StaymarkThe rule in one paragraph
For tourism and business visits, US citizens do not need a visa for the Schengen area, but total time there cannot exceed 90 days in any 180-day window. Entry and exit days both count, and the window rolls forward daily.
Europe is not all Schengen
The United Kingdom, Ireland and Cyprus are outside the Schengen area and have their own visitor rules, so time there does not use the Schengen allowance. Many travellers use them to break up a long trip.
Staying longer
Longer stays need a national long-stay visa from the country you plan to live in, such as a digital-nomad, retirement or work visa. Each country sets its own requirements.
Questions
Can I stay 90 days in France and then 90 days in Italy?
No. Both are Schengen countries and share one 90-day allowance.
Do I need ETIAS?
ETIAS is a planned pre-travel authorisation for visa-free visitors. Check the EU's official site for its current start date.
Sources
- European Commission: Schengen short-stay rules and calculator
- EU official site for EES and ETIAS
- European Commission: the Schengen area
Staymark counts days against published rules. This guide is general information, not legal, tax or immigration advice; rules change, so check the official sources above before you travel.