Americans Traveling to Europe: A Complete Guide

Do US citizens need an EU visa to enter Europe?

During stays of up to 90 days within 180 days, US residents do not require a visa to enter the Schengen Area in Europe, allowing you to travel to 27 countries. Nonetheless, US nationals must still fulfill some entry criteria to enter the Schengen Area, such as holding a valid passport, a return ticket, proof of adequate finances, and travel insurance.

Residents of the United States who are nationals of a country with which the EU has established a visa-free system may enter the Schengen countries. 

Conversely, US residents who are not nationals of a visa-free country and plan to visit the Schengen countries for tourism or business for up to 90 days in 180 days will need to apply for a Schengen Visa in advance.

Beginning in 2024, US residents will be required to have an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System)to enter Europe. However, an ETIAS is not a visa. You only need to apply once every three years as the ETIAS authorization will be valid for three years or until the traveler’s passport expires, whichever comes first.

The ETIAS will keep track of who enters and exits the Schengen Area. It acts in a similar way to the US ESTA (Electronic System For Travel Authorization).

Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland can be accessed through an ETIAS.

As a result, beginning in 2024, US residents may require an ETIAS to visit the following European microstates with open borders: Monaco (through France), San Marino (via Italy), and Vatican City (via Italy). It will let tourists enter and depart the Schengen Area as often as they like during the approved period, as long as no stay exceeds 90 days in 180 days.

Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the day you want to leave the Schengen Area. 

Accommodation proof: You may be required to give evidence of where you will be staying during your trip, such as hotel bookings or a letter of invitation from a host.

Proof of funds: You may be required to submit proof that you have enough money to sustain yourself throughout your trip, such as a bank statement.

Evidence of further travel: You may be required to present proof of onward travel, such as a return airline or train ticket.

Travel insurance: It is strongly advised that you get travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and other unforeseen events.

It’s worth noting that these criteria may differ significantly based on the nation you’re going and the purpose of your trip. For the most up-to-date information on entrance requirements, always contact the embassy or consulate of the country you will be visiting.

Which EU nations can Americans travel to without a visa?

Americans can visit the following 27 EU countries without an EU tourist visa for stays up to 90 days within 180 days:

• Austria
• Belgium
• Czech Republic
• Croatia
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Italy
• Latvia
• Liechtenstein
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Netherlands
• Norway
• Poland
• Portugal
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland

We recommend referring to the most updated information on the government website on entry restrictions for the country you are traveling to, as they are subject to change. 

Furthermore, certain European nations not part of the Schengen Area may have alternative visa requirements, enabling US residents to remain for extended periods. For example, the United Kingdom enables US citizens to stay without a visa for up to six months.

Overstaying your allowed days always has repercussions, like penalties or deportation, even if the deviation from the 90/180 rule is inadvertent.

Is travel health insurance mandatory for US nationals visiting Europe?

Travel health insurance is not required for US citizens visiting Europe, although it is strongly advised. Obtaining a Schengen Visa requires the applicant to produce proof of travel insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical expenditures, including repatriation.

Although you are not obliged to get travel insurance, having coverage in case of unanticipated medical crises, trip cancellations, or other unforeseen occurrences is a smart idea.

How do I get travel insurance for Europe from the USA?

You may obtain travel insurance for Europe from the United States by purchasing a policy from a travel insurance company. Allianz, Travel Guard, and World Nomads are three prominent travel insurance firms in the United States. You may compare plans and prices online and select the best fit for your requirements and budget.

Before selecting travel insurance coverage, study the terms and conditions thoroughly to understand what is and is not covered. Certain insurance may have restrictions or limitations, so selecting a policy that covers your travel needs is critical.

Inadequate paperwork: If a traveler cannot present sufficient proof to substantiate the purpose of their trip or their capacity to support themselves during their stay financially, they may be denied admission.

Criminal history: If a traveler has a criminal history, particularly for acts such as drug trafficking or terrorism, they may be denied entrance.

Prior overstay: The passenger may be denied admission if they have previously overstayed their visa or breached immigration regulations in the Schengen Area or other countries.

Suspicion of unlawful activity: If border officers suspect that the passenger is entering the Schengen Area for illicit purposes, such as working without a formal visa or engaging in human trafficking, they may deny entrance.

If a US citizen is refused admission into Europe, they may be detained until a trip back to the US can be arranged.

Travel Tips for Americans visiting Europe

Europe is a fascinating continent with a rich history, stunning architecture, various cultures, and delectable cuisine. Here we provide some essential travel advice for Americans traveling Europe to keep in mind to guarantee a smooth and pleasurable vacation.

 

Off-season travel

Traveling during the off-season is one of the best ways to save money and avoid congestion. This commonly occurs from November through March, barring vacations. Flights and lodging are often less expensive during this period, and you have a higher chance of obtaining available tickets to significant sites.

 

Utilize low-cost airlines

There are a lot of low-cost airlines in Europe that may save you a significant amount of money on tickets. Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air are some of the most popular low-cost carriers. These airlines charge extra for luggage, seat selection, and other perks. Booking your travel tickets well in advance can provide significantly cheap fares for your travel destinations.

 

Befriend locals

Don’t be scared to strike up a conversation with locals; Europeans are often polite and open to visitors. They can provide valuable insights into local culture, food, and hidden jewels that guidebooks may not provide.

 

Book in advance

Famous European sites and restaurants may rapidly fill up, especially during peak season. To avoid disappointment, book reservations for popular attractions and restaurants in advance.

 

Carry cash with you

While credit cards are generally accepted in Europe, keeping some cash on hand for minor purchases and transactions is a brilliant idea. To avoid fraud, only exchange your money at a reputed exchange office.

 

The Euro is not the currency for every country in Europe

While the Euro is Europe’s most widely used currency, it is not used in all nations. The British Pound is used in the United Kingdom, the Swiss Franc is used in Switzerland, and certain Eastern European countries use their currency. Learn about the currencies used in the countries you intend to visit and exchange your money correctly.

 

Carry an umbrella

Even in the summer, the weather in Europe may be unpredictable, so bring an umbrella or raincoat with you.

 

Learn some local language

A few simple words in the local language might help you make a good impression and get by in a new nation. “Hello,” “please,” “thank you,” “pardon me,” and “where is the bathroom?” are some essential words to learn.

 

Watch out for pickpockets

Pickpocketing can be an issue in certain prominent European tourist spots, so be aware of your surroundings and take measures. Keep your valuables near you, avoid carrying large quantities of cash, and avoid distractions or crowds.

 

Proper attire

Europeans dress more formally than Americans, so bring some dressier attire for dining out or visiting cultural events. Also, many churches and other religious sites have dress regulations that require modest apparel, so plan accordingly.

 

Understand the local laws and traditions

Each European nation has its unique set of laws and customs, so do your homework before you travel. In certain nations, for example, it is prohibited to jaywalk or consume alcohol in public, and in others, giving a modest tip at restaurants is customary.

Frequently Asked Questions about Americans Travelling to Europe

Are Americans allowed to travel to Europe?

Yes, of course, Americans are permitted to visit Europe.

What do Americans need to do to travel to Europe?

To go to Europe as an American, you’ll need a valid passport and a visa depending on the duration and purpose of your trip. Moreover, to enter several European nations, a negative COVID-19 test result or confirmation of immunization may be required.

Do you need COVID vaccine to travel to Europe?

Regarding COVID-19 vaccine requirements, each European country has its own, so verify the exact regulations of the country you want to visit before planning your trip. Some nations may demand vaccination evidence, while others may require a negative COVID-19 test result or a mix of the two, and some nations may not have any strict regulations anymore.