UK Passport Holder
The UK is no longer a member of the EU, so the rules are different for British citizens:
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Short Stays: British citizens can stay in Schengen Area countries (most EU countries, plus a few others) for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa. This is often referred to as the "90/180 rule." This applies for tourism, business, family visits, and other short-term purposes.
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Long Stays: If you wish to stay longer than 90 days in any 180-day period, you will generally need to apply for a long-term visa or residence permit specific to the country you plan to stay in. The requirements and process vary by country.
EU Passport Holder
- Being a member of the European Union (EU) and holding an EU passport means you are an EU citizen.
- As an EU citizen, you have the right to move freely within the EU/EEA (European Economic Area) countries and Switzerland.
- This means you can stay, live, work, or study in another EU/EEA country or Switzerland without a visa or any time restrictions.
- There is no limit to how long you can stay in another EU/EEA country or Switzerland.
List of European Schengen Zone Countries (2024)
As of 2024, the Schengen Zone comprises 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
These countries have abolished internal borders with each other, allowing for passport-free movement across most of Europe. Note that some EU countries are not part of the Schengen Area, and some non-EU countries are part of it. Always check the latest updates, as membership can change.
List of European Non- Schengen Zone Countries (2024)
As of 2024, the following European countries are not part of the Schengen Zone:
EU Member States Not in the Schengen Area
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Ireland
- Romania
Non-EU Countries Not in the Schengen Area
- Albania
- Andorra
- Armenia
- Azerbaijan
- Belarus
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Georgia
- Kosovo
- Moldova
- Monaco
- Montenegro
- North Macedonia
- Russia
- San Marino
- Serbia
- Turkey
- Ukraine
- United Kingdom
- Vatican City
These countries either have their own border control policies or have not yet fully implemented the Schengen Agreement. Always verify the latest information, as changes can occur over time.
Summary
- EU Passport: Unlimited stay in EU/EEA countries and Switzerland.
- UK British Passport: Up to 90 days within any 180-day period in Schengen Area countries without a visa; longer stays require a visa or residence permit.