Business for British citizens travelling to Schengen area
Short business meetings and similar trips are covered by the same visa-free 90-day Schengen rule for British citizens. Paid work in Schengen still needs a national work permit.
For a full British citizen passport. Other British passport types can follow a different rule.
Key facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Who it's for | Meetings, conferences, or client visits without taking paid employment in Schengen. · GOV.UK France entry requirements (opens in a new tab) |
| Maximum stay | 90 days in any 180-day period, shared with other Schengen visits. · GOV.UK France entry requirements (opens in a new tab) |
| Cost | No visa fee for a qualifying short stay. · GOV.UK France entry requirements (opens in a new tab) |
| Processing time | No Schengen visa to apply for before travel. · GOV.UK France entry requirements (opens in a new tab) |
| How to apply | Travel on a qualifying passport. EES registration may apply at the border. · GOV.UK France entry requirements (opens in a new tab) |
Each fact above is linked to the authority that sets the rule. Entry Visa Guide does not take applications.
Apply only on the government website linked above. This site does not issue visas or travel authorisations and does not take applications. Other websites charge their own service fee on top of any government charge.
How to apply
- Confirm the trip is a short business visit, not paid work in a Schengen country.
- Carry proof of the meeting purpose and return travel if an officer asks.
- Track total Schengen days so you do not pass 90 days in 180 days.
FAQ
Can I invoice clients while visa-free?
Paid employment in Schengen needs the correct work permission. This page does not cover that permit.
Is a separate business visa required?
GOV.UK lists business meetings among activities covered by the short-stay rule without a visa.
Sources
- GOV.UK: France entry requirements, including Schengen passport rules, the 90-day stay, and EES (opens in a new tab)
- European Union: countries using the Entry/Exit System (opens in a new tab)
- European Union: who should apply for ETIAS, including the note that it is not in operation (opens in a new tab)
- European Union: ETIAS questions, including the EUR 20 fee and three-year validity (opens in a new tab)
- European Union: UK nationals and ETIAS, news item dated 15 April 2026 (opens in a new tab)
Independent guide, not legal advice. Entry Visa Guide is an independent information site. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or run by any government or public authority. Always check official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Report an error.