All of our content is approved by our in-house experts
The Schengen Area is a region comprising 29 European countries, offering seamless travel across borders and a wealth of cultural experiences.
Which countries are in the Schengen Area?
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Czechia
- Croatia
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
Did you know that the Schengen Agreement, signed in 1985, allows for passport-free travel between member countries?
Changes for travel to the Schengen Area in 2026
The EES is a new, digital EU entry and exit system in place in all countries in the Schengen Area, which uses your biometric data in place of passport stamps. This is for all non-EU citizens over the age of 12.
The digital nature of the EES keeps track of who’s in the Schengen Area and for how long, because non-EU citizens aren’t allowed to spend longer than 90 days in the Schengen Area within a 180-day period.
The first time you travel to the Schengen Area after the EES has gone live, you’ll need to submit your fingerprints and facial photo when you get to border control. Once this is done, you’re in the system and you won’t have to do it again.
Although roll out began on12 October 2025, every airport, ferry port and major land crossing within the 29 countries of the Schengen Area will have EES kiosks in place by 10 April 2026.
The EES will be used in:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
For more details about this change, visit the FCDO website EU Entry/Exit System - GOV.UK
Travel insurance for the Schengen Area
LV= Defaqto 5 Star rated Premier Travel insurance covers you for delays and cancellations after 24 hours if you experience bad weather, terrorism, drones, or ash clouds – basically, all the things we can’t control.
It’s important to have the right level of travel insurance when visiting the Schengen area, especially due to the varying healthcare systems across countries.
Our travel insurance for the Schengen Area offers:
• Up to £10 million of emergency medical cover
• Compensation of up to £10,000 if you have to cancel your trip
• Cover for groups of up to 10 people on one policy
• Cover for travellers over the age of 65
• Optional extras can be added to protect you against theft of bags and their contents, valuables, and money.
If you’re a frequent traveller, you may want to consider annual multi-trip cover, and if you plan to engage in adventurous activities, check the activities covered in our policies to ensure yours are included.
Remember, if you’re looking to get a job during your trip to the Schengen Area, work-related incidents are not covered.
Why visit the Schengen Area?
With countries ranging from Portugal in the west, to Estonia in the east, the Schengen Area is a mosaic of languages, traditions, and cuisines. Each country offers its own unique charm, from the romantic streets of Paris to the historic canals of Amsterdam.
Whether you're exploring the art galleries of Florence or the medieval castles of Prague, the Schengen Area promises a rich cultural journey, filled with historic landmarks and natural beauty.
The Schengen Area is home to some of the world's most iconic landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, the Colosseum, and the Alhambra. In addition to these iconic landmarks, the region also boasts stunning natural landscapes, from the fjords of Norway to the beaches of Greece. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking in the Alps or relaxing by the Mediterranean Sea… there really is something here for everyone!
The region's culinary scene is as diverse as its population, too, with each country offering its own specialties. From French pastries to Spanish tapas, and of course, Italian pasta and pizza -there's a dish to delight every palate.
Safety and travel tips for the Schengen Area
Although a generally safe destination, it's important to stay informed about local conditions. As a travel insurer, we recommend checking the latest Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advice before visiting any country. Read the latest FCDO advice for the Schengen Area.