The European Commission launched a pilot program permitting citizens of Australia Canada Japan New Zealand and South Korea to stay in the Schengen Area for up to 120 days within any 180-day window beginning September 1 2026. Participants must still apply for ETIAS authorization in advance. The measure excludes employment or study activities.
Five member states including France Germany and Spain volunteered for the initial trial. Data from similar national schemes showed average spending per visitor increased by 40 percent during extended stays.
The pilot responds to post-pandemic shifts in travel patterns where longer multi-destination trips have grown in popularity. Standard Schengen rules continue to apply to all other passport holders.
What this means for you
Apply for ETIAS at least 10 days before arrival and select the extended-stay option during registration. Plan multi-country itineraries using high-speed rail passes to maximize the 120-day allowance. Keep digital copies of entry stamps and accommodation bookings.
Avoid exceeding the new limit as overstay fines start at 500 euros per day. Track days using the official EU border app to prevent accidental violations.
Success of the pilot may lead to permanent adoption across all 27 Schengen countries by 2028.