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Full List of 29 Schengen Countries in 2025 Updated Guide

If you’re planning a European getaway in 2025, understanding the **Schengen Area** is essential. This special travel zone allows travelers to explore multiple countries with a single visa—making it perfect for backpackers, tourists, and business travelers alike. In this updated guide, you’ll find the **complete list of 29 Schengen countries**, along with useful visa info, and a helpful FAQ section.

For a step-by-step application guide, check: How to Apply for Schengen Visa in 2025.

What is the Schengen Area?

The **Schengen Area** is a group of European countries that have abolished passport and border controls at their mutual borders. This allows free and unrestricted movement of people—whether you’re traveling for tourism, business, or visiting family.

A **Schengen visa** allows entry into any of these countries and free movement between them for up to **90 days within a 180-day period**.

👉 Learn more at the [European Commission’s official page on Schengen]

Read More about Schengen Visa: Schengen Visa Types Explained

Full List of 29 Schengen Countries in 2025

Here are the **29 countries** that are part of the Schengen Zone as of 2025:

1. Austria

2. Belgium

3. Croatia *(Joined in 2023)*

4. Czech Republic

5. Denmark

6. Estonia

7. Finland

8. France

9. Germany

10. Greece

11. Hungary

12. Iceland

13. Italy

14. Latvia

15. Liechtenstein

16. Lithuania

17. Luxembourg

18. Malta

19. Netherlands

20. Norway

21. Poland

22. Portugal

23. Slovakia

24. Slovenia

25. Spain

26. Sweden

27. Switzerland

28. Bulgaria *(Joined Schengen in March 2024)*

29. Romania *(Joined Schengen in March 2024)*

✅ Note: While **Bulgaria and Romania** joined the Schengen Area in March 2024, their participation currently applies to **air and sea travel only**. Land borders start from 01 Jan 2025.

Benefits of Traveling Within the Schengen Zone

**One visa** for 29 countries

**No internal border checks**

**Flexible travel itineraries**

**Fast and efficient airport procedures**

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Non-Schengen EU Countries (Important Distinction)

Not all **EU countries** are part of the Schengen Area. Here’s a quick list of EU countries that **are NOT** part of Schengen:

Ireland

Cyprus *(Currently not part of Schengen, but may join in the future)*

Also, some **non-EU countries** are part of Schengen:

Norway

Iceland

Switzerland

Liechtenstein

Do You Need a Schengen Visa?

It depends on your nationality. Citizens of the EU, EEA, and many countries (like the US, Canada, Australia) can enter Schengen countries visa-free for short stays. Others will need to apply for a **Schengen visa** in advance.

👉 Check visa requirements by nationality at Schengen Portal

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How to Apply for a Schengen Visa

1. **Choose your main destination**
2. **Book an appointment** via VFS Global or TLScontact
3. **Prepare documents** (passport, photos, insurance, proof of funds, accommodation, etc.)
4. **Submit in person** and attend your biometric interview
5. **Wait for processing** (usually up to 15 days)

Need more help? Read our full Step-by-Step Schengen Visa Guide

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Tips for Traveling in the Schengen Zone

Don’t exceed your **90-day limit**

Keep **copies of your visa and travel documents**

Always **travel with a valid ID or passport**

Make sure your **travel insurance** is valid in all Schengen countries

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I travel to all 29 countries with one Schengen visa?

Yes. As long as your visa is valid and you’re respecting the 90-day rule, you can move freely between all Schengen countries.

2. Are Bulgaria and Romania part of the Schengen Area?

Yes, since **March 31, 2024**, but currently only for **air and sea travel**. Land border integration is expected later.

3. How long can I stay in the Schengen Area?

You can stay up to **90 days within a 180-day period**. This means 90 days total across all Schengen countries, not per country.

4. What happens if I overstay my visa?

Overstaying can lead to fines, deportation, and bans on future Schengen visa applications.

5. Can I work in the Schengen Area with a tourist visa?

No. A Schengen tourist visa only allows travel for tourism, family visits, or short business activities. Working requires a **national work visa** or permit from the specific country.

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Final Thoughts

Whether you’re planning to explore historic cities, enjoy the Alps, or relax on the Mediterranean coast, the Schengen Area makes travel incredibly convenient. With 29 countries now participating, your options are wider than ever.

Before booking your trip, always **check the latest visa policies and travel updates** through official government websites or consulates.

👉 Start your visa research at European Commission’s Schengen portal 

Ready to explore Europe with one visa? Safe travels and happy planning!