The Schengen Area demonstrates unity and cooperation among 27 European nations. It has eliminated internal borders, enabling easy movement within the region while strengthening control of external borders and combating crime through better judicial and police cooperation.
Exploring the Schengen Area
It comprises the EU states minus Ireland and nations like Romania, Bulgaria, and Cyprus which are going through the phase of joining it. Meanwhile, countries outside the EU, such as Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein, also follow principles showing its global importance.
Inside the Zone
When holding a Uniform visa, travelers can explore all of the 27 members without border checks with a chance to familiarize themselves with a variety of historical, cultural, and natural heritage around Europe.
Geographical Overview
It spans approximately 4,368,693 square kilometers and is home to around 423,264,262 citizens. Its external borders extend over 50,000 kilometers, mostly water-based, with numerous airports, maritime ports, and land crossing points facilitating travel and exploration.
Exploring Schengen Countries
Austria: Culture and Nature
known for its captivating landscapes and rich history, joined Schengen in 1995. Travelers can explore its 83,871 square kilometers of beauty.
Belgium: History and Modernity
Belgium, famous for history, waffles, and chocolates, became a Schengen member in 1995. Its culturally rich 30,528 square kilometers invites exploration.
Czech Republic: Charms of Czechia
Czechia, a central European gem, joined Schengen in 2007. Its 78,866 square kilometers boast history, architecture, and natural beauty.
Croatia: Adriatic Jewel
Croatia joined Schengen in 2023, offering a coastline and historic cities within its 56,594 square kilometers.
Denmark: Innovation and Tradition
Denmark’s Schengen journey started in 2001, covering 43,094 square kilometers of beauty and innovation.
Estonia: Northern European Marvel
Started in 2007, inviting visitors to explore its cities and landscapes within 45,338 square kilometers.
Finland: Nordic Wonderland
Joined in 2001, offering 338,145 square kilometers of modernity and tranquility.
France: Culture Beyond the Eiffel Tower
Is a founding member, spans 551,695 square kilometers of diverse experiences.
Germany: Innovations and Scenery
Is a pioneer in innovation, spans 357,386 square kilometers of vibrant cities and history.
Greece: Cradle of Western Civilization
Greece joined in 2000, offering 131,990 square kilometers of ancient ruins and islands.
Hungary: Central European Charm
Hungary, with 93,030 square kilometers, is enticed with architectural marvels.
Iceland: Fire and Ice
Offers geothermal wonders across 103,000 square kilometers.
Italy: History and Art
in 1997, spans 301,318 square kilometers of iconic cities and coastlines.
Latvia: Baltic Charms
joining in 2007, encompasses 64,589 square kilometers of cities and landscapes.
Liechtenstein: Microstate Beauty
Liechtenstein, joining in 2011, boasts Alpine landscapes within 160 square kilometers.
Lithuania: Baltic Treasures
Lithuania joined in 2007, offering ancient cities across 65,300 square kilometers.
Luxembourg: Tiny Nation Grandeur
Luxembourg, a founding member, covers 2,586 square kilometers of history and modernity.
Malta: Mediterranean History
Malta joined in 2007, offering historic sites across 316 square kilometers.
Netherlands: Windmills and Art
The Netherlands, a founding member, spans 41,850 square kilometers of landscapes and cities.
Norway: Fjords and Northern Lights
Norway offers nature across 148,729 square kilometers.
Poland: Tradition and Modernity
Poland joined in 2007, with 312 square kilometers of culture and beauty.
Portugal: Port Wine and Beaches
Portugal joined in 1995, with 70,000 square kilometers of coastal wonders.
Slovakia: Castles and Caves
Slovakia joined in 2007, offering natural beauty across 49,037 square kilometers.
Slovenia: Caves and Coastlines
Slovenia joined in 2007, with diverse landscapes across 20,273 square kilometers.
Spain: Gaudi and Flamenco
Spain, a member since 1995, invites exploration across 505 square kilometers of culture.
Sweden: Beyond IKEA
Sweden joined in 2001, offering 450,295 square kilometers of landscapes and urban life.
Switzerland: Alpine Heritage
Switzerland, not an EU member but in Schengen, offers 41,290 square kilometers of culture and mountains
Current Challenges
The Schengen Area faces various challenges today:
Migration Pressures:
Recent migratory trends have tested the EU’s ability to manage its external borders effectively. This situation has sparked debates about potential reforms or even a rollback of some freedoms associated with the Schengen Agreement.
Security Concerns:
In response to perceived threats to public safety or national security, member states can temporarily reintroduce border controls. Such measures have been implemented at various times in recent years due to terrorist threats or large influxes of migrants.
In summary, the Schengen Area represents a cornerstone of European integration by facilitating free movement across many countries while also posing ongoing challenges related to security and migration management.
Fees associated with accessing or correcting data in the SIS
Accessing or correcting data in the Schengen Information System (SIS) generally does not incur any fees, but there are specific conditions under which fees may apply:
Free of Charge Access:
Individuals can exercise their right to access personal data stored in SIS without any fees, provided that the request pertains to an up-to-date database and that the individual has not made a similar request within the same year. In these cases, information is supplied free of charge.
Fees for Additional Requests:
If an individual has already requested information in the same year or if the request involves more complex processing, a flat fee of approximately EUR 18.89 may be charged. This fee can vary if higher expenses are incurred during the processing of the request.
Reimbursement of Fees:
If a request for access leads to a correction of inaccurate data, any fees paid must be reimbursed.
In summary, while accessing data is typically free, certain circumstances may lead to nominal fees, particularly for repeated requests within a year or more complex cases.
The Schengen Area, created for unity and easy travel, represents European cooperation. Its member countries offer diverse landscapes, cultures, and experiences, making it a top destination for travelers exploring Europe’s beauty and history.
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your travel to the Schengen Area straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for a Short Stay Visa or a Student Visa, we handle every step—from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our Immigration Consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process and coordinate with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas have a strong record of helping clients secure the visas/permits they need to visit Schengen Area. You can call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can help you.
