Hello -

We are traveling to Italy (ultimately) but want to visit family in Ireland before hand for a few days. My wife is an Irish citizen and we have our two children traveling with us. After 4-5 days in Ireland we travel to Italy and will be there for 90 days - than travel back to Ireland for an additional day and then back home to USA.

So my question - we will be in Ireland for approximately 6-7 days and Italy for 90 days - will this be a problem - Shengen Area - Ireland (non Shengen) - We will be in Both for a total of 97 days.

I hope this is not too confusing.

Thanks For any help.

David

Schengen applies only to Schengen countries I believe so you have up to 90 days in Italy. To get the ultimate right answer to any of these type questions I always advise calling the Italian Embassy or Consulate - though from past discussions here you should be fine - be sure to get an exit stamp when leaving Ireland.

The 90 day restriction is for Schengen countries of which Ireland is not a part.

You have stated that your wife is an Irish citizen but who knows about you or your children. Just because you live in the US does not make you a US citizen so no one here can answer about whether or not you need a visa for Ireland and how long you can stay and if you can have multiple entries into Ireland.

If you are a US citizen then you and the children will be fine.

I am an American citizen as are our children - they are also eligible for Irish citizenship - I however need to live in Ireland for a time - before applying for citizenship.

DAVID

Then I already answered the question.

Before Buying citizenship. think the cost is currently €1200.

to get into the EU and liberal EU benefits potentially and the ability then to say study in any EU country, often at little cost, could make that 1,200 euros an absolute bargain - think of the marketability of a young college grad who can legally work in any EU country!

As long as you don't exceed the 90 day limit, including your travel days, you will be fine.