I understand that the UK permits US citizens to stay for 6 rather than the 3-month/180-day policy for Spain (as an example).
I would like to know if we could stay in the UK for the 6-month period AND go to Spain for another 3-months? This would allow us to stay in Europe for 9 consecutive months.
The UK.gov site states the 6-month policy, but doesn't get into its relationship with other countries.
Thank you.
Immigration for the UK and Schengen countries are totally separate.
What can raise the eyebrow with UK immigration is spending close to six months in the UK, a short time outside, then coming back to the UK.
The real shame is that the USA has never reciprocated the 6 month stay allowance.
Very important: The Schengen Zone limit is 90 days, not 3 months, and both the arrival day and the departure day count.
US citizens MAY be permitted to stay for UP TO six months - you might only get 2 weeks - it depends on what you say to the border agent.
I suppose the things to add to that is to have your onward travel out of the UK already booked and be able to demonstrate it as well as sufficient means to live out that time.
Of all the borders I have crossed, the UK tends to be the most stringent and asks the most questions, wanting details as to your plans.
What you are proposing is technically correct, just keep in mind the following:
As others have mentioned, it is Up to 6 Months, entry and length of stay is at the discretion of the border agent, but regardless of what you say, the stamp they use allows up to 6 months, only if they take exception will the time be shorter.
Watch your times carefully so you do not go afoul of limits. You actually could head to Spain at any time, do a stretch and head back to the UK (or Ireland), it is 6 months based on any entry, though they may limit you if they see multiple exits and entries.
Of all the borders I have crossed, the UK tends to be the most stringent and asks the most questions, wanting details as to your plans.
I face more questioning when I arrive back at the UK than I ever do at any European country I've visited.
