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How does the UK 6-month visitors visa work when visiting other EU countries?

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.

Posted by
5311 posts

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.

Posted by
26832 posts

Very important: The Schengen Zone limit is 90 days, not 3 months, and both the arrival day and the departure day count.

Posted by
2482 posts

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.

Posted by
5311 posts

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.

Posted by
7449 posts

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:

  • Know the date you will be exiting, better yet have a ticket.
  • Have the address of where you will be staying
  • Be ready to relate your plans, have an itinerary.

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.

Posted by
5239 posts

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.