You can stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This is a rolling limit, not fixed dates. Time spent in all Schengen countries counts together, not separately.
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Schengen Tourist Visa
If you live in the UK and want to travel to Europe for a holiday, you may need a Schengen tourist visa. This visa allows you to visit countries in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180 days. It is meant for tourism, holidays, visiting family, or short trips. It is not for work, long stays, or moving abroad.
Schengen Area countries
The Schengen Area includes 29 European countries that share the same visa rules. With one visa, you can travel between them without border checks inside the zone.
Do UK residents need a tourist visa?
It depends on your passport:
You do NOT need a visa if:
It depends on your passport:
- You hold a UK passport
- Your trip is 90 days or less
- Your purpose is tourism or short visit
You DO need a visa if:
It depends on your passport:
- Your passport is from a visa-required country
- Even if you live legally in the UK
Your UK visa, BRP, or residency does not replace a Schengen visa.
Visa fees are:
- Adults: €90
- Children (6–12): €45
Important 2026 update (must know)
As of April 2026, the EU has introduced a system called:
Entry/Exit System (EES)
- It records your entry and exit digitally
- No more passport stamping
- Your fingerprints and facial image may be taken
- It applies to short-stay travellers
ETIAS (not active yet)
- ETIAS is NOT started yet
- Expected to begin in late 2026
- It will apply to visa-free travellers only
- It is not a visa, just a travel authorisation
Which country should you apply to?
This is very important and often done wrong.
You must apply to:
- The country where you will stay the longest, OR
- If equal stay, the country you will enter first
Example:
- 5 days in France + 3 days in Italy → Apply to France
- 4 days France + 4 days Italy → Apply to the first country you enter
Applying to the wrong country can lead to delays or rejection.
Can you apply from the UK?
Yes, you can apply from the UK if:
- You are legally living in the UK
- You can prove your residency status
You will need to show documents like:
- BRP (if applicable)
- Visa or residency proof
When should you apply?
You can apply:
- Up to 6 months before travel
- At least 15 days before travel
But in reality, you should apply early, because:
- Normal processing time is 15 days
- It can take up to 45 days in some cases
Required documents (simple explanation)
You will need:
Basic documents
- Valid passport (issued within last 10 years)
- Must be valid for 3 months after return date
- Visa application form
- Passport-size photo
Travel details
- Flight booking (or itinerary)
- Hotel booking or accommodation proof
Financial proof
- Bank statements
- Payslips or income proof
- Evidence you can support yourself
Purpose of visit
- Travel plan or itinerary
- Reason for visit (tourism)
UK residency proof
- BRP or valid UK visa
- Proof you live in the UK legally
Travel insurance
- Medical emergencies
- Hospital treatment
- Repatriation (including death)
- Minimum coverage: €30,000
Important note about money requirements
There is no single fixed amount for bank balance across all countries. Each Schengen country may expect different financial proof. So do NOT rely on random numbers online.
Biometrics (fingerprints)
You will need to give:
- Fingerprints
- Digital photo
If you gave fingerprints before:
- They can be reused for up to 59 months
- But you may still be asked to give them again
Processing time
- Standard: 15 days
- Maximum: up to 45 days
Delays can happen if:
- Documents are missing
- More checks are needed
If your visa is refused
You will:
- Get a written reason
- Be told how to appeal
Final advice
If you are applying from the UK:
- Always check if your passport needs a visa
- Apply to the correct country
- Follow the official checklist of that country
- Prepare documents carefully
Do not assume all countries have the same process. The rules are shared, but documents and procedures can vary.
Frequently asked Questions (FAQ's)
-
What is the 90/180-day rule and how does it work?
-
Which countries are included in the Schengen area?
The Schengen area includes most EU countries plus a few non-EU ones like Norway, Switzerland, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. Countries like Ireland are not part of Schengen.
-
Where should I apply if I’m visiting multiple countries?
Apply to the country where you’ll spend the most time. If your stay is evenly split, apply to the country you’ll enter first.
-
Can I enter from a different country than the one that issued my visa?
Yes, but your main destination should match your visa application. Border officers may ask questions if your travel plan looks inconsistent.
-
How long does the visa processing take?
Usually around 15 days, but it can take up to 30 or even 45 days if additional checks are required.
-
What documents are required for a tourist visa?
You typically need: * Valid passport (issued within last 10 years, valid 3 months after return) * Completed application form * Passport-size photos * Travel insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage) * Flight booking or travel plan * Hotel booking or accommodation proof * Bank statements (usually last 3–6 months) * Proof of employment or study
-
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, it’s mandatory. It must cover medical emergencies and repatriation with at least €30,000 coverage across all Schengen countries.
-
What happens if I overstay my visa?
Overstaying can lead to fines, entry bans, or problems getting future visas. Even a short overstay can cause issues.
-
What is multiple-entry vs single-entry visa?
A single-entry visa allows one visit. A multiple-entry visa lets you enter and leave multiple times within the validity period, as long as you follow the 90/180 rule.
At Cheap Flights Fare Visa Consultancy, we simplify your journey with trusted visa guidance, transparent processes, and dedicated support, helping you travel with confidence.
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- visa@cheapflightsfare.uk
- 0208 432 9595
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