Europe offers an abundance of cultures, histories, and landscapes. Regardless if you’re exploring bustling cities or the scenic countryside, proper preparation is key. Hence, understanding visa requirements ensures you travel smoothly and avoid unwanted surprises. With this in mind, we break down which European countries require a visa to help you plan accordingly.
European Visa Framework
Most of Europe has a unique visa system shaped by the Schengen Agreement. Specifically, the Schengen Area includes 29 countries, which allows travelers to move freely between them. To illustrate this point, once you enter one Schengen country, you can go across others without border checks.
However, not all European countries are part of this system. In fact, there are non-Schengen countries that have their own visa policies, making travel rules more varied. As such, before planning your trip, knowing which visa you need is crucial.
Visa requirements depend on your nationality, travel purpose, and trip length. Particularly, the Schengen visa is one of the most common travel permits travelers worldwide can obtain.
For short stays, many non-European nationalities don’t need a visa. However, other travelers must meet specific requirements and apply in advance.
Schengen Countries Requiring a Visa
The Schengen Area covers much of the European region, from Spain to Sweden. Overall, a Schengen visa allows short stays of up to 90 days within 180 days. But if you hold a passport from certain countries, you’ll need this visa for entry.
Here’s a rundown of Schengen Area countries*:
1. Austria
2. Belgium
3. Bulgaria (as of January 1, 2025)
4. Croatia
5. Czech Republic
6. Denmark
7. Estonia
8. Finland
9. France
10. Germany
11. Greece
12. Hungary
13. Iceland
14. Italy
15. Latvia
16. Liechtenstein
17. Lithuania
18. Luxembourg
19. Malta
20. Netherlands
21. Norway
22. Poland
23. Portugal
24. Romania (as of January 1, 2025)
25. Slovakia
26. Slovenia
27. Spain
28. Sweden
29. Switzerland
*Schengen Area countries subject to change
Do I Need A Schengen Visa?
If you’re a passport holder from any of the following countries, then you generally need a Schengen visa. Correspondingly, this covers tourism, business, or family visits for up to 90 days to the mentioned European countries:
Africa
1. Algeria
2. Angola
3. Benin
4. Burkina Faso
5. Burundi
6. Cameroon
7. Cape Verde
8. Central African Republic
9. Chad
10. Comoros
11. Congo (Republic)
12. Congo (Democratic Republic)
13. Côte d’Ivoire
14. Djibouti
15. Egypt
16. Equatorial Guinea
17. Eritrea
18. Eswatini
19. Ethiopia
20. Gabon
21. Gambia
22. Ghana
23. Guinea
24. Guinea-Bissau
25. Kenya
26. Lesotho
27. Liberia
28. Libya
29. Madagascar
30. Malawi
31. Mali
32. Mauritania
33. Mauritius
34. Morocco
35. Mozambique
36. Namibia
37. Niger
38. Nigeria
39. Rwanda
40. São Tomé and Príncipe
41. Senegal
42. Seychelles
43. Sierra Leone
44. Somalia
45. South Africa
46. South Sudan
47. Sudan
48. Tanzania
49. Togo
50. Tunisia
51. Uganda
52. Zambia
53. Zimbabwe
Asia
1. Afghanistan
2. Armenia
3. Azerbaijan
4. Bahrain
5. Bangladesh
6. Bhutan
7. Cambodia
8. China
9. Georgia (for specific purposes)
10. India
11. Indonesia
12. Iran
13. Iraq
14. Jordan
15. Kazakhstan
16. Kuwait
17. Kyrgyzstan
18. Laos
19. Lebanon
20. Maldives
21. Mongolia
22. Myanmar
23. Nepal
24. North Korea
25. Oman
26. Pakistan
27. Philippines
28. Qatar
29. Saudi Arabia
30. Sri Lanka
31. Syria
32. Tajikistan
33. Thailand
34. Timor-Leste
35. Turkmenistan
36. Uzbekistan
37. Vietnam
38. Yemen
Middle East
1. Iran
2. Iraq
3. Lebanon
4. Syria
5. Yemen
Americas
1. Belize
2. Bolivia
3. Cuba
4. Dominican Republic
5. Ecuador
6. Guyana
7. Haiti
8. Jamaica
9. Suriname
Oceania
1. Fiji
2. Kiribati
3. Marshall Islands
4. Micronesia
5. Nauru
6. Palau
7. Papua New Guinea
8. Samoa
9. Solomon Islands
10. Tonga
11. Tuvalu
12. Vanuatu
Popular European Destinations
Many European countries are part of the Schengen Area. For instance, many travelers like to go to France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. On the other hand, countries like Greece, Austria, and the Netherlands are also popular. Regardless of your destination, though, make sure to check specific requirements before applying.
Some nations like Japan, Singapore, and New Zealand enjoy visa-free access to Schengen countries. However, even these travelers must adhere to the 90-day limit. For extended stays, separate permits or visas are necessary.
Non-Schengen European Countries
Not all European countries follow Schengen rules. For the most part, non-Schengen countries have independent visa policies, and rules may vary widely. For this reason, let’s break down some of the most notable ones.
1. United Kingdom: Since Brexit, the UK has operated independently of the European Union (EU) and Schengen systems. Meanwhile, US, Canadian, and EU citizens can visit visa-free for up to six months. However, visitors from countries like India or Nigeria will need a visa. In addition, applications typically involve proof of funds and travel plans.
2. Ireland: Ireland isn’t part of the Schengen Area, but EU citizens can enter it freely. Specifically, visitors from the US, Canada, and Australia can stay visa-free for 90 days. On the other hand, travelers from other nations may need a visa.
3. Turkey: Turkey requires a visa for many travelers, but the process is straightforward. Specifically, eligible nationalities, like US or Canadian citizens, can apply for an eVisa online. In contrast, certain travelers, such as EU passport holders, enjoy visa-free entry for short visits.
4. Eastern European countries: Countries like Ukraine, Moldova, and Belarus have unique visa rules. For instance, Ukraine offers visa-free access to EU, US, and Canadian citizens for short stays. In the same way, Moldova follows similar policies, but Belarus often requires a visa unless you qualify for special programs.
5. The Balkans: Several Balkan countries, including Serbia, Montenegro, and North Macedonia, allow visa-free travel for many nationalities. However, for extended stays or specific purposes like work, applying for a visa may be necessary. As such, always check with consulates before traveling.
Visa Requirement Tips
To avoid visa mishaps while traveling to Europe, travelers must plan their trips carefully. With this in mind, here are some tips to simplify the process:
1. Check visa requirements early: Visit official European government websites to confirm whether you need a visa. It’s important to realize that information can vary depending on your nationality and destination.
2. Apply ahead of time: Start your visa application process as soon as you plan your trip. It must be remembered that processing times can take weeks or longer.
3. Prepare documents thoroughly: Gather all required materials, such as a valid passport, recent photos, and proof of accommodation. Overall, missing items can delay visa approval.
4. Use technology: Many European countries offer eVisas or online applications, making the process faster and more convenient. As such, always verify your eligibility.
5. Understand transit rules: If you’re traveling through a Schengen country to reach a non-Schengen destination, then you may need a transit visa.
Planning ahead ensures a smoother trip. So if you are uncertain, contact the nearest embassy or consulate for guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I visit both Schengen and non-Schengen countries on the same trip?
Yes, but you must meet European visa requirements for each. It must be remembered that transit visas may apply if you’ll be crossing Schengen borders.
How long does it take to get a visa?
Processing times for a Schengen visa vary, often ranging from two weeks to two months. With this in mind, apply early to avoid delays.
What happens if I overstay my visa?
Overstaying in a European country can result in fines, deportation, or travel bans. As such, always stick to your visa’s conditions.
Is the ETIAS the same as a visa?
No, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is not the same as a visa. While both ETIAS and visas are travel authorizations, they serve different purposes and apply to different travelers.
The ETIAS is a security measure for travelers who currently enjoy visa-free access to the Schengen Area. It simplifies travel while enhancing security. If you’re from a country that requires a Schengen visa, then you’ll still need to obtain a visa and not an ETIAS.
Do I need a visa for a layover in Europe?
If transiting through a Schengen airport, then you may need an airport transit visa depending on your nationality.
Can I extend my visa-free stay in Europe?
Visa-free travelers generally cannot extend their stay beyond 90 days in a European country. For tihs reason, for longer stays, you’ll need a visa or permit.
Can I appeal a visa rejection?
Yes, you can appeal if your visa application is denied. In this situation, note that the process varies by country.
