What is Schengen?
The Schengen Area is a group of 29 European countries that have abolished passport controls at their mutual borders. A single Schengen visa allows you to travel freely within all member states.
Which countries are in the Schengen Area?
As of 2025, the Schengen Area includes: Austria, Belgium, Croatia, 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. Bulgaria and Romania joined in 2024.
What is a Schengen Visa (Type C)?
A Type C short-stay visa allows you to stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. It can be single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry. Egyptian passport holders require a Schengen visa for all visits.
Which embassy do I apply to?
You apply to the consulate of the country where you will spend the most nights. If you spend equal nights in multiple countries, apply to the country of first entry. For example, if you spend 7 days in France and 3 days in Spain, apply to the French consulate.
What is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?
The EES has been operational since April 2026. It biometrically tracks non-EU nationals entering and exiting the Schengen Area. Your fingerprints and facial image are recorded at the border. This makes overstaying extremely detectable and will result in a ban on future applications.
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