What happens after 90 days in Schengen?

Consequences of Overstaying the 90-Day Schengen Limit

The Schengen Area, comprising 26 European countries, allows non-EU nationals to travel freely for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, exceeding this timeframe has serious implications known as “illegal presence.”

Definition of Illegal Presence

Illegal presence in the Schengen Area occurs when a non-EU national remains within any of the Schengen member states for over 90 days without proper documentation or authorization.

Consequences of Overstaying

Consequences for overstaying the Schengen limit vary depending on the duration of the overstay, but generally include:

• Fines: Substantial monetary penalties can be imposed, increasing with the length of overstay.
• Deportation: Non-EU nationals may be deported from the Schengen Area, with future re-entry bans.
• Re-entry Bans: Re-entry to the Schengen Area may be restricted for a period of up to 10 years, depending on the severity of the overstay.
• Criminal Charges: In some cases, overstaying the Schengen limit may be considered a criminal offense, leading to imprisonment.
• Impact on Future Visa Applications: Overstaying can negatively impact future visa applications to Schengen countries.

Steps to Avoid Overstaying

To avoid the consequences of overstaying, non-EU nationals should:

• Keep track of their time spent in the Schengen Area.
• Apply for a visa extension if necessary.
• Contact the local authorities if they have any questions or face any issues.

In conclusion, overstaying the 90-day Schengen limit is a serious offense that can have significant consequences for non-EU nationals. It is crucial to be aware of the timeframe and to avoid illegal presence to protect one’s ability to travel and reside in the Schengen Area in the future.