Job Discussion Forums

[kololam77]

Need some clarification re: the Schengen (spelling??) visa.

If one entered Germany in July of 2006 and received the standard 90 day tourist stamp, then exited the first week of August for Israel, then when the war began between Israel and Lebanon in mid-August returned to Germany for about 10 days, then to the U.S. for an additional three weeks, then finally entering Germany once again on September 9, 2006 - does one still have until December 9, 2006 until the tourist visa expires?

Is it true that even if I exit to a non-Schengen country on December 9th (i.e. Croatia), I will not receive another 90 days upon reentry to Germany - but rather will have to stay in Croatia for six months since given my visa category (tourist, non-EU, U.S.) I can only stay in Schengen countries for one 90 day period within a six month range?

This seems awfully strange to me, but such may be the case as the EU becomes more defined and unified. If this is true, it makes it difficult to travel in most of Europe for longer than three months in any given year without having to exit for six months.

I have heard that residency permits solve this issue, but one must have an offer of work to receive one I have been told. I have money, health insurance, a place to stay (friend`s house), and a valid passport from the U.S. I have checked the embassy sites but have not found definitive answers.

What are my options if I want to stay in Germany beyond the first week in December 2006?

THANKS SO MUCH.

[txtraveler]

You should really contact the German Embassy or Consulate closest to you for clarification. Getting a longer stay visa can be complicated and the process does vary somewhat from country to country within the EU.

[DainaJ]

Are you familiar with Lonely Planet's Thorn Tree forum? Check the European travel branch for a sticky containing an in-depth explanation of the Schengen visa.

The Wikipedia entry on Schengen says:

"For citizens of countries not party to the Schengen Agreement, restrictions exist that govern the length of one's stay within the Schengen area. The general rule stipulates a maximum 90-day stay within a 180-day period beginning from the first day of entry. Provided a multiple-entry visa has been granted, one may leave and return a number of times within the 180-day period but the combined stay within the region must total no more than 90 days."

Doesn't look like there's a way to get around the "90 days within 180 days" rule unless you get some type of residence permit. That said, I'm no expert, so maybe you could consult an immigration lawyer if you're serious about staying.