How Long Can a Canadian Stay in Europe Without a Visa? A 2025 Travel Guide

 If you're a Canadian dreaming of a European adventure, you're probably wondering: how long can a Canadian stay in Europe without a visa? The good news is that in 2025, Canadians still enjoy relatively flexible travel rules across Europe. However, understanding those rules is essential if you want to avoid complications or overstaying your welcome.

At Your Place in Europe, we specialize in helping Canadians navigate travel, relocation, and long-term stays across the continent. In this guide, we'll break down the current regulations, explain your visa options, and provide tips for extending your stay or planning a longer-term move.

1. The Schengen Zone Rule: 90 Days Within 180

The most important rule for Canadian travelers in Europe is the Schengen 90/180 rule. Under this agreement, Canadians can stay in the Schengen Area visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

What is the Schengen Area?

The Schengen Zone is a group of 27 European countries that have abolished border controls between them. It includes popular destinations like:

  • France

  • Italy

  • Spain

  • Germany

  • Portugal

  • Greece

  • Netherlands

  • Austria

  • Belgium

And many others. When you enter one Schengen country, your 90-day countdown begins for the entire area.

Key Takeaways:

  • No visa needed for up to 90 days in any 180-day period

  • Applies to tourism, business trips, and family visits

  • You cannot reset your 90-day stay by hopping between Schengen countries

2. How to Track Your 90 Days

Because the 90-day rule applies across the entire Schengen Area, it's crucial to track your days accurately. Tools like the Schengen Calculator can help.

Example: If you enter France on March 1 and spend 60 days in Europe, leave on April 30, and then return on June 15, you can only stay an additional 30 days.

If you overstay, you may face fines, deportation, or bans from future travel.

3. Countries Outside Schengen: Extra Stay Options

Not all European countries are in the Schengen Zone. Some, like the United Kingdom, Ireland, Croatia, Romania, and Bulgaria, have their own visa-free rules for Canadians.

For example:

  • UK: Canadians can stay up to 6 months without a visa

  • Ireland: Canadians can stay up to 90 days, separate from Schengen

  • Croatia, Romania, Bulgaria: Have individual rules, sometimes allowing longer stays separate from Schengen limits

Tip: You can extend your time in Europe by visiting non-Schengen countries after your 90 days in the Schengen Zone.

4. What If You Want to Stay Longer?

If you're planning to stay longer than 90 days, you'll need to apply for a long-stay visa or residency permit from the specific country you intend to reside in.

Popular long-stay visa options for Canadians include:

  • France: Long-Stay Visitor Visa

  • Germany: Job Seeker or Freelancer Visa

  • Spain: Non-Lucrative Visa

  • Portugal: D7 Visa for retirees and remote workers

  • Italy: Elective Residency Visa

Each visa has different requirements, including:

  • Proof of income or savings

  • Accommodation address

  • Health insurance

  • Background checks

5. ETIAS Requirement Starting in 2025

Starting in mid-2025, Canadians will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before entering the Schengen Area.

What is ETIAS?

ETIAS is not a visa, but a pre-screening system. It’s similar to the U.S. ESTA. It helps Schengen countries screen travelers before arrival.

Key details:

  • Apply online before travel

  • Valid for 3 years or until your passport expires

  • Costs approximately 7 Euros

Make sure you apply for ETIAS before your trip beginning in 2025.

6. Tips for a Seamless European Stay

  • Plan ahead: Know your entry/exit dates and track your days

  • Mix Schengen and non-Schengen countries: Use this to extend your time legally

  • Apply early for long-stay visas: These can take weeks or months to process

  • Get travel insurance: Many countries require proof of coverage

  • Join expat forums and get local advice: Communities like Internations, Reddit, or our own Your Place in Europe network are valuable resources

7. How Your Place in Europe Can Help

Whether you're taking a three-month sabbatical, planning retirement, or exploring remote work opportunities, Your Place in Europe offers personalized support.

We help Canadians:

  • Understand visa rules

  • Find the right country based on your goals

  • Navigate ETIAS and other new requirements

  • Connect with housing, language, and expat services

Final Thoughts

So, how long can a Canadian stay in Europe without a visa? The short answer: 90 days in the Schengen Area, with longer stays possible in non-Schengen countries or through the right long-term visa.

In 2025, navigating European travel remains accessible—but a little more complex. Preparation is key. Use this guide and partner with Your Place in Europe to plan your journey wisely and legally.

Ready to start planning your European experience? Visit Your Place in Europe to get expert help today.

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