Who Needs a Schengen Visa?
Visa requirements are determined by your passport nationality, not your country of residence. Find your nationality below.
Important: Nationality vs. Residence
Your visa requirement is based on your passport nationality, not where you live. For example:
- • Indian citizen with UK residence = Visa required
- • Chinese citizen with US Green Card = Visa required
- • American living in India = No visa needed
- • UK citizen (post-Brexit) = No visa needed (but ETIAS from 2026)
Rules for Visa-Exempt Travelers
What You Can Do
- • Stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period
- • Visit any of the 29 Schengen countries
- • Multiple entries allowed
- • Tourism, business visits, family visits
- • Attend conferences or short courses
What You Still Need
- • Valid passport (3+ months beyond stay)
- • Proof of accommodation
- • Proof of sufficient funds
- • Return/onward travel ticket
- • Travel insurance (recommended)
- • ETIAS authorization (from 2026)
Special Cases
Dual Nationality
If you hold passports from both a visa-required and visa-exempt country, you can choose which passport to travel with. Using your visa-exempt passport means you don't need a Schengen visa.
UK Citizens (Post-Brexit)
UK citizens can still visit Schengen countries visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. However, from 2026, UK citizens will need to register for ETIAS (€7 fee, valid for 3 years) before traveling.
Residence Permit Holders
If you hold a valid residence permit from one Schengen country, you may travel to other Schengen countries for up to 90 days without an additional visa. This applies regardless of your nationality.
Diplomatic & Service Passport Holders
Many countries have special agreements for diplomatic and service passport holders. Even if your country is on the visa-required list, diplomatic passports may be exempt. Check with your ministry of foreign affairs.
Need a Schengen Visa?
Our expert team will guide you through the entire application process.