What is a Schengen Visa?

A Schengen visa is a visa issued by a country within the European Union who forms part of the Schengen State. Foreign citizens from a country which is not part of the European Union require a Schengen visa if they intend to travel to a country which is part of the EU or EFTA. (European Free Trade Association) A Schengen visa enables the passport holder entry into countries which form part of the Schengen State who are then able to travel freely throughout the Schengen zone. Internal border controls have disappeared and there are little or no stops and checks within the zone.

There are 25 Schengen Countries and Territories: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia,Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.