What is Schengen?

The Schengen area is one of the pillars of the European project. Since its creation in 1995, when passport controls were abolished inside this zone, EU citizens enjoy the right to freedom of movement. This means that they can live, study, work and retire anywhere in the EU. Tourists and businesses also benefit from these rights.

Schengen countries

Schengen includes 26 countries: 22 from the EU and four from outside: Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein.

All EU countries are part of Schengen except for five: Ireland, which maintains opt-outs and operates its own common travel area together with the UK; as well as Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus and Romania, which are due to join Schengen at some point in the future.