Passport-less in Europe

Traveling "passport-less" in Europe is feasible for certain individuals depending on their nationality, residency status, and the countries they wish to visit. 

Here are the key details:

EU/Schengen Area Residents

Citizens of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland can often travel freely between member states without a passport.

They can use a valid national ID card instead of a passport for entry and exit.

Schengen Zone Travel

Once inside the Schengen Zone (a group of 27 European countries with no internal border controls), you generally don’t need to show a passport when crossing borders.

However, you must have it or a valid ID card available if requested by authorities.

Digital ID Programs

Some countries are testing digital identity systems (e.g., mobile-based IDs or biometric data), which may eventually reduce the need for physical passports.

Exceptions and Special Cases

Non-Schengen countries like the UK or Ireland may still require a passport for entry, even for EU/EEA residents.

If you're traveling domestically (within one country) in Europe, a national ID card or driver’s license may suffice.

Practical Considerations

Even where passports are not routinely checked, airlines or other transportation providers may require them for identity verification.

Always carry some form of valid identification, as it’s a legal requirement in many European countries.

Indian national with Spain residency

As an Indian national with Spain residency, here's how you can travel passport-free in Europe:

Travel Within the Schengen Area

With your Spanish residence permit (Tarjeta de Residencia or TIE), you can travel passport-free within the Schengen Zone.

The Schengen Area includes 27 countries, such as France, Germany, Italy, and Portugal, where border checks are generally not required.

Always carry your Spanish residence card, as it serves as proof of your legal status and identity.

Travel Outside the Schengen Area

For countries like the UK, Ireland, or non-Schengen EU nations (e.g., Bulgaria, Romania, or Croatia), a passport is typically required along with any applicable visa.

Air Travel

Even within the Schengen Zone, airlines often require a passport for boarding, as they may not recognize a residence card as a standalone travel document.

Documents to Carry

Spanish Residence Card (TIE).

Passport (even if not always required at borders, it’s essential for emergencies or airline requirements).