Definition
The Schengen Area is a zone of 29 European countries that have abolished systematic passport and other types of border control at their common borders, functioning as a single territory for international travel purposes. It encompasses most EU member states (all except Ireland) plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. Non-EU nationals holding a valid Schengen visa (Type C) or national residence permit from a Schengen country may generally move freely across the zone for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. The Schengen Area does not automatically confer work rights — those depend on the specific visa or permit.
Official sources
Related terms
EEA
European Economic Area
The European Economic Area comprises the 27 EU member states plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway, whose nationals enjoy free movement rights across all EEA countries.
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National Visa
Type D Visa (Long-Stay Visa)
A long-stay visa (Type D) issued by a Schengen country that allows the holder to reside and work in that country for more than 90 days, typically the first step before obtaining a residence permit.
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Residence Permit
An official document or authorisation that entitles a non-citizen to legally reside in a country for a specified period, often but not always including the right to work.
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Third-Country National
TCN
A person who is not a citizen of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland — the primary applicant group for European work and residence permits.
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