Understanding the Schengen Area’s 90/180 rule: how long can you really stay?
The Schengen Area offers incredible travel freedom, but it comes with a strict rule, the 90/180 rule which dictates how long non-EU nationals can stay in the zone.
Our experience shows that many people misunderstand this rule, which can lead to overstaying and facing serious consequences. This guide explains the rule and shows you how to apply it to your travels.
What is the 90/180 rule?
You may stay in the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period. This period is not a fixed window, it is a rolling one. Every day you are in the Schengen Area, you must look back at the previous 180 days to check if your total stay has exceeded 90 days. It does not matter how many times you enter or exit, the total number of days you stay is what counts.
How to calculate your days
Calculating your permitted stay can be tricky, particularly with multiple trips. The key is to count backwards from your planned date of departure:
- Start with the date you intend to leave the Schengen Area
- Count back 180 days from that date
- Add up every day you spend in the Schengen Area within that 180-day window
- Note that every calendar day you are physically present in a Schengen country (even if just for layover for a few hours) counts towards your 90 days
- Both entry and exit days count as full days
The total number of days must not exceed 90. The European Commission provides an official calculator to help you navigate the complexity of the rolling window.
Real-life examples of the 90/180 rule
Understanding the rule with a few practical examples can prevent a serious mistake.
- A single long stay: you enter the Schengen Area on 1 January and stay for 90 consecutive days. When you leave on 31 March, you have used up your entire 90-day allowance. You cannot re-enter the Schengen Area until 180 days have passed since your first entry date (around 29 June).
- Multiple short trips: you spend 30 days in the Schengen Area in March and another 30 days in May. You leave on 31 May. You still have 30 days remaining in your 180-day period. You can return for another short trip later in the year, as long as your total stay in any 180-day period does not exceed 90 days.
- The rolling window: you enter the Schengen Area on 1 July and stay for 60 days. You leave and return on 1 November. From your return date, you must look back 180 days to 5 May. Your 60-day stay from July and August counts towards your 90-day limit.
The impact of new digital systems
The rules are being modernised with new technology. Two key systems are being introduced:
- Entry/Exit System (EES): fully operational from October 2025, the EES is a digital system that will replace manual passport stamps. It automatically tracks your entry and exit dates, making it much harder to accidentally overstay your visa
- European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS): this system is expected to be implemented after the EES. It will require travellers from visa-exempt countries to get an electronic travel authorisation before their trip
These changes are designed to improve security, but will also provide travellers with more accurate information about their remaining days in the Schengen Area.
Consequences of overstaying
Overstaying the 90-day limit can have serious repercussions. You may face a fine or be banned from returning to the Schengen Area for a number of years. These penalties will be more strictly enforced with the new digital systems, with the EES keeping a record of anyone who has stayed longer than their permitted time. For more information on this topic, see our article on what happens if you overstay your Schengen Visa.
The 90/180 rule must be a vital part of your travel plan to the Schengen Area. Understanding it fully will ensure your trips are enjoyable – and compliant.
Travelling should be about experiences, not paperwork. If you need help preparing your visa application, our visa services comparison page can guide you to the right option.