Tourist / visitor for US citizens travelling to Schengen area
No Schengen visa for tourism on a US citizen passport: up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
For a US citizen passport. Lawful permanent residents and other statuses can follow different rules.
Key facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Who it's for | US citizen passport holders visiting for tourism or a holiday. · EU: who should apply for ETIAS (opens in a new tab) |
| Maximum stay | 90 days in any 180-day period across the Schengen area. · EU: who should apply for ETIAS (opens in a new tab) |
| Cost | No visa fee. · EU: who should apply for ETIAS (opens in a new tab) |
| Processing time | No advance application. EES is completed at the border. · EU: who should apply for ETIAS (opens in a new tab) |
| How to apply | Travel with a qualifying passport. Check official EU and passport advice before you travel. · EU: who should apply for ETIAS (opens in a new tab) |
Each fact above is linked to the authority that sets the rule. Entry Visa Guide does not take applications.
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 passport issue date is within 10 years of arrival and expiry is at least 3 months after you plan to leave Schengen.
- Count Schengen days used in the previous 180 days. The limit is 90 days in total.
- At the border, complete EES registration if asked. There is no fee.
FAQ
Do I need ETIAS for a holiday today?
No.
Does the 90-day limit reset in each country?
No. U.S. Embassy travel information (opens in a new tab) counts all Schengen days in the same 180-day window.
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 Spotted something out of date?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.