A Schengen country is one of the 27 European nations that have signed the Schengen Agreement, allowing passport-free travel across their mutual borders. This agreement was first signed in 1985 in the village of Schengen in Luxembourg, and it has since grown to include most European Union (EU) countries and a few non-EU countries.
The Schengen Area eliminates border controls between its member countries, allowing for easier and unrestricted movement of people within the area. It also has common visa policies for short stays of up to 90 days for tourists, business travelers, and other visitors.
As of now, the Schengen countries are:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
These countries maintain their external borders, but internal border checks are generally abolished within the Schengen Area.
Traveling with pets in the Schengen Area can be advantageous due to several reasons:
- Simplified Travel Between Countries: Once you and your pet are within the Schengen Area, you can move between member countries without going through border checks. This makes multi-country travel much more convenient and stress-free for both you and your pet.
- Unified Pet Travel Regulations: The Schengen countries follow similar regulations for pet travel, which simplifies the process. Key requirements often include:
- A microchip or tattoo for identification.
- A valid rabies vaccination.
- A pet passport or health certificate issued by an authorized veterinarian.
- Pet-Friendly Infrastructure: Many Schengen countries have excellent facilities and infrastructure for traveling with pets, including pet-friendly accommodations, restaurants, parks, and transportation options.
- Quality Veterinary Care: Schengen countries generally offer high standards of veterinary care, providing peace of mind that your pet can receive necessary medical attention if required.
- Short Travel Distances: The proximity of Schengen countries means shorter travel times between destinations, which can be less stressful for pets.
- Cultural Acceptance: Many European countries are culturally accepting of pets, making it easier to travel with them in public spaces and on various modes of transport.
- Scenic Destinations: The Schengen Area includes a variety of landscapes, from mountains and forests to beaches and urban environments, offering plenty of opportunities for pet-friendly outdoor activities and adventures.