The Schengen Area in Europe symbolizes a region where 26 European nations have abolished their internal borders, facilitating the free and unrestricted movement of people. This endeavor is accompanied by common regulations governing external border control and cooperative efforts to combat crime through strengthened judicial systems and police collaboration.

Encompassing most European Union (EU) countries, except for Ireland and those on the brink of accession—Romania, Bulgaria, Croatia, and Cyprus—the European Area extends to include nations like Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein, despite their non-EU status.

The 26 Schengen countries include Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Presently, the Schengen Area comprises 26 member nations, all situated in Europe. Among them, 22 fully implement the Schengen agreements, while four, members of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), adhere to Schengen principles through specific agreements. Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein participate as associate members, notwithstanding their non-EU status.

Additionally, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City have opened their borders but remain outside the visa-free zone. Special EU members, such as the Azores, Madeira, and the Canary Islands, are part of the Schengen Zone despite their location beyond the European continent.

Five EU members, namely Ireland (which retains opt-outs), and Romania, Bulgaria, Croatia, and Cyprus (awaiting accession), have yet to join the Schengen Zone.