Family / spouse for US citizens travelling to Schengen area
Visiting family or friends is covered by the visa-free 90-day rule if you are not settling or working. Joining a family member long term needs a national visa or residence route.
For a US citizen passport. Lawful permanent residents and other statuses can follow different rules.
Key facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Who it's for | Visits to family or a partner within a short stay, or family reunification beyond 90 days. · European Commission — Schengen short-stay (opens in a new tab) |
| Maximum stay | 90 days in 180 days for visits; longer stays need a national permit. · European Commission — Schengen short-stay (opens in a new tab) |
| Cost | No visa fee for a qualifying short family visit. · European Commission — Schengen short-stay (opens in a new tab) |
| Processing time | Short family visits use the visa-free rule. Long-term family routes are processed nationally — check the host country embassy before you apply. · European Commission — Schengen short-stay (opens in a new tab) |
| How to apply | Short visits: travel with a qualifying passport. Long stays: national immigration authority. · European Commission — Schengen short-stay (opens in a new tab) |
Each fact above is linked to the authority that sets the rule. Entry Visa Guide does not take applications.
How to apply
- For a holiday-style visit, track Schengen days and carry return travel evidence.
- For marriage, partnership, or relocation, check the host country family visa rules before travel.
- Withdrawal Agreement residence documents have separate EU rules — read the EU ETIAS page if relevant.
FAQ
Can my EU spouse sponsor a visa-free stay?
US citizens use the general short-stay rule unless a separate EU residence document applies.
Is a wedding in Schengen allowed visa-free?
A short trip for a wedding can fit the 90-day visit if you do not work or overstay.
Sources
- European Commission: Schengen short stay (opens in a new tab)
- U.S. State Dept: France (sample Schengen state) (opens in a new tab)
- Canada: France travel advice (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 Spotted something out of date?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.