Travelers with a Non-Lucrative Visa can freely move within the Schengen Area, but should follow the 90-day stay limit per 180 days in each country.
No, there are generally no restrictions on travel within the Schengen Area for Non-Lucrative Visa holders, but there are important guidelines to follow:
1. Freedom of Movement
- Schengen Area Access: A Non-Lucrative Visa for Spain allows the holder to travel freely within the Schengen Area. The Schengen Area comprises 27 European countries that have abolished border controls between them, enabling visa holders to move across these countries without additional visas or border checks for short stays.
- Short Stays in Other Schengen Countries: You can travel to other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This is known as the "90/180 rule." The 90-day limit applies collectively to the entire Schengen Area, meaning that your time in other Schengen countries counts towards this limit.
2. Residency Requirements in Spain
- Primary Residency in Spain: While you can travel within the Schengen Area, your primary residence must remain in Spain. The Non-Lucrative Visa requires that you spend more than 183 days per year in Spain to maintain your residency status. Failing to meet this requirement could jeopardize your visa renewal and long-term residency options.
3. Travel Documentation
- Passport and Visa: When traveling within the Schengen Area, always carry your passport and your Spanish residency card (TIE - Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero). Even though border checks are usually not required, authorities in other Schengen countries may ask for these documents as proof of your legal status in Spain.
4. Limitations Outside the Schengen Area
- Non-Schengen Travel: If you plan to travel outside the Schengen Area, you must comply with the entry requirements of the destination country. Your Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa does not grant automatic entry to non-Schengen countries, so additional visas may be required depending on your destination.
Summary
Non-Lucrative Visa holders can travel freely within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without additional visas. However, maintaining Spain as your primary residence by spending more than 183 days per year there is essential to keeping your visa valid. Always carry your passport and Spanish residency card when traveling within the Schengen Area.