Transit for UK citizens travelling to Schengen area
Airport transit that does not pass border control is outside the short-stay count. If you enter Schengen, the 90-day rule and EES apply like any other visit.
For a full UK citizen passport. Other British passport types can follow a different rule.
Key facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Who it's for | Travellers connecting through a Schengen airport, with or without entering the area. |
| Maximum stay | Airside transit: no Schengen stay counted. Landside entry: up to 90 days in 180 days if otherwise eligible. |
| Cost | No separate transit visa for British citizens on the GOV.UK short-stay rule. |
| Processing time | Not applicable for airside connections. |
| How to apply | Follow airline and airport signs. If you clear immigration, EES may apply. |
| Official link | Use the authority’s own website. Entry Visa Guide does not take applications. · GOV.UK France entry requirements (opens in a new tab) |
Apply only on the government website linked above. This site does not issue visas or travel authorisations and does not take applications. Other websites charge their own service fee on top of any government charge.
How to apply
- Check whether your connection stays airside or whether you must collect bags and enter Schengen.
- If you enter Schengen, use a passport that meets the 10-year and 3-month rules.
- Count any landside entry toward your 90-day Schengen total.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to change planes in Paris?
British citizens do not need a Schengen visa for a short stay. Airside transit may not involve EES.
Does a cruise port count as entry?
If you pass Schengen border control, the visit counts toward the 90-day limit.
Sources
- GOV.UK: France entry requirements, including Schengen passport rules, the 90-day stay, and EES (opens in a new tab)
- European Union: countries using the Entry/Exit System (opens in a new tab)
- European Union: who should apply for ETIAS, including the note that it is not in operation (opens in a new tab)
- European Union: ETIAS questions, including the EUR 20 fee and three-year validity (opens in a new tab)
- European Union: UK nationals and ETIAS, news item dated 15 April 2026 (opens in a new tab)
Independent guide, not legal advice. Entry Visa Guide is an independent information site. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or run by any government or public authority. Always check official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Report an error.