Brexit has brought many changes for UK citizens, especially when it comes to traveling in Europe. Many people are unsure about how long they can stay in European countries now that the UK is no longer part of the European Union. This article will explain the rules and provide useful tips for traveling in Europe after Brexit.
Understanding the Schengen Area
What is the Schengen Area?
The Schengen Area is a group of 26 European countries that have agreed to allow free movement across their borders. This means you can travel between these countries without going through passport control. Some of the popular countries in the Schengen Area include France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Greece.
How Does Brexit Affect Travel to the Schengen Area?
Before Brexit, UK citizens could travel freely within the Schengen Area for an unlimited amount of time. However, after Brexit, the rules have changed. UK citizens are now treated as third-country nationals, which means they are subject to different rules.
Visa-Free Travel for UK Citizens
How Long Can UK Citizens Stay in the Schengen Area?
UK citizens can still travel to the Schengen Area without a visa for short stays. This means you can stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This rule applies to the entire Schengen Area, not just individual countries. So, if you spend 30 days in France, you will have 60 days left to spend in other Schengen countries within the same 180-day period.
What Counts as a “Day” in the Schengen Area?
A “day” is counted as any day you are present in the Schengen Area, even if it’s just for a few hours. For example, if you arrive in Spain on Monday and leave on Tuesday, that counts as two days.
How to Calculate Your 90 Days
To avoid overstaying, it’s important to keep track of your days in the Schengen Area. You can use a Schengen visa calculator to help you keep track. These tools allow you to enter your travel dates and will calculate how many days you have left.
Long-Term Stays in Europe
What If I Want to Stay Longer Than 90 Days?
If you want to stay in a Schengen country for more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a visa. The type of visa you need will depend on the purpose of your stay, such as work, study, or family reasons.
National Visas vs. Schengen Visas
Each Schengen country has its own rules for long-term stays. These are called national visas. For example, if you want to stay in France for more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a French national visa. This visa allows you to stay in France for a longer period, but it does not allow you to travel freely to other Schengen countries.
Applying for a National Visa
The process for applying for a national visa can be complex and time-consuming. You will need to provide various documents, such as proof of accommodation, proof of financial means, and a valid reason for your stay. It’s important to start the application process well in advance of your planned travel date.
Traveling to Non-Schengen European Countries
European Countries Outside the Schengen Area
Not all European countries are part of the Schengen Area. Some popular destinations, like Croatia, Romania, and Bulgaria, are not part of the Schengen Area but are part of the European Union. Other countries, like Ireland, have their own rules.
How Long Can I Stay in Non-Schengen Countries?
The rules for staying in non-Schengen countries vary. For example, UK citizens can stay in Ireland for up to 90 days without a visa. However, if you want to stay longer, you will need to apply for a visa or residency permit.
Traveling Between Schengen and Non-Schengen Countries
If you plan to travel between Schengen and non-Schengen countries, you need to be aware of the different rules. For example, if you spend 90 days in the Schengen Area, you cannot simply cross into a non-Schengen country and reset your 90-day limit. The 90-day rule applies to the entire Schengen Area, regardless of whether you travel to non-Schengen countries.
Practical Tips for Traveling in Europe After Brexit
Keep Your Passport Updated
Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen Area. Some countries may deny entry if your passport is close to expiring.
Check Entry Requirements
Before you travel, check the entry requirements for each country you plan to visit. Some countries may require additional documents, such as proof of accommodation or a return ticket.
Travel Insurance
It’s always a good idea to have travel insurance when traveling abroad. Make sure your insurance covers medical expenses, as healthcare costs can be high in some European countries.
Keep Track of Your Days
As mentioned earlier, it’s important to keep track of your days in the Schengen Area. Overstaying your 90-day limit can result in fines, bans, or even deportation.
Be Aware of Local Laws
Each country has its own laws and regulations. Make sure you are aware of the local laws, especially if you plan to drive, as driving rules can vary between countries.
Conclusion
Traveling in Europe after Brexit has become a bit more complicated for UK citizens. However, with proper planning and awareness of the rules, you can still enjoy your trip without any issues. Remember, you can stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa. If you plan to stay longer, you will need to apply for a visa. Always check the entry requirements for each country you plan to visit and keep track of your days to avoid overstaying. Safe travels!
Related topics:
How Long Can I Spend in Europe After Brexit?
Which Country Has the Best Economy in Europe?
Is Travel from the UK to Germany Allowed?
