In 1985, an agreement allowing short-term visa-free travel between several European countries was signed in the small village of Schengen, Luxembourg. Today, the Schengen Area comprises 29 European countries where internal border controls have been abolished and visa policies have been harmonized. The Schengen Area operates under a single short-stay visa, known as the Schengen visa. 

A Schengen visa allows third-country nationals, as listed in Annex I of EU Regulation 2018/1806, to visit all 29 Schengen countries for purposes like tourism or short-term study/ research.

However, not all visitors are required to obtain it. Whether a Schengen visa is needed depends on the visitor's nationality, as stated in their official identity document (e.g., passport, travel identity card). 

The Schengen Visa can be issued for a single entry, a double entry, or for unlimited access to the Schengen Area. In any case, a Schengen Visa holder is not allowed to stay in Schengen for more than 90 days within a 180-day period. This is called the "Free-Travel Period". Overstaying this limit, whether intentionally or not, can lead to severe penalties, including deportation and future entry bans.

Schengen Visa applications can be submitted up to six months in advance of your intended travel date. Given the numerous requirements for eligibility, it is highly recommended to initiate the Schengen Visa process three months in advance and apply at least one month before the employee's planned departure.

Possession of a Schengen Visa does not automatically guarantee entry into the Schengen Area. Visitors may still be asked at the border to provide proof that they meet the entry conditions. Failure to provide such proof can lead to refusal of entry. While unlikely after visa approval unless circumstances have significantly changed, refusal of entry could potentially lead to detention and deportation.

Schengen Visa holders entering and leaving the Schengen area undergo rigorous entry and exit checks. These comprehensive checks leverage advanced IT systems to ensure strict compliance with visa conditions.

Overstaying the permitted travel period carries significant and real consequences. Both employers and employees must proactively manage this risk to avoid profound implications.

The "Basics" section outlines general principles of HR Global Mobility disciplines that are applicable in all relevant countries.

While these general principles apply broadly, you will also need to apply country-specific compliance requirements. For detailed, country-specific information, please consult the Country Guides.