List of Schengen Countries

Picture this – you are lounging on the beautiful beaches of Greece, exploring the ancient ruins, and indulging in some tasty Mediterranean cuisine. Well, guess what? Greece is one of the countries on the Schengen list. What does that mean? It means that once you are in Greece, you can also hop over to other Schengen countries without worrying about border checks or annoying visa requirements.

If you are planning a trip to Europe, there is a list of Schengen countries you should be well aware of. They are like a group of European countries that have a special Agreement. If you are not familiar with it, no worries — we will break it down for you.

There are a total of 27 countries on the Schengen list, and you can travel to all these countries without needing to apply and avail of a visa for each country individually. Imagine the possibilities! You can start your European adventure in Italy, roam around the Colosseum, and then, without any hassle, make your way to Germany and explore the historic Berlin Wall. You don’t need to worry about getting a visa for each country or going through tedious Passport checks at every border. A trip to multiple nations that belong to the list of Schengen countries is like travelling through a magical, visa-free wonderland.

So, whether you are planning to wander through the charming streets of Paris, visit the stunning fjords and northern lights in Norway, or soak up the sun in Spain, keep in mind that all these countries feature in the list of countries under Schengen Agreement. It is a game-changer for travellers who want to explore multiple European destinations without any unnecessary complications.

Now that you know that you can visit 27 nations with one visa, let us run you through the minute details of the Schengen list.

What are Schengen Countries?

The name “Schengen” comes from a little village in Luxembourg, near the borders of Germany and France. In 1985, this is where the Schengen Agreement got signed.

The Schengen List is a significant achievement of the European project. It started in 1985 when five EU countries (France, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg) decided to work together. Over time, more countries joined, and now it is the largest free travel area in the world.

Basically, the list of Schengen countries is a group of European nations that have come together and formed a special Agreement that allows people to move freely between these countries without any border checks or visa requirements. The decision enables better control of the borders with non-Schengen countries, promotes unity among their citizens, and strengthens their shared legal system.

Note that most countries in the European Union are part of the Schengen Area, but there are some exceptions, like Ireland. Additionally, a few countries, such as Bulgaria, Romania, and Cyprus, may join the Schengen Area in the near future. The advantage of the Schengen Area is that you can travel between countries within it without facing border controls or going through lengthy formalities.

If you are travelling from India, a Schengen visa lets you stay for a maximum period of 90 days. However, the specific duration depends on the type of visa you have.

List of Schengen Countries

Given below is the Schengen country name list and when the countries signed and implemented the Schengen Agreement.

Information for Schengen Countries

Now that you know the European Union Schengen countries list, let us help you with some important points you should keep in mind if you plan to visit any of the countries from the Schengen list. Here are some key tips and information:

• Visa requirements: As an Indian traveller, you will need a Schengen Visa to enter a Europe Schengen country. Check the specific visa requirements before planning your trip. Apply for the visa well in advance to allow for processing time.
• Validity and duration: Ensure that your Passport is valid for at least 3 months from your intended departure date from the Schengen country. The Schengen visa typically allows a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period. Be mindful of this restriction to avoid any overstays.
• Travel insurance: It is wise to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost belongings. Confirm that your insurance policy meets the minimum coverage requirements, usually a minimum of 30,000 euros.
• Border checks: While internal border controls got abolished within the list of countries in Schengen Area, occasional random checks may still occur. Member countries have the right to conduct temporary border controls for a maximum of 30 days under exceptional circumstances like security issues. Carry your Passport or national ID card at all times during your travels, as you may be required to present identification when crossing borders.
• Currency: Most Schengen countries use the euro as their currency. Ensure you have some local currency or a payment card accepted widely to cover your expenses. Research and learn about exchange rates and consider notifying your bank about your travel plans to avoid any card-related issues.
• Health and safety: Take necessary health precautions by checking if you need any vaccinations for the countries you plan to visit. Also, be aware of local laws, customs, and emergency contact numbers. Keep important documents, including copies of your passport and travel insurance, in a safe place.
• Itinerary and accommodation: Plan your itinerary in advance and ensure you have confirmed accommodation for each destination within the Schengen Area. Having proof of accommodation and a well-organised travel plan may help with the visa application process.
• Take note of non-Schengen countries: Note that some European Union countries are not part of the list of Schengen countries in Europe. In case you want to visit any of the nations, note that your Schengen Visa won’t be enough. You will have to apply for a separate visa to enter these European countries that are not in the Schengen country name list.

Make sure you conduct thorough research, seek updated information from official sources, and consult with relevant authorities or Embassies before your trip. Following these tips will help you have a memorable and trouble-free journey in the Schengen countries.

The Essential Features of the Schengen Zone

Given below are some of the essential features of Europe Schengen countries.

• Citizens of any country can freely travel across internal borders within the Schengen Area. They can do so without having to face checks or formalities, thus enjoying convenience for tourism and business purposes.
• It is important to understand that the European Union Schengen countries list and the European Union (EU) are two separate things. Non-EU citizens can obtain a Schengen Visa and avail of the free-border Schengen Area. Remember that the Schengen Area operates as its own entity. The Schengen countries have signed the Schengen Agreement, and EU countries have signed EU treaties. Not every EU member is on the Schengen list. Also, EU countries have their own foreign policies.
• The Schengen member countries have strong relationships with each other’s law enforcement agencies, which enhances security and support for residents and citizens. This is a significant benefit for those considering citizenship or residency in another country.
• The judicial and police systems of the Schengen countries collaborate closely to combat crime and maintain security within the zone, ensuring a coordinated effort in law enforcement.
• The Schengen Information System (SIS) is a shared database among Schengen list countries. It allows them to exchange information and monitor operations. Even though there is freedom of travel within the internal borders of Schengen countries, police still have authorisation to conduct checks to ensure safety and security. If you have obtained citizenship through investment, you still need to comply with the law if there is any reason for police intervention.

Frequently Asked Questions on Schengen Countries in Europe

Can a Schengen visa holder travel to multiple countries?

Yes, a Schengen Visa holder can travel to multiple countries within the Schengen list. The Schengen Visa allows entry and unrestricted travel across all 27 countries. This means you can visit various Schengen countries during the validity of your visa without needing separate visas for each country. It provides the convenience of exploring different destinations within the Schengen Zone without border checks or formalities at internal borders. However, do ensure that your visa remains valid and you comply with the maximum stay duration allowed by this category of visa. It is wise to research the countries you can visit on a Schengen Visa and not invite any legal hassle.

Which are the non-Schengen countries in Europe?

When you check the Schengen visa countries list, do remember to look up the names of nations not included in the listicle. There are 5 countries which are not part of the list of Schengen countries in Europe. They are – Bulgaria, Romania, Cyprus, Ireland and the United Kingdom.

How to apply for a Schengen visa from India?

To apply for a Schengen visa from India, first, determine the Schengen country you plan to visit and find out which Consulate/Embassy you need to apply to. Gather all the required documents, such as a completed application form, valid Passport, passport-sized photos, travel itinerary, accommodation details, travel insurance, financial documents, proof of employment or studies, and a cover letter explaining the purpose of your trip. Next, make an appointment with the Embassy or Consulate for visa submission. Attend the appointment, submit your application, pay the visa fee, and, if necessary, attend a visa interview. Finally, wait for the processing time and collect your Passport once the visa gets approved.

How long does it take to get a Schengen visa?

The processing time for Schengen Visa applications from India is usually around 15 days. However, during busy periods, it may take up to 30 days. In some complex cases or when there is a backlog of applications, it can take up to 60 days. That’s why applying early is essential to prevent potential delays and ensure you receive your visa in time for your planned trip.

How to check Schengen visa status?

Once you have applied for a Schengen Visa, you will receive an email when the concerned authorities make a decision on your application. If you don’t have easy access to email or prefer more detailed tracking information, you might have the option to receive updates through SMS on your phone. Check with the Schengen Visa Application Centre you visited to see if this service is available. You can also track the status of your visa application online using the Reference Number found on the invoice or receipt provided by the Application Centre, along with your last name.