Bilateral Visa Waivers in Europe: How Australians and New Zealanders Can Stay Beyond 90 Days

If you’ve spent any time planning a European stay, you’ll be familiar with the Schengen 90/180-day rule. For most travellers, it’s the hard limit.

However, Australians and New Zealanders have a lesser-known advantage: bilateral visa waiver agreements with certain European countries that pre-date Schengen. Used properly, these agreements can allow you to stay in Europe longer — but only in very specific ways.

This guide explains how they work, how to use them safely, and where they fit into a broader visa strategy.

Do Bilateral Agreements Extend Schengen Time?

No.

Bilateral agreements do not reset your Schengen 90 days, do not give you an extra 90 days to travel Europe, and do not allow free movement between countries.

They only allow additional time in one specific country.

How the Strategy Works

1. Spend 90 days in the Schengen Area
2. Relocate to a bilateral agreement country before your time expires
3. Remain in that country only for up to an additional 90 days

This allows for up to 180 days in Europe, but only 90 days of movement across Schengen countries.

How Do You Access the Extra Time?

In most cases:

• No visa application is required
• No formal approval is issued
• The right exists automatically under law

However:

• Some countries require local registration
• Authorities may not be familiar with the rules
• Supporting documentation is strongly recommended

Country Breakdown

France (New Zealand)

Maximum stay: Up to 180 days total (90 + 90)
Access: Automatic
Notes: One of the most reliable bilateral options. Must remain in France after day 90.

Switzerland (New Zealand)

Maximum stay: Up to 180 days total
Access: Automatic, registration may be required
Notes: More structured administrative environment.

Austria (Australia & New Zealand)

Maximum stay: Up to 180 days total
Access: Automatic, registration likely
Notes: Compliance requirements more formal.

Italy (Australia)

Maximum stay: Up to 180 days total
Access: Automatic
Notes: More flexible in practice, but varies by region.

Greece (Australia)

Maximum stay: Up to 180 days total
Access: Automatic
Notes: Historically more relaxed enforcement.

Germany, Netherlands, Belgium (Australia)

Maximum stay: Up to 180 days total (in theory)
Access: Automatic in law
Notes: Strict enforcement. Not recommended as primary strategy.

Can You Travel After Using a Bilateral Agreement?

No.

Once you exceed 90 Schengen days, you must remain in the country where you are relying on the bilateral agreement. Travel to other Schengen countries may result in an overstay.

Can You Reset Schengen After a Bilateral Stay?

No.

You must leave the Schengen Area and spend sufficient time outside (typically 90 days) to reset the clock.

When Should You Use This Strategy?

This approach is best used as:

• A bridging solution while awaiting visa approval
• A way to remain compliant while preparing residency applications

It is not suitable for continued travel across Europe.

Final Position

Bilateral visa waivers are a legitimate but limited pathway.

Used correctly, they allow you to extend your stay. Used incorrectly, they can lead to compliance issues and complications at departure.