## What European Countries Require Visa from US Citizens to Travel
**Introduction**
The European Union (EU) is a political and economic union of 27 member states that are located primarily in Europe. US citizens traveling to the EU need to be aware of the visa requirements, which vary depending on the length of stay and the purpose of the trip.
**Visa-Free Travel for US Citizens**
US citizens are generally permitted to travel within the EU for up to 90 days without a visa for tourist, business, or family visits. This visa-free period applies to the following EU member states:
– Austria
– Belgium
– Bulgaria
– Croatia
– Cyprus
– Czech Republic
– Denmark
– Estonia
– Finland
– France
– Germany
– Greece
– Hungary
– Iceland
– Ireland
– Italy
– Latvia
– Lithuania
– Luxembourg
– Malta
– Netherlands
– Norway
– Poland
– Portugal
– Romania
– Slovakia
– Slovenia
– Spain
– Sweden
**Visa Requirements for Stays Over 90 Days**
For stays longer than 90 days, US citizens may need to apply for a visa. The type of visa required will depend on the purpose and duration of the stay. Here are some of the most common types of visas for long-term stays:
* **Schengen visa:** This visa allows US citizens to travel freely within the Schengen Area, which includes 26 European countries. It is valid for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
* **National visa:** This visa is required for stays longer than 90 days in a single EU country. It must be applied for at the embassy or consulate of the country where the stay will take place.
* **Student visa:** This visa is required for US citizens who plan to study in the EU for more than 90 days. It must be applied for at the embassy or consulate of the country where the study will take place.
* **Work visa:** This visa is required for US citizens who plan to work in the EU for more than 90 days. It must be applied for at the embassy or consulate of the country where the work will take place.
**Application Process for Visas**
The application process for a visa can vary depending on the type of visa and the country where it is being applied for. In general, US citizens will need to provide the following documents:
* A valid US passport
* A completed visa application form
* Two passport-sized photos
* Proof of financial means
* Proof of accommodation
* A letter of invitation or employment contract (if applicable)
**Fees**
Visa fees vary depending on the type of visa and the country where it is being applied for. For example, the fee for a Schengen visa is €80 (approximately $88 USD), while the fee for a national visa can be higher.
**Validity and Extensions**
The validity of a visa depends on the type of visa and the country where it was issued. Some visas are valid for a single entry, while others are valid for multiple entries. Extensions may be available in some cases.
**Conclusion**
US citizens traveling to the EU should be aware of the visa requirements, which vary depending on the length of stay and the purpose of the trip. For stays longer than 90 days, a visa may be required. The application process for visas can vary, but generally includes providing a valid US passport, a completed visa application form, and proof of financial means and accommodation. Fees vary depending on the type of visa and the country where it is being applied for.