United States citizens do not need a visa for short term visits (up to 90 days) to any of the Schengen States within the European Union. This includes travel for vacations and leisure purposes.
The implementing Schengen States (dard blue) include:
- Austria, Belgium, Denmark,
- Finland, France, Germany,
- Greece, Iceland, Italy,
- Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, and
- Portugal, Spain, Sweden.
The countries in light blue are members who have not implemented the Schengen procedures yet.
For any other type of activitivities, US citizens will have to apply for a foreign visa.
Other Popular Destinations
Many countries like Mexico and Canada do not require a visa for short term travel. Other countries may not require visas, however thet require proof of an onward/return ticket and proof of sufficient funds.
Every country is different and and regulations are changing constantly. We strongly suggest that you consult the US State Department's Foreign Visa webpage which lists the current Foreign Visa Requirements for every country [2]. Airlines are also very good sources of information for foreign visa requirements and other travel ocuments.
Travel Warnings
At a minimum, you should check with Travel Warnings posted by the US State Department before traveling. We also sugguest that you also register with the US Embassies [3] in the event that you need to be contacted abroad or need emergency services. Here is also a list of United States Embassies and Consulates abroad. [4]
Here's some basic background information about the countries in various regions:
- Western Hemisphere [5]
- Africa [6]
- East Asia and Pacific [7]
- Europe and Eurasia [8], and
- South and Central Asia [9]
Visiting Hawaii and Puerto Rico
US citizens do not need a visa or US passport to visit Hawaii since it is a state. Nor do they need a visa or US Passport to visit Puerto Rico, a self-governing commonwealth in association with the United States.