Schengen Visas

Visitors entering the Schengen Area need to be aware of the visa permission they require and the length of time they are permitted to remain in the Area. Failure to understand these requirements could result in long-term immigration consequences which could result in deportation, fines, and entry bans.

What is the Schengen Area

The Schengen Area is made up of 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.

Romania, Bulgaria and Cyprus are also expected to join the Area shortly.

The Area operates on the basis of having no internal borders, thus permitting the free movement of people across countries. While those who are not nationals of a member country are free to move within the Area freely, entry visas may still be required, and all visitors should be aware of the time restrictions on their stays.

Visa Requirements

Nationals of these countries generally require visas to enter the Schengen Area.

Extensive documentation must be provided in support of the application whether the purpose of travel is:

• Attending a cultural, sports or religious event
• Business trip
• Medical
• Study
• Tourism
• Training
• Transit
• Visiting family or friends.

90/180 Rule

All visitors regardless of visa status must fully understand the 90/180 rule when entering the Schengen Area. The rule dictates the length of time an individual can remain in the Area and failure to pay attention to this can result in a person overstaying their permission.

Visitors must not remain in the Schengen Area for more than 90 days in any 180 days period whether through frequent short trips or long stays. The 180-day period is a rolling timeframe therefore is counted backwards from a person’s most recent entry or exit date.  

Failure to miscalculate the time a person has spent in the Area can lead to long-term immigration consequences.

How can Freeths help?

Freeths can provide a specialist advice to ensure individuals and businesses satisfy the requirements of their Schengen visa applications. We can advise and review documentation, draft supporting documents and advise on the interview process and visa conditions.

We understand how important it is to secure the correct visa clearance quickly and seamlessly and how stressful the process can be for businesses and individuals who are unfamiliar with the process. We are on hand to support you through the process and make obtaining your visa as stress-free as possible.

If you require legal assistance or would just like to discuss your situation with one of our experts, please contact our immigration team.