Monaco Entry & Visas

Access Rules for Americans

Expat Guides » Monaco » Visas
90
Days Visa-Free
180
Day Period
0
Border Controls
Schengen Access: Monaco is not part of the Schengen Area but has open borders with France. In practice, you enter Monaco by traveling through France, so Schengen rules effectively apply.

Entry Requirements

Americans can visit Monaco without a visa for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period—the same as Schengen rules, since access is through France.

What You Need

No Physical Border

There is no passport control between France and Monaco. You simply drive or walk across the border. This means:

Schengen 90/180 Rule

Since you must pass through France to reach Monaco, the Schengen 90/180 rule applies:

How It Works

On any given day, count the days you've spent in the Schengen Area over the past 180 days. You cannot exceed 90 days in any 180-day rolling window.

Key Points

For Longer Stays: If you want to stay in Monaco beyond 90 days, you need a Monaco residence permit (Carte de Séjour). See our Residency guide for requirements.

Arriving in Monaco

By Air

Monaco has no airport. Options:

By Train

Monaco-Monte Carlo station is on the main coastal line. Direct TGV connections from Paris (~6 hours).

By Car

A8 motorway from Nice (~20 minutes) or the scenic coastal roads. Note: Parking in Monaco is extremely limited and expensive.

By Sea

Port Hercule accommodates mega-yachts. Many residents arrive by yacht, especially during events.

ETIAS (Coming Soon)

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will require Americans to obtain pre-travel authorization:

ETIAS is not a visa—just pre-authorization. The 90/180 rules remain unchanged.

Permitted Activities as Visitor

Not Permitted Without Residence

Disclaimer: Entry requirements can change. Always verify current rules before travel. This information is for educational purposes only. Information current as of January 2026.