3 months of visa-free tourism in Schengen after student visa

[bjcoreano]

I'm a Canadian citizen and I got a long-term student visa (D type Shengen visa) issued by a Spanish consulate in Toronto.

My visa will last from Oct 1 2009 to Jun 30 2010. But I want to travel to other Schengen states after my visa expires (by train mostly).

So my question is... can I stay 3 more months as visa-free tourists within the Schengen territory after a long-term student visa expires? or do I have to leave the Schengen territory as soon as my visa is no longer valid?

If anyone has a definitive answer (from experience or reliable sources), please, please let me know. I would really appreciate your help.

Thank you.

[cp400]

hi there, I might be able to help

I am in the same situation, but an american in the netherlands. I was told by immigration that I have 28 days to leave the netherlands once my permit expires. however if I want to activate my 3 month tourist visa, I have to leave schengen and then come back. they recommended i take a quick flight to the UK and come back and then my 90 days will start.

This process can start anytime wtihin the 28 days you have to leave, or anytime after your permit expires.

Again, you are Canadian and in Spain, so it might be different. I suggest calling the spanish immigration office and explaining your situation.

Buena suerte

[Directive/2004/38/EC]

A quick Ryanair flight to the UK might be just the thing.

The Shengen short term visa will have the same terms in the Netherlands or in Spain. The longer term student visa is decided by each country and may have different terms and conditions.