to a ‘chiller’ country – it doesn’t work like that.

In any case, I would never recommend overstaying your Schengen allowance. While the odds of you getting caught and blacklisted from re-entering aren’t super high, I’m just not willing to take that risk.

It’s important to note as well that they don’t care if you did it on purpose or by accident. Overstaying = overstaying in their books, so while you could maybe play up the uninformed tourist bit, the likelihood that it will help (again) comes down to how your passport control officer is feeling that day.

So, in sum: don’t overstay your 90 days! Instead, empower yourself by learning the rules, and planning your trip in a way that ensures you never overstay.

On that note, let’s talk about…

How to Use the 90/180 Day Schengen Area Rule to Legally Stay in Europe Longer

Now that you understand the whole ’90 days in 180 days’ thing, how can you use this knowledge to your advantage?

Well, if you’re planning on travelling around Europe for more than 90 days, what you can do is create an itinerary that includes both Schengen and non-Schengen countries. This is one of my top Europe backpacking tips for first-timers.

For example, let’s say you wanted to spend 90 days in the Schengen Zone, plus 10 days in the UK, 10 days in Ireland, and 10 days in Bulgaria. That could help you extend your trip to 120 days total.

If you were crafty about it, you could even continue doing this indefinitely for an ultra-long Europe trip.

I spent a while hopping in and out of the Schengen Zone when I first started dating my boyfriend, and wasn’t (yet) ready to commit to a full visa in Germany.

Having done it, the upside of this strategy is you get to visit a lot of really amazing countries that (in my opinion) don’t get nearly the amount of love they deserve from overseas visitors.

I’ve written in the past about all the cool things you can do in Bulgaria for instance, or about all the best places to visit in England besides London.

Another bonus is many non-Schengen countries (with the exception of the UK and Ireland) tend to be more affordable destinations than their Schengen counterparts, which helps you stretch your travel budget further as well.

And if you’re worried about doing this – don’t be! So long as you get your calculations correct, there is nothing legally wrong with you hopping in and out of the Schengen Zone to extend your stay as a tourist.

Take it from me – I’m the kind of person who is a nervous wreck in my peaceful day to day life, so can you imagine what an utter wreck I am at border controls?

The kind of wreck that used to travel with a detailed spreadsheet of all her travel dates, just to show passport control officers ‘just in case’. The kind of wreck who has read the rules so thoroughly that she picks fights with airline employees about them…… and wins.

So, yes, I do know a thing or two about the Schengen Area. And I can tell you there’s no need to worry, so long as you understand the rules and know your rights as a traveller.

Any more questions about the Schengen Area 90/180 Day Rule?

Let me know in the comments. I hope you found this post helpful!

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• Travel Guide

Your Guide To (Legally) Staying In Europe For More Than 90 Days

Published: October 19, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Etta Reis

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Planning a trip to Europe is an exciting adventure, filled with dreams of exploring historic cities, charming villages, and breathtaking landscapes. However, if you are looking to extend your stay beyond the typical 90-day limit, it’s important to understand the regulations governing long-term stays in Europe. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the various visa options and strategies to legally stay in Europe for more than 90 days.

Europe, with its diverse cultures and rich history, offers a plethora of opportunities to explore and experience. Whether you want to immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene of Paris, savor the culinary delights of Italy, or hike through the picturesque landscapes of Switzerland, staying longer allows you to truly soak in the essence of each destination.

While the Schengen Agreement allows visitors from many countries to travel freely within the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days, staying longer requires careful planning and adherence to specific visa regulations. The good news is, there are several visa options available, catering to various purposes such as work, study, retirement, and entrepreneurship.

In the following sections, we will delve into the intricacies of the Schengen Agreement, explore short-term and long-term visa options, discuss visa waiver programs, and provide insights on extending your stay. Whether you are a student, a digital nomad, a retiree, or an investor, we have got you covered with the information and tips needed to make your extended stay in Europe a reality.

So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let’s dive into the fascinating world of legally staying in Europe for more than 90 days!

Understanding the Schengen Agreement

The Schengen Agreement, signed in 1985, is a landmark agreement among 26 European countries that allows for the abolition of internal borders, enabling passport-free travel within the Schengen Area. This area covers most of the European Union (EU) member states, as well as some non-EU countries.

Under the Schengen Agreement, travelers from certain countries are granted a visa-free entry, allowing them to stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This means that if you are a citizen of one of these countries, you can travel freely within the Schengen Zone without the need for a visa, as long as your stay does not exceed the 90-day limit.

It’s important to note that the 90-day limit applies to the cumulative total of your stay within the Schengen Area. For example, if you spend 60 days in France, you will have 30 days remaining to spend in other Schengen countries within a 180-day period.

If you wish to stay beyond the 90-day limit, you will need to obtain a long-term visa or a residence permit, depending on your purpose of stay. These visas grant you the ability to reside in a specific Schengen country for an extended period, typically ranging from a few months to several years.

It’s crucial to understand that the Schengen Agreement does not apply to all European countries. For example, the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Croatia are not part of the Schengen Area. Therefore, if you plan to stay in these countries for an extended period, you will need to adhere to their specific visa regulations.

To determine your eligibility and the specific requirements for staying in Europe beyond the 90-day limit, it’s advisable to consult the official websites of the embassies or consulates of the countries you intend to visit or stay in. There you will find detailed information regarding the visa application process, required documents, fees, and any additional conditions that may apply.

Now that you have a basic understanding of the Schengen Agreement, let’s explore the different visa options available for long-term stays in Europe.

Short-Term Visas for Europe

If you’re planning to stay in Europe for a short period, typically less than 90 days, you may need to apply for a short-term visa, also known as a Schengen visa. This visa allows you to travel within the Schengen Area and stay in one or multiple countries for a specific duration.

The Schengen visa is designed for tourism, business visits, family visits, and other short-term purposes. There are different categories of Schengen visas, such as:

• Tourist Visa: This visa is for individuals visiting Europe for leisure purposes, such as sightseeing, attending events, or visiting family and friends.
• Business Visa: If you’re traveling to Europe for business-related activities, such as meetings, conferences, or negotiations, you will need a business visa.
• Family Visitation Visa: If you have relatives living in Europe and you wish to visit them, you can apply for a family visitation visa.
• Medical Treatment Visa: If you require medical treatment in Europe, you will need a medical treatment visa. You must have appropriate medical documentation and a letter from a healthcare professional.

Obtaining a short-term visa involves submitting an application to the appropriate embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit first or spend the majority of your time in. The application process usually requires providing supporting documents, such as a valid passport, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, proof of financial means, travel insurance, and a completed application form.

It’s important to apply for a Schengen visa well in advance of your intended travel dates, as the processing time can vary depending on the country and time of year. It’s also worth noting that the validity period of a Schengen visa is usually 90 days within a 180-day period. This means that even if you are granted a visa for a longer duration, you are still subject to the 90-day maximum stay within a 180-day period rule.

Furthermore, it’s essential to carefully plan your itinerary and ensure that you do not exceed the 90-day limit. If you overstay your visa, you may face penalties, including fines, deportation, and difficulties with future travel to the Schengen Area.

Remember to always check the specific visa requirements of the country you plan to visit, as application procedures and required documents may vary slightly. Consulting the official website of the respective embassy or consulate is the best way to obtain accurate and up-to-date information.

While short-term visas allow you to experience the wonders of Europe within a limited time frame, if you’re looking to stay longer, it’s important to explore long-term visa options, which we will discuss in the following section.

Long-Term Visas for Europe

If you are planning to stay in Europe for an extended period, beyond the 90-day limit of a short-term visa, you will need to apply for a long-term visa or a residence permit. These visas vary depending on the purpose of your stay, such as work, study, retirement, or entrepreneurship.

Work Visa: If you have secured a job or have a job offer from a European company, you may be eligible for a work visa. The requirements for a work visa vary by country, but typically include a job contract, proof of qualifications, and employer sponsorship. Some countries may require a labor market test to ensure there are no local candidates available for the position.

Study Visa: Planning to pursue your education in Europe? A study visa allows you to enroll in a European educational institution. You will need to provide acceptance letters from the educational institution, proof of financial resources, and sometimes proof of health insurance coverage. The study visa is usually valid for the duration of your study program.

Retirement Visa: If you dream of spending your golden years in Europe, some countries offer retirement visas for individuals who meet specific age and financial criteria. These visas often require proof of sufficient funds and health insurance coverage. Be sure to check the requirements and conditions for retirement visas, as they may vary from country to country.

Entrepreneurship Visa: If you are an entrepreneur looking to start or invest in a business in Europe, some countries offer special visas for this purpose. These visas typically require a comprehensive business plan and proof of sufficient funds to support your venture. Some countries may also require a minimum investment amount.

Other Long-Term Visas: Depending on your circumstances, there may be additional long-term visa options available. For example, there are visas for individuals joining family members who are already living in Europe, as well as visas for artists, athletes, and religious workers.

It’s important to note that the application process for long-term visas can be more complex and time-consuming than that of short-term visas. It’s crucial to gather all the necessary documents, such as a valid passport, proof of financial means, health insurance coverage, and any specific documents related to the purpose of your stay.

Furthermore, the requirements and conditions for long-term visas may vary from country to country. It’s advisable to consult the official website of the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to stay in for accurate and up-to-date information. Additionally, seeking professional advice from an immigration lawyer or consultant can be beneficial to navigate the complexities of the visa application process.

Now that we have explored long-term visa options, let’s discuss the Schengen Visa Waiver Program, which allows certain nationalities to stay in the Schengen Area for an extended period without a visa.

The Schengen Visa Waiver Program

The Schengen Visa Waiver Program provides an opportunity for citizens of certain countries to visit the Schengen Area for an extended period without the need for a visa. This program allows eligible individuals to stay in the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

The countries that participate in the Schengen Visa Waiver Program may vary, and it’s essential to check the official websites of the relevant authorities to determine if you qualify. For example, citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and many other countries are typically eligible for visa-free travel within the Schengen Area.

While the Schengen Visa Waiver Program allows for visa-free travel, there are still certain requirements and restrictions to keep in mind:

• Duration of Stay: Even without a visa, you are still subject to the 90-day maximum stay within a 180-day period rule. It’s crucial to keep track of the number of days you spend in the Schengen Zone to avoid overstaying your permitted duration.
• Entry and Exit Dates: It’s advisable to have documentation of your entry and exit dates from the Schengen Area, such as flight tickets or other transportation receipts. This can be useful in case you are asked to provide proof of your compliance with the 90-day limit.
• Travel Purposes: Visa-free travel is typically allowed for tourism, business visits, family visits, and other short-term purposes. If you plan to engage in activities that require a long-term visa, such as work or study, you will need to apply for the appropriate visa before your trip.
• Passport Validity: Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen Area. Some countries may require a longer validity period, so it’s best to check the specific requirements of each country.
• Border Control: While visa-free travel allows for smooth entry into the Schengen Area, border control officers still have the authority to assess your eligibility and ask for additional documents or information. It’s important to carry copies of your passport, accommodation details, travel insurance, and any other relevant documents that may be required.

It’s important to reiterate that the Schengen Visa Waiver Program applies only to specific nationalities, and the specific requirements and conditions may vary. Keep in mind that eligibility for visa-free travel is subject to change, and it’s vital to check the official websites or consult with the relevant authorities for the most up-to-date information and requirements.

Now that we have explored the visa options and the visa waiver program, let’s move on to discussing how to extend your stay in Europe beyond the initial visa or permit period.

Extending your Stay in Europe

If you find yourself in Europe and wish to extend your stay beyond the initial visa or permit period, there are options available to legally extend your time in the continent. It’s crucial to be aware of the rules and regulations and plan accordingly to avoid any complications.

Here are a few options to consider when looking to extend your stay:

• Visa Extension: In some cases, it is possible to apply for a visa extension within the country you are currently staying in. Each country has its own procedures and requirements for visa extensions, so it’s important to consult with the local immigration authorities or the country’s embassy or consulate to understand the process. Keep in mind that visa extensions are typically granted for exceptional circumstances, such as medical reasons or unexpected events.
• Residence Permit Conversion: If you are in Europe on a short-term visa and wish to stay longer for work, study, or other purposes, you may be able to convert your visa into a residence permit. This process usually involves demonstrating that you meet the specific criteria for the desired residence permit category. It’s advisable to consult with immigration authorities or seek professional advice to navigate the conversion process.
• Student Visa Renewal: If you are studying in Europe and your program extends beyond the initial visa period, you will need to renew your student visa. It’s important to plan ahead and initiate the renewal process before your current visa expires. Consult with your educational institution and local immigration authorities for guidance on how to extend your student visa.
• Employment Sponsorship: If you have secured employment in Europe and wish to stay longer, your employer may be able to sponsor your work permit or assist with the extension process. Depending on the country, you may need to meet specific requirements, such as having a valid job offer and meeting salary criteria.

It’s crucial to comply with the visa and immigration regulations of the specific country you are staying in. Overstaying your visa or residing in a country without proper documentation can result in penalties, deportation, and future entry/visa complications.

It’s worth mentioning that the processes and requirements for extending your stay may vary from country to country. It’s always advisable to consult with the local immigration authorities or seek professional legal advice to ensure that you are following the proper procedures.

Remember, extending your stay in Europe beyond the initial visa or permit period requires careful planning, adherence to regulations, and timely initiation of the necessary processes. By staying informed and seeking proper guidance, you can enjoy an extended stay in Europe while remaining within the legal boundaries.

Next, we will explore visa options and considerations for those interested in studying in Europe.

Study Programs and Student Visas

Europe is home to prestigious educational institutions, making it a popular destination for students seeking high-quality education and cultural enrichment. If you are considering studying in Europe, it’s essential to understand the requirements and processes for obtaining a student visa.

First and foremost, you will need to research and identify the educational program or institution that matches your interests and academic goals. Once you have been accepted into a study program, you can begin the process of applying for a student visa.

Here are the key steps involved in obtaining a student visa for Europe:

• Research Visa Requirements: Start by exploring the student visa requirements of the country you plan to study in. Each country may have its own specific set of rules and regulations, such as language proficiency tests, financial proof, health insurance, and acceptance letters from an educational institution.
• Apply to Educational Institutions: Submit your applications to the educational institutions of your choice. Upon acceptance, you will receive an acceptance letter or a letter of admission, which is a crucial document in the visa application process.
• Financial Proof: Many countries require proof that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses during your stay. This proof may include bank statements, scholarship letters, or sponsor letters.
• Health Insurance: It is typically mandatory to have health insurance coverage for the duration of your study program. This ensures that you have adequate medical coverage during your stay.
• Visa Application: Complete the student visa application form and submit it along with the required documents to the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to study in. The documents usually include your passport, acceptance letter, financial proof, health insurance, and any additional requirements specific to the country.
• Interview and Biometrics: Some countries may require an interview or biometric data collection as part of the visa application process. Prepare for the interview by familiarizing yourself with the study program and being able to explain your reasons for choosing that particular course of study.
• Visa Processing: The visa processing time can vary from a few weeks to several months, so it’s important to apply well in advance of your intended travel dates. Once your student visa is approved, you will receive a visa sticker or residence permit allowing you to study in that particular country.

It’s crucial to note that visa requirements and procedures can differ among European countries. Therefore, it’s essential to check the specific requirements of the country you plan to study in and consult with the educational institution and the local embassy or consulate for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Once you have obtained your student visa, it’s essential to comply with the conditions set by the immigration authorities. Make sure to renew your visa or residence permit as required, maintain full-time student status, and be aware of any work restrictions, if applicable.

Studying in Europe can provide you with an enriching academic and cultural experience. By understanding the student visa requirements and following the proper procedures, you can embark on your educational journey with confidence.

Next, we will discuss the opportunities and requirements for working in Europe.

Working in Europe

Europe offers a wide range of job opportunities for international workers, making it an attractive destination for those seeking career growth and new experiences. If you are considering working in Europe, it’s important to understand the requirements and procedures for obtaining a work visa or permit.

The specific rules and regulations for working in Europe can vary from country to country, so it’s essential to research the requirements of the particular country you plan to work in. However, there are some general considerations and steps to keep in mind:

• Research the Job Market: Familiarize yourself with the job market and employment conditions of the country you are interested in. Research industries that align with your skills and qualifications, and explore the demand for your field of expertise.
• Work Visa or Permit: In most cases, non-European Union (EU) citizens will need a work visa or permit to legally work in Europe. Each country has specific requirements and categories for work visas or permits, which can vary based on factors such as job type, duration of employment, and skill level.
• Job Offer: Securing a job offer from a European employer is often a prerequisite for obtaining a work visa or permit. The employer may need to demonstrate that there are no suitable candidates from within the EU available for the position, and that hiring a non-EU worker is necessary.
• Employer Sponsorship: In many cases, the employer will need to sponsor your work visa or permit. This involves providing necessary documentation, such as a job offer letter, employment contract, and proof of the company’s legal status and financial stability.
• Skills and Qualifications: Depending on the country and the nature of the job, certain qualifications or certifications may be required. Some professions may have specific licensing or registration requirements that need to be fulfilled.
• Application Process: The application process for a work visa or permit typically involves submitting an application to the relevant immigration authorities. This may require providing supporting documents such as your passport, job offer letter, proof of qualifications, and proof of financial means to support yourself during your stay.
• Processing Time: The processing time for work visa or permit applications can vary, so it’s important to apply well in advance of your intended start date. It’s advisable to check with the respective country’s authorities or consult with an immigration lawyer to understand the expected processing time.

It’s important to note that working in Europe without the proper authorization is illegal and can have severe consequences, including deportation, fines, and difficulties with future travel or work opportunities in the region.

Keep in mind that the rules and requirements for working visas or permits can differ among European countries. Therefore, thoroughly researching the specific requirements of the country you intend to work in and seeking professional advice is crucial to ensure that you follow the correct procedures.

Working in Europe can provide you with valuable professional experience, exposure to diverse cultures, and opportunities for personal growth. By understanding the work visa or permit requirements and properly navigating the application process, you can embark on a successful career journey in Europe.

Next, we will explore the possibilities and considerations for freelancing and remote work in Europe.

Freelancing and Remote Work in Europe

With the rise of technology and the growing popularity of remote work, freelancing and working remotely have become viable options for professionals seeking flexibility and the ability to work from anywhere. If you are considering freelancing or remote work in Europe, there are certain factors and considerations to keep in mind.

As a freelancer or remote worker, your work arrangement may differ from traditional employment, which can impact the visa requirements and legal considerations. Here are some important points to consider:

Visa Requirements: For freelancers and remote workers, the visa requirements will depend on the country you plan to reside in while working in Europe. If you are a non-European Union (EU) citizen, you may need to obtain a work visa or permit. However, some countries have specific visa options tailored for digital nomads and freelancers, allowing for legal residence while working remotely. It’s crucial to research and consult with immigration authorities or seek professional advice to understand the specific visa requirements for freelancers and remote workers in the country of your choice.

Tax Considerations: As a freelancer or remote worker in Europe, understanding the tax obligations is essential. You may be subject to different tax rules and regulations depending on the country where you are working and your residency status. It’s advisable to consult with a tax professional to ensure compliance with local tax laws and to understand any applicable tax deductions or exemptions.

Health Insurance: Healthcare coverage is an important aspect to consider when freelancing or working remotely in Europe. Some countries may require proof of health insurance as part of the visa application process. It’s crucial to have adequate health insurance coverage that extends to the country or countries you plan to reside in while working.

Administrative Considerations: Depending on the country, there may be additional administrative requirements for freelancers and remote workers. This could include registering as a freelancer, acquiring a local tax identification number, or adhering to specific regulations related to self-employment. It’s important to research the administrative procedures and comply with the legal requirements of the country where you plan to work.

Co-working Spaces and Digital Nomad Communities: Europe is home to a thriving community of digital nomads and freelancers, making it an ideal destination for networking and connecting with fellow professionals. Many cities offer co-working spaces and digital nomad communities, providing opportunities for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and socializing with like-minded individuals.

It’s crucial to thoroughly research and understand the visa, tax, and legal requirements specific to the country you intend to work in as a freelancer or remote worker. Additionally, keeping accurate records of your work and finances, as well as seeking professional advice when needed, will help ensure a smooth and compliant freelance or remote work experience in Europe.

Next, we will explore visa options and considerations for individuals looking to retire in Europe.

Retirement Visas in Europe

Europe is a popular destination for those seeking to spend their retirement years in a beautiful and culturally rich environment. Many European countries offer retirement visa programs that cater specifically to retirees who wish to relocate and enjoy their golden years in Europe.

Retirement visas typically have specific requirements and conditions, varying from country to country. Here are some key points to consider:

Financial Requirements: Most retirement visa programs in Europe require proof of sufficient financial resources to support yourself during your stay. This can include retirement savings, pension income, or investments. The specific financial threshold will vary, so it’s important to check the requirements of the country you are interested in.

Healthcare Coverage: It’s essential to have comprehensive health insurance coverage when applying for a retirement visa in Europe. Some countries may require proof of adequate health insurance, while others may offer access to their national healthcare system for retirees. It’s advisable to research the healthcare options and requirements in your chosen country.

Age Criteria: While many retirement visa programs don’t have specific age restrictions, they are primarily designed for individuals who have reached retirement age. However, some countries may have a minimum age requirement or specific criteria related to retirement status.

Residency and Duration: Retirement visas usually grant long-term residency permits, allowing retirees to live in the country for an extended period. The duration of the retirement visa can vary, ranging from a few years to indefinite periods, depending on the country. It’s important to understand the terms and conditions of the specific retirement visa program and the possibility of renewing or extending the visa.

Financial Investments or Property: Some countries may require retirees to make financial investments or purchase property as part of the retirement visa program. These investments contribute to the local economy and are often used as a measure to ensure retirees can support themselves during their stay.

Language and Integration: Depending on the country, there may be language requirements or cultural integration programs for retirees. It’s worth considering the language barrier and the efforts required to integrate into the local community when choosing a retirement destination in Europe.

It’s essential to carefully research the retirement visa programs of the specific countries you are interested in, as the requirements and conditions can vary significantly. Approaching the respective embassy or consulate, or seeking advice from immigration consultants or lawyers, can provide valuable insights.

Retiring in Europe offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in the region’s rich history, diverse cultures, and high quality of life. By understanding the retirement visa requirements and carefully considering your desired lifestyle and preferences, you can make an informed decision about your retirement destination in Europe.

Next, we will explore visa options and considerations for family members and partners of European residents or citizens.

Family and Partner Visas

If you have a family member or partner who is a resident or citizen of a European country, you may be eligible to apply for a family or partner visa, allowing you to join them and legally reside in Europe. These visa options are designed to facilitate family reunification and support the unification of partners in a committed relationship.

The specific requirements and eligibility criteria for family and partner visas can vary depending on the country and the nature of the relationship. Here are some key points to consider:

Spousal Visa: If you are married to a European resident or citizen, you may be eligible to apply for a spousal visa. This visa allows you to join your spouse and reside together in the European country of their residence. Requirements may include providing proof of the marriage certificate, proof of a genuine and ongoing relationship, and meeting financial and accommodation criteria.

Registered Partnership: In some countries, registered partnerships or civil unions are recognized and treated similarly to marriage. If you are in a registered partnership or civil union with a European resident or citizen, you may be eligible to apply for a partner visa. The requirements for a partner visa are typically similar to those of a spousal visa.

Proof of Relationship: Regardless of the nature of your relationship, you will usually need to provide evidence of your genuine and ongoing relationship. This can include joint bank accounts, shared accommodation, travel itineraries, communication records, and testimonies from friends and family.

Dependent Visa: If you have dependent children who will be joining you in Europe, you may need to apply for dependent visas for them. The requirements and documentation for dependent visas can vary, so it’s important to check the specific regulations of the country you plan to reside in.

Application Process: The application process for family and partner visas typically involves submitting an application, along with the required supporting documents, to the appropriate immigration authorities. The processing time for these visa applications can vary, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel dates.

It’s important to note that each European country has its own specific requirements and regulations for family and partner visas. It’s crucial to consult with the relevant embassy or consulate or seek professional advice to understand the specific requirements of the country you plan to join your family member or partner in.

Family and partner visas are designed to promote family unity and facilitate the legal residence of family members and partners in European countries. By understanding the visa requirements and following the proper application procedures, you can navigate the process smoothly and enjoy a fulfilling life together in Europe.

Next, we will explore the EU Blue Card, a visa option for highly skilled professionals working in Europe.

EU Blue Card

The EU Blue Card is a special type of work permit designed to attract highly skilled professionals from outside the European Union (EU) to work and reside in Europe. It provides an opportunity for individuals with sought-after qualifications and expertise to pursue employment in EU member countries.

Here are some key points to consider about the EU Blue Card:

Eligibility: To be eligible for an EU Blue Card, you generally need to have a higher education degree, such as a bachelor’s or master’s degree, along with professional experience in a specialized field. Each country may have specific requirements regarding the minimum salary level and shortage occupations.

Job Offer: As part of the application process for the EU Blue Card, you will need a job offer or a signed employment contract from a European employer. The job offer should be in a field that aligns with your qualifications and experience, and the salary should meet the minimum threshold set by the respective country.

Duration: The EU Blue Card is initially issued for a period of one to four years, depending on the country. After holding the EU Blue Card for a specific duration, you may be eligible to apply for a long-term residence permit or even citizenship, depending on the country’s regulations.

Benefits: The EU Blue Card offers several benefits to highly skilled professionals. It allows you to work and reside in the issuing country, travel within the Schengen Area without additional visas, and enjoy certain social and economic rights, including access to healthcare and social security systems. Additionally, the EU Blue Card may provide favorable conditions for family reunification, allowing your spouse and dependent children to join you in Europe.

Application Process: The application process for the EU Blue Card varies by country, but it generally involves submitting an application along with the necessary supporting documents, such as a valid passport, educational certificates, employment contract, proof of professional experience, and proof of sufficient financial means. In some cases, you may also need to pass a language proficiency test or provide evidence of your integration and knowledge of the country.

It’s important to note that the EU Blue Card is specific to individual EU member countries. Each country has its own implementation of the EU Blue Card directive, leading to slight variations in the requirements and application procedures. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult the official website or contact the relevant immigration authorities of the country where you plan to work to obtain accurate and up-to-date information.

The EU Blue Card offers a pathway for highly skilled professionals to contribute their expertise to European countries while enjoying the benefits of living and working in Europe. By meeting the eligibility criteria and following the proper application process, you can pursue your career goals and take advantage of the opportunities available in the European job market.

Next, we will explore visa options for individuals interested in investing or starting a business in Europe.

Investing and Entrepreneurship Visas

For individuals who aspire to invest in or start a business in Europe, there are visa options specifically tailored to support entrepreneurship and promote economic growth in the region. These visas provide an opportunity to contribute your skills, ideas, and capital to the business landscape of European countries. Here are some key points to consider:

Investor Visas: Many European countries offer investor visas for individuals who are willing to make substantial financial investments in their economies. These visas typically require a significant amount of capital investment, the creation of local jobs, and proof of financial means. The specific requirements, investment thresholds, and benefits vary by country, so it’s important to research the regulations and consult with immigration authorities or legal professionals.

Entrepreneurship Visas: Some European countries have specific visa programs designed to attract entrepreneurs and startup founders. These visas are typically aimed at individuals with innovative business ideas or companies that have the potential to contribute to the local economy. Requirements may include presenting a well-developed business plan, demonstrating sufficient capital, and highlighting the potential for job creation and growth. Participating in startup incubators or accelerators may also enhance the chances of obtaining an entrepreneurship visa.

Documents and Proof: When applying for an investing or entrepreneurship visa, you will need to provide supporting documents related to your business plans, financial resources, and proof of investment or capital availability. Additionally, you may be required to pass a thorough vetting process to ensure the legitimacy and viability of your proposed business venture.

Business Registration and Compliance: Once your visa is granted, you will need to follow the local regulations for setting up and operating your business. This typically involves registering your business, obtaining necessary permits and licenses, and complying with tax and legal obligations. It’s advisable to seek professional guidance to navigate the specific requirements and procedures of the country in which you plan to invest or establish your business.

Benefits of Entrepreneurship and Investment: Entrepreneurship and investment in Europe can offer several advantages, such as access to a wide consumer market, strong support networks, research and development facilities, and a skilled workforce. Additionally, some countries offer favorable tax regimes and other incentives to attract entrepreneurs and investors.

It’s important to note that the visa options for investment and entrepreneurship vary among European countries. The specific requirements, benefits, and application processes can differ significantly. Therefore, thorough research and seeking professional advice are crucial to understand the opportunities and regulations specific to the country where you intend to invest or establish your business.

Investing and entrepreneurship visas open doors to explore your business potential and contribute to the vibrant business landscape of Europe. By meeting the eligibility criteria, preparing a solid business plan, and following the proper application and compliance processes, you can embark on an exciting entrepreneurial journey or pave the path for a successful investment venture in Europe.

Lastly, we will discuss additional visa options available for extended stays in Europe.

Other Visa Options for Extended Stays in Europe

In addition to the visa options we have discussed, there are other avenues for individuals seeking extended stays in Europe for various purposes. These visa options cater to specific circumstances, interests, or categories of individuals. Here are a few other visa options worth considering:

Artist and Cultural Visas: Some countries offer special visas for artists, performers, and individuals in the cultural sector. These visas allow artists to reside and create in Europe, and they may require sponsorship from a recognized cultural organization or proof of participation in cultural events or programs.

Sabbatical or Research Visas: If you are a researcher, academic, or professional looking to take a sabbatical or engage in research activities in Europe, some countries have specific visa categories to facilitate these purposes. These visas often require affiliation with a research institution or a letter of invitation from a reputable organization.

Medical Treatment Visas: Europe is renowned for its advanced medical facilities, and some countries offer visas specifically for individuals seeking medical treatment. These visas may require medical documentation, letters from healthcare professionals, and proof of financial means to cover medical expenses.

Bilateral Agreements: Certain countries have bilateral visa agreements with specific non-European countries, allowing citizens of those countries to visit or stay in Europe for longer periods. These agreements often facilitate cultural exchanges, educational programs, or temporary work assignments.

Volunteer or Social Impact Visas: If you are interested in engaging in volunteer work or contributing to social impact projects in Europe, some countries offer dedicated visas for these purposes. These visas often require sponsorship from recognized organizations or evidence of active involvement in a social or environmental cause.

It’s essential to research the specific visa options available in the country you intend to visit or reside in. Each European country has its own visa categories and requirements, and they may continue to evolve and adapt over time. Consulting with immigration authorities, embassies, or legal professionals can provide you with the most up-to-date and accurate information.

Regardless of the visa option you choose, it’s important to comply with the regulations, maintain accurate records of your activities, and adhere to any specific conditions or restrictions associated with your visa category. This will ensure a smooth and legal extended stay in Europe while enjoying the opportunities, culture, and beauty that the continent has to offer.

Now that we have explored various visa options for extended stays in Europe, let’s wrap up this guide.

Congratulations! You have now gained a comprehensive understanding of the visa options available for extended stays in Europe. From short-term visas and long-term residence permits to specialized visas for studying, working, retiring, investing, and more, Europe offers a wide range of opportunities for individuals with different interests and purposes.

As you explore these visa options, it’s important to research the specific requirements, application processes, and conditions associated with each visa category. Stay informed about any changes to immigration policies or visa regulations, and consult with immigration authorities, embassies, or legal professionals to ensure accurate and up-to-date information.

Remember to plan your visa applications well in advance and compile all necessary documents to avoid any delays or complications. Follow the rules and regulations of the country you plan to visit or reside in, as non-compliance can have legal consequences and affect your ability to travel or stay in the Schengen Area.

Whether you are seeking a short-term adventure, an extended working experience, a retirement destination, or an investment opportunity, Europe has something for everyone. It offers a rich blend of cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse professional opportunities.

So, take the leap and embark on your European journey with the knowledge and confidence gained from this guide. Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures, embrace new experiences, and build lasting memories in the remarkable cities and picturesque villages of Europe.

Safe travels, and may your extended stay in Europe be filled with unforgettable adventures and enriching experiences!

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How to Stay in Europe Longer Than 90 Days — Including the Schengen Countries: The Ultimate Guide (2024)

by Aileen Adalid Visa Guides & Immigration , Europe 155 comments

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“How to stay in Europe longer within the Schengen Countries or Area?”

This is one of the most common questions that I get from readers, especially because I have been able to stay in the Schengen Area for more than the usual 90-day limit despite being an unmarried non-EU (non-European Union) national with a third world country passport .

I understand that a lot of people want to have the right to stay for more than 90 days or 3 months, especially since going on a complete Eurotrip can’t be done in such a short span of time. So with this post on how to stay in Europe longer, I will be giving you different ideas and options on how you can legally extend your European vacation!

NOTE: Europe is a large continent with a number of countries and one of the biggest zones that they have is the Schengen area. For the purpose of this article, I will be focussing on this region to help you make the most of your stay.

Table of Contents

Schengen Area

To date, the Schengen Area is a group of 26 countries and it comprises most of Europe . As part of a unified agreement, all of them have agreed to abolish passports and internal border controls.

This means that all the Schengen countries act as if they are only ‘one country’ — so every citizen of each member state is free to go anywhere they want. Meanwhile, outsiders who want to enter the Schengen Area would experience border control once at the first country that they enter; but after that, entering other member countries would no longer require further immigration control.

These 26 countries are namely:

• Czech Republic
• Denmark [1]
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands [3]
• Switzerland

[1] Excluding Greenland and the Faroe islands [2] Excluding overseas departments and territories [3] Excluding Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten, and the Caribbean Netherlands [4] Excluding Svalbard [5] With special provisions for Ceuta and Melilla

From the above list, 4 of these are non-EU (or EFTA member states that may have border control) — Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland — whereas 22 are part of the EU.

However, to date, there are a total of 28 members of the EU; so what happened to the other 4? Well, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Ireland, and Romania — are just NOT part of the Schengen Area.

TRIVIA: There are 3 additional European microstates — Monaco, San Marino, and the Vatican — that can be considered as de facto within the Schengen Countries given how they don’t have border controls with the countries that surround them. However, it’s important to note that they are not official Schengen member states since they have not signed documents for it. (But of course, it’s fine to visit with a Schengen visa).

– – –

Schengen Visa

The Schengen Visa serves as the basic short-term visa that you will need to be able to stay in all of the 26 countries. However , non-Schengen citizens are allowed to enter the area without this said visa (their passport will only get stamped upon arrival and departure) as long as they are residents of:

• Albania [*]
• Antigua & Barbuda
• Bosnia & Herzegovina [*]
• El Salvador
• Hong Kong SAR
• Marshall Islands
• Moldova [*]
• Montenegro [*]
• New Zealand
• North Macedonia [*]
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Vincent
• Solomon Islands
• South Korea
• Timor Leste
• Trinidad & Tobago
• United Arab Emirates

[*] Visa waiver applies only to holders of biometric passports [1] The passport must include an identity number NOTE: This list is as of 2020. Ireland, UK, and their territories are allowed limitless entry to the Schengen Area.

If you are NOT a resident of any of the countries above (which mostly comprises citizens of Africa and Asia) you would need to apply at an embassy to obtain a tourist/short-term Schengen Visa.

RELATED ARTICLE :

Visa Application Tips: 4 Important Things to Get You Approved!

Alternatively, check out my comprehensive visa guides per country.

NOTE: It helps to mention that there are non-Schengen members in Europe that allow entry to their country if you have a Schengen Visa, namely: Albania, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Cyprus, North Macedonia, Monaco, Montenegro, Romania, San Marino, Serbia, Turkey, and the Vatican City.

HOWEVER, you must check these details beforehand since their rules might have changed. Plus, customarily, only multiple-entry Schengen visas are allowed. For starters, you can check this list for a list of countries you can visit with a Schengen visa .

The 90-Day Limit

Once you are allowed to enter the Schengen Area — with just your passport or with a short-term visa — you are ONLY permitted to stay for 3 months (90 days) in ANY 6-month period (180 days). The 90-day span doesn’t need to be consecutive, it’s treated as cumulative (especially if you have a multiple-entry visa) ; but the fact remains that after you have stayed in Schengen for a total of 90 days, you have to leave . You are NOT allowed to come back again until the 181st day from the first time you stepped in.

IMPORTANT UPDATE (March 2015) : As of 18 October 2013, the Schengen member states changed the calculation of the 180-day period. To know more about this and avoid fines, deportations, and bans in Schengen, please check this article .

If you don’t leave by the time you hit 90 days, you are subject to a fine or deportation — worst-case scenario, you will be banned from the Schengen Area for a period of time (1-3 years) or indefinitely. It is sometimes considered as ‘ okay ‘ if you stay for a couple more days and even up to a week, but I advise that you don’t try and push your luck especially if you’re on a visa. And if you stay longer than a week, you should know that you’re going to be in big trouble.

Nevertheless, it’s said by most travelers (who are free to enter Schengen countries with just a passport) that southern countries like Greece, France, Spain, and Italy are not so strict on checks. While western countries like Belgium, Germany, Netherlands, and EFTA states (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland) are very firm with entry and exits (primarily at the airports or train stations, more so if you’re going to an isolated island).

Still and the same, as I’ve mentioned, you shouldn’t ‘push it ‘. Follow the rules and if you really want to know how to stay in Europe longer than the 90-day limit, below are the different ways you can stay longer, legally!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Unfortunately, the Schengen area policy states that if you have more than one passport and none of them is from a Schengen state, the same rule applies: you still need to do the 90-day stay limit within any 180-day period. So technically, the rule is per person, not per passport; hence, it’s not possible to use two separate passports to stay in Europe’s Schengen zone for long.

Any non-EU national who stays in the Schengen area for more than 90 days (without the appropriate visa such as a long stay or residence one) will usually result in a fine, deportation, and/or re-entry ban to the Schengen area.

Yes, as long as you have a visa that allows it (e.g. a double-entry or multiple-entry visa). However, take note that you must calculate your days of stay so as to ensure that you don’t stay for more than 90 days in ANY 180-day period (see here for more info).

It helps to remember that the 180-day period keeps “rolling” — as such, for every entry that you make into a Schengen country, you need to count backward the last 180 days and see if you have been present in the Schengen area for more than 90 days throughout that time. For more info on this (as well as access a more streamlined day calculator), see here .

Yes, it’s possible! According to the recent Schengen visa code, you can get a 1-year multiple-entry tourist visa if you have obtained and used three (3) Schengen tourist visas in the past. You can get a 2-year multiple-entry tourist visa if you have obtained and used a 1-year multiple-entry visa in the past 2 years. Lastly, you can get a 5-year multiple-entry tourist visa if you have obtained and used a 2-year multiple-entry visa in the past 3 years.

DISCLAIMER : I am NOT an embassy officer nor a migration agent. I am only here to provide you with ideas on how you can stay in Schengen countries longer. If you ever need any help with visas or procedures, please check these visa guides or the related links I have provided in this article (as well as contact the appropriate departments). It also helps to note that I do not guarantee the timeliness of the information below, so please make it your responsibility to recheck the facts since there could be more recent updates/changes. Thank you!

» Get a Europe Student Visa

Student visas in all Schengen countries are not hard to obtain as long as you are accepted, enrolled, or invited by a university or school — which, of course, you should apply for before entering a Schengen country. Naturally, you would have to pay for these courses but you can always work part-time while studying since most student visa-holders are allowed to do so. Otherwise, you could try to get a scholarship , apply to an exchange program (if you’re still studying), or simply enroll in FREE universities .

Yes, you read that right… free !

There are actually several countries in Europe that chose to eradicate tuition fees for both local and international would-be students and they are listed below (along with other countries that have the cheapest tuition) . So if you’re looking for ways on how to stay in Europe longer, below are your top options!

Lowest yearly tuition fee possible : FREE Regardless of nationality, tuition fees in Finland are absolutely free at whatever level! ( Plans of putting tuition fees on non-EU students for 2016 have been totally abandoned ). But as per any student application abroad, you would need to prove that you can handle your own living expenses. Proof of ‘means of support’ per month : At least $630+ (Php 27,800+) For more information: See ‘ Studying in Finland ‘ .

Lowest yearly tuition fee possible : FREE No matter your nationality — local or international — state universities and university colleges in Norway do NOT charge tuition fees, and much like Finland, it applies to all levels: undergraduate, masters and Ph.D. (Some specialized courses might still have fees, though small, so always recheck with the university. Private institutions, on the other hand, would still have fees.) Proof of ‘means of support’ per month : At least $1,000+ (Php 44,200+) For more information : See ‘ Studying in Norway ‘ .

Lowest yearly tuition fee possible : FREE or starts at $400 (Php 18,200+) If you’re from a 3rd world country , some universities in Austria will exempt you from paying any tuition, whereas any other non-EU resident will most likely just pay around $400 (at the lowest possible). Proof of ‘means of support’ per month : At least $900+ (Php 40,000+) For more information : See ‘ Studying in Austria ‘ .

Lowest yearly tuition fee possible : FREE or $1,000 (Php 44,200+) As of 2014, all public German universities offer higher education free of charge not only to local but international students! However, it’s important to note that this is true for the undergraduate level only and that there might still be some administration fees (but the cost would start at about $57 or Php 2,500+). Just make sure to check that the course you’re applying for is in English; however, if you’re fluent in German, that’s better. Proof of ‘means of support’ per month : At least $770 (Php 34,000+) For more information : See ‘ Cost of Studying in Germany ‘, ‘ List of Free German Universities ‘ and ‘ Studying in Germany ‘ .

Lowest yearly tuition fee possible : $1,000+ (Php 44,200+) The good thing about Hungary is that, unlike the Scandinavian countries, it is one of the European countries that has a more affordable cost of living, thus, proving your ‘solvency’ would be easier than the others. Proof of ‘means of support’ per month: At least $566+ (Php 25,000+) For more information: See ‘ Studying in Hungary ‘ .

Lowest yearly tuition fee possible: $1,000+ (Php 44,200+) You’re lucky if you can find a cheap university in Paris because the cheapest ones are actually found outside of the capital (Lyon is one example). I have actually been told that there are public universities that can only cost $300 a year but since I wasn’t provided with the exact university names, I leave it up to you to do the research. Proof of ‘means of support’ per month : At least $500+ (Php 22,000+) For more information : See ‘ Studying in France ‘ .

Lowest yearly tuition fee possible : $1,100+ (Php 50,000+) I have tried this option before through the University of Antwerp for one of their 1-year Master Programs, and the process of obtaining a student visa was fairly easy given how I was backed up by the university that had accepted my application. The tuition was worth $2,000+ (Php 88,500+) which is almost double the lowest yearly tuition possible; so if you want to get the cheapest, try the University of Leuven, Hasselt University, or the University of Ghent (I didn’t manage to apply for these three since I was late for their deadlines, that’s why I resorted to saving up $2K to pursue the University of Antwerp). Proof of ‘means of support’ per month : At least $730 (Php 32,300+) For more information : See ‘ Studying in Belgium ‘ .

Lowest yearly tuition fee possible : $1,500+ (Php 66,400+) Italy is known for providing studies on fashion, history, and liberal arts at an affordable cost for international students. Living expenses should be easy to handle once you know the economical places to eat and stay in. Proof of ‘means of support’ per month : At least $390 (Php 17,200+) For more information : See ‘ Studying in Italy ‘ .

» READ: How to Save Money for Travel

Should undergraduate or master programs remain to be too costly for you, if not the shorter courses that span for a year or below, consider the language programs since these studies are often cheaper! ( Italy is one example of this, as well as Spain ).

TIP : For ‘means of support’, it’s always best to add more to the minimum requirement. It also helps to add a sponsor (even if it’s just on paper) even if you already can support yourself — this is what I’ve done when I applied for a university in Belgium, after all, it’s always best to ‘overdeliver’.

Moreover, if you’re from the Philippines or Asia like me, before you can study overseas for a business or graduate school, check if you need to have a GMAT or GRE certification since most Asian universities are not ‘recognized’ abroad. (GRE is said to be the easiest, which I have done. Others reviewed for months on this, but I only reviewed for a day since I was in a rush; and yet I was fine! But surely, I don’t advise that you do the same).

Also, if your studies were not conducted in English, a majority of the European schools would need a TOEFL or IELTS from you.

» Find Work or Stay as a Freelancer

There are different ways to do ‘work’, some are conventional but some are unique. Check out the list below to see what best fits you in order to know how to stay in Europe longer!

Apply for Normal Work

This is where you go through the usual process of finding a company (in the form of a transfer, internship, part-time, or full-time work) and then apply for a work visa. » For more information : See EuroJobs or Europa .

Teach English Abroad

This is not the same as those ‘jobs on the road’ where you hold private English classes for people who don’t have it as a first language. Why? Because doing so is a risk. A short-term tourist Schengen Visa is NOT a work permit. Sure, working can still be done in secret (with Spain & Italy as the most tolerant) but if you somehow attract the attention of authorities, it can get nasty. So if you really want to teach legally, secure a work visa or working holiday visa first (that will make you stay longer too) by searching for opportunities in recognized schools or institutions. Teaching English while under a student visa is possible as well. Countries that are typically open to English-teaching jobs are the Czech Republic, France, Hungary, Germany, Spain, and Italy. For these jobs, a TEFL certificate is a usual requirement. » For more information : See TEFL or ESLCafe .

Join a Language Assistant Program

Often run by governments, it gives non-EU citizens a chance to stay in the Schengen countries or area longer in exchange for offering aid in teaching the English language — they even pay you for the service you’re doing. There are only a few European countries that offer this kind of program and below are their basic requirements:

• France : must come from one of their 60 partner countries, age 20-30, have a basic level of French, completed at least 2 years of university ( https://www.ciep.fr/en )
• Italy: must be a resident of the USA, have Italian proficiency, a university graduate or undergraduate, 3.25 GPA ( https://www.indire.it/en/progetto/language-assistants/ )
• Spain : must be a resident of USA, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, China, or EU, have a basic level of Spanish, a university graduate, or in their last year of university ( https://www.educacionyfp.gob.es/ )
• Switzerland: must be a resident of USA, Canada, Great Britain, Ireland, Austria, France, Italy, or Spain, age 21-30, have sound language knowledge of the region (can be German/French/Italian), a university student or graduate ( source )
• For openings in other countries, check here . . .

Be an Au Pair

Usually done for at least 6 months or more, working as an au pair is like being a domestic assistant as you live with a host family that provides free accommodation and food. Other than providing childcare, you are also typically asked to do light housework as you receive a salary for it. » For more information : See IAPA , Great Au Pair , or Europa Au Pair .

Do a Working Holiday

If you are 25 to 31 and a citizen of Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, you are eligible to get a working holiday visa that grants you the right to stay, work, or find work in the Schengen Area for one to two years. » For more information : See Work Holiday Visas for how to stay in Europe longer .

Apply for a Freelancer/Digital Nomad/Self-Employment Visa

With the rise of remote workers or digital nomads — as well as the rise of countries’ need for more tourism especially after the COVID pandemic — a lot of destinations have started to implement new visa programs for online or remote freelancers as well as self-employed individuals.

To date, below are examples of countries that implement a digital nomad visa for foreigners:

• Estonia : Digital Nomad Visa
• Germany : Residence Permit for Self-Employment
• Iceland : Long Term Visa
• …and more!

To see a complete list of countries that offer visas for remote workers, read below:

UPDATES: 48 Countries That Offer a Digital Nomad Visa

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Be a Volunteer

Much like English-teaching jobs, there are volunteer jobs as well that are ‘under-the-table’ — but apart from being risky, it’s not a legal way for how to stay in Europe longer. Examples are fruit-picking jobs, hostel work, etc. (this is why most of the time their websites advise that you don’t mention to immigration officers that you are going to work on a farm, for example). Therefore, to be able to remain or to be able to become a volunteer for a longer period of time, you would have to either get a work visa/permit or sign up for accredited volunteer programs that could whip out a work visa for you. These often come with a fee, but some can be very affordable. » For more information : See Europa or Voluntary Service for how to stay in Europe longer .

Do a Cultural Homestay

This is not like the informal homestay set-ups that I have discussed in this article: [ click ]. Instead, this is a more formal arrangement between a non-profit organization and a foreign country wherein they partner with wannabe travelers like you and send you to a host family elsewhere. For instance, the organization Cultural Homestay International has a ‘World Explorers’ program wherein in exchange for your 3-months worth of accommodation abroad, all you have to do is share your native language with your hosts for 15 hours per week. (These casual English conversation lessons usually run 5 days a week, 3 hours a day). If you want to travel for a year, it’s possible for them to combine multiple programs in different destinations to make it all sum up to 12 months! » For more information : See (CHI) World Explorers Program for how to stay in Europe longer

» Do a Union or Reunion in Europe

The items below are common solutions on how to stay in Europe longer. They have no ‘special’ tricks or tips but they remain to be conventional ways of obtaining a longer visa in the Schengen Area:

Family reunion

Applicable if you have close kinship ties to a Schengen citizen or permanent resident. .

Marriage or Fiance Visa

Self-explanatory. If you have fallen in love with a European from any of the Schengen countries this is the way to go! .

Cohabitation

If you’re not the ‘marrying’ type, you can choose to go for a live-in visa with your boyfriend/girlfriend who is a resident/citizen of one of the Schengen countries. Customarily, applications like this become successful if you can prove that you’re in a relationship for at least 2 years or have lived together for at least 1 year. Belgium, for example, has a great cohabitation visa program because you can apply for it while in the country. .

There are some European families that are willing to take a foreigner in as a part of their household for a long period of time. This can usually be a part of a student’s schooling experience or as a part of an organization for cultural or language immersion (like #8 of the previous section) who would often need a fee from you.

» Apply for Citizenship

This (citizenship) is more of an option for those who are really focused on staying in the Schengen Area indefinitely. Obtaining this can be done through different ways:

Through Marriage

…with a European in the Schengen Area. On average, it takes 3 years; some can only take a year. .

Through Purchase or Investments

If you got the money, you can obtain EU citizenship through investments or the purchase of property (or even the purchase of citizenship). Examples of these countries are Austria, Hungary, Lithuania, Malta, and Slovakia. Take note that the price to pay can start at $320,000+ to millions. There are also Schengen member states like the Netherlands and France that offer residency permits for a limited period of time, in exchange for payments or investments at a minimum of $300,000+. .

Through Ancestry or Naturalization

I call this the ‘ Waiting Game ‘. If you are able to obtain a long-term visa that will enable you to stay in a Schengen member state for 5 to 10 years, then your citizenship is ostensibly secured. On the other hand , if you can inspect your family tree and discover that you have ancestors who are citizens or have become residents in EU countries in the past, your years of ‘ waiting ‘ can be shortened! Examples of these are:

• Ireland: This is NOT a Schengen member state, but since Irish citizens are allowed to enter Europe without limits, acquiring citizenship through Ireland would be a good step and you can achieve this if you have an Irish parent or grandparent. Your citizenship immediately becomes effective upon registration.
• Germany: The country freely provides citizenship to children and grandchildren of former Germans who were deprived of their citizenship status between January 30, 1933, and May 8, 1945, on racial, political, or ethnic grounds.
• Italy: Once proven that you have Italian ancestors, you can become a citizen by naturalization if you find a way to remain in the country for at least 3 years (it seems long but better than the norm of 10 years).
• ★ Spain: Like Italy, 10 years is also the usual length required to become a Spanish citizen; but, it can be shortened to 2 years if your country is a former colony of Spain: these are Latin American countries, Sephardic origins, Andorra, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal, and the Philippines. But take note that you must be a natural-born citizen in these countries and aside from the 2-year required to stay for naturalization, processing your application can possibly take 2 more years. Source : Spanish Naturalization for how to stay in Europe longer .

*As with most cases of naturalization, countries would commonly require that you have basic knowledge of their language, history, and geography before fully processing your citizenship. Also, you must stay there legally ; for example, staying for 2 years in Spain without legal papers does not qualify you for naturalization.

UPDATE : Try to look into Portugal as well. Any individual who has lived in Portugal as a legal resident for a minimum of five years (by studying, working, self-employment , marriage, or reunification) can apply for citizenship, provided that they can demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the Portuguese language and have active ties to the national community.

» Hold a Long-Term Tourist Visa

A big part of the Schengen Area’s member states do NOT allow long-term tourist visas, except for a few which could grant you a Type D visa (maximum 1 year) with the condition that you will NOT work. These countries are:

As long as you have a solid reason and you have enough money for the duration of your stay (said to be a minimum of $3,000 per month or Php 132,000), you can be granted a long-term visitor visa that can last for a year (but can be subject to a renewal depending on your reason for wanting to stay longer, your financial means to prove that you’re not going to need to work, etc.) Take note that this type of visa would allow you to take residency in France ONLY starting from the 4th month of your stay (you can still tour the rest of the Schengen countries from the 1st to 3rd months). Anyhow, in a sense, you can still travel around after the 4th month because there are no border checks on land; but again, that’s a huge risk and it’s illegal. If you get caught, well… you know what could happen. » For more information : See France Consulate or ask your local French embassy for more details on how to stay in Europe longer .

If you have special grounds or reasons, Sweden is willing to give out a long-stay tourist visa or an extension for 3 more months (you can apply for it while in Sweden or before entry to Sweden) . It’s said that most of the people who are successful with this are those who have family or relatives in Sweden, but it’s still worth a try if you’re willing to go through the processing time. » For more information : See Swedish Migration or consult your local Swedish embassy for more details on how to stay in Europe longer .

There is a type of tourist residence visa in Spain called “non-lucrative” and it is geared towards retired or rich persons who can stay for 1 year in the country. This is as long as they can provide proof that they don’t need to acquire work in Spain, that they are not carrying out any economic activity in Spain, and/or that their clients are not based in Spain — so basically, that the person generates their income outside of Spain. One important proof they need is for you to show that you have a monthly income of at least 2,130 EUR. » For more information : See Spain Embassy or consult your local Swedish embassy for more details on how to stay in Europe longer .

NOTE : In case you’re wondering, you can check here about  Spain tourist visa requirements and tips. . RELATED READ : Countries That Offer Long Term and Digital Nomad Visas

» In & Out Hop

I have listed out the 26 member states of the Schengen Area at the top of this article — keep these in mind very well, and once you do, plan a EuroTrip that will make you hop in and out of these Schengen countries while managing to technically still remain within the European territory. After all, this is one of the best ways on how to stay in Europe longer!

What do I mean by this? Well, you can tour around different Schengen member states like France, Spain, or Germany and by the time you hit your 90-day limit, go and hop over to a non-Schengen European country like Georgia, UK, North Macedonia, or Turkey to wait until you hit the 181st day so that you can come back to the Schengen Area again .

Just find the right mix for this, save up, plan it well, and you can definitely manage to stay for a very long time in Europe. This also works best especially if you can get a multiple-entry Schengen visa for at least a year or more so that you can go in and out of the Schengen zone as many times as you want!

RELATED READ: Schengen Short Stay Calculator

How to get proof of onward travel?

Immigration in any country would often require “ proof of onward travel ” or basically, proof of a return ticket back to your home country or to any other destination aside from the country you’re entering to. If you don’t have concrete plans yet AND if you want to be flexible with your travels, booking a final flight ticket is extremely costly — thankfully, presenting a “flight reservation” usually already works. To get this, I recommend purchasing it from OneWayFly for a small fee of only $16~!

As I mentioned, this in-and-out hop setup works best for those who:

• Hold a passport that grants visa-free entry to non-Schengen countries
• Hold a visa OR visas that allow visa-free entry to non-Schengen countries
• Hold a double-entry or multiple-entry Schengen visa

RELATED READ: Countries You Can Visit Visa-FREE with a UK Visa Countries You Can Visit Visa-FREE with a US Visa Countries You Can Visit Visa-FREE with a Canada Visa Countries You Can Visit Visa-FREE with a Schengen Visa

To give you a personal example, I was able to stay for about a year in Europe by jumping from one Schengen country (e.g. France, Italy, Netherlands, Germany, etc.) to a non-Schengen country (e.g. Georgia, Armenia, Serbia, North Macedonia etc.) .

Overall, if you want to use this method of ‘hopping’ around, just please remember to:

• Be informed. Take note of the non-Schengen countries’ policies with regard to the number of days that you are allowed to stay in their domain (this is in connection with your passport/visa/nationality).
• Do your own research. Be updated. Take note of any sudden changes to the Schengen member states’ list.

Some people asked me if it’s possible to just apply for 2 or more Schengen visas in one appointment (for later use) in order to stay longer in Europe without going back to their home country to apply for a new one — unfortunately, this is NOT allowed. After all, a succeeding Schengen visa application will render your previous one null or void.

There have been a few people though who were able to apply for a new Schengen visa abroad but this can only be done if the individual can properly justify why they are unable to do a new application in their home country. I know of some travelers who have used the reason of “I’m traveling long term” and have ended up as successful in their appeal. However, it’s still important for you to know that it’s customarily a tough case; but then again… there’s no harm in trying, right?

» Schengen Visa Extensions

This is a delicate subject because almost all Schengen countries do NOT tolerate extensions once you get into the area with a short-term (less than 90 days) tourist visa. Be that as it may, the good news is that it’s still and always possible if you’re resourceful and creative enough. (Extensions for long-term visas for studies, work, etc. are a different matter altogether).

If you’re rather one of the nationals who are allowed to come into Schengen countries with just a passport, be mindful that it can prove to be more difficult because you technically don’t have a visa on hand to apply for an extension for — sure, there are chances that you can apply and obtain a visa without a need to go back to your home country; however , as I’ve mentioned previously, I seldom hear of situations that are successful in doing this. (You can try and do your research since some embassies might be able to accommodate such requests depending on your nationality and situation).

Now the typical grounds that can grant you an easy extension can be cases of:

• Force Majeure – unforeseen circumstances that are not under your control (i.e. bad weather conditions, airline strikes, etc.); this is the only situation that does not require fees for extension
• Humanitarian reasons – if you have fallen ill or a close family member has fallen ill or died
• Serious personal reasons – individual cases .

These can allow you to stay for more days either in the whole of the Schengen Area ( very rare case) or just inside the country that you are in ( that you chose, that is your point of entry or the place you’ve stayed the longest — it’s a case by case basis but this is what mostly happens when you are granted an extension: you’re only allowed to stay in the country that you applied for ).

But of course, you wouldn’t want to fall ill nor would you want a family member to die just so you can extend your visa, right? So what other options do you have?

Luckily, there seem to be some Schengen countries that are quite lenient with extensions, and the ones that I know of are:

• PORTUGAL They can offer up to two extensions, for as long as you can support yourself and provide the necessary documents. (It’s said to be best done in Lisbon). » For more information: See Immigration or ask the embassy about how to stay in Europe longer .
• SWEDEN I’ve heard a lot of successful stories from friends who have managed to extend their visa in Sweden, but it’s important to note that most of them were able to do so because they had a Swedish friend, family, or ‘special someone’ to back them up. I guess it’s a way of ensuring a Migration Board that you have a local who can support you (even if it’s just on paper). » For more information: See Migrationsverket or ask the embassy on how to stay in Europe longer .

Note : Some people say that short-stay tourist visas can also be extended in France ; however, I couldn’t find any reliable source online for this with regard on how to stay in Europe longer; still and the same, it’s worth looking into – let me know if this is indeed possible.

» Other Possibilities due to Bilateral Agreements with…

US Citizens I have read in forums online saying that U.S. citizens can stay for 90 days in Poland , leave for one day, and come back to have another 90-day stay. This is said to be one of the best ways how to stay in Europe longer because of some sort of bilateral agreement or declaration between the U.S. and Poland. I’ve certainly read of accounts that said that they were successful in doing so and have had Polish officials confirming this set-up. However, I advise that you check with them yourself since I can’t find a reliable online source. Make it a point to verify if this is true since it goes beyond the Schengen rules; it’s even possible that the extension will only allow you to stay in Poland only and not in the rest of Schengen. .

UPDATE: According to the Dutch American Friendship Treaty and Dutch Japanese Trade Treaty , American and Japanese entrepreneurs or self-employed citizens can apply for a Dutch residence permit to live and work in the Netherlands. It’s pretty straightforward if you plan to build a business or are already doing business in Netherlands, but if you’re a freelancer, you need to have one or more commissions in the Netherlands to carry out.

Australian Citizens Australia has bilateral agreements with Denmark and Germany that override the Schengen conditions allowing Australians to stay up to 3 months or 90 days in each of these two countries. In theory, Australians can stay indefinitely by going back and forth between Germany and Denmark every 90 days. Of course, the restriction of no more than 90 days in any 180-day period in the Schengen area will come into play if they venture out to other member states.

The example scenario for this will usually go like this: on the 90th day of your stay, you have to leave the Schengen zone (you could go to the UK for example). Upon leaving, you have to make sure that you have the stamps from the border police in your passport to be able to prove that you have left the Schengen Area. Afterward, you are allowed to go back to Germany for 90 more days — but only to Germany and you can stay for a total of 180 days there, but no more than that. SOURCE: Visa exemptions for Australians .

I have not done extensive research on ALL non-EU nationalities, so I hope you take the action to recheck your rights in the Schengen Area since your home country might have these same bilateral agreements that will allow you to stay longer in Europe.

Now, if I may add, I have also discovered several ‘success extension stories’ in other Schengen countries using the methods below which are both worth a shot. But again, be aware that some countries may accept this while some others may not:

• Register as legal partners – if you have a significant other who is a national of one of the Schengen countries, it’s possible to come into the country with a tourist visa and then immediately jumpstart a live-in or cohabitation agreement (NOT marriage) to be able to remain in the country longer even after the expiry of your tourist visa. Customarily, applications like this only become successful if you can prove that you’re in a relationship for at least 2 years or have lived together for at least 1 year. (Countries that I know of who can take on these kinds of applications are Belgium and the Netherlands.)
• Partner with an NGO or Tourism Board – if you can find an NGO, tourism board, or organization that can vouch for you, it’s possible to gain an easy extension. Some travel bloggers have been able to use this method as they offer their skills of writing or blog ‘reach’ to the appropriate institutions. This is definitely worth your while, especially if a certain migration office is open to other types of visa applications (i.e. I’ve read an account of someone that’s able to do this in Romania; even if it’s not part of the Schengen Area yet, some legit member states can conceivably acknowledge this circumstance).

Booking Essentials

TIP: It’s a good idea to crosscheck the prices with other popular travel insurance providers like World Nomads and HeyMondo (as my reader, you get 5% off)! . However, take note that a travel insurance’s affordability typically means lesser coverage; so please always ensure that you read the fine print in order to decipher which travel insurance company is the right fit for you and your trip!

Looking for more travel tips for Europe?

Check out my other detailed Europe travel guides !

I hope this guide on how to stay in Europe longer helped shed some light on the 90-day limit rule in the Schengen countries; plus, I certainly hope that in one way or another, I helped give you an idea of how you can prolong your European journey without breaking the law!

Should you ever have any other tips in mind that should be included in this ‘H ow to Stay in Europe Longer ‘ guide, please feel free to leave a comment below. And if there are any corrections, do kindly let me know of that too!

Before I end this post, I leave you with the following general reminders:

• Do your own research . I cannot stress this enough. Take my advice on how to stay in Europe longer with a grain of salt . Besides, the information that I post here is based on my own findings and experiences, so it’s your responsibility to ensure that the facts that I have here are still up-to-date or true at the time that you are reading this article. I say this because I certainly don’t want you to waste your money or time when you suddenly find out that certain conditions are changed, eradicated, etc.
• Check migration rules . Be well-informed of the rules that apply to you depending on your nationality or passport. Know your limits and your benefits. Speaking of a passport, always ensure that it is NOT expiring anytime soon.

Ultimately, I hope that this whole article on how to stay in Europe longer can also be a way for you to connect to others who have had successful experiences of staying longer in the Schengen Area; therefore, do feel free to post your questions in the comments section below. However, as I said, be reminded that I am NOT an embassy officer nor a migration agent. Any queries relating to such things should be directed to your local embassy or migration board, and NOT to me. Thank you and good luck!

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How to start a successful blog, 155 comments.

Thank you for your guidance. As someone with a “weak” passport, it’s so hard to find this info. Most of it is told from the perspective of people with “strong” passports.

Hi I have nz passport and uk passport, can I do 3 months on each please. Thanks

Hey David! Unfortunately, the Schengen area policy states that if you have more than one passport and none of them is from a Schengen state, the same rule applies: you still need to do the 90 days stay limit within the 180-days period. So technically, the rule is per person, not per passport .Hope that helps!

Very thankful to you x

Hello, is it possible to technically “stay 6 months in Europe” by staying 3 months in a non-Schengen EU country, followed by 3 months in Schengen?

Of course! :) As you have seen in the article, I mainly focused on Europe’s Schengen Area 90-day rule, but indeed, like in my “In & Out Hop” section above, you can stay for much longer than 3 months if you go to a non-Schengen country and then back. Hope that helps!

I’ve been looking for hours for information like this! Thank you so much for taking the time to research this and write it out so clearly. I am very impressed by this blog post. Truly the most helpful one I’ve come across.

I’m very happy to hear this!

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90 Day Europe Itinerary

A detailed itinerary for 90 days in Europe. From the UK to Svalbard in the arctic circle. Accommodation, transport options and local highlights. 7 countries, 20 cities, 4 boats and more.

Schengen rules limit access to the EU for many of us around the world, including Brits post-Brexit. We made full use of our 90-day allowance for our epic Europe itinerary.

This adventure took us from London to Svalbard, the northernmost town in the world

We started planning this adventure in reverse. Seeing the northern lights has always been a dream of ours and where better to do so than at the top of the world? We worked backwards from there to our base in London and what follows is the route we plotted through Europe.

We try to limit how frequently we fly, so we made a plan which involved trains and boats, with as few planes as possible.

This post contains affiliate links which means we will be compensated when you make a purchase after you click on the links. We only recommend products and services which we have used and support. You can read our full disclosure for more information.

Europe Itinerary Location 1 – London

Itinerary Days: 1

Accommodation: With Family

Transport: NA

So whilst England is part of Europe, it isn’t part of the EU so the 90-day Schengen clock doesn’t start yet. We spent the first day of our itinerary doing last-minute shopping and packing as well as spending time with family.

Europe Itinerary Location 2 – Brighton

Itinerary Days: 2-3

Accommodation: Q2

Transport: Train from St. Pancras International to Brighton – 90 minutes.

Our chosen route to France was via ferry from the south coast of England so we used the opportunity to stop in Brighton for two nights and catch up with friends before leaving the UK.

Europe Itinerary Location 3 – Dieppe

Itinerary Days: 4-7

Accommodation: via booking.com

Transport: Train from Brighton to Newhaven Town – 30 minutes

DFDS Ferry from Newhaven to Dieppe – 4 hours.

Dieppe is a relaxed coastal town with a good selection of restaurants and bars, a busy Saturday market, a pretty beach and much more.

Europe Itinerary Location 4 – Rouen

Itinerary Days: 8-10

Accommodation: Airbnb

Transport: Train from Dieppe to Rouen – 49 minutes.

Rouen is a fantastic place, full of history and stunning architecture. We initially planned to stay for 2 nights, but due to a train strike in France, added an extra day here. Because we are generally planning our route one step at a time, this didn’t cause any issues.

Europe Itinerary Location 5 – Paris

Itinerary Days: 11

Accommodation: hotel via booking.com

Transport: Train from Rouen to Paris St-Lazare – 91 minutes.

Paris wasn’t on our itinerary initially as we feel that Paris deserves to be its own holiday, not a short stop on a whirlwind tour. However, whilst you can travel north on the train from Rouen, it was easier to do so via Paris.

As it was an unexpected stop, we hadn’t done any research or planning in advance, but we had a fabulous time exploring by foot during our 24 hours in Paris.

Europe Itinerary Location 6 – Lille

Itinerary Days: 12-13

Transport: Train from Paris Gare du Nord to Lille Flandres – 62 minutes.

We loved the relaxed feeling in Lille, perhaps it was more noticeable in comparison to the hustle and bustle of Paris. We stayed in an Airbnb in the centre, which was a great base for exploring the city.

It was our intention to head north into Belgium, but another train strike meant that we had to continue straight into the Netherlands as we had pre-booked accommodation that couldn’t be changed.

Europe Itinerary Location 7 – Volendam

Itinerary Days: 14-15

Transport: Train from Lille Europe to Amsterdam Central – 3 hours and 7 minutes (Change at Brussels Midi).

Bus from Amsterdam to Volendam – approximately 30 minutes.

Fred and I were lucky enough to have the opportunity to tour parts of the Netherlands in Autumn 2021, but we hadn’t been to Volendam. We booked a hotel in the harbour for a couple of nights and took a direct bus from Amsterdam Central station.

We had a lovely time taking cycle and ferry rides and were very lucky with the weather even though it was the start of October.

Europe Itinerary Location 8 – Amsterdam

Itinerary Days: 16-17

Accommodation: Room Mate Aitana

Transport: Bus from Volendam to Amsterdam Central – 20 minutes

We’ve been to Amsterdam together three times now, and have already planned our fourth visit. We have now planned our return to the UK and it will be via Eurostar from Amsterdam to London in mid-December.

We spent our time walking, catching up with friends we’ve made in the city, eating and drinking. I’ve rounded up a list of must visit places in Amsterdam, with all of our favourite places, so check it out.

Europe Itinerary Location 9 – Bremen

Itinerary Days: 18-24

Accommodation: Apartment via booking.com

Transport: Train from Amsterdam Central to Bremen – 4 hours and 15 minutes (change at Osnabrück)

After 17 days and 8 different locations, we needed a bit of a break and chose to stop in Bremen for a week. We weren’t disappointed.

Head south from the train station and towards the river and you’ll find the old town. Beautiful architecture, great restaurants, quirky bars. To the North is Bürgerpark, a sprawling maze of paths, lakes, ponds and play areas for the kids. There are also several cafes. We stopped at Waldbühne for a treat after exploring the park.

Europe Itinerary Location 10: Hamburg

Itinerary Days: 25-27

Accommodation: Hotel via Booking.com

Transport: Train from Bremen to Hamburg – 1 hour and 27 minutes

Whilst this was my first visit to Hamburg, Fred has been several times before. As such, these three days were a whirlwind tour of his favourite places to eat and drink.

While we were in Hamburg we made a decision about the next steps of the itinerary. We had originally planned to head north from Hamburg to Copenhagen, but at this stage, we looked for alternative options.

We looked at the possibility of travelling north-east via Poland, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, before taking a ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki. However, the train routes were restricted to weekend travel in places and we couldn’t find options which worked with our timeframes.

We then discovered an overnight ferry crossing from Gdańsk in Poland to Nynäshamn in Sweden . This option worked well with our timeframe and gave us the opportunity to head east and explore Poland for a couple of weeks.

Europe Itinerary Location 10: Berlin

Itinerary Days: 28-29

Transport: Train from Hamburg to Berlin – 2 hours and 4 minutes

Although we only spent two nights in Berlin, we both agreed that there is something special about it.

It rained torrentially for almost the entire stay, but we didn’t let that stop us from seeing as much as we could.

There are so many things to see and do in Berlin, but we took advantage of the free exhibitions and monuments. My post on how to spend 48 hours in Berlin is coming soon.

Europe Itinerary Location 11: Poznań

Itinerary Days: 30-31

Transport: Train from Berlin to Poznań Główny direct – 3 hours and 5 minutes

We immediately liked the feel and atmosphere of Poznań. We stayed near the old town where there are lots of bars and restaurants, just a short walk from the main train station.

Europe Itinerary Location 12: Warsaw

Itinerary Days: 32-38

Transport: Train from Poznań Główny to Warszawa Gdańska – 3 hours and 24 minutes

The train journey between Poznań and Warsaw was the first where we had trouble booking tickets online. The train services require seat reservations and all the services we looked at were sold out in the days before we were due to travel. By going to the station and speaking to staff, we were able to get a ticket to an alternative station slightly further north, but still within central Warsaw.

We spent a week in Warsaw, partially so we could explore the city at leisure, but also as we knew it would help to keep costs down before heading into Scandinavia.

Europe Itinerary Location 13: Gdańsk

Itinerary Days: 39-41

Accommodation: Apartment via Booking.com

Transport: Train from Warszawa Gdańska to Gdańsk Główny – 3 hours and 20 minutes

Gdańsk is in the north of Poland and on the coast. It is a popular holiday and weekend destination for the Polish as well as tourists from abroad. As a result, the weekends can be very busy, so think ahead and book a table if you don’t want to wait.

Gdańsk was a lovely place to explore for a few days. We also found a fantastic pizza restaurant on the river. It impressed us enough to make it onto our list of where to find the best pizza outside Italy .

Europe Itinerary Location 14: Onboard Nova Star

Itinerary Days: 42

Accommodation: Onboard

Transport: Overnight ferry from Gdańsk to Nynäshamn – 18 hours

If you’ve never been on an overnight voyage, then we highly recommend you try it. We had a fantastic night’s sleep in a basic but cosy cabin.

We’ve written more about the experience of travelling from Poland to Sweden by ferry .

Europe Itinerary Location 15: Stockholm

Itinerary Days: 43-45

Transport: Train from Nynäshamn to Stockholm Södra – 53 minutes

We loved Stockholm and spent our time here exploring the city on foot. We stayed in a converted prison on an island in the middle of the city! More about that experience coming soon.

Europe Itinerary Location 16: Gothenburg

Itinerary Days: 46-48

Accommodation: Långholmen Hotell

Transport: Train from Stockholms Central Station to Gothenburg Central Station – 2hrs 43 mins (+60 mins on a rail replacement bus from Alingsås

Gothenburg felt a bit more relaxed than Stockholm. Good food, good wine and friendly locals. What more could you want?

We also found a fantastic pizza place that made it onto our list of where to find the best pizza outside of Italy .

Europe Itinerary Location 17:Oslo

Itinerary Days: 49-50

Transport: Train from Gothenburg Central Station to Oslo Centraal – 3hrs 36 mins

Europe Itinerary Location 18: Bergen

Itinerary Days: 51-57

Accommodation: AirBnb

Transport: Train from Oslo Centraal to Bergen – 6 hrs 50 minutes

Whilst this was the longest train journey of the trip, it was also the most beautiful.

We decided to spend a week in Bergen to relax before getting on our Hurtigruten. Bergen is a nice mix of local and touristy and it is definitely worth taking a couple of extra days to explore the city and surrounding nature.

Europe Itinerary Location 19: Hurtigruten cruise from Bergen to Tromso

Itinerary Days: 58-61

Accommodation and Transport: On board MS Richard With

This was our first experience on a cruise, and anyone who has travelled with Hurtigruten will tell you they do it differently. Boats are the size of a ferry, so they feel small and intimate, but have all of the facilities you could need. The food is also fantastic.

Much more about this fabulous adventure coming soon.

Europe Itinerary Location 20: Tromso

Itinerary Days: 62-75

It is a well-known fact that Tromso is one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights. We weren’t taking any chances of missing them and booked an apartment for two weeks. This paid off and we saw the northern lights from our garden more often than we didn’t.

We were in Tromso when the sun rose for the last time in 2022. This is a fantastic part of the world – much more about our time in Tromso will be published soon.

Europe Itinerary Location 21:Svalbard

Itinerary Days: 76-78

Accommodation: Svalbard Hotell | Polfareren

Transport: Flight from Tromso to Longyearbyen – 90 minutes

When you are in Svalbard, you feel like you are at the top of the world. December in Svalbard is dark. Polar night means that the sun never rises at this time of the year. It is a very interesting thing to experience.

Related Posts:

Packing list for Svalbard in December

Europe Itinerary Location 22: Olso

Itinerary Days: 79

Transport: Flight from Longyearbyen to Oslo – 4 hours with a stop in Tromso

This was just an overnight pit-stop on the way south. From central Oslo it is just a short walk to the color line ferry terminal.

Europe Itinerary Location 23: On board MS Color Fantasy

Itinerary Days: 80

Accommodation and Transport: On board MS Color Fantasy Oslo to Kiel

We weren’t prepared for what we found on board MS Color Fantasy. We were expecting something similar to the ferry on the Poland to Sweden ferry . However, this was closer to a cruise ship, with bars, restaurants, shows, shops and A LOT of people.

We spent most of our time in our cabin, which was thankfully very comfortable.

Europe Itinerary Location 24: Hamburg

Itinerary Days: 81-82

Accommodation: Hotel booked directly

Transport: train from Kiel to Hamburg – 80 minutes

By this time it was mid-December and Hamburg was transformed by Christmas markets. A magical time of year to visit European cities.

Europe Itinerary Location 25:Amsterdam

Itinerary Days: 83-85

Transport: Train from Hamburg to Amsterdam – 5 hours 25 minutes with a change at Osnabruck

We chose Amsterdam as our final destination on the continent as it is now possible to get a train directly from there to London St. Pancras International in about 4 hours.

Unfortunately, train strikes interfered with our plans for a final time and our train was cancelled. This left us with little option but to fly back to the UK. Luckily we were able to book last minute flights, but it cost twice as much as the Eurostar ticket we had purchased in advance!

Europe Itinerary Location 26: London

Itinerary Days: 86

Accommodation: with family

Transport: Flight from Amsterdam to London Gatwick, Train from Gatwick to London Bridge, London Underground

A final journey via plane, train and London Underground took us back to my family home for Christmas in London.

Have a look at our ‘Where We’ve Been’ page to see where our travels have taken us so far.

If you’re thinking about travelling full-time, or are planning an extended itinerary, have a look at our guide on how to prepare and things you should be considering.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad

Travelling to the EU and Schengen area

You do not need a visa for short trips to the EU or countries in the Schengen area if both of the following apply:

• you’re staying for 90 days or less in a 180-day period
• you’re visiting as a tourist or for certain other reasons

Other reasons include:

• studying a short course
• getting medical treatment
• travelling for business for your UK employer, for example to attend a business meeting or conference
• journalism or other media activities

Check the entry requirements of the country you’re visiting to find out what you can and cannot do during your stay.

These rules do not apply to travelling and working in Ireland .

Travelling to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in a 180-day period

You can travel to more than one country in a 180-day period. How long you can stay in each country depends on whether or not it’s in the Schengen area.

The countries in the Schengen area are:

Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Your total stay in the Schengen area must be no more than 90 days in every 180 days. It does not matter how many countries you visit. The 180-day period keeps ‘rolling’.

To work out if your stay is within the 90 day limit, use the following steps.

Check the date you plan to leave the Schengen area on your next trip.

Count back 180 days from that date to get the start of the 180-day period.

Add up the number of days you have already spent in the Schengen area in that 180-day period (you can use the dates stamped in your passport showing when you entered and left a country).

Work out how many days you will spend in the Schengen area on your next trip. Add this number to the number of days you worked out in step 3.

Check that the total number of days is not more than 90.

Travelling to EU countries that are not in the Schengen area

Bulgaria, Cyprus and Romania are not in the Schengen area. You can stay up to 90 days in a 180-day period in each of these countries without a visa.

Any time you spend in the Schengen area does not affect the number of days you can spend in these countries.

When you may need a visa

​​You may need a visa or permit if you want to either:

• stay for more than 90 days

If you’re travelling for work, check the rules for the country you’re visiting .

If you’re travelling for another reason or staying longer than 90 days, check the entry requirements for the country you’re visiting .

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Schengen Area: How to Travel More Than 90 Days in Europe

If you have been dreaming of traveling to Europe, it’s possible that you won’t need a visa to explore...

If you have been dreaming of traveling to Europe, it’s possible that you won’t need a visa to explore this old and beautiful continent. Canadians don’t need a visa to get around the Schengen Area countries if they stay for less than 90 days within 180 days. If you leave the Schengen Area and return within the same 180-day period, the previous stay will count towards the 90 days allowed.

Having a valid passport is all that is needed to visit the majority of European countries. For those who wish to stay in Europe longer than 90 days, it’s essential to get to know the rules and limitations of the famous Schengen Area.

Understanding the Schengen Area

The Schengen Area is a group of European countries united by a set of uniform border regulations. As long as the requirements for entering this region are met, travellers are free to roam from one country to the next without going through border security each time .

In other words, if you are Canadian, you can travel to any country within the Schengen Area without showing documentation at the borders as long as your stay does not exceed a 90-day period. All you need is a valid passport during your time there. That being said, you may still be subject to arbitrary screening when travelling by plane or train.

Countries that are Members of the Schengen Area

The United Nations has 44 European countries. Of these 44 countries, 26 participate in the Schengen Area, namely :

● Czech Republic;

● Liechtenstein;

● Lithuania;

● Luxembourg;

● The Netherlands;

● Portugal;

● Slovakia;

● Slovenia;

● Switzerland.

How to Calculate Your Stay in the Schengen Area

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According to the law, you can stay in the Schengen Area for 90 non-consecutive days within 180 days. That means you can move freely in and out of the Schengen Area during the 180-day period, as long as you do not spend more than 90 days in the Schengen Area. The official count begins the moment you step foot in a country that is part of the Schengen Area.

Here is a concrete example:

You plan to go to France this autumn and then travel to Ireland and Switzerland.

Here is your itinerary:

● France (EU and Schengen): from September 18th to October 1st, so 13 days.

● Ireland (EU and non-Schengen): from October 1st to October 20th, so 19 days.

● Switzerland (non-EU and Schengen): from October 20th to October 30th, so 10 days.

● France (EU and Schengen): from October 30th to November 15th, so 16 days.

Based on the itinerary above, you would have spent 58 days in Europe and 39 days in the Schengen Area.

Your time spent in Ireland does not count towards your 90 days since this country is not part of the Schengen Area. You should start counting the 180 days from the moment you arrive in France on September 18th until the 15th of November of the same year. If you spontaneously visit another Schengen country during your stay, you’ll still have 51 days left before your 90-day period runs out.

A good rule of thumb is to always save a few days on your itinerary in case of complications, delays, or cancellations in your travel plans. This will allow you to travel stress-free.

Thankfully, there is a calculator that can help you. This calculator is also convenient to help you plan your itinerary based on the number of days you can spend in each country in the Schengen Area.  

Different Currencies in the Schengen Area

If you wish to visit multiple countries in the Schengen Area, you will need to keep in mind that they don’t all use the same form of currency. The euro (EUR, €) is only used in countries that are part of the European Union, also known as the eurozone. Here are the countries that use a different currency from the Euro:

If you intend to visit one of the countries mentioned above, you should be ready to exchange your currency!

Is the Schengen Area the Same as the European Union?

Not quite. In fact, several countries not part of the EU are part of the Schengen Area. This is the case for Iceland, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, and Norway.

Inversely, certain countries are part of the European Union but not part of the Schengen Area. This is true for Croatia, the Republic of Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, and Ireland.

Since Brexit in 2020, England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland have left the European Union and the Schengen area. Thankfully, Canadians can still stay in the UK for up to 180 days since Canada is part of the Commonwealth.

Last but not least, many European countries are neither part of the EU nor of the Schengen Area. These countries are:

● Azerbaijan;

● Bosnia and Herzegovina;

● Macedonia;

● Montenegro;

● San Marino;

● Vatican City.

On the Government of Canada website , you can find all the necessary information to travel to these countries.

It’s not always easy to understand the rules and requirements when it comes to getting a visa for travel, but it’s usually worth it in the end! If you plan on travelling to Europe and the Schengen Area in the near future, don’t forget to sign up for trusted travel insurance for peace of mind.

‍ Talk to a soNomad agent now to find the right plan for your travel insurance.

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Family life outside the box

How we are Planning Stay in Europe for More than 90 Days (Legally)

We are stuck abroad and right now, we are permanent residents of no-where. Our family travels on New Zealand passports, but we haven't resided in New Zealand since 2011. We lived in Australia until February 2020 on a 'Special Category Visa' which ends every time you leave the country. In Vietnam , we weren't entitled to any kind of residence and were on tourist visas in Vietnam from March 2020 until August 2021. Since August, we've been in Turkey, and our time here is coming to an end. Next up we plan to stay in Europe - more than 90 days!

It's a weird situation! 

Now we are in Europe, and there are only a tiny number of countries in this part of the world that allow us to stay more than 90 days on entry. 

If you've travelled to Europe before, you'll probably be familiar with the Schengen Zone and the rules around it.

What is the Schengen Visa?

The Schengen Zone is an area comprising of 26 countries (Germany, Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland).

When you travel here, (for most of us), the Schengen Visa applies. This allows us to enter and travel across all of these countries for a maximum of 90 days (across all countries total) within a 180 day period. 

This means, for most people not on a European passport, you can't really stay in Europe for more than 90 days. Usually, you need to leave the Schengen Zone every three months.

Why 90 Day Visas are no longer 'long' stays

For a lot of us, travelling (or being stuck abroad) during Covid means we are travelling much slower. It's too hard to plan for a speedy six week trip around Europe and then go 'home' to where ever that might be (assuming you can even get home).

Plus, it's too risky. We have learned to allow for the possibility probability that at some time in the next little bit, there will be restrictions or lockdowns of some kind. 

That means we look for long visa stays. Or places/regions we can stay a long time without too much visa stress. We know that sometimes, a visa run isn't going to be possible. And we want to know all our options. 

And this is why knowing about what you can do with Bilateral Visa Agreements is more important now than ever before.

Bilateral Visa Agreements 101 - Your Ticket to Traveling More than 90 Days in the European Schengen Zone

Prior to the formation of the EU, some countries (now EU member countries) created independent visa agreements with a lot of other countries prior to the EU being a thing.

These agreements are independent of the Schengen Visa and are between two individual countries. This means many people can travel, and remain, legally, for longer than 90 days across the EU region!

The agreements vary depending on the EU member country and your country of citizenship. Some countries might have agreements with one or two EU member countries. Others, like our lucky NZ passport, has individual agreements with most of the EU member countries.

Which Countries Have These Agreements? 

Some of the countries I've seen that have these bilateral visa agreements are: Australia, Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Israel, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, San Marino, South Korea, USA, Uruguay

New Zealand is a lucky passport. Our passport has independent, bilateral visa agreements with 18 of the 24 countries in the EU region. There are a number of other countries which have similar bilateral agreements.  Click here to find the Official Journal of the European Union that shows exactly which EU countries your country of citizenship has agreements with.

This means that we can stay in Europe for more than 90 days! 

It's 90 days per country we have an agreement now, and that is fantastic. Until they bring in the electronic visa - I'm not sure how that will change at that point. I learned about this hack back in 2019 when I was researching different ways we could travel Europe. I made sure to hold onto that sweet nugget of information and now it is coming in handy! 

How to Plan More than 90 Days in the Schengen Zone (if you can)

If you wanted to spend a ridiculous amount of time in the Schengen Zone, you can look at spending your first 90 days across countries that your country doesn't have a bilateral visa with first. 

Usually, the only time you could run into issues with this, is leaving, at the end of your time abroad. You definitely do not want to leave from a country that your country doesn't have an agreement with.

Italy - Travelling without the kids in 2013

Once you've got your rough idea of where you're going, then you can double check with the Embassies to make sure they still recognise the agreements. I emailed the Spanish Embassy in New Zealand just before we left (March 2020) to confirm the bilateral agreement was still in place. It was. 

I'd recommend printing these embassy confirmations so when you finally depart, you can show you've done things correctly (you only need to get the confirmations from the countries you plan to travel to).

Record Keeping as you travel

Make sure you keep a record of where you stay, transport, country entry and exit dates with you. You want to be able to show you've not stayed longer than 90 days in any one country at the time you leave. It might mean you have a bit of printing to do! 

Will you plan to travel Europe for more than 90 days?

I hope this short guide helps with your planning! We are currently planning (sort of) our time in Europe from October 2022 until April 2022. I'll let you know how we go once we depart! 

Let us know if you'll be using some of these tips if you're planning to stay in Europe more than 90 days. And if you know someone stuck on this side of the world who might need this guide, please share it with them. You might make their life a whole lot easier. 

Sharing is caring!

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We are a blended Kiwi family of five. All born in New Zealand, we have lived abroad for most of the kids lives. Rimaha moved to Australia 15 years ago, Melissa, Noah and Aaliyah followed 10 years ago with a dream to someday travel the world. In 2020 we set off on our dream, stopping to live in Hoi An and An Bang along the way.

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Long-Term Travel in Europe: How to Stay Past 90 days

Salina owens.

• September 19, 2021
• No Comments

For many travelers, traveling to Europe is a dream. Full of diversity, incredible food, easily accessible transport between countries, and unique landscapes, it’s easy to see why Europe is the most visited continent.

But if you are not a European citizen your time is limited for visiting most countries, but, don’t fear, there are many ways you can stay past your vacation period! Here, we’re going to explore the options for traveling long-term in Europe as a U.S. citizen

How To Travel in Europe Long-Term

U.S. citizens are granted an automatic short stay tourist visa of 90 days, meaning you do not have to apply for a visa to enter most European countries or the Schengen zone if your stay is shorter than this time. This is a maximum limit of 90 days within a 180 day period.

The Schengen Zone (or Schengen Area) is a group of 26 European countries that has removed border obstacles, allowing people to pass freely between these countries without being subjected to passport/ID checks. That means you could cross into Spain from Germany via France by car just like you can pass from state to state in the US with no restrictions.

U.S. citizens are allowed to remain in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days, visa free. But what happens if you want to stay past the 90 day mark in this area?

One way around it, without obtaining a visa and if you have the funds, is to visit a country that is not within the Schengen area when your 90/180 day mark comes up. This can include the UK, Ireland, Croatia, Romania, or Morocco, for example. This route can be tricky though since you cannot simply pop over to Morocco for a week and then go back to a Schengen country. You would actually need to be outside the Schengen Zone for a total of 90 days before you can return.

It is a rolling process that includes your complete travel itinerary from the past 180 days. This would take a lot of planning, preparation, and some extra funds as you would have to spend 3 months in the Schengen zone, 3 months out, and then return.

As the “hop in hop out” method isn’t the easiest or cheapest there are other ways to travel around Europe long-term without that headache. Long-term Schengen visas are available for Americans who wish to stay longer than 90 days in Europe.

Visa Options for Long-Term Travel in Europe

Traveling around Europe long-term, for over 90 days, will require a visa. The three categories you can obtain a visa from are, work, resident, and student visas. You must meet certain requirements for each visa so be sure to check all options and see which one could fit your situation best! Below is an example of Spain’s list of long-term Schengen visas for stays over 90 days. Other European countries have similar, if not exact, visa options with variations of requirements. 

• Work permit exemption
• Work and residence permit
• Self-employment 
• Religious activity
• Digital nomad visa  (not yet available in Spain but discussions are underway for a possible 2022 launch) 
• Non-lucrative / retirement 
• Residency for family regrouping 
• North American Cultural and Language Assistant 
• Unpaid internship 

Work and residence visas are more difficult to obtain as an American since the requirements are stricter and take salary, savings, and other requirements heavily into account.

Out of these three categories, a student visa is the easiest to obtain based on the requirements. Each type of student visa has slightly different requirements but the two that are very similar are the North American Cultural and Language Assistant (a teaching English abroad program) and the regular student visa. These often get confused as the same, but they are different. The assistant program visa is a program that you apply for through the government (usually the Ministry of Education). These programs are offered in multiple countries including, Spain , Italy , and France , among others. 

They vary from country to country so be sure to thoroughly research these programs based on your intended country of destination.

The student visa allows you to apply to an academy to take intensive or extensive  language classes for about 20 hours a week (part time). You also have the option of enrolling in a European university to receive an undergraduate or postgraduate degree under the student visa. The non-lucrative visa has become very popular in the past years for expats and retirees as the requirements can be met with the right amount of savings per year. If you have the funds and can prove you are economically self-sufficient, consider this option!

Europe’s digital nomad visas are becoming more and more popular as company’s are transitioning to remote working. Countries like Estonia and Georgia have paved the way for many other countries to follow-suit in offering a digital nomad visa for those seeking the freedom of traveling while working. These visas usually last for 1-2 years and depending on the country can be renewed. You will need to have proof of regular income plus other qualifications, but the requirement for the amount of funds will differ by country.

An important requirement for almost all long-term Schengen visas is private medical insurance. You will need to acquire private medical insurance from a company that operates in the country you choose for the same length of time that your visa will be valid. For example, regular student visas usually revolve around the academic year, meaning you need to have coverage from around September to June, if not more. Don’t panic, private health insurance in Europe is much more affordable in comparison to the U.S. and covers all the basics you would need.

Depending on the visa, you can be granted permission to reside in the EU/Schengen area anywhere from 6 months to 5 years, consecutively. Also, depending on the country you choose, you will have to make an appointment at the country’s consulate in your jurisdiction. For example, if you live in Oklahoma and are seeking a visa to come to Spain, you need to go through the Spanish Consulate in Houston. 

For detailed information on the above mentioned (work, residence, student, and more!) grab your copy of I’m Outta Here! An American’s Ultimate Visa Guide to Living in Europe . With over 50 visa options in the 17 easiest European countries to stay or live long-term, there is a visa option for you to enjoy Europe after your 90 days are up! 

Planning Your Long-Term Travel Trip to Europe

Whether you decide to stay 100 or 300 days in Europe, you should establish a plan (a backup plan also never hurts!). Research the desired country where you would be happy learning the language and having a base in and see which visa requirements fit you the best.

Once you’re ready to apply for your visa it is highly recommended that you make an appointment as soon as possible at the consulate in your jurisdiction as they can get booked out months or (in some cases) years in advance. 

Deciding which country to have a base in can be the hardest part for some people. Maybe you love Italian culture but want to learn Spanish but want to see the Eiffel tower everyday on your morning walk? Figure out which aspects of being abroad for more than 3 months are most important to you. Is it improving your language skills? Eating your favorite foods everyday? Having a large expat support system? Answering these questions can help you narrow down your options. 

Don’t want to have a semi-permanent base and crave hopping around from country to country? This is also possible! Normally, residency and work visas are location-oriented, but with the boom of self-employment and remote working, location independence is very possible, especially with a digital nomad visa.

Student visas can also be more flexible. You can be an au pair for 6 months in one country and 6 months in another or as a student enrolled in a language academy, you can take online classes, giving you location independence.

Be sure to check the visa requirements, many require proof of a rental/housing contract for the duration of your stay.

And if you want to avoid visas all together, plan your “hop in hop out” strategy so you can spend 90 days within the Schengen Zone and 90 days in non-Schengen countries to prolong your stay.

Packing for a long-term trip abroad can be daunting, but with some planning and organization, you’ll be able to travel with just the right amount! Need help? Check out our 25 Essential Packing Tips for Moving Abroad that dives into all the details!

Traveling within European countries is easy and very affordable. Public transportation within many large cities is simple and cheap. Flights from Rome to London can be as low as €40 round trip and train travel, depending on the country, is very affordable, plus it’s one of the best ways to travel around!

To travel long-term in Europe is a dream and it is a privilege to be able to stay. It is such a unique and memorable experience and visiting for a short period only makes you wish you could stay longer. Many people that come to Europe for extended periods end up not wanting to return home! Whichever route you choose for your long-term European journey, it’s almost a sure thing you will enjoy your extended stay in this beautiful continent.

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Schengen Calculator

Online tool for planning trips to the Schengen Zone in accordance with the 90/180 days rule.

• Click on dates to add your past and/or future trips
• The number below the date indicates how many days you can stay in the Schengen Zone as of that date
• Be mindful of the date showing '0' days remaining - your latest departure date should be the day prior to it.
• To delete a trip click on it and press the 'Trash' icon next to the month name.
• For your convenience, all your trips are stored locally in your browser. This means you'll find all your information ready for review or further editing when you return to the page.

Understanding the 90/180 Days Rule: Calculating Your Allowed Stay Length Correctly

The 90/180 day rule says that visitors are allowed a maximum stay of 90 days within any given 180-day period. Despite its seemingly straightforward definition, accurately calculating your allowed stay length under this rule can prove quite challenging, and often it isn't as intuitive as it appears.

Let's unpack this with a practical example:

Assume you've been traveling in the Schengen Area from January 1 to February 28, a total of 59 days. You plan to re-enter the Schengen zone on June 1. At first glance, you might believe that you've spent 59 days in the area within the preceding 180-day period, leaving you with 31 days for your upcoming stay. However, this is a misconception.

In reality, if you enter on June 1, you can remain for up to 90 days without contravening the 90/180 rule. This is because the 180-day window moves dynamically with your stay, causing days from your earlier visit to start falling outside this period. Thus, as you stay, one day is added while another day drops out of this window, maintaining a balance. It's as if you're on a seesaw, where within every rolling 180-day period from the day of your stay, you've spent exactly 90 days in the Schengen Area, but not more. This means that your stay may actually extend longer than you initially thought.

The Schengen Calculator is a tool that ensures you don't breach the 90/180-day rule during your future stay. It does this by finding the longest possible period under the rule and displays this information under the corresponding date in the calendar. This tool makes it significantly easier to plan your travels without worrying about unintentionally violating the 90/180 rule. Keywords: 90/180 day rule, calculating stay length, Schengen Area, Schengen Calculator, travel rules, maximum stay, stay planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the schengen 90/180 days rule work.

The 90/180 days rule in the Schengen area means that non-EEA visitors can only stay for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period. It's important to understand that this 180-day window is continuously moving, as it shifts forward one day at a time. This means that to determine your remaining days allowed in the Schengen area, you cannot simply subtract the number of days spent within the last 180 days from 90 on the date of entry. Instead, you must consider how the moving 180-day window affects your total days spent in the Schengen area for each day of your planned stay. The length of your stay is determined by finding the longest period of consequtive days in which you have not exceeded the 90/180 days rule. Calculating the remaining days under the 90/180 days rule in the Schengen area can be quite challenging to do in your head, given the nature of the rolling 180-day window. Fortunately, there's a helpful tool called the Schengen 90/180 days calculator that simplifies this process. This free online tool automatically accounts for the moving window and helps you accurately determine your remaining days in the Schengen area, ensuring you stay compliant with the 90/180 days rule.

I see that allowed days can change rapidly on two near dates. Why it is so?

It is possible that on one date the number of allowed days is, lets say 50, but on the next day it can become 90. This happens because starting from next day one of your past trips could completely stop affecting your stay length. Because 180 days window is moving with your stay, days from past trip start to fall out of it. So, one day is added, one is deducted, the total stays the same and past trip with all its days is no longer adding "counted" days.

How can I check that the number of days is correct? I did the calculation by myself and got different result.

You can proof check the result using Official EU calculator: https://ec.europa.eu/assets/home/visa-calculator/calculator.htm

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Europe’s 90/180 Day Visa Rule Explained

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

You need a visa if you are British and want to spend more than three months in Europe without breaking the 90/180-day rule.

Brexit has ended the special arrangements that European Union membership offered British travellers.

Now, to stay for longer than 90 days in any 180-day period, expats need a visa – and to make sure visitors keep to the rules, their passports are date stamped on entry and exit.

Many expats opt for golden visas . But these have a lot of rules that need to be met before being issues.

Table of contents

The 90/180-day rule, how the 90-180 rule works, staying in europe for more than 90 days, how do i apply to visit the schengen zone, europe’s 90/180-day visa rule faq, related information.

Many travellers are confused by the 90/180-day rule agreed upon between the UK and the European Union.

The rule allows British travellers to spend up to 90 days visiting more than one country in any 180-day period.

The length of time travellers can stay depends on whether the country is within the Schengen visa-free travel zone.

The rule does not allow travellers to work in the place they are visiting.

The Schengen Zone covers most EU states, including Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.

Bulgaria, Cyprus and Romania are not in the Schengen Zone. Travellers can spend up to 90 days in 180 days in these countries, but the number of days does not count towards the 90/180 day Schengen Zone rule.

The rule says a stay cannot last more than 90 days in any 180-day rolling period. To check a visit is within the limit, try the following:

• Find the date you intend to leave the Schengen Zone on your next trip
• Trackback 180 days to find the date the 180-day period starts
• Count the number of days spent in the Schengen Zone during that 180-day period
• If you are making more than one trip in 180 days, add the number of days that trip lasts to the count above – it doesn’t matter if the trips are to different Schengen countries.

If the days in Europe add up to more than 90, you need to adjust your time in Europe or apply for a visa.

Once the 90-day cap is reached, a traveller must wait another 90 days before re-entering the Schengen Zone.

A frequent traveller had no trips to Europe in 2022, but several booked for 2023.

The first is a 10-day Schengen Zone visit starting from January 1. The relevant 180 days count back from the end of the visit (January 10), giving a score of 10 out of 180, so the trip is within the rule’s parameters.

The next trip is 30 days in the Schengen Zone from March 1, then seven days in Romania. The 180-day period now runs back from the end of the trip – April 7. The number of days in Europe for that 180-day period is now 47, but seven are excluded as they are outside the Schengen Zone to Romania.

The tally so far is 47 less seven, making 40 relevant days.

From June 1, the traveller spends another 30 days in the Schengen Zone. The 180-day period runs from January 2 until June 30, with 70 days spent in Europe.

Don’t forget the 90/180-day visa is for short stays. For anything longer, including tourist visits, travellers need q formal residence, work or study visa.

The list of requirements differs between countries, so find out the latest details from the consulate or embassy of the country you are visiting.

British travellers can find the latest advice on the UK government’s website .

ETIAS, a European Union body, runs the Schengen Zone visa process.

Visitors can check their visa eligibility and apply online for the documents through the ETIAS website .

The visa application fee is seven euros.

The Schengen Zone is a visa-free travel area compromising most European Union countries. Effectively, after crossing into one Schengen country, you can travel on to cross borders into any number of other Schengen countries without any restrictions.

The Schengen Zone covers most European Union states, including Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.

A visa is conditional permission granted by a government to a foreign visitor to enter, stay in or leave a country or territory.

A passport is a government-issued document verifying a traveller’s citizenship and identity. A visa is a temporary document placed within a passport confirming the holder can stay in another country for a specific time.

For stays beyond 180 days, travellers need permission to live, work or study in most European countries. Many governments consider six months (180 days) when residence kicks in and visitors become liable to pay taxes.

Outstaying the 90-day visa can lead to imposing one or more of: – Fines – Deportation – A ban from entering the Schengen Zone

The time limits apply to any days spent in the Schengen Zone, regardless of what happens. So, if a traveller lands at Calais and spends two days crossing France for Switzerland, where they have booked a 14-night stay, books the time as 18 days. That’s two days each way in France plus the stay in Switzerland.

Full-time students studying within the Schengen Zone must apply for a visa. Students visiting Europe for workshops, conferences or short-stay classes probably don’t but check the local consulate or embassy to be sure.

Schengen visas are OK if you visit Europe on business but do not intend to work while on your trip. Conferences, client meetings and site visits are OK without a work visa but you must still obey the 90/180-day rule.

Below is a list of related articles you may find of interest.

• European Economic Area Explained for Expats
• Gulf state changes family visa rules
• Tunisia Is No-Go Zone For Tourists And Expats
• New York Voted Best City For Business

2 thoughts on “Europe’s 90/180 Day Visa Rule Explained”

Everything I read relates to people using the full 90 days. Many won’t use the full amount. I was in Spain : 11/06/22 -18/03/22 7 days

31/10/22 – 29/11/22. 28 days

03/03/23 – 29/03/23. 27 days My question is can I return 10/10/23 – 18/11/23 for 34 days?

What if I live in Northern Ireland and have a British passport

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12 countries, 412 days so far

Four on a journey

Legal ways to travel Europe long-term, beyond the 90 days

A journey through Europe is what many globetrotters dream about. In this article we focus on how to make this dream reality despite the 90 out of 180 days rule of the Schengen Area, keeping especially the needs of long-term travellers, worldschoolers and digital nomad families on mind.

Worldschoolers, nomadic families, globe trotters, backpackers and other travellers often have the same question: How to travel Europe long-term?

In this comprehensive article, we will delve into practical solutions catered specifically for long-term traveling families. Additionally, we will briefly address the unique needs and options of other types of travellers to cover all bases. Admittedly, it is a rather lengthy read…. but it might save you a lot of hassle, money and stress and instead inspire you to extend your trip to Europe!

Why do jet-setters want to plan a longer stay in Europe?

Europe is a dream destination for travellers. Each country and region has its own unique charm, making it worth exploring at your own pace. 90 days simply are not long enough for many worldschoolers and digital nomads!

Flying once can be a more cost-effective option if you’re traveling long distances to check off your personal bucket list items.

Why is a longer stay in Europe complicated?

To answer this question, we need to take a step back. To travel Europe long-term is not actually the issue. Visiting specifically the Schengen Area is.

Schengen Agreement in a nutshell

Destinations.

We have explained everything around Schengen including the official links in another article: Schengen Area Explained . The very short summary is though that the Schengen Area consists of currently 27 countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Visa requirements depending on country of origin

The documents needed to enter the Schengen Zone depend on your country of origin. As a rule of thumb most (there are exceptions though!) African and Asian citizens will need a Type C Visa. Those are valid for 90 days and are issues as single, double or multiple entry type of Visa.

Citizens from other countries are Visa exempt. Travellers from those countries are also subject to the 90 days limitation inside the Schengen Area .

90 days is the standard length of time for all visas

The majority of short-term travellers will enjoy not needing a visa. It provides a level of flexibility, saves cost and there is no waiting for documents before you can book your holiday. Realistically, they will also never have to worry about the 90 day limit due to the way they travel.

I understand that for individuals who embark on long-term travel, own secondary residences in Europe, or maintain long-distance relationships, it can be quite challenging when they wish to extend their stay beyond the typical 90-day limit. Regrettably, there are currently no practical means to prolong this duration, especially for reasons related to business or tourism.

This applies to all travellers wishing to travel Europe long-term – whether they are Visa exempt or have a Type C visa.

Touring visa

A 12 month touring visa for travellers was proposed by the EU commission but said proposal was rejected and there are currently no known plans to supply it to tourists.

Application for an extension after the 90days

When it comes to extending your legal stay in Europe beyond the permitted 90 days, there are specific circumstances where it is possible, although they are typically limited in nature and not ideal. These reasons are usually associated with certain critical situations that may require additional time to address and resolve.

However, it is important to note that these extensions are subject to strict time constraints and are intended for genuine and urgent matters. It is always advisable to consult with the appropriate authorities regarding your specific situation to ensure compliance with immigration regulations. In all events, an extension must be applied for before the initial 90 days are up..

So how can you stay longer than 90 days in Europe?

A stern look and a wave through. Hefty fines. Being banned from re-entry. Going beyond the 90 day limit can lead to a variety of consequences. I know it can be disappointing when you’d like to spend more time exploring Europe, but it’s important to respect the regulations in place. Find below the possible routes to take to stay legally longer than 90 days in Europe.

Overstay your welcome (illegally) – all travellers

It goes without saying but we can not recommend this. We heard of plenty travellers making genuine mistakes when calculating their Schengen days (see also: Common errors when calculating your Schengen stay ). The type and severity of punishment they receive, seem to be heavily influenced by the amount of days they overstayed and partially also which country they exited from. Germany, Switzerland, France and Denmark are supposedly the strictest while Spain and Greece possibly show more leniency. With the expected rollout of EES in Schengen , the automated Entry/Exit System, the leniency some relied upon will disappear as the system will flag individual travellers automatically as overstayers.

Enter with different passports – tourists with dual citizenships

If you hold two or more passports from non Schengen states you can choose which one to use but be aware that the Schengen policy dictates that the 90/180 days are per person not per passport, you can not reset your counter by leaving then re-entering with a different passport.

Schengen Shuffle aka stay inside Europe but leave Schengen – all travellers

In the Digital Nomad (DN) and long-term travelling community, we often refer to the Schengen shuffle. Some might call it instead “hop in and hop out”. The Schengen Shuffle is the only legal way for everyone to stay longer than 90 days inside Europe. The way to do this is quite simple: staying 90 days inside followed by 90 days outside the Schengen Area. Most do this without going all that far to save cost.

EU countries that are not part of Schengen

The only EU countries not part of Schengen are Bulgaria, Cyprus, Ireland and Romania.

European countries that are not part of Schengen or the EU

Europe as a continent goes beyond the EU and even crossing over to Northern Africa is easy enough! Favourite countries depending on season and budget to be outside of the Schengen area are Morocco, Tunisia, Turkey, Albania, the UK and Macedonia. Some of these countries will allow entry with a valid Schengen visa but staying in the country won’t count towards your 90 days, how convenient! We absolutely loved our stay in Morocco!

Globetrotters made Croatia their preferred choice for the Schengen shuffle due to its proximity to Italy and you will find such a trip recommended in many blogs, youtube videos etc. This is no longer an option since Croatia joined the Schengen territory in January 2023. The same could soon be true for Bulgaria and Rumania as they have applied already . The EU is also about to admit Albania into the union, so do keep a close eye. We will keep this page up to date to the best of our knowledge, too.

You don’t need to do exactly 90 days in then out but many travellers do this due to the complexity of the calculation of the 180 days .

Bilateral Visa Waiver Agreements, a not so well known “hack” to travel Europe long-term – for travellers from certain countries

These agreements are between individual Schengen member states and a third country. The Schengen Area visa waiver agreement is different from this.

The nationals of some countries (Australia, United States, New Zealand, Malaysia, Canada and Singapore to name a few, see below for a full list) can consider themselves lucky as they can legally stay longer than 90 days inside Schengen. There is even the possibility to be able to stay years if well planned.

Background of these bilateral v isa waiver agreements:

Following World War II, numerous individual countries established bilateral visa waiver agreements between each other, promoting easier travel. Despite the implementation of the Schengen Agreement, many EU countries have continued to honour these historic bilateral agreements.

And that is good news for travellers: this provides an opportunity to legally stay longer than 90 days inside the Schengen area!

Why is this option to visit the Schengen Area beyond the standard 90 days not better known?

Your guess is as good as mine why jet-setters are not all over this “travel hack”. If you follow publications of the EU Council then you will be aware that there had been plenty of discussions around these agreements and how to make it easier for the authorities as well as travellers to track extended stays, especially in light of ETIAS and a EES .

After reading specifically about the rules for New Zealanders (which affects some of our family personally) in Bren’s blog , which has in depth research and emails to consulates and embassies attached, we started digging deeper ourselves.

Do these bilateral visa waiver agreements really exist and are they legally binding?

We can’t say that it was easy to find the information but the Official Journal of the European Union provides the following list for download in several languages : List of Member States’ bilateral visa waiver agreements with third countries allowing for an extension of the period of stay in accordance with Article 20(2), point (b), of the Convention implementing the Schengen Agreement (OJ C, C/130, 08.04.2019, p. 17, CELEX ). The list was created in anticipation of the rollout of EES.

For ease of reading we included the English version for you here:

Which Schengen and Schengen associated countries have such bilateral agreements?

• Czech Republic
• Liechtenstein
• Switzerland
• The Netherlands

How can travellers benefit from the bilateral visa waiver agreements?

Although the agreements are several decades old, the way third country travellers can benefit from these agreements changed recently due to the imminent rollout of ETIAS and a EES . It is still possible however, to use these agreements for extended stays even beyond 180 days.

Bear with me as this is not as straight forward as we all wish it would be. The reason for this lays in the past: the individual countries made a wide variety of agreements with third countries. In the present, those policies will have to fit alongside the Schengen Agreements .

You won’t need to bribe anyone and it won’t cost you an arm and a leg but you will need to carefully assemble the information for your specific travel plans as the duration of additional stay as well as the conditions for the extension vary by country.

Checklist before you can benefit from bilateral agreements

The following list represents the steps to take under the assumption that your goal is to be able to slow travel certain countries, not just to maximise the time spent inside Europe.

• Gather a list of the countries you would like to visit
• Identify which are inside Schengen and which are not
• Based on 2. identify if the Schengen Shuffle would be a possible solution for you (it will potentially save a bit of hassle)
• Download the list of countries which have from the EU website or our blog above
• Familiarise yourself with the different types of passports – if you read this I am assuming yours to be an ordinary passport.
• Based on your citizenship and type of passport verify if any of the destinations you wish to visit had signed a bilateral agreement. If the answer is no then you sadly can not extend your travel in Europe via this option. If you find a valid agreement continue below:
• Research official government websites or contact a consulate or embassy to verify the latest update on the specific agreement. They will be able to tell you the requirements you need to fulfil to gain the extension, when and where to apply for it, how much it will cost (if anything) and the maximum duration possible for you. Having a response in written form will also help you should there be any issues down the line during your stay.
• Gather all the necessary application forms and necessary supporting documents so you have them on you during your travel.
• Some countries do not require any application process. You will need to find out how they will report your stay into EES once that is live as you will otherwise be flagged as overstayer.
• Finalise your travel plans based on the answers of the different embassies.
• Enjoy an extended travel across Schengen countries – depending on your origin and travel plans this could be way longer than 180 days.

Other things to keep on mind when planning a stay beyond 90 days inside Schengen based on bilateral visa waiver agreements

• Your passport will need to be valid for at least the entire stay so ensure this is done before you travel.
• If you are from a Schengen visas excempt country you will additionally need to apply for ETIAS .
• You can not travel to other Schengen countries during your permitted extension.
• While most nationals are allowed to work remotely in the 90day short-stay period inside Schengen, your extension might not legally give you that right.
• You might need to prove that you have booked onward travel or a journey home and that you have the means to support yourself during your whole stay.
• If there are any countries on your bucket list which do not offer you an extended stay ensure to visit these countries first.
• Your extended stay does not count as being outside Schengen so the only onward travel possible to another Schengen country would be to other countries providing bilateral visa waiver agreements.
• I recommend to keep proof of when you were in which country. Receipts of food or other purchases, public transport tickets, an overview of where you stayed etc will help you in case of issues down the line since you won’t get any stamps to prove where you were.

Where to apply for an extended stay based on the bilateral agreements

• Germany – the general information can be found on this website and the individual embassies will have the info per country here .
• Poland – all information about the agreement and how to apply can be found on this website .

Please let us know via the comments if you found the specific places to apply for the extension for specific countries. With your help, we can complete the section above to be helpful for everyone.

Bilateral Visa Waiver Agreement – an example

Assuming you are from Canada and you want to visit Latvia, Lithuania, Finland and Spain. You have 6 months for this trip. Out of these countries, only Spain has a bilateral agreement with Canada. Reading the details, you learn that this agreement is in place since 25.1.1960, applies to all ordinary Canadian passports and grants you an extra 90-day stay in Spain.

Equipped with this knowledge, you now have a variety of options to travel Europe long-term:

• Stay outside of the Schengen Zone altogether and enjoy a long-term stay in Europe without the hassle, simply following the individual country’s visa limits (ignoring your bucket list).
• Stay inside Schengen for 90/180 and leave afterwards like everyone else. You can of course visit Latvia, Lithuania, Finland and Spain inside that timeframe among any other countries on the way.
• Perform the Schengen Shuffle like everyone else.
• You enter Spain, stay 90 days and then leave Schengen. (Most agreements are only valid if you first used up your “standard” maximum 90 day stay inside Schengen.) This would mean you are not able to travel through Latvia, Lithuania or Finland at all though.
• Stay anywhere but Spain inside Schengen for 90/180. After this travel through Europe, where you can definitely journey through Latvia, Lithuania and Finland, you may immediately go to Spain, where you can spend an additional 90 days. Yes, that would mean you are staying legally long-term (up to 180 days) inside Europe and even the Schengen area. Note that this does not provide you freedom of movement to visit other countries, eg. Portugal in that second period. At the end of your extended stay you must depart Schengen directly. This is possible by means of flight or ferry from Spain. You can not travel from Spain to France. Not even solely for transit to then leave via Paris Charles de Gaulle airport. The reason for this is that your 90/180 has not reset.

Travel long-term inside the European Union (EU) – for non-EU Family members of EU citizens

There is a lot of confusion about the legality of this option, but it must not remain that way. If you travel as a family and at least one of you is in possession of a valid EU passport, the 90/180 rule does not apply for any of you, it is as simple as that.

I have explained the basics about this in our previous article , but will summarise here with the special focus on extended/ open-ended travel.

“Economically inactive EU citizens” can legally move to any member state for up to 3 months. Some states might need you to report your presence from the first night onwards but this is not equal to residency. EU citizen will need a valid identity card or passport, have health insurance and mjust be able to prove that they can support themselves. There are no limits, they may continue doing 90 days in the next state after that and after that with no end.

Family members who can prove the relationship and have a valid passport can join their EU citizen.

If your non-EU family members have the required documents, they are entitled to accompany or join you without any conditions or formalities for consecutive periods of up to 3 months  per EU country visited .  They are not subject to the overall limitation of up to 90 days in a 180-day period that applies in the Schengen area.  You can combine stays in different EU countries without an overall time-limit.  Your Europe, an official site of the EU

This option is by far the easiest, cheapest (as there are not even visa costs charged to enter the zone)and least complicated to travel the Schengen Zone long-term. If you have questions about your personal situation you can ask Your Europe for advice, see here .

Other options to travel through Schengen Area long-term

The following options might provide you an idea on how you personally can extend your long-term journey through the Schengen Zone legally. However, I do not believe that they are suitable for long-term travellers. As such most readers will probably not find them applicable.

Digital Nomad Visas – all travellers

Several EU countries now provide a DN visa. Whether these apply to you will depend on your income and other factors but they usually provide a1 year temporary residency inside that country. Changing residency will not only have tax implications. Most EU countries do not allow alternative paths of education such as homeschooling, worldschooling or unschooling. Consequently, worldschoolers would need to attend local schools, a factor which makes this option to stay legally in Europe a non attractive one.

Type D Visa – all travellers

These are long-term stay visas for extended visits beyond the 90 days stay. Usually issued by embassies, they follow national immigration rules and provide residence permit. Type D visas are issued for academic or employment purposes as well as to join family. They usually cost around €75, although  the fee is not due under certain circumstances.

Important for travellers: Type D visa allows you to stay in a specific Schengen country for usually up to 1 year. Should you wish to travel to other Schengen countries during this period, the 90 out of 180 days rule will still limit your plans.

Similar to the DN visa above, complications arising from residency make this type of visa not always a valid option for those who wish to travel through Europe beyond the usual 90 days.

Student visa – more suited for single travellers

Most European countries have low tuition fees in universities which makes studying there a not just financially attractive. Admission into a university in Europe is based on several factors and limitations. While these limits depend on the country you want to study in, the course you apply for, your language skills and more, the visa itself would also be a Type D visa. For problems resulting from this see above . In addition to that I would say that the time you will realistically have to travel while studying full-time will be quite restricted.

Working holiday visa – usually aimed at people below 30

Several articles out there will refer to “working holiday visa” – such a thing does not actually exist within Schengen. These all refer to the Type D Visa.

For problems resulting from this see above .

Long term visitor’s visa – all travellers

Several countries (Spain, France, Portugal, Sweden) offer a long-term stay visa. What most have in common is that you can neither travel within Schengen nor work during your time. You might have to prove that you booked accommodation and have the means to support yourself. For obvious reasons these are not really of interest to those wanting to explore multiple European countries long-term.

Obtain European Citizenship – those with European roots

It might just be worth it to dig if you have the possibility of gaining a EU passport. Descendants of migrants seem to struggle least with obtaining an Italian or Irish passports. Although the process can be lengthy, we have heard of many globetrotters who fell in love with Europe and once they set their mind to it found a way. Not to forget that a single EU passport in the family is enough to allow unlimited travel inside Schengen for the whole family. We have no personal experience with this application process though.

Final thoughts:

My prompt to write this article were the many questions in worldschooling groups on how to extend stays inside Europe. Often their personal circumstances were mentioned and one of the ways above could work for that family. The research and write up took far longer than expected.

If you read through to the end I applaud you for your attention and thank you for reading. In recognition of there being a lot of information to take in, I have included many links to the official sites of the EU, to make additional research easier. I truly hope that you learnt something new or, even better, will now embark on further research to make your travel dreams reality, because there are indeed several ways to extend your stay inside Schengen without (illegally) overstaying.

I would be grateful if you shared this blog with other travellers planning a trip to Europe to allow them to maximise their time and enjoyment.

While best efforts are made to keep this post accurate and up to date, it is not a legal document. If you know of information that is missing or spot something that needs to be updated, please let me know in the comments and I will aim to address it as soon possible.

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90 Days in 180 - Schengen / EU Calculator

European freedom of movement ended for British nationals on December 31, 2020. On that sad day, Britons lost their freedom to live, work, travel and retire in Europe. We lost those rights because the British Government, led by libertarian free-market fundamentalists, pursued the most destructive Brexit they could get away with. In doing so, our government not only stripped us of our rights and freedoms, they recklessly damaged the British farming and fishing industries, as well as many other businesses that exported goods and services to the EU.

Britons must now adhere to the rules that apply to all citizens and businesses of third-country status. This change means Brits can visit European countries in the Schengen area for a maximum of 90 days out of every 180 on a rolling basis.

This limitation applies when visiting any of the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland.

Please check GOV.UK for official advice on these countries and VISA entry requirements.

How to Use the 90 days in 180 Calculator

You can use this calendar to help plan your visits and ensure you adhere to the rules.

Click on the dates you want to visit the European Union / Schengen area. A counter at the top of the screen will display the number of days used counting back from the last day clicked. Days that cannot be used because you have reached the 90 day limited will be greyed out automatically.

This website does not use cookies, track visitors, or use analytics. It uses the localstorage function of your web browser to save your selected calendar dates so they are pre-selected on return visits.

Clicking the Reset Calendars button at the top of the screen will erase saved dates.

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Everything you need to know about travel to Europe after Brexit

Do you need a visa to travel to the EU after Brexit? Here’s how the rules are looking in 2024

Way back in 2020, the UK left the EU and Brexit took effect. Since then, a hell of a lot has changed about how we travel. There’s now plenty of extra stuff to think about when planning a trip overseas to Europe (especially if it’s for longer periods). So, we ’ve rounded up all the changes to the rules that we’ll have to follow, now that we’re no longer EU citizens. Here is everything you need to know.

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You should probably check your passport

Up until January 2021, all UK citizens with a valid passport were able to travel freely throughout Europe. Now, though, you may need to renew your passport much earlier than you might think. On the day you travel, your passport must have at least six months left before it expires, or you might not be able to travel to any EU countries, or the EEA states of Iceland , Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland . (The old rules still apply for travel to Ireland.)

You can check if you need to renew your passport before travelling using this tool from the British government, and you can apply for a new one here . Make sure you renew it at least a couple of months before you’re planning to travel, as it may take several weeks to process applications in busy times (including right now).

You can no longer apply for an EHIC

Your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) will remain valid until its expiry date, but you can no longer apply for a new one. In 2021, the UK government launched a replacement scheme, the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) , which will entitle you to necessary state healthcare for free or at reduced cost in Europe and other countries with reciprocal arrangements such as Australia and New Zealand . You can apply for one on the official GHIC website .

Free mobile roaming is a thing of the past

The guarantee of free mobile roaming throughout the EU, the Schengen area and the Norway, Iceland and Liechenstein, came to an end on December 31, 2020. It ’s best to c heck with your phone operator to find out about any charges you may incur in the country you’re travelling to.

Border checks may feel a little different

At border control, you will now need to use separate lanes from EU citizens when queuing. Officials may also be more inquisitive than before, asking you to provide a return or onward ticket and prove that you have enough money for the length of your initial stay.

Your driving licence will still be valid – but you’ll need a ‘green card’ proving you have insurance too

Despite reports British drivers would soon have to apply for an ‘international driving permit’ before travelling to the Continent, according to the terms of the Brexit deal, UK licences will still be valid within the EU.

According to this advice by the Foreign Office , you do not need a ‘green card’ (proving you have car insurance cover when driving abroad) when driving in the EU. However, countries where they do apply include Albania, Azerbijan, Moldova, Türkiye and Ukraine. 

Visas are now required for longer stays

If you’re a tourist, you won’t need a visa for short trips to most EU and EEA countries. You will be able to stay for a maximum of 90 days in any 180-day period. To stay for longer than 90 days, or if you ’re working,  you will have to get a visa or travel permit.

The EU has set up this short-term stay visa calculator to help travellers calculate how much longer they can stay in Europe. Visit the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office’s ‘travel advice’ pages  to find out the application process for each country.

The rules for Bulgaria, Croatia , Cyprus and Romania will be different (this is because they aren ’t in the Schengen area ): visits to those four countries will not count towards the 90-day total. 

These arrangements are up to date as of January 2024. They may change, so check back soon for the latest updates on travel to Europe.

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Europe’s 90/180 rule: How long can you stay in an EU country and how does it work?

The maximum stay in most european countries is strictly limited for britons post-brexit, with holidaymakers only able to visit for a total of just under three months in any 180-day period. here’s what to watch out for, article bookmarked.

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Now that the UK has left the European Union, the ease with which the British have holidayed, worked and lived in the EU for decades has ended.

When negotiating the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement, the government arranged for the UK to be treated as a “third country”.

That means the maximum stay in any European Union nation except Ireland is strictly limited – with the “90/180” rule applying to British passport holders.

So how does it work, and which aspects are tricky to navigate? These are the key questions and answers.

How long can I stay in a European Union country with a British passport?

For the Schengen Area (comprising the vast majority of EU countries, plus others) there is a limit of 90 days in any 180. The simplest way to look at this: if you went out to the Schengen Area on 1 January 2023, you would be able to stay there until the end of March. You would then need to stay out of Schengen for another 90 days, until late June.

Of course most people will have more complex travel plans than this. The question to ask on the day you plan to travel to the Schengen Area is: going back 180 days (almost six months), on how many days have you been in the the zone? Your passport should contain entry and exit stamps, allowing you and passport officials to calculate the timing. (Days of entry and exit are included in the tally, even if you spent only a couple of hours in the Schengen Area.)

If the answer is less than 90 days in the past 180 days, you are entitled to enter the Schengen area. But how long you can stay depends on a “rolling count”.

What does that mean?

You always have to be looking back 180 days. Suppose after not having travelled to Europe in the past year, you spend from 1 January to 1 March in Schengen, and then leave – after 60 days in the zone.

You then return on 1 April. You could stay only up to 30 April before having to leave. Your score is now 90 days, and that means you have used up your allowance for the entire 180 days from New Year’s Day (when the clock started ticking). Only at the very end of June, when you start erasing those days at the start of January, are you allowed back in.

The European Union provides a handy online calculator for your own circumstances.

Can you simplify, please?

I can try. Just imagine a calendar that stretches back almost six months from today (T). What happened before “T minus 180” is completely irrelevant. What counts is the number of days you were either inside (I) or outside (O) the Schengen Area in the last 180.

You can easily keep count on a calendar yourself, either printed or digital.

If “I” hits 90, you must leave that day.

Just remind me about the Schengen Area?

The “passport free” zone includes almost all the EU countries except Bulgaria, Cyprus, Ireland and Romania – plus Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland and the Vatican City.

Stays in all these countries count towards that 90 day limit.

What happens if I overstay?

In general travellers are given three days’ grace on breaking the 90-day limit. Any longer than that and they are likely to be handed an entry ban for one year. This applies throughout the Schengen Area – not just the country in which you overstayed.

What is different for Ireland?

Freedom of movement for UK citizens and unlimited length of stay is guaranteed under the provisions of the Common Travel Agreement.

But because the Brexit deal created a “border in the Irish Sea” there are new controls from Great Britain to both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland on pet passports, currency and food – no cheese or ham sandwiches allowed.

I live in Northern Ireland. Am I exempt from the 90/180 rule?

Only if you have a passport from the Irish Republic, which is easily obtained by most people in Northern Ireland. Using a British passport the standard limitations apply, even though the nation is part of the European customs union.

What about the other EU countries that are not in Schengen?

Each of Bulgaria, Cyprus and Romania has its own individual 90/180 day limits. You could therefore effectively keep flipping between Schengen and those other countries – though frontier officials may raise eyebrows and demand to see how you are supporting yourself financially.

I still have a burgundy British passport with “European Union” on the cover. Does that make any difference?

No. It remains valid as a UK travel document. But it loses all its EU powers.

Just remind me of the passport validity rules for Europe?

The stricter rules on passport validity for “third countries“ now apply. Your travel document must comply with two rules:

• Day of arrival in the EU – less than 10 years since issue.
• Day of intended departure from the EU – at least three months remaining to expiry.

EU fast-track lanes for passport control are no longer open to British travellers, although countries that receive a large number of visitors from the UK, such as Spain and Portugal, make special arrangements when flights arrive.

But immigration procedures will be slower, and UK citizens no longer have any guarantee of entry. Frontier officials are required by European Union law to conduct deeper checks.

They may ask for the purpose of the visit; where you plan to travel and stay; how long you intend to remain in the EU; how you propose to fund your stay; and whether you constitute a threat to public health.

I want to stay longer. Can I?

Many British people with second homes in France or a tradition of spending winter in Spain are in this position: they do not want nor need residence, but simply want to stay longer than three months.

Each country has its own version of a long-stay visitor visa.

For France, you can apply for a Visa de long séjour (VLS-T). The six-month version entitles the holder to make multiple trips to France. For the remainder of the year, you can use the 90/180 Schengen allowance twice.

These visas demand evidence of income and/or financial resources plus and accommodation. You must attend an interview in London, Manchester or Edinburgh, have fingerprints taken and pay €99 (£87) for the visa along with a processing fee of about £30.

Spain has a similar “long duration” visa, for which you have to submit a medical certificate showing you pose no threat to the Spanish people, an official document confirming you have not been in trouble in the past five years and evidence of at least £2,000 per month for your intended stay.

You have to attend an interview at a Spanish consulate general – in London or Edinburgh.

A long-stay permit for a specific EU country does not mean that you are entitled to spend more than 90 days in 180 in other Schengen Area nations. But any time spent in the country for which you have a visa doesn’t count towards the 90-day tally.

Increasingly many European nations are setting up “digital nomad” visas, but for these you will need to demonstrate a flow of income.

My passport wasn’t stamped when I left Spain four months ago. Could I be in trouble?

A frontier official could challenge your apparent overstay, but if you are arriving from the UK they are likely to acknowledge that a mistake has been made.

Supporting evidence such as a boarding pass showing a flight from Spain to Britain could be useful to support your version of events.

Will I need a ‘eurovisa’ soon?

Yes. From November 2023 (or possibly later) British visitors will need to register online and pay in advance for an “ Etias “ permit under the European Travel Information and Authorisation System.

This is a relatively light-touch visa, akin to the Esta used by the US. It will cost €7 (£6) for a three-year permit. The 90/180 rule will continue to prevail – limiting the amount of time that can be spent in the Schengen Area.

Didn’t the 90/180 day rule apply to British visitors to the Schengen Area before Brexit, because we were outside the zone?

No, but there is plenty of misinformation online claiming that it did.

The free movement directive of 2004 says: “Citizenship of the Union confers on every citizen of the Union a primary and individual right to move and reside freely within the territory of the Member States,”

Whatever Brexiteers keen to rewrite history may claim, the idea that stays were limited to 90 days in 180 is nonsense – as anyone with an Irish passport will confirm.

The government in Dublin says: “Irish citizens continue to have EU citizenship wherever they live. They continue to enjoy the right to travel and live and work anywhere in the EU.”

An Irish passport holder who lives in the UK is not subject to the 90/180-day rule.

Talking of history, weren’t we assured nothing would change for British travellers after Brexit?

Immediately after the 2016 referendum, Boris Johnson reinforced that impression when he wrote: “British people will still be able to go and work in the EU; to live; to study; to buy homes and settle down.”

Yes. David Davis, the first Brexit secretary, said: “There will be no downside to Brexit, only a considerable upside.”

What does the government say now?

“This is a hugely exciting time for our country, one filled with potential and opportunity.

“This is a government that possesses the ambition and determination the UK needs to succeed now and for many years to come.”

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Confused About the EU’s 90/180 Day Rule? Here’s How it Works

American, Canadian, British, Australian, New Zealand, and citizens of many other non-EU citizens are able to visit and travel in France and the Schengen Zone without the need for a visa under the “90/180-day rule”. This means that you can only visit France (or any other Schengen area country) for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. But how is this 90-day rule calculated, and what impact does this have on your travels to France?

How does the 90-day rule work?

The 90/180-day rule applies to the whole Schengen area, not just France. That means the total number of days that you spend within any of the 26 Schengen zone countries (including Norway, Iceland, and Switzerland). The count starts from the day you enter the Schengen area to the day you leave.

So, for example, if you flew from the UK to France (entering the Schengen area), spent 5 days in France, then drove into Spain for a further 5 days before returning to the UK (leaving the Schengen zone), you would have spent a total of 10 days in Schengen zone.

If you flew from the UK to France (entering the Schengen area), spent 5 days in France before returning to the UK (leaving the Schengen zone) for 5 days, and then flew to Spain for a further 5 days, you would still have spent a total of 10 days in Schengen zone.

It’s the total number of days spent within the Schengen area that is taken into account.

Calculating the 180 days

Where it gets slightly more complicated is the EU definition of ’90 days within any 180-day period’. Here, it’s best to think of the 180 days as a moveable timeframe rather than a fixed 180-day period. The 180 days are counted backwards from the date of arrival or departure from the Schengen area.

Each time you enter or leave Schengen area, a new 180-day period would be calculated from that date. You do not need to concern yourself about dates of previous arrivals and departures, only the total number of days spent within the zone during that particular 180-day period.

If you arrived in France from the UK on March 15th, it would be the 180 days before March 15th that would be taken into account. If you had already spent the whole months of November, December, and January in France (totalling 90 days) and hoped to return on March 15th, you would be refused entry.

Planning your trip to France

If you are planning multiple trips to France, it can quickly get confusing! Using this short stay calculator  can help. Enter the dates of entry and exit, and it will calculate the total number of days (and remaining days) within a 180 day period. The ‘control’ option allows you to calculate the length of previous stays or your current stay. The ‘planning’ option lets you set the date you plan to return to the Schengen area and will inform you of how many days you have left to use.

What are the penalties for overstaying?

For Brits or other non-EU travellers who overstay the 90 days, the penalty is typically a fine and an order to leave the country within 30 days. If you failed to leave the country after that order expires, the penalties would be far more severe.

For frequent travellers and second-home owners, the biggest consequence of this is receiving an ‘over-stay’ flag on your passport. Not only can this make it more difficult to re-enter France in the future, it could affect your chances of receiving a visa in any other country you choose to visit. If you ever chose to apply for a long-stay visa or seek residency in France, this over-stay flag would almost certainly make your application more difficult and could be grounds for refusal.

In recent years, we’ve heard reports of Brits who have overstayed their 90 days (by even just two days) and have received a €198 fine as well as an over-stay stamp in their passport; we’ve also heard of others who have passed through with nothing more than a warning. Our advice is to make sure you fully understand the 90-day rule, always stay within the limits (do   not   assume that overstaying by one or two days will be overlooked – it won’t!), and make sure that your passport is correctly stamped whenever you enter or leave the zone.

Staying in France for more than 90 days?

If you plan to stay in France for more than 90 days in a 180 day period, or spend over 90 consecutive days in France, you will need to apply for a long-stay visa or visa de long séjour temporaire visiteur. This allows you to stay up to one year, but not to work or study. Visa applications are considered on an individual basis, and you must prove that you have sufficient funds and healthcare coverage for the duration of your stay. If you are not sure what kind of visa you need, our complete guide to French visas is the best place to start.

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What Summer Travel to Europe Will Look Like This Year

By Arati Menon

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

With additional reporting by Sarah Allard

When travel journalist Jenn Rice decided to spend July and August in Italy and Croatia last year, she wasn’t expecting to be spending most of her time indoors. “It was very very hot, so I booked museum tickets during peak days or just lounged around in my room with a spritz and a book until the sun set.” In Dubrovnik she tried escaping to the sea for a cool dip, but everyone else had the same idea—resulting in sweaty, overcrowded beaches. “In Rome , gelato melted faster than the speed of light,” she says.

Come summer, major attractions like the Spanish Steps in Rome are thronged by international tourists and vacationing Europeans.

Rome and Dubrovnik weren’t the only European destinations overcome with heat. To travel in Europe in the summer of 2023 was to experience first-hand a single season of contrasting extremes. Temperatures swung from hot and dry to cold and wet, and heatwaves broke out across several of the most heavily touristed destinations, with temperatures reaching upwards of 100°F. In Northern Greece, wildfires broke out —the worst experienced there in 20 years —destroying homes, forests, and vineyards.

Yet in the midst of it all, the continent also saw record-breaking tourist numbers —the highest since pre-pandemic levels—even as hotel prices swelled and airfares hit peaks. From scenic escapes like Bellagio in Como and Taormina in Sicily (where the White Lotus effect was on full display) to bucket-list cities like Paris and Madrid , much of touristed Europe was completely overwhelmed.

“We had people calling us from Athens and Rome asking us to get them out [to somewhere cooler in Europe], because it was too hot and too crowded,” recalls Jan Sortland , founder of Scandinavia specialists Norwegian Adventures.

International tourists weren’t the only ones thronging these spots. According to the European Travel Commission , most Europeans took their vacations before the peak month of August, with Italy and France being their top destinations. This resulted in packed crowds at all the major attractions. For John Canning, an LA-based executive who traveled to Paris in July, the crowds were eye-opening. “We didn’t anticipate that everything we would want to see was sold out. We only got Musée d’Orsay tickets through our concierge at a substantial premium and could not get into the Louvre full stop,” he says.

Rice says the summer taught her to plan her travel differently this year—and beyond: “I’m going to try and do coastal Italy early in May, and if I decide to travel in Europe this summer it will be either Asturias in Northern Spain or the Julian Alps in Slovenia to keep cool."

She’s not alone—according to the travel specialists we spoke with, there’s an increased interest in lesser-known destinations offering a more laid back (and cooler) holiday. “Our guests are asking after places where they can be outdoors, yet have access to wine & foodie experiences and culture. Slovenia is a great example of where you can have all that without being overwhelmed with the heat; the Dolomites in Italy is another,” says Rachael Mendizabal, Europe travel specialist at Scott Dunn . Richard Hyde, COO at Small Luxury Hotels of the World , is seeing similar trends across their European portfolio: “Guests seem to be gravitating towards alternative destinations—Milos instead of Mykonos and Slovenia instead of Spain.”

Norway is a popular destination this summer, offering cooler weather and a myriad ways to be active outside, exploring the islands and fjords.

A big part of that shift will play into Sortland’s area of expertise: Northern Europe. With the Med getting too hot to handle, experts predict that tourism will shift northwards. “We’re seeing a lot of interest in Copenhagen and Stockholm for the cultural experience, and then onward to Norway for the nature. Currently, the fjords are still a favorite but Norway is a large country and there’s so much more to see—the Helgeland coast for example with its beautiful coastline and mountainous islands,” he says. The draw is a more moderate temperature and unique outdoor experiences. “ Iceland is a big favorite right now with the Northern lights being the most active this year from September through March,” says Mendizabal.

Jessica Puckett

Cassie Shortsleeve

In turn, for many, the more standard city breaks will fall later in the year. “Athens and Rome will always be desirable destinations, but we’ve seen an uptick in many people preferring to go there in May and October to swerve crowds,” says Carolyn Addison, head of product at Black Tomato , noting the weather in fall has been stable lately and enticing to travelers not tied to school holidays.

With this increased flexibility, shoulder season will become tricker to define, according to Mendizabal. Thanks to hotels extending their season as demand shifts to almost year-round and the high-season pricing window getting longer, the days of “scooping a deal in September are likely over.” At Jumeirah Palace in Capri , the season now runs from March to the end of December. “Thanks to the good weather, guests are staying longer than in the past,” says Ermanno Zanini, regional vice president at Jumeirah Group, Southern Europe and United Kingdom.

Castello di Vicarello in Tuscany 's Maremma countryside has traditionally stayed open in March and November. “We're pushing the low season as much as possible because we truly believe it is a wonderful time to discover Tuscany. There is so much for guests to enjoy from hiking to mountain biking, truffle hunting, and wine tastings,” says owner Neri Baccheschi Berti.

Crucially, traveling in the shoulder and off seasons isn't just about avoiding the crowds; it’s knowing that seasonal destinations are multi-dimensional, with year-round appeal. “One of my favorite things to do in cooler weather is to hike to the peak of Mount Solaro, with its beautiful views of the town of Capri and the bay of Marina Piccola with the Faraglioni, as well as Anacapri. You also see plenty of wintering birds on the island,” says Zanini.

Zanini adds that they are in talks with the island's municipality to consider what it would take to stay open in February and March, traditionally strictly closed off. “It's not as straightforward as you think. There’s a lot of infrastructure that needs to be geared towards the low season: restaurants need to stay open, as do shops, and guides need to be available; it can’t just be the hotel,” he adds.

However, with staying open longer, there’s a real opportunity to engage local communities year-round, not to mention stabilize the hiring pool—and improve work culture. “We’ve already seen the positive impact of a longer season for our partners on the ground and locals in the hospitality and tourism sector,” says Addison, who adds that shifts in travel seasons are far from a fleeting trend. “This pattern for more year-round travel will continue to pick up pace in 2025—and beyond," she says.

Travel specialists are quick to point out that even with some of this rebalancing, summer this year and next will continue to see high demand for travel to—and within—Europe. According to Hayley Berg, chief economist at Hopper, while airfare remains higher than at this time in 2019, 40% of all searches for international trips this summer are to Europe, in line with last year and slightly higher than in 2019.

“Sure, we think that traveler numbers on the Côte d'Azur will smooth out through the year, but summer will certainly remain the festive season—only it will be longer,” says Lucie Weill, owner of wellness retreat Lily of the Valley near St. Tropez , which sees its faire share of packed streets and crowded beaches come summer. Weill adds that the hotel has seen success in extending its season.

For travel specialist Cari Gray of Gray & Co . late requests and a lack of flexibility could mean getting turned away because of a lack of availability. “Whether it’s a visit to the Vatican or dogsledding in Alaska , access is going to be very difficult. And there are only that many high-end lodges in Lapland ,” she says. Addison offers the example of Lake Como , where the best properties can often get booked up a year or two in advance during the busiest summer months. “Knowing that the top hotels and guides are getting booked up and that weather disruptions are increasingly unpredictable, clients who want to commit to the most popular summer hotspots in Europe, like the Greek islands and Sardinia are securing their bookings a year out.”

The Balearic island of Menorca is a charming escape with its rocky coves, white-sand beaches, and green rolling hills.

Ultimately, it’s not about giving up on all the places you love: just about pivoting, even if within the same country. “Why not Menorca instead of Mallorca, with its explosion of fantastic hotels and its great beach front, or Epirus in Northern Greece on the Albanian border with its Stone villages, old-growth forests, and truffle hunts instead of the islands," says Gray.

"In Italy we’re always pushing to discover new areas, even in regions that we’ve been exploring for decades like Tuscany and Umbria because new hotels are opening up regularly,” says Courtney Mundy , a travel specialist at experiential travel experts Butterfield & Robinson.

And, a word of caution for the rising favorites: “Smaller destinations in Iceland & Norway will really need to consider how to manage the higher number of visitors than ever before,” says Addison. “Parts of Iceland are overtouristed,” agrees Sortland, “so, it’s not unreasonable to think that smaller communities in Norway could eventually be at risk, too.” Whether it's through new tourist tax regimens or limits on cruise ship day-trippers to reduce crowding, a shifting tide will need more alert local governments—and as we’re swapping beaches for the mountains or Rome for Stockholm, more responsible travel habits that leave fewer traces behind.

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