The Schengen visa is a short-stay visa that allows individuals to travel freely within the Schengen Area, which is a zone comprising 27 European countries that have abolished passport control at their mutual borders. This visa is named after the Schengen Agreement, which was signed in the village of Schengen in Luxembourg in 1985.
The Schengen Area includes countries from both the European Union (EU) and non-EU member states. The visa allows the holder to travel freely across the Schengen Zone for a period of up to 90 days within a 180-day period for purposes such as tourism, business, or family visits.
When applying for a Schengen visa, individuals typically need to apply at the embassy or consulate of the Schengen country they plan to visit first or spend the most time in during their trip. The visa application requirements may vary slightly between different Schengen countries, but generally, applicants need to provide proof of travel arrangements, accommodation, financial means, travel insurance, and the purpose of the visit.
It's important to note that the Schengen visa does not give the right to work or reside in the Schengen Area for an extended period. If someone wishes to stay for longer than 90 days or for purposes other than those allowed by the Schengen visa, they usually need to apply for a national visa or a residence permit from the specific country they intend to stay in.