Colombian citizens planning to visit Europe should familiarize themselves with the stay regulations to avoid inconveniences and legal problems during their trip. Europe is an attractive destination for many Colombians due to its rich history, vibrant culture and business opportunities. However, It is crucial to understand the rules governing the length of stay to ensure a pleasant and hassle-free experience.
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Most of Europe is part of the Schengen Area, an area that allows the free movement of people between its member countries. Citizens Colombians do not need a visa for short-term stays in these countriesHowever, this is subject to certain conditions and limitations.
The Schengen agreement stipulates that visitors can stay in the area for a maximum period of 90 days within a 180-day period. This limit applies to the sum of days a person is in any country in the Schengen Area, not to each country individually. For example, if a Colombian spends 30 days in France and then 60 days in Italy, he or she will have used the total of 90 days allowed within that 180-day cycle.
Calculating the 180-day period may seem complicated, but it is essential to avoid exceeding the limit. The rule is to look back from the current day and count the days you have been in the Schengen Area over the past 180 days. If the sum is 90 days or less, you can still stay in the area. If you have already reached the 90-day limit, you will need to wait until some of the previous days of your stay are over. be “removed” from the 180-day calculation before being able to re-enter.
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Exceptions
1. United Kingdom and Ireland: Although they are not part of the Schengen Area, the United Kingdom and Ireland have their own rules for the entry of Colombians. Although the United Kingdom is no longer part of the European Union since Brexit, Colombian citizens need a visa for stays of more than 6 months. Ireland, which is also not part of Schengen, has separate requirements but allows visa-free stays of up to 90 days.
2. EU states outside the Schengen area: Some European Union countries such as Bulgaria, Romania, Cyprus and Croatia, although members of the EU, are not part of the Schengen Area. Therefore, their visa rules may differ. Colombians may need specific visas for these countries if they wish to stay beyond the visa-free period of the Schengen Area.
Now, if a Colombian wishes to stay in Europe for more than 90 days, there are several options available, although all require a visa plan or additional permits.
1. National visas: Schengen countries offer national visas for long stays. These visas are issued for specific purposes such as study, work or family reunification. Each country has its own requirements and processes for applying for a national visa.
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Colombian passport
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2. Study visas: If the purpose of the stay is educational, Colombian citizens must apply for a student visa. The duration of the stay will be aligned with the study period and the requirements of the country in question.
3. Work visas: To work in Europe, you must obtain a work visa. This visa not only requires a job offer in the destination country, but also meeting additional requirements that vary by country.
4. Temporary residence: Some countries offer temporary residence permits for those who meet certain criteria. These may be related to investments, specialized jobs, or family relationships.
It is vital not to exceed the 90-day limit. Staying beyond the allowed period can result in severe penalties, including fines, bans on future entry, and even deportations. Immigration authorities in Schengen countries are equipped with tools to monitor entries and exits, and are on the lookout for those who try to circumvent the rules.
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