List of Schengen Countries

Check this comprehensive list of Schengen countries and their official languages. Prepare for your next European adventure.
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16-January-2024

The concept of the Schengen area has transformed the way Europeans travel, offering a seamless and borderless experience across participating nations. If you are planning to explore this unique travel arrangement, getting an idea regarding the list of countries and other details becomes vital. The Schengen visa is one of the most popular types of visas, allowing visitors to travel freely between participating countries.

In this article, we will delve into the definition of Schengen countries, explore the features of Schengen visa countries, and conclude with the significance of this unified travel zone. This article also underscores the significance of travel insurance for Schengen visa. Know why travel insurance is mandatory for the visa application.

What are the Schengen countries?

The Schengen area, named after the 1985 Schengen agreement, is a coalition of European countries that have eliminated border controls for internal travel. The primary goal is to create a unified space where citizens and visitors can move freely without passport checks at internal borders. The agreement aims to promote economic growth and increase travel within the area by removing internal border checks. The Schengen area is not synonymous with the European Union (EU), although many Schengen countries are EU members.

Schengen countries list

The list of Schengen countries comprises 27 nations, fostering a harmonious travel experience for millions of residents and visitors alike. Given below is the Schengen visa countries list:

Austria

Hungary

Belgium

Iceland

Czech Republic

Italy

Croatia

Latvia

Denmark

Liechtenstein

Estonia

Lithuania

Finland

Luxembourg

France

Malta

Germany

Netherlands

Greece

Norway

Poland

Slovenia

Portugal

Spain

Slovakia

Sweden

Switzerland

  


What is the Schengen Agreement?

The Schengen Agreement, initiated in 1985, established the Schengen Area, a coalition of European nations fostering passport-free travel across their borders. This arrangement abolishes internal border controls, enhancing ease of movement. While not synonymous with the European Union, many Schengen countries are EU members. This initiative promotes economic growth, tourism, and cultural exchange by creating a unified space where citizens and visitors can navigate freely.

Features of Schengen visa countries

  • Unified visa policy: All Schengen countries adhere to a common visa policy, simplifying the process for travellers. A single Schengen visa allows entry into any of the member states.
  • Freedom of movement: One of the key features is the elimination of internal border controls. Once you enter a Schengen country, you can move freely within the entire Schengen area without encountering additional passport checks.
  • Consistent entry requirements: While each country retains its sovereignty in determining entry requirements, Schengen countries share common principles, making it easier for travellers to understand and fulfil visa requirements.
  • Short-stay visas: The Schengen visa is typically a short-stay visa, allowing visitors to stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days within a 180-day-period. This is suitable for tourism, business, or family visits.
  • Single application process: Travellers applying for a Schengen visa need to submit their application to the consulate or embassy of the main destination. Once approved, the visa is valid for all Schengen countries.
  • Efficient border control: External borders of the Schengen area are carefully monitored to ensure security. The absence of internal border controls facilitates smoother travel within the member states.

Eligibility criteria to become a Schengen area

Countries aspiring to join the Schengen area must fulfil specific pre-conditions. Immediate inclusion is not possible; countries need to meet the criteria and prepare adequately. Given below are the eligibility criteria for the same:

  • Prospective members should demonstrate the ability to control external borders and issue Uniform Schengen Visas on behalf of other member states.
  • Countries must possess the competence to collaborate effectively with the law enforcement agencies of other member countries, enhancing overall security.
  • Aspiring countries need to apply "Schengen Acquis" rules, covering border control, short-stay visas, police cooperation, and personal data protection.
  • Countries must be prepared to join and implement the Schengen Information System (SIS) for information sharing and security purposes.
  • Before joining the visa-free area, aspiring countries undergo a Schengen evaluation to assess their readiness. Member countries undergo periodic evaluations to ensure continuous adherence to Schengen Acquis.

Also read: On arrival visa for Indians

Travel insurance for Schengen countries

Securing travel insurance is imperative when visiting Schengen countries. It provides financial protection and peace of mind throughout your journey. A Schengen-compliant travel insurance policy typically covers medical emergencies, repatriation, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events. This ensures that you are financially safeguarded, especially in a foreign environment. The insurance also meets the Schengen visa requirements, allowing you to fulfil the mandatory health coverage condition. Prioritise obtaining comprehensive travel insurance to enjoy a worry-free and secure experience while exploring the diverse landscapes and cultures within the Schengen area.

Why is travel insurance important for Schengen visa?

Travel insurance is important for Schengen visa for several reasons:

  • Mandatory requirement: It is often a mandatory requirement for obtaining a Schengen visa. Applicants are typically required to show proof of travel insurance coverage that meets specific criteria set by the Schengen area authorities.
  • Medical coverage: Schengen visa travel insurance provides coverage for medical emergencies and expenses during the duration of your stay in the Schengen area. This coverage ensures that you are financially protected in case of unexpected illnesses or accidents while traveling.
  • Emergency repatriation: In the unfortunate event of serious illness or injury, travel insurance for Schengen visa holders covers emergency medical evacuation or repatriation to your home country.
  • Trip interruption/cancellation: Travel insurance can also cover trip interruption or cancellation due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness, injury, or death of a family member, ensuring that you do not suffer financial losses in such situations.
  • Loss of passport or luggage: Schengen visa travel insurance often includes coverage for the loss of passport, baggage, or personal belongings during your trip. Travel insurance provides assistance and reimbursement for necessary expenses incurred due to these incidents.
  • Financial protection: Travel insurance offers financial protection against other unforeseen events such as flight delays, missed connections, or natural disasters that may disrupt your travel plans.

Overall, having travel insurance for a Schengen visa not only fulfils a visa requirement but also provides peace of mind and financial security during your travels within the Schengen area.

Read about international travel insurance.

Travelling has become more accessible and efficient in the Schengen area, which allows people to travel freely between participating countries. Visitors can experience a diverse range of cultures, customs, foods, languages, and architecture. The Schengen agreement offers many benefits such as reduced travel costs, seamless transfers between countries, and deeper cultural exchange. The list of Schengen countries includes 27 countries that are the participants of this agreement. This makes travelling to Europe more accessible, convenient, and an enjoyable experience that everyone should add to their travel list.

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Frequently asked questions

Is the Schengen Area the same as the European Union (EU)?

No, the Schengen Area and the EU are distinct entities. While many Schengen countries are EU members, not all EU nations participate in Schengen, and some non-EU countries, like Norway and Switzerland, are part of Schengen.

Can I travel freely within Schengen countries without passport checks?

Yes, the primary goal of the Schengen Agreement is to enable passport-free travel within its member countries, promoting ease of movement for citizens and visitors.

Are there specific entry requirements for each Schengen country?

While Schengen establishes border-free internal travel, individual countries may have entry requirements. It's crucial to check visa policies, COVID-19 regulations, and any country-specific conditions before traveling.

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