What documents do I need to travel to the Schengen Area?

In short

• Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area and issued within the last 10 years.
• From October 2025, visa-exempt travelers must apply for an ETIAS authorization (EUR 7) before traveling to any Schengen country.
• The Schengen rule allows stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period across all 29 Schengen countries combined.

Schengen Area travel documents

The Schengen Area covers 29 European countries with no internal border checks - including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the Nordic countries. trip1 lets you book hotels across the region and pay in crypto, but immigration rules apply at the first Schengen border you cross.

• A passport valid for at least 3 months beyond your departure date.
• A passport issued within the last 10 years.
• An approved ETIAS authorization (for visa-exempt travelers, from October 2025).
• A Schengen visa (if your nationality requires one).
• Proof of onward or return travel.
• A trip1 hotel booking or proof of accommodation for the duration of your stay.
• Proof of sufficient funds (varies by country, typically EUR 50-100 per day).
• Travel insurance with at least EUR 30,000 in medical coverage (mandatory for visa applicants).

Who needs a Schengen visa?

Citizens of around 60 countries can enter the Schengen Area visa-free for short tourist stays. This includes the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, Brazil, and many others.

If your country is not on the visa-exempt list, you must apply for a Schengen visa at the consulate of the country where you will spend the most time. The visa requires biometrics, supporting documents, and travel insurance.

What is ETIAS?

ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is the EU's new pre-travel authorization for visa-exempt nationals. It launches in October 2025.

ETIAS costs EUR 7 and is valid for 3 years or until your passport expires. It is not a visa - it is a security pre-screening linked electronically to your passport.

The 90/180 day rule

Visa-exempt visitors can stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any rolling 180-day period - across all 29 countries combined. Days spent in France and Germany count together; they are not separate quotas.