Which countries are in the Schengen area?
The short answer
The Schengen area is made up of 29 countries: 25 EU member states and 4 non-EU countries (Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein). A Schengen visa allows a short stay of up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
Who is in the Schengen area
The European Commission says the Schengen area is composed of 29 countries. Checks at internal borders between them have been abolished.
Bulgaria and Romania were the last countries to join, on 1 January 2025.
- 25 EU member states
- Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein (not in the EU)
Cyprus and Ireland
Cyprus takes part in Schengen cooperation, but the Council has not yet abolished its internal border controls.
Ireland has an opt-out under the Schengen Protocol. It keeps its own visa and border policies.
The 90/180 day short-stay limit
The official Schengen visa page describes a short stay as up to 90 days in any 180-day period. The EU Entry/Exit System page uses the same definition, and counts it as a single period across all the European countries using the system.
The Commission also notes that countries may temporarily reintroduce internal border controls as a last resort, if there is a serious threat to public policy or internal security.
Sources: EU Commission: Schengen area, EU Commission: Applying for a Schengen visa. Read 5 November 2026. Rules and fees change, so check the official page before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
How many countries are in Schengen?
The European Commission says 29: 25 EU member states plus Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
Is Ireland in Schengen?
No. Ireland uses an opt-out and keeps its own visa and border policies.
Is Cyprus fully in Schengen?
Cyprus takes part in the cooperation, but internal border controls have not yet been abolished by the Council.
Can border checks come back inside Schengen?
Yes. Countries may temporarily reintroduce internal border controls as a last resort. They must inform the Council, the European Parliament, the Commission and the public.