Information

The Schengen Zone allows speedy travel from one country to another without unnecessary formalities. It guarantees free movement to more than 425 million EU citizens, along with non-EU nationals living in the EU or visiting the EU as tourists, exchange students or for business purposes (anyone legally present in the EU). Free movement of persons enables every EU citizen to travel, work and live in an EU country without special formalities. Schengen underpins this freedom by enabling citizens to move around the Schengen Area without being subject to border checks. 

Additionally, the non-EU States Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein also have joined the Schengen Area.

EU vs. Schengen
The EU comprises of 27 countries with standardized laws, facilitating the free movement of individuals and goods. In contrast, the Schengen Area allows border-free travel across member states, including non-EU countries like Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. 

Future Prospects
Cyprus aims to join the Schengen Area by 2025, improving border management and security. Upon joining the Schengen Area, Cyprus residency holders will be able to travel without checks across 29 countries. This will boost interest in Cyprus’ Residency by Investment Program and stimulate further growth in the property market and increase demand and will add further value.