Question 1

What EU countries are not part of the Schengen Area?

Accepted Answer

The only two EU countries not part of Schengen are Ireland and Cyprus. These are good options for people wishing to remain within the EU but extend their 90-day visa.

Question 2

What countries are in the Schengen Area?

Accepted Answer

With the integration of Bulgaria and Romania, the Schengen Area now consists of 29 countries and covers most of mainland Europe. Twenty five of these belong to the EU and four are associated with the European Free Trade Association. Those countries that fall within the Schengen Area listed here:

Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Question 3

Where should I go in Europe to make my Schengen visa last longer?

Accepted Answer

There are still many excellent options within Europe that are not part of the Schengen area. Consider planning a visit to the Balkans (Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia or Albania) or Türkiye to extend your 90-days within 180-days. Alternatively, consider the United Kingdom and Ireland for a more Western European Adventure.

Question 4

Will travelling to Bulgaria and Romania count towards my 90 Schengen visa days?

Accepted Answer

Yep - From 1 March 2024 any time spent in Bulgaria and Romania will count towards your total Schengen visa days. Take care when planning to avoid overstaying your visa.

Question 5

Will Bulgaria and Romania change currencies to the Euro when it joins Schengen?

Accepted Answer

No, changing the the Euro is separate to joining Schengen and has different criteria. Bulgaria is currently using the Lev and is planning to switch to the Euro in January 2025, provided that it can meet the requirements. Romania is currently using the Lue and is working towards switching to the Euro by 2026.

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