Travelling to the EU and Schengen Area
Are you a UK citizen planning to travel to the European Union or countries in the Schengen area? If so, there are a few things you need to know to ensure that your trip is hassle-free.
The good news is that for short trips, you do not need a visa if you’re staying for 90 days or less in a 180-day period and visiting as a tourist or for other specified reasons. This means that you can travel to multiple countries in the Schengen area without needing a visa, as long as your total stay does not exceed 90 days within a 180-day period.
Understanding the rules for UK Citizens travelling to the EU and Schengen Area
To keep track of your stay and ensure that you don’t overstay your welcome, you’ll need to take a few steps. Firstly, check the date you plan to leave the Schengen area on your next trip. Then count back 180 days from that date to get the start of the 180-day period. Next, add up the number of days you have already spent in the Schengen area in that 180-day period, using the dates stamped in your passport showing when you entered and left a country. Finally, work out how many days you will spend in the Schengen area on your next trip and add this number to the number of days you worked out in step 3. Check that the total number of days is not more than 90.
It’s important to note that these rules do not apply to travelling and working in Ireland. If you’re planning to work or stay in the EU for more than 90 days, you may need a visa or permit. The requirements vary depending on the country and the nature of your visit, so it’s important to check the entry requirements of the country you’re visiting to find out what you can and cannot do during your stay.
Exceptions for certain countries in the EU
It’s also worth noting that there are certain countries in the EU that are not in the Schengen area, such as Bulgaria, Cyprus, and Romania. You can stay up to 90 days in a 180-day period in each of these countries without a visa. Any time you spend in the Schengen area does not affect the number of days you can spend in these countries.
Get help from experienced solicitors for your immigration needs
At SilverOak Solicitors, we understand that the traveling rules can be overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to help. Our team of experienced solicitors can guide you through the process of applying for a visa or permit if necessary, and ensure that you have all the required documents to make your trip stress free.
In summary, travelling to the EU and Schengen area can be a great experience as long as you abide by the rules and regulations. By following the guidelines outlined above and doing your research, you can make the most of your trip and enjoy all that these beautiful countries have to offer. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help with your immigration needs.
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