European Countries That Are Not Part of the Schengen Zone

Update (October 2026)

This list has been updated. The Schengen Area now has 29 countries. Bulgaria and Romania became full members on 1 January 2025, which leaves Cyprus and Ireland as the only EU countries outside it.

The Schengen Zone represents a landmark agreement between European countries, enabling unrestricted travel across borders without passport inspections. Despite the extensive coverage of the Schengen Area, several European nations remain outside its scope. This article explores the European countries excluded from the Schengen Zone, delving into the reasons for their non-participation and the implications for travelers.

What Is the Schengen Zone?

The Schengen Zone encompasses 29 European countries that have eliminated internal border checks, allowing both citizens and visitors to traverse member states without hindrance. This agreement was created to simplify travel, enhance tourism, and foster economic integration. For a detailed understanding of the Schengen Area and its advantages, see What Is the Schengen Area.

Why Are Some European Countries Not Part of the Schengen Zone?

While Schengen membership offers numerous benefits, several European nations have opted to remain outside the zone. Their reasons range from political stances and prolonged negotiations to apprehensions about border security and migration control. Some of these countries are in the process of seeking Schengen membership, while others prefer to retain stringent border regulations. For more information on various Schengen visa types and their requirements, see Schengen Visa Types.

List of European Countries Outside the Schengen Zone

The following is an in-depth look at European nations that have yet to join the Schengen Zone:

1. United Kingdom

The United Kingdom (UK) opted not to participate in the Schengen Area, even during its tenure as a European Union member state. This decision was driven by the UK’s preference for independent border controls, prioritizing national security and immigration management. Post-Brexit, the UK’s departure from the EU has further tightened travel regulations for both inbound and outbound visitors. Everyone goes through passport control when entering the UK, and many visa-free visitors, including Australians and most Europeans, now need a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before they travel.

2. Ireland

Ireland chose not to join the Schengen Agreement, owing largely to its strong ties with the UK and their mutual involvement in the Common Travel Area (CTA). The CTA facilitates unrestricted movement between the UK and Ireland, rendering Schengen membership unnecessary. Consequently, travelers from Schengen nations need to present a passport or visa upon entry to Ireland. For assistance on the Schengen Visa application process, visit How to Apply for a Schengen Visa.

3. Cyprus

Cyprus is the only EU member, apart from Ireland, that is not yet in the Schengen Area. It is technically ready to join, but entry needs a unanimous decision of the Council of the EU, and the island’s division adds complications. In October 2026 the Cypriot government said it now expects to join in 2027. Until then, you pass through passport control when you fly between Cyprus and Schengen countries, and days in Cyprus do not count toward your Schengen 90 days. Cyprus will take part in ETIAS once it starts.

4. Bulgaria, Romania and Croatia: now in Schengen

Older lists often show these three countries as outside the Schengen Area, but that is no longer the case. Croatia joined on 1 January 2023. Bulgaria and Romania joined for air and sea travel on 31 March 2024 and became full members, including land borders, on 1 January 2025. See our Bulgaria visa, Romania visa and Croatia visa guides.

5. Turkey

While Turkey is geographically and politically connected to Europe, it is not part of the Schengen Area. The country has chosen to maintain its own visa policies and border controls. Turkish citizens require a visa to travel to Schengen countries, and there are ongoing discussions about potential future alignment with European travel policies.

6. Ukraine and Moldova

Both Ukraine and Moldova are not members of the Schengen Zone. However, citizens of these countries can travel visa-free to the Schengen Area for short stays, thanks to agreements signed with the European Union. The ongoing conflict and political situation in Ukraine have delayed any discussions regarding Schengen membership.

7. Albania, Serbia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Bosnia & Herzegovina

These Western Balkan countries are on the path to EU integration but are not yet part of the Schengen Zone. Many of them have visa-free travel agreements with Schengen countries, allowing their citizens to travel freely for short stays. Full Schengen membership will likely follow after their accession to the European Union.

Traveling to Non-Schengen European Countries

When planning trips to European countries outside the Schengen Zone, it is crucial to consider differing visa regulations. Unlike the simplified travel within the Schengen Area, these nations often require distinct visas or additional travel authorizations for entry.

For instance, visiting the UK or Ireland requires a separate visa or travel authorization, depending on your nationality. Similarly, entering Turkey, Ukraine, or the Western Balkans may involve additional visa applications. To learn more about the application process and Schengen visa guidelines, visit How to Apply for Schengen Visa.

Schengen Expansion: What’s Next?

The Schengen Area is undergoing ongoing expansion, with several countries poised for future membership. Bulgaria and Romania completed their accession on 1 January 2025 and Cyprus expects to join in 2027, while others, such as the Western Balkan states, are steadily advancing toward EU accession, potentially paving the way for their inclusion in the Schengen Zone. For further updates on Schengen policies and potential expansion, check the European Commission’s Schengen information.

For a complete overview of the Schengen Zone, its history, and travel benefits, explore What Is the Schengen Area and Schengen Visa Types.