[Archaeis]

In countries that have the three months without a visa limit, can you enter the country, leave for a few days/couple weeks and renenter with the limit reset?

[robtfink]

Regrettably, no. The Schengen region, most Western European EU members, and certain non-affiliates such as Switzerland permit up to a ninety day stay within a six month period without an extended stay visa of some type (which needs be applied for prior to entry, incidentally). Your stay is calculated from day of entry, and is cumulative for the entire region. Assuming you are a US citizen, the UK permits up to a six month stay annually without extending visa.

http://travel.state.gov/visa/americans1.html#s
http://www.eurovisa.info/SchengenCountries.htm

[ 19. December 2004, 19:49: Message edited by: robtfink ]

[skorch]

That's one really crummy thing about the new EU. You can't spend more than 3 months travelling western europe. You used to be able to just because you'd be entering a different country every few weeks.

[validus]

Is it generally possible to (legally) stay for more than 90 days in the Schengen zone? Would I need to notify an immigration office or apply for a visa?

I have been travelling since late November 2004. I had not really been paying attention to schengen visas as I was under the impression it was more for work/study issues. And of course most consulate websites say fine for 90 days within such-and-such a particular country, so I figured that would be fine as I have not been in any single country for anywhere near 3 months.

So now I was casually told that there is a general 90-day cumulative limit covering the ENTIRE schengen region, which has left me somewhat at odds, especially given it is now late january (ie, ~90 days since I entered the schengen region). Kudos to a visit to the Czech Repl. (thankfully currently non-Schengen) I have a small grace period but I really need to get things in order.

I went to the local police station but basically got treated like a criminal once they found out what passport I am on (it is a rarely seen SE Asian one, but perfectly valid in virtually all of europe, and I am an Australian permanent resident now) and they were unable to provide any real help.

So my question is: what should I do next? Is it possible to apply for a visa? Given my passport and the response it has typically generated (bag search, prolonged hold ups and delays, hostile behaviour, detailed questioning) should I even bother? Is it generally feasible to get one (Would I need a local sponsor, travel itinerary, proof of funds)? To whom do I apply (schengen website says the consulate of the country of main stay, which I guess I am currently living in, so immigration office)? I only have maybe 1-2 weeks maximum so is it too late to apply? Should I just murder my travel plans (and dreams) and haul-ass to the UK?

Appreciate any advice, suggestions or thoughts.