Following Brexit, UK citizens lost their automatic freedom of movement across the European Union. One of the most significant changes for travelers and long-term visitors alike is the 90/180 rule. This rule governs how long UK citizens can remain in the Schengen Area without a visa.
The Schengen Area comprises most European Union countries along with a few non-EU states like Norway, Switzerland, and Iceland. It allows for passport-free travel between member states. However, post-Brexit, UK nationals are treated as third-country nationals for the purpose of immigration, and this means that they can only stay in the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days in any rolling 180-day period.
What is the 90/180 Rule?
The 90/180 rule means that UK citizens can spend up to 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area without needing a visa. The 180-day period is a rolling timeframe, not fixed from January to June or July to December. Therefore, travelers must keep track of their time spent in the area at all times.
How the Rule Works in Practice
For example, if a UK traveler spends 60 days in France starting January 1, they can only spend another 30 days in the Schengen Area until the 180-day window from January 1 closes—around June 30. After that period ends, new days start becoming available as previous days fall outside the 180-day window.
Countries Included in the Schengen Area
As of the latest update, the following countries are part of the Schengen Area and adhere to the 90/180 rule:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
Time spent in any of these countries counts collectively towards the 90-day limit.
Traveling to Non-Schengen EU Countries
Some EU countries are not part of the Schengen Area, including Ireland, Romania, Bulgaria, and Cyprus. These countries have their own entry rules and visa policies.
UK Citizens in Ireland
The Common Travel Area (CTA) agreement allows UK citizens to travel, live, and work in Ireland without restriction. There is no time limit for how long a UK national can stay in Ireland, making it unique among EU nations.
UK Citizens in Romania, Bulgaria, and Cyprus
Romania, Bulgaria, and Cyprus are EU members but not Schengen states. They each have their own rules regarding how long UK nationals can stay:
- Romania: 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa
- Bulgaria: 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa
- Cyprus: 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa
Importantly, time spent in these countries does not count toward the Schengen 90-day limit and vice versa.
Extending Your Stay Beyond 90 Days
If you wish to stay longer than 90 days in any Schengen country, you must apply for a national visa or residence permit from that specific country. These are usually for purposes such as study, work, retirement, or family reunification.
Applying for a Long-Stay Visa
Each country has different requirements and procedures for long-stay visas. Generally, you must apply before entering the Schengen Area and provide documentation such as proof of income, insurance, accommodation, and a reason for extended stay.
France
France offers long-stay visas for retirees, students, workers, and family members. Most applications are done via France-Visas official website.
Spain
Spain offers a “Non-Lucrative Visa” for UK retirees or those who want to stay longer without working. Apply through the Spanish consulate website in your home country.
Germany
Germany allows extended stays for employment, study, or self-employment. Long-term visa information can be found on the official German Missions website.
Living in Europe Long-Term as a UK Citizen
For those interested in relocating permanently or semi-permanently to a European country, it’s essential to look into residency permits. Residency permits typically require more extensive documentation and often include integration requirements such as language skills, health insurance, and financial independence.
Retiring in Europe
Many UK retirees choose Spain, Portugal, or France for long-term residence. These countries offer specific visa types for non-working individuals who can demonstrate sufficient income or pension and secure health insurance.
Digital Nomads and Remote Workers
Several countries have introduced “Digital Nomad Visas” to attract remote workers. Estonia, Portugal, and Croatia have specific programs that allow longer stays with fewer bureaucratic hurdles for those working online for clients or employers outside the country.
Schengen Overstay Penalties
Overstaying the 90-day limit can have serious consequences, including fines, deportation, and entry bans across the entire Schengen Area. Authorities take immigration rules seriously, and border checks may include thorough reviews of passport stamps.
Consequences of Overstaying
- Immediate deportation or denial of entry
- Fines of up to €1,200 depending on the country
- Ban from entering the Schengen Area for up to five years
To avoid these penalties, it is strongly recommended that travelers monitor their travel days and, if necessary, apply for an extension or leave the Schengen Area before reaching the 90-day limit.
How to Calculate Your Schengen Days
To accurately calculate your days in the Schengen Area, consider using the official Schengen calculator tool provided by the European Commission or use one of many third-party travel calculators.
Official Schengen Calculator
Exceptions and Special Circumstances
Certain exceptional situations may allow extended stay or leniency, including medical emergencies, flight disruptions, or natural disasters. However, these are rarely granted and must be proven with documentation.
British Nationals Married to EU Citizens
If you are a UK citizen married to an EU national and plan to move to or reside in the EU country of your spouse, you may be entitled to residence under EU family reunification laws. This generally requires applying for a residence permit in the spouse’s country of residence.
Working in Europe
To work in an EU country, UK citizens typically need to obtain a work permit or a job offer beforehand. The rules vary by country and profession, so it is important to consult the embassy of the country you wish to work in.
Useful Tips for UK Travelers to Europe
- Keep all entry and exit stamps in your passport clear and legible.
- Track your days in the Schengen Area using a reliable tool or app.
- Plan ahead if you intend to stay more than 90 days—apply for a visa early.
- Ensure you have adequate travel insurance for the duration of your stay.
- Carry proof of accommodation, return ticket, and sufficient funds if asked by border police.
Conclusion
Since the UK left the EU, travel rules for British citizens in Europe have changed significantly. While short visits of up to 90 days within a 180-day period remain visa-free in the Schengen Zone, those wishing to stay longer must plan carefully and apply for appropriate visas. Each European country has its own entry rules, and understanding these nuances is essential to avoid penalties or complications.
Whether you’re planning a European holiday, a long-term stay, or a retirement move, knowing the rules ensures a smooth and lawful experience abroad. By staying informed, monitoring your travel dates, and preparing the necessary paperwork, UK citizens can still enjoy extended time across Europe—just with a bit more planning than before.
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