When people think of the Schengen visa, they usually think of European countries like France, Germany, Italy, or Spain. But what many travelers don’t know is that this powerful visa can also unlock travel opportunities outside of the Schengen Zone.
If you hold a valid multiple-entry Schengen visa, you can travel to many other countries without applying for a separate visa. These countries are located in Asia, the Middle East, Africa, the Caribbean, Central and South America, and even in parts of Europe that aren’t part of the Schengen Agreement.
Some countries allow visa-free entry, others offer visa-on-arrival, and a few allow short stays with a simple e-visa application. However, most countries have conditions—such as requiring that your Schengen visa has already been used to enter a Schengen country.
Your Schengen visa is more than just a key to Europe—it’s a passport to global adventures. With just one visa, you can explore dozens of beautiful countries around the world without the hassle of applying for more visas.
Whether you’re dreaming of relaxing on Caribbean beaches, exploring ancient cities in the Middle East, or hiking in the Andes, your Schengen visa makes it easier than ever to travel the world.
In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at 38 non-Schengen countries that welcome travelers with a valid Schengen visa. We’ll also share helpful tips to make your trip smoother and stress-free.
What Is a Schengen Visa?
A Schengen visa is a short-term visa that allows travel to 27 countries in the Schengen Area. These countries have no internal borders, meaning you can move freely between them. A Type C multiple-entry visa is the most flexible and is accepted by many non-Schengen countries for short stays.
Asia
1. The Philippines
With a valid Schengen visa, you can enter the Philippines visa-free for up to 30 days. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months and that you have proof of onward travel (like a return ticket).
2. Singapore
Singapore allows travelers with a valid Schengen visa to transit for up to 96 hours (4 days) without a visa. However, this only applies if you’re traveling to or from Germany or Switzerland, and you must be flying with an approved airline.
Middle East
3. Oman
You can apply online for a 10-day or 30-day e-visa if you hold a valid Schengen visa. Oman is known for its beautiful deserts, mountains, and coastline, and this visa makes it easy for tourists to explore.
4. Qatar
Qatar offers a visa waiver on arrival for Schengen visa holders, allowing you to stay for up to 30 days, with the possibility to extend it for another 30 days. Qatar is a rising travel destination known for its futuristic skyline and cultural attractions.
5. Turkey
With a valid Schengen visa, you can apply online for a single-entry e-visa and stay in Turkey for up to 30 days. This rule is especially popular among travelers heading to Istanbul, Cappadocia, and the Turkish Riviera.
Non-Schengen Europe
These countries are in Europe but not part of the Schengen Area, and they welcome Schengen visa holders without requiring another visa.
6. Albania
Visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Albania offers beaches, mountains, and rich culture—all without the crowds.
7. Bosnia and Herzegovina
Stay visa-free for up to 30 days. A great destination for history, nature, and architecture lovers.
8. Bulgaria, 9. Croatia, 10. Cyprus, 15. Romania, 16. Serbia
These countries allow visa-free stays of up to 90 days in a 180-day period. These are great alternatives to Western Europe, with fewer tourists and lower prices.
11. Georgia
Georgia welcomes Schengen visa holders for up to 90 days visa-free. It’s famous for its mountains, food, and friendly people.
12. Kosovo, 14. North Macedonia
Visa-free entry for up to 15 days.
13. Montenegro
Stay for up to 30 days without needing another visa.
Africa
17. Egypt
You can get a visa on arrival for 30 days at the airport if you have a valid Schengen visa. Egypt is home to the pyramids, the Nile River, and ancient temples.
18. São Tomé and Príncipe
This small island country in West Africa allows Schengen visa holders to enter visa-free for 15 days. It’s a peaceful and tropical getaway.
19. Morocco, 20. Tunisia
Both offer visa-free entry for up to 90 days. These North African countries are ideal for desert adventures, historic cities, and colorful markets.
21. Cape Verde
Visa-on-arrival is available. You must register online before your trip and show your Schengen visa at the border.
The Caribbean
These beautiful island nations and territories offer visa-free travel to Schengen visa holders.
22. Aruba
Visa-free for up to 30 days at a time, and up to 180 days per year.
23. Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba, 24. Curaçao, 25. Sint Maarten
Visa-free for up to 90 days.
26. Dominican Republic
Visa-free for up to 30 days.
27. Antigua and Barbuda, 28. Saint Kitts and Nevis, 29. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Visa-free for up to 30 or 90 days, depending on the country.
30. Turks and Caicos Islands
Visa-free for up to 90 days.
These islands offer sunny beaches, snorkeling, and relaxation—perfect for a tropical vacation.
Central America
Thanks to the CA-4 visa agreement, these countries allow Schengen visa holders to move freely between them for up to 90 days in total.
31. Guatemala, 32. Honduras, 33. El Salvador, 34. Nicaragua
You can enter and travel among these four countries without needing another visa.
35. Belize
Visa-free entry for up to 90 days with a valid Schengen visa.
South America
36. Peru
You can visit Peru for up to 90 days visa-free if you hold a valid multiple-entry Schengen visa. Peru is known for Machu Picchu, the Andes Mountains, and rich Incan history.
37. Colombia
Stay for up to 90 days without a visa. Colombia is a vibrant country with beautiful cities, coffee farms, and Caribbean beaches.
38. Panama
Allows visa-free entry for 30 days if your Schengen visa is valid for at least one more year and has already been used to enter the Schengen Area.
Travel Tips Before You Go
- Check the Entry Policy: Every country has different rules. Always check the official embassy or immigration website of the country you plan to visit.
- Use the Schengen Visa First: Most countries require that your Schengen visa has already been used to enter a Schengen country before you use it elsewhere.
- Your Visa Must Be Valid: Make sure your visa has not expired and has multiple entries if required.
- Proof of Travel Plans: Some countries may ask for:
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Proof of hotel booking
- Travel insurance
- Enough funds for your stay
- Be Aware of Entry Limits: Even if entry is visa-free, you may only stay for 15 to 90 days. Overstaying can cause fines or future travel bans.
- Keep Printed Copies: Always carry printed copies of your visa, travel insurance, and hotel bookings. It’s helpful at immigration checkpoints.
READ MORE: Schengen Visa Rejection Rates in Country-Wise List
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