Many travelers often get confused and many dont even know about this 90/180 rule. Infact passport holders of US, Canada, Taiwan and many other countries, enjoy visa free travel to EU countries (schengen zone) and as per schengen rules, but most importantly, one should keep in mind that you are allowed to stay 90 days out of 180 days. Technically it is interpreted as “90 days IN and 90 days out” over the 180 days.
You get to stay 90 days in schengen states without visa, if you are one of the following:
1. EU/EEA nationals
2. Non-EU nationals of 42 countries which include US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan etc.
3. Holder of residence permit issued by a schengen member country.
Keep in mind that if you are staying more than 90 days, you must register with authorities and apply for residence permit of longer stays more than 90 days.
There is no limitation for the number of times you may enter the Schengen area if the total number of days you stayed in the Schengen-area in the six month period does not exceed 90 days.
Points to Remember about 90/180 rule:
1. The 180 day clock starts ticking, from the date of first entry into schengen.
2. No limitations on number of times, to enter schengen and all the accumulated days will be added up.
3. Stays exceeding 90 days spent, is considered “overstay” and if that happens, you might likely be questioned at passport control. Be careful that never exceed your stay and plan well ahead to leave schengen before the 90 day elapses.
4. Stays in countries UK, Ireland, Romania, Bulgaria do not count as these countries are not not part of schengen zone.
For example if Mr. David has planned for vacation in Italy and Spain. He enters Italy(member state) on Jan 10, then as per the 90/180 rule, then 180 day clock starts from Jan 10 and ends on Jul 10. Mr. David, spends 60 days in Italy and 30 days in Spain and departs on approx April 10 back home. This means he already has consumed his allowed 90 day limit and he will not be able to visit any schengen country not before July 10.
If you are non EU national, always have the following additional documents during entry/exit in passport control:
- Return flight tickets for further journeys (return tickets);
- Evidence of sufficient funds and money
- Hotel reservation or proof of accommodation,
- Invitation letter in case of business visits, conferences.
- The passport validity should be at least three months at the intended time of departure from the Schengen Area.
