US citizens in Europe: the Schengen 90-day rule
With a US passport you don't need a visa to travel around the Schengen area, but you do need to count your days. What the rule says, what you can be asked for at the border, and what to do if you want to stay longer.
General information, not legal advice. What you’re entitled to depends on your trip, the country, the carrier and the rules in force. If your case is complicated, check with the relevant authority or a professional. More in the terms of use.
Do you need a visa? Not for short stays
The United States is on the list of countries whose citizens don't need a visa for stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period (EU Regulation 2018/1806, Annex II). That's the rule as TripPlan has been able to read it in its 2018 text; the version with later amendments couldn't be opened.
All of Schengen adds up to the same count
The rule covers the 29 Schengen countries at once: days in France, Italy or Spain count towards the same 90. Once you're in, there are no further checks between Schengen countries, except for exceptional temporary controls.
Count your days with the Schengen calculatorWhat you can be asked for at the border
- A passport that's still valid at least three months after the day you plan to leave, and that was issued within the last 10 years on the day you enter.
- Proof of the purpose and conditions of your trip, including enough money to cover it.
If you don't meet the conditions you can be refused entry, and you can appeal that decision.
If you want to work or stay longer
The exemption only covers stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. And each country can require a visa from anyone who'll be working during their stay. For either, check with the consulate of the country you're going to before you travel.
What to do, step by step
- Check both dates on your passport before you book.
- Note down your entries into and exits from the Schengen area and work out how many days you have left.
- Have something on hand that shows the purpose of your trip and that you can pay for it, in case you're asked at the border.
- If you'll be working or staying more than 90 days, ask the consulate before you leave.
Official sources
- Regulation (EU) 2018/1806: countries whose nationals need or don’t need a visaBOE (copy of the Official Journal of the EU) · Checked on 9 October 2026
- Travel documents for non-EU nationalsYour Europe (European Commission) · Checked on 9 October 2026
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026