A Brief Overview
The Schengen Visa allows non-Schengen country citizens to travel freely across 26 European countries. The treaty, conceptualized in 1985 and enforced in 1995, promotes the idea of Schengen states as a single travel area with minimal border checks, while integrating provisions into European Union law through the Amsterdam Treaty of 1997.
Schengen Member States
The 26 Schengen countries include:
- 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
- *Exclusions apply: Denmark (Greenland & Faroe Islands), France (overseas territories), Netherlands (Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten, Caribbean Netherlands), Norway (Svalbard), Spain (Ceuta & Melilla)
- Non-EU members: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland
- EU members not in Schengen: United Kingdom, Ireland
Visa Validity & Entry Types
Schengen visas allow stays of up to 3 months within a 6-month period from the date of first entry. Visas can be:
- Single-entry: Continuous stay from date of entry.
- Multiple-entry: Travel in and out of Schengen countries, cumulative stay not exceeding 3 months in 6 months.
Types of Schengen Visa
- Type A: Airport transit visa for travelers connecting flights through a Schengen airport without entering the country.
- Type B: Short transit visa for journeys under 5 days; largely replaced by Type C.
- Type C: Standard short-stay visa for tourism or business, valid up to 90 days in a 6-month period. Can be issued as single, double, or multiple entry.
- Type D: Long-stay visa for study, work, or residence exceeding 90 days (up to 1 year).
Transit Permit
A 5-day airport transit visa allows international travelers to stay in the transit lounge of Schengen airports while connecting flights.
Conclusion
The Schengen Visa provides the flexibility to explore Europe for tourism, business, or transit purposes. For personalized guidance or additional information, you can contact One world axis Immigration Services by email at info@One world axis.com, where experienced consultants can assist with your travel and visa requirements.