How do I calculate my Schengen visa days?

How to Calculate Your Schengen Visa Days

Obtaining a Schengen visa is essential for visiting any of the 26 countries within the Schengen Area. To ensure a smooth travel experience, it’s crucial to accurately calculate the number of days you are eligible to stay within the Schengen Zone.

Duration of Stay

The Schengen visa grants a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period. This means that within any 180-day rolling period, you cannot stay in the Schengen Area for more than 90 days.

Calculating Your Days

To calculate your Schengen visa days, follow these steps:

1. Determine Your Entry and Exit Dates: Note down the exact dates you plan to enter and exit the Schengen Area.
2. Count the Days Between Entry and Exit: Calculate the number of days between your entry and exit dates, including both days. This represents your intended duration of stay.
3. Check the 180-Day Period: Identify the 180-day period in which your entry date falls. This period will extend backward by 180 days from your entry date.
4. Count Days in Previous Stays: If you have visited the Schengen Area within the past 180 days, count the number of days you have already stayed.
5. Subtract Previous Stays: Subtract the days you have already stayed in the Schengen Area within the past 180 days from your intended duration of stay.
6. Check Eligibility: The result is the number of days you are eligible to stay on your Schengen visa. Ensure that this number does not exceed 90 days.

Example:

• Entry Date: March 15, 2023
• Exit Date: April 10, 2023
• Intended Duration of Stay: 26 days
• 180-Day Period: December 16, 2022 – June 14, 2023
• No Previous Stays: 0 days
• Eligibility: 26 days (intended duration of stay – previous stays)

Importance of Accurate Calculation

Accurately calculating your Schengen visa days is essential because:

• Avoiding Overstaying: Overstaying your visa can result in fines, deportation, and a negative impact on future visa applications.
• Ensuring Smooth Travel: Accurate calculations ensure that you have sufficient time to explore and enjoy your trip without any legal complications.
• Facilitating Visas: Correctly calculated visa days demonstrate your intention to respect the Schengen Area’s regulations and increase the likelihood of your visa being approved.

Therefore, take the time to carefully calculate your Schengen visa days before applying. If you have any uncertainties, it is advisable to consult with the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit.