Passport types accepted in Europe

To travel within the Schengen area, your passport must meet specific criteria. Depending on your nationality, you may need to obtain a visa or ETIAS authorization.

Valid passport

Your passport must :

• Be valid for at least three months after the planned date of exit from the Schengen area;
• Issued less than ten years ago.

Without these conditions, you may be refused entry, even with a plane ticket or hotel reservation.

Biometric passports

This type of passport contains an electronic chip with your identity data. It is not mandatory, but strongly recommended. It facilitates and speeds up border controls.

Passport with visa or ETIAS authorization

There are two possible scenarios, depending on your country of origin:

• If you are a national of a visa-exempt country, an ETIAS authorization is required. You can apply for it online before departure.
• If your country requires a visa for Europe, a Schengen visa must be obtained and affixed to your passport.

Diplomatic and service passports

Holders of diplomatic or service passports sometimes benefit from special agreements. These documents may entitle the holder to a visa orETIAS exemption. This depends on the bilateral agreements in force.

Additional documents required

A valid passport is not enough. At the border, you must present :

• Proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of the stay;
• Proof of accommodation (reservation or certificate of reception) ;
• A return or onward ticket to prove you have left Schengen territory.