The rules for travelling or working in European countries changed on 1 January 2021:
- You can travel to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel as a tourist, to visit family or friends, to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events, or for short-term studies or training.
- If you are travelling through the Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.
- To stay longer, to work or study, for business travel or for other reasons in the Schengen area, you will need to meet that particular country's government’s entry requirements.
- If you stay in the Schengen area with a visa or permit, this does not count towards the 90-day visa-free limit.
Any time you spent in Schengen countries before 1 January 2021 does not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit.
At border control, you may need to use separate lanes from EU, EEA and Swiss citizens when queueing. Your passport may be stamped on entry and exit. You may also need to:
- Show a return or onward ticket
- Show you have enough money for your stay
There are separate requirements for those who are resident in that particular European country. If you are resident in Spain for example, you should carry proof of residence as well as your valid passport when you travel. For further information on these requirements, see our Living in Spain guide.