Introduction
For many travelers, the Schengen area in Europe is a dream destination. With 26 countries under the Schengen agreement, it’s a passport-free zone where you can easily hop from country to country. However, there are limitations to how long you can stay within the Schengen area. If you’re planning to stay for more than 90 days, you’ll need to apply for a Schengen visa extension. In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about Schengen visa after 90 days, including how to extend your stay.
What is a Schengen Visa?
A Schengen visa is a short-term visa that allows travelers to enter and stay in any country within the Schengen area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The Schengen area includes 26 countries, including Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
The Schengen visa allows travelers to move freely within the area without having to show their passport at every border. However, it’s important to note that the visa doesn’t allow you to work or study in the Schengen area.
What Happens If You Stay in Schengen Area For More Than 90 Days?
If you stay in the Schengen area for more than 90 days within a 180-day period without a proper visa, you will be considered an overstayer and may face consequences such as being deported, banned from re-entering, or fined.
Can You Extend Your Schengen Visa?
If you need to stay in the Schengen area for more than 90 days, you’ll need to apply for a Schengen visa extension. The extension is granted on a case-by-case basis, and you’ll need to demonstrate a valid reason for staying longer, such as an unexpected medical emergency or family reasons.
You can apply for a Schengen visa extension at the embassy or consulate of the country where you originally applied for your visa. You’ll need to provide documentation to support your reason for staying longer, such as medical records or a letter from a family member.
What Are the Requirements for a Schengen Visa Extension?
The requirements for a Schengen visa extension vary depending on the country you’re applying to. However, in general, you’ll need to meet the following requirements:
- You must have a valid reason for staying longer
- You must have a valid passport
- You must have evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself during your extended stay
- You must have travel insurance that covers you for the duration of your extended stay
- You must not have a criminal record
How Long Can You Extend Your Schengen Visa?
The length of your Schengen visa extension will depend on the reason for your extended stay. In general, the extension will be granted for up to 90 days, but it can be longer in certain circumstances.
How to Apply for a Schengen Visa Extension?
If you need to apply for a Schengen visa extension, you should contact the embassy or consulate of the country where you originally applied for your visa. They will provide you with the necessary information and documentation requirements.
You’ll need to provide the following documents when applying for a Schengen visa extension:
- A completed application form
- Your original passport
- A recent passport-sized photograph
- Evidence of your valid reason for staying longer
- Evidence of your financial means to support yourself during your extended stay
- Evidence of your travel insurance that covers you for the duration of your extended stay
Can You Leave and Re-Enter the Schengen Area After 90 Days?
If you’re planning to stay in the Schengen area for more than 90 days, you might consider leaving and re-entering the area to reset the 90-day clock. However, this is not recommended as it could raise suspicion with border control and could result in being denied entry into the Schengen area.
Conclusion
Staying in the Schengen area for more than 90 days requires a Schengen visa extension. The extension is granted on a case-by-case basis and requires a valid reason for staying longer. Understanding the requirements and limitations of a Schengen visa extension is important to avoid facing consequences such as being deported, banned from re-entering, or fined. If you need to stay in the Schengen area for more than 90 days, make sure to apply for a Schengen visa extension in advance.
