 Traveling in Schengen Countries |
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| Confused about staying in Schengen countries for an extended period of time | |||||||||||||||||||||
Valentina Valentina Post Count: 5 Msg: #1 8 weeks ago, October 27th 2009 | Hello Everyone, | I am completely confused, and hoping someone might be able to answer a question for me. Instead of doing one long trip, I would like to spend a couple years traveling back and forth between the U.S. and Europe; but therein lies my confusion. I know that a non EU citizen may stay in the Schengen countries for 90 days within a 180 day period. So, for example, could I spend Jan 1st-Apr. 1st in Europe, then go back home spend Apr 1st-July 1st in the U.S., then from July 1st-Oct 1st in Europe, and then Oct. 1st-Dec. 1st back in the States, then repeat the cycle all over again? Would border patrol frown on this? Any other advice or ideas? Thanks!  The Travel Camel Shane Dallas Post Count: 1063 Msg: #2 8 weeks ago, October 27th 2009 | Hello Valentina, I think that your theory is correct. As long you are not there longer than 90 days within a 180 period, then it is fine. If someone kept hopping back and forth like that, then after a while someone might say something, but it would be unlikely. In practice, their are the written rules, and then what is actually put into practice. I've heard of people overstaying their Schengen visa as well without much drama - but the risk of doing that is the next time you wish to visit, it may be more difficult to get in. | Valentina Valentina Post Count: 5 Msg: #3 8 weeks ago, October 28th 2009 | Thanks Shane! It is tempting to overstay my Schengen visa, but to me, the consequences are just not worth it. But I want to find some way to legally stay in Europe as much as possible. Another question: does anyone know if this theory applies to the UK and Ireland? I know they have slightly different laws regarding this. Thanks! |  Mell Mell Post Count: 14850 Msg: #4 8 weeks ago, October 28th 2009 | Hello Valentiana |  The Schengen rules are still in the process of being developed, so I dont think they are yet taken seriously by the authorities. I have never heard of anyone being fined or deported for outstaying. Though, I dont know when things are likely to change and become more serious. Best to stay within the rules, if this is possible just in case. Mel Number of Users: 3 | Number of Posts: 4 | ||||||||||||
