This page is a plain-language overview, not legal advice. Border rules change and depend on your nationality. Before every trip, check the European Union's official travel and border pages and the website of the country you are entering.
The Schengen area
The Schengen area is a group of European countries that have removed routine passport checks at their shared borders. It includes most EU countries plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. Bulgaria and Romania became full members in January 2025.
Not every EU country is in it. Ireland runs its own entry rules, and Cyprus does not yet fully apply Schengen rules. Countries outside the EU, such as the United Kingdom, have separate rules again.
All the cities on this site, in Portugal, Spain, Poland and Slovenia, are inside the Schengen area.
The 90/180-day rule
Visitors from countries that don't need a visa for short stays can spend up to 90 days in any 180-day period across the whole Schengen area. Visitors who need a visa are bound by the dates on that visa.
- The 180-day window rolls. On any day of your stay, look back 180 days and count the days you spent in Schengen countries. The total must not exceed 90.
- Days in all Schengen countries are added together. Moving from Portugal to Poland doesn't reset the count.
- Entry and exit days both count as days in the area.
- The EU publishes an official short-stay calculator. Use it if you travel often or plan a long trip.
Some countries have separate agreements that may allow longer stays in a particular country. Check with that country's authorities if this could apply to you.
EES: the Entry/Exit System
The EES is a digital system that records non-EU visitors on short stays when they cross the external border of the Schengen area. It began operating in stages in October 2025 and replaces passport stamping.
- On your first crossing under the system, your passport details, fingerprints and a facial image are recorded. Children under 12 are exempt from fingerprinting.
- Each entry and exit is then logged, which lets border staff check the 90/180-day rule automatically.
- The first registration can take longer. Allow extra time at airports, ports and land borders, especially on your first trip after the change.
Some border points have self-service kiosks for part of the process. Arrangements differ by country and crossing point.
ETIAS: travel authorisation
ETIAS is a separate travel authorisation for visitors who don't need a visa. Once it starts, eligible travellers will apply online before travelling, and an approved authorisation is linked to their passport.
- The EU has said ETIAS will start after the EES is fully in place, with a transition period before it becomes compulsory.
- Start dates have moved several times. Check the official ETIAS website for the current status before you book.
- Use only the official EU website to apply when it opens. Unofficial sites may charge extra or collect your data.
Before-you-go checklist
- Passport valid for at least three months after you plan to leave the Schengen area
- Passport issued within the last ten years
- Visa, if your nationality needs one
- ETIAS authorisation, once it is required
- Your onward or return ticket
- Proof of where you will stay
- Evidence you can support yourself during the stay
- Travel insurance details
Border guards may ask about the purpose of your trip and how you plan to fund it. Keep the documents easy to reach rather than packed deep in a bag.