Long-stay / residence for US citizens travelling to Schengen area
Stays beyond 90 days or settlement need a national long-stay visa or residence permit from the Schengen country you will live in.
For a US citizen passport. Lawful permanent residents and other statuses can follow different rules.
Key facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Who it's for | Retirement, relocation, or any stay longer than the short-stay limit. · European Commission — EU immigration portal (opens in a new tab) |
| Maximum stay | Defined by the national residence permit. · European Commission — EU immigration portal (opens in a new tab) |
| Cost | Long-stay visa fees are set by the country of residence. See France Diplomatie visa pages (opens in a new tab) or the relevant national immigration site. · European Commission — EU immigration portal (opens in a new tab) |
| Processing time | National processing times apply. Check the embassy or immigration authority of the country where you will live. · European Commission — EU immigration portal (opens in a new tab) |
| How to apply | Apply to the immigration authority or embassy of the country where you will reside. · European Commission — EU immigration portal (opens in a new tab) |
Each fact above is linked to the authority that sets the rule. Entry Visa Guide does not take applications.
How to apply
- Choose the country of residence and read its long-stay visa requirements.
- Apply before travel unless the national rules allow in-country switching.
- Do not rely on visa-free entry to start a long stay.
FAQ
Can I extend a tourist stay beyond 90 days?
U.S. Embassy travel information (opens in a new tab) warns overstaying can lead to a ban. Long stays need the correct permit.
Does ETIAS allow residence?
ETIAS is for short visa-free travel, not residence.
Sources
- European Commission: Schengen short stay (opens in a new tab)
- U.S. Embassy & Consulates in France (opens in a new tab)
- Canada: France travel advice (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 Spotted something out of date?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.