When you receive a Schengen visa, one of the most important details you’ll find on the visa sticker is its validity period. This timeframe indicates when you are allowed to enter and must leave the Schengen Area or a specific Schengen state.
Key Dates on Your Visa
- From: This is the date you are permitted to officially enter the Schengen Area. You may not enter before this date.
- Until: This is the last date you are allowed to remain in the Schengen Area. You must exit the region on or before this date.
For example, if your visa states "Valid FROM 28-04-2023 UNTIL 28-09-2023," this means your visa is valid from April 28, 2023, until September 28, 2023. You can enter the Schengen Area anytime from April 28 onwards, but not before. Similarly, while you can leave before September 28, you must not remain in the area past this date. Overstaying is a violation of visa terms and can negatively impact your travel record.
The Importance of Adhering to Visa Validity
Carefully reviewing the validity dates on your visa is crucial. Overstaying, even unintentionally, can lead to severe penalties, including potential bans from future travel to the Schengen Area. Additionally, travelers should always keep in mind the 90/180-day rule, which governs the total duration of stay within the Schengen Zone.
Ensuring that you fully understand and comply with these rules will help avoid complications and ensure a smooth travel experience.