From Georgia to Canada, these eight countries offer tourist visas lasting up to one year.
Europeans are fortunate to possess some of the most powerful passports in the world.
Dozens of countries, from Brazil to Japan, have signed visa-free deals with EU countries, allowing hassle-free holidays of up to 90 days.
But what if you’re planning a longer vacation?
These eight countries offer the most generous tourist visas for EU citizens.
8. Fiji: Snorkel among hundreds of islands for four months
If you really want to get away from it all for a while, go to Fijiwhere EU citizens can stay for four happy months.
Known for its pristine beaches and teeming dive sites, the South Pacific archipelago is the perfect place to unwind and relax.
Once you’ve exhausted the larger islands of Vanua Levu and Viti Levu, there are 300 more to explore with snorkel in hand.
7. Armenia: Climb biblical mountains and sip local brandy for six months
EU passport holders can spend 180 days a year Armenia without visa.
The landlocked country is a must-visit for history buffs, who can explore everything from UNESCO heritage Haghpat medieval monastic complex to the 7th century Zvartnots Cathedral.
It’s also full of beautiful natural scenery, from tranquil Lake Sevan to biblical Mount Ararat.
Locally produced wine aged in oak Brandy quench your thirst during the journey.
5-6. Mexico and Panama: Take a year-long break in Central America
Both Mexico and Panama offer EU citizens a 180-day visa, meaning you could visit both countries on the same trip and get away for a whole year.
Go beyond Cancun, Mexico’s party city, and you’ll be rewarded with the glittering cenotes of Tulum, the Mayan ruins of the Yucatán Peninsula, and Mexico Citythe vibrant art scene.
Head south to Panama to relax on the white-sand beaches of the San Blas Islands and zipline over the lush jungle of Volcan Baru National Park.
4. United Kingdom: Combine work and travel for six months
Despite BrexitEU passport holders can still visit the UK for an extended period of up to six months without a visa.
During this period you are allowed to participate Business meetings, events and conferences, making it the ideal destination for combining work and free time.
The sprawling city of London could keep you busy for the entire period, although you will need an adequate budget. When it’s time to save money, head north to cultural capitals like Manchester and Liverpool or take a scenic camping trip to the Lake District or Wales.
3. Canada: Bounce between culture and nature for six months
EU citizens can visit Canada visa-free for up to six months – all you need to do is complete an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) costing CAD$7 (€5) before travel.
You’ll have no problem spending your time in the vast country, full of dynamic cities and breathtaking natural scenery.
Active travelers can hike in the Canadian Rockies or go ski in Whistler. Foodies will be able to get their fill in Toronto while music lovers will want to head to the Montreal Jazz Festival. Or, for the best of both worlds, head to Vancouver, where mountains, beaches and forests surround a bustling metropolis.
2. Peru: Chase waterfalls and Inca trails for six months
EU citizens can stay in Peru without a visa for 183 days. After a mandatory visit to Machu Picchuthe Inca Trail of the Andes offers much more to explore.
There is a limit to the daily number of permissions granted to access the pathbut with six months available you will have plenty of time to secure your place.
Peru has no shortage of places to visit on your bucket list, from the mystical Rainbow Mountain to the tranquil Lake Titicaca and the majestic Gocta waterfall.
1. Georgia: Explore the mountains and beaches of the Black Sea for up to a year
Georgia is on a mission to become part of the European Union, but its borders are already open to EU citizens. The small nation offers one-year visa-free stays in nearly 100 countries, including those in the EU.
This gives you plenty of time to do it excursion the Caucasus mountains, dotted with picturesque villages and medieval watchtowers.
Afterwards, take a well-deserved rest on the beaches of Black Sea coast, before heading to the capital Tbilisi, where fairytale architecture and trendy converted warehouses collide.
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