list of schengen countries 2023

the schengen countries are a group of European nations that have abolished internal border controls, allowing for unrestricted movement of people between participating countries. As of now, there are 26 Schengen countries, including popular tourist destinations like France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Greece.

the Schengen Agreement

The Schengen Agreement takes its name from the Luxembourgish village where it was signed. Initially, it involved only five countries – Belgium, Germany, France, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands. Over time, more countries joined, and the Schengen Area expanded. Today, it covers a significant portion of Europe and has become a symbol of European integration.

list of schengen countries

schengen countries are part of the Schengen Area which is a zone in Europe where internal border controls have been eliminated, allowing for the free movement of people across member countries. Here is a list of the Schengen countries:

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

read also about: uae free visa.inf, passport visa free countries list 2023

schengen visa countries

To enter the Schengen Area, citizens of many non-Schengen countries need a Schengen visa. This visa allows them to travel freely within the participating countries during its validity. The Schengen visa is typically issued by the country of the traveler’s main destination or the first port of entry.

schengen visa processing time

Typically, visa applications are processed within a timeframe of 15 days. However, there are instances where the processing period may extend up to 45 days. It is important to note that delays beyond the standard 15-day period can occur due to technical difficulties in processing your visa application.

schengen visa fee

the schengen visa fee  increased from €60 to €80, and here is the most detail:

schengen visa application

You can apply for schengen visa by following the main steps:

• choose Schengen Visa Type that you need from the following: “Transit Visa”, “Tourism Visa”, “Visa for Visiting Family or Friends”, “Business Visa”, “Visa for Journalists”, “Visa for Culture and Sports activities”, “Visa for Official Visits”, “Study Visa”, “Visa for Medical Reasons”.
• choose one of schengen countries that you want to visit.
• choose a Suitable Time to Apply.
• Book an Appointment.
• Fill Out the Visa Application Form.
• collect the Required Documents.
• Attend the Visa Interview.
• pay the visa fee.
• track your application visa online or via phone.
• collect your visa, and enjoy your journey.

schengen visa requirements

if you are planning to apply for a schengen visa you will need to collect the required documents as part of the Schengen visa application process. and here is the most general requirement:

• Visa application form: Complete and sign the form.
• Photos: Two recent passport-sized photos.
• Passport: Valid passport (not older than 10 years).
• Round trip reservation or itinerary: Document with travel details.
• Travel insurance: Proof of health insurance.
• Proof of accommodation: Hotel booking or rental agreement.
• Proof of financial means: Sufficient funds evidence.
• Paid visa fee: Fee payment confirmation.

Additional requirements based on employment status:

• Employees: Employment contract, bank statement, leave permission.
• Self-employed: Business license, company bank statement, tax return.
• Students: Enrollment proof, no objection letter.
• Retirees: Pension statement.
• Unemployed married to EU citizen: Employment confirmation, spouse’s passport,
• marriage certificate.

Additional requirements for minors:

• Minor’s birth certificate.
• Application form signed by parents.
• Family court order (if applicable).
• Certified copies of parents’ ID/passport.
• Notarized parental authorization (if traveling alone).

Additional requirements for specific visa types:

• Airport transit visa: Valid visa (if needed), flight ticket.
• Visa to visit relatives/friends: Affidavit of support, travel itinerary, means of
• subsistence, letter of invitation.
• Tourist visa: Bank statement, affidavit of support, travel itinerary.
• Business visa: Refer to the specific document list.
• Training visa: Enrollment certificate, no objection letter.
• Medical visa: Doctor’s letter, confirmation of treatment, proof of financial means.
• Other purposes: Refer to the specific document list.

schengen countries map

The Schengen countries map illustrates the member states of the Schengen Agreement, facilitating free movement within the designated area.

understanding the schengen countries visa requirements, benefits, and limitations is essential for travelers planning a trip to Europe. 

Frequently asked questions