As of 2026, 23 sovereign countries in Europe are not members of the European Union (EU), including four that are part of the Schengen Area: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.
Quick fact to keep in mind: the EU has 27 member states, but Europe’s map doesn’t stop at those borders.
As of 2026, 23 sovereign countries in Europe are not members of the European Union (EU), including four that are part of the Schengen Area: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.
What’s the geographic context behind Europe’s non-EU countries?
Europe’s political and economic map looks like a patchwork quilt—stitched together from alliances, historical choices, and economic realities. The EU itself has 27 member states, but right next door you’ll find countries that have taken different routes: some stay neutral, others focus on pragmatic deals, and a few are actively knocking on the EU’s door. These 23 non-EU countries stretch from the Atlantic to the Urals, the Arctic to the Mediterranean. Take Norway and Switzerland, for example—they’re not in the EU but still manage to thrive with deep trade and travel ties. Then there’s Ukraine and Moldova, pushing hard for membership. It’s a messy, fascinating picture where sovereignty, security, and prosperity don’t always line up neatly.
Key Details
| Country | EU Status | Schengen Area | Population (2026 est.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Albania | Candidate | No | 2.8 million |
| Andorra | No | No | 80,000 |
| Armenia | No | No | 2.8 million |
| Azerbaijan | No | No | 10.4 million |
| Belarus | No | No | 9.2 million |
| Bosnia & Herzegovina | Candidate | No | 3.2 million |
| Georgia | Candidate | No | 3.7 million |
| Iceland | No | Yes | 380,000 |
| Kosovo | Potential Candidate | No | 1.8 million |
| Liechtenstein | No | Yes | 39,000 |
| Moldova | Candidate | No | 2.5 million |
| Monaco | No | No | 39,000 |
| Montenegro | Candidate | No | 620,000 |
| Norway | No | Yes | 5.5 million |
| Russia | No | No | 144 million |
| San Marino | No | No | Population (2026 est.) |
| Serbia | Candidate | No | 6.7 million |
| Switzerland | No | Yes | 8.8 million |
| Turkey | Candidate | No | 85 million |
| Ukraine | Candidate | No | 36 million |
| United Kingdom | No | No | 67 million |
| Vatican City | No | No | 800 |
Data sourced from CIA World Factbook and national statistical agencies as of 2026.
Switzerland and Norway chose not to join the EU after public referendums in the 1990s, while Turkey’s candidacy has stalled due to human rights and governance concerns.
Why have some European countries chosen not to join the EU?
Every country has its own reasons, and Europe’s non-EU members are no exception. Some, like Switzerland, held referendums and decided against joining—back in 1992, Swiss voters rejected the European Economic Area (EEA), which would’ve been a stepping stone to full EU membership. Instead, Switzerland built its wealth on finance, pharmaceuticals, and precision engineering, relying on bilateral treaties to stay connected to Europe without giving up control Britannica. Food trade between Switzerland and the EU has also remained strong despite non-membership.
Norway took a similar path. It gets access to the EU market through the European Economic Area (EEA), but keeps tight control over its oil wealth and currency—the krone—thanks to a 1994 referendum that kept it out of the eurozone. Then there’s the UK, which in 2020 became the first (and so far, only) country to leave the EU after 47 years. Brexit changed everything—trade, travel, politics—across the continent.
Turkey’s story is different. Its EU candidacy has been on hold since 2016, mostly because of concerns about human rights and rule of law. It’s a reminder that joining the EU isn’t just about paperwork—it’s about values. And in the Balkans, countries like Albania and Montenegro are waiting in the wings, their progress tied to reforms and shifting EU priorities driven by geopolitics.
Some nations, like Armenia and Azerbaijan, sit in a gray zone—geographically in Europe but with stronger ties to Asia. Their EU status remains uncertain, shaped by historical alliances and regional conflicts.
EU citizens can travel to most non-EU European countries without a visa for short stays, with exceptions like Turkey and the UK where passport checks and visa requirements apply.
What’s the travel situation like for EU citizens visiting non-EU European countries?
Generally, EU passport holders can travel to most non-EU European countries without a visa for short stays. That’s the case for Switzerland and Norway, where you can cross borders by car or train without much hassle—Schengen integration makes it smooth. But if you’re heading to Turkey, the UK, or the Western Balkans, expect passport checks and possibly visa requirements depending on where you’re from European Commission. Travel tips for non-EU destinations can help navigate these rules.
Here’s a quick breakdown: Switzerland and Iceland? Easy in and out. Norway? Same deal, thanks to the EEA. Turkey? Might need a visa. UK? Post-Brexit, it’s not in the EU anymore, so yes—passport checks and potential visa rules apply. And the Balkans? Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia—visa policies vary, but many EU citizens can enter visa-free for short trips.
Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City use the euro through special agreements with the European Central Bank, while Switzerland and Norway retain their own currencies.
How do non-EU European countries handle currency and economic ties with the EU?
Some non-EU countries use the euro anyway. Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City don’t issue their own currency—they use the euro thanks to special agreements with the European Central Bank. Andorra does the same, even though it’s not in the EU. Then there’s Switzerland, which keeps its own currency, the Swiss franc, and Norway with its krone. Both countries have strong economies but prefer to keep monetary control in their own hands.
Honestly, this is the best approach for them. Switzerland’s economy thrives on its own terms, and Norway manages its oil wealth without eurozone constraints. Meanwhile, microstates like Monaco and Andorra get the convenience of the euro without the EU membership headaches.
Digital nomads find affordable options in the Balkans, while Switzerland and Iceland offer high quality of life at a premium cost.
What’s the deal with digital nomads in non-EU European countries?
If you’re a digital nomad, you’ve got options—and trade-offs. Switzerland and Iceland offer top-tier quality of life, but you’ll pay for it: think $4,000 a month in Zurich or Reykjavik. Norway’s krone is strong, so costs add up fast compared to nearby Denmark or Sweden. On the flip side, the Balkans—Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia—are becoming digital nomad hotspots. You’ll find affordable living, solid internet, and growing co-working spaces.
Albania, for example, has beaches, mountains, and a low cost of living. Montenegro offers coastal cities and mountain retreats. Bosnia has Sarajevo’s historic charm and Mostar’s café culture. All three are great if you want to stretch your budget while staying connected.
As of 2026, EU candidate countries in Europe are Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Georgia, Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia, Turkey, and Ukraine, with Kosovo listed as a potential candidate.
Which non-EU European countries are EU candidates?
As of 2026, the EU candidate countries in Europe are Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Georgia, Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia, Turkey, and Ukraine. Kosovo is listed as a potential candidate. These countries are in various stages of reform and negotiation, with progress that can stall or speed up depending on political winds.
Russia has the largest population among non-EU European countries at 144 million, while Vatican City has the smallest at 800 residents.
What’s the population range like among non-EU European countries?
It’s all over the map—literally. Russia tops the list with 144 million people, while Vatican City has just 800 residents. Most countries fall somewhere in between: Ukraine at 36 million, Turkey at 85 million, and smaller nations like Liechtenstein at 39,000. The Balkans have a mix—Serbia at 6.7 million, Bosnia at 3.2 million, Montenegro at 620,000. Then there are microstates like Monaco and San Marino, both under 40,000.
Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City use the euro through special agreements with the European Central Bank, as does Andorra.
Are there any European countries outside the EU that use the euro?
Yes—Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City all use the euro, even though they’re not in the EU. They have special agreements with the European Central Bank that let them use the currency. Andorra does the same. These tiny states get the convenience of the euro without the EU membership obligations.
Non-EU countries like Norway and Iceland access the EU single market through the EEA, while Switzerland relies on bilateral treaties for deep economic integration.
How do non-EU countries in Europe interact with the EU economically?
Many non-EU European countries have deep economic ties with the EU, even without membership. Norway and Iceland, for example, are part of the European Economic Area (EEA), which gives them access to the EU’s single market. Switzerland has a series of bilateral treaties that cover trade, research, and other sectors. The UK, post-Brexit, still trades heavily with the EU but under a different framework.
In most cases, these countries benefit from strong economic integration without giving up sovereignty. It’s a pragmatic middle ground—access to markets without the full political commitments of EU membership.
Norway and Switzerland maintain close ties with the EU while preserving independence, while Turkey’s candidacy is stalled and Russia’s relationship is tense.
What’s the political relationship like between the EU and non-EU European countries?
It’s complicated. Some countries, like Norway and Switzerland, maintain close political and economic ties with the EU while staying independent. Others, like Turkey, are stuck in a long candidacy process due to human rights and governance concerns. The Balkans—Albania, Montenegro, Serbia—are working toward membership but face hurdles like corruption and slow reforms.
Then there’s Russia, which has a tense relationship with the EU, especially after the Ukraine war. The UK’s post-Brexit relationship is still evolving—trade deals, security cooperation, but no return to EU membership in sight. Honestly, it’s a patchwork of cooperation, tension, and negotiation.
Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City are European microstates outside the EU, each with unique political and economic setups.
Are there any European microstates outside the EU?
Yes—Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City are all European microstates that aren’t in the EU. They’re tiny in population and land area, but they have unique political and economic setups. Vatican City, for example, is an independent city-state run by the Catholic Church. Monaco is a wealthy principality on the French Riviera. All four use the euro (except Andorra, which does too, thanks to a special agreement).
The Schengen Area is a passport-free travel zone where 27 European countries participate; four non-EU countries— Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland—are members.
What’s the Schengen Area, and which non-EU countries are part of it?
The Schengen Area is a zone where 27 European countries have abolished internal border controls, allowing for passport-free travel between them. Four non-EU countries are part of it: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. That means if you’re traveling between, say, France and Switzerland, you won’t face border checks—just like you wouldn’t between France and Germany.
Switzerland and Iceland are among the most expensive non-EU European countries, while Albania, Montenegro, and Bosnia offer much lower costs of living.
How do non-EU European countries compare in terms of cost of living?
Costs vary wildly. Switzerland and Iceland are among the most expensive—expect to spend around $4,000 a month in cities like Zurich or Reykjavik. Norway is pricey too, thanks to its strong currency. On the other end, the Balkans offer much lower costs: Albania, Montenegro, and Bosnia are popular with digital nomads because you can live comfortably on $1,500–$2,500 a month. Turkey falls somewhere in the middle—affordable in smaller cities, pricier in Istanbul.
Here’s a quick mental comparison: Zurich vs. Tirana. One’s a global financial hub; the other’s a historic city with stunning coastlines and mountains. Both have their appeal, but the price tags are worlds apart.
Ukraine and Moldova are actively pursuing EU membership, while Norway and Switzerland are unlikely to join; Turkey’s candidacy remains stalled.
What’s the future outlook for non-EU European countries and EU membership?
The future’s uncertain but interesting. Ukraine and Moldova are pushing hard for membership, especially after Russia’s invasion. The Balkans—Albania, Montenegro, Serbia—are making slow but steady progress, though reforms often stall. Turkey’s candidacy is on ice for now, held back by political and human rights concerns.
Norway and Switzerland? Unlikely to join anytime soon—their referendums showed strong public opposition. The UK’s out for good, at least for now. Honestly, the EU’s expansion isn’t a straight line. It depends on political will, reforms, and geopolitical shifts. Some countries will get closer; others will stay on the outside looking in.
How many European countries are not in the EU?
As of 2026, 23 sovereign countries in Europe are not members of the EU. That’s a significant number when you consider the EU has 27 member states. Some of these countries have close ties with the EU, while others maintain complete independence.
Which European countries are not part of the EU?
Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, the UK, and several others are not EU members. Four of these—Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein—are actually part of the Schengen Area despite not being in the EU.
Why is Switzerland not part of EU?
Switzerland signed a free-trade agreement with what was then the European Economic Community back in 1972. But after a 1992 referendum rejected European Economic Area membership by a razor-thin margin (50.3% to 49.7%), Switzerland decided to pause EU membership talks indefinitely. The country prefers bilateral treaties that give it access to EU markets without full membership.
Is Norway in the EU?
No, Norway is not in the EU. However, it’s closely tied through the European Economic Area (EEA), which it joined in 1994. This gives Norway access to the EU single market, but it keeps control over its own laws, currency (the krone), and resources like oil.
Which country has left the EU?
The United Kingdom is the only country to have left the EU. It became the first (and so far only) member state to withdraw, doing so in 2020 after 47 years of membership. Greenland also left in 1985, but it was a territory of Denmark at the time.
Why is Turkey not in the EU?
Turkey applied for EU membership way back in 1987, but negotiations stalled in 2016. The EU has raised serious concerns about human rights violations and deficits in rule of law. These issues have kept Turkey’s candidacy on hold for years.
Is Turkey in the EU 2020?
No, Turkey was not an EU member in 2020. It remains a candidate country, but negotiations have been frozen since 2016 due to political and human rights concerns.
Which countries are not in Schengen?
Most European countries outside the EU are not in the Schengen Area, including Albania, Andorra, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Georgia, Kosovo, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Serbia, Turkey, Ukraine, the UK, and Vatican City.
Is the UK part of European Union?
No, the UK left the EU in 2020. It became the first (and so far only) country to withdraw from the bloc after 47 years of membership.
Why is Switzerland so rich?
Switzerland’s wealth comes from pharmaceuticals, gems, chemicals, and machinery. The country focuses on high-value industries rather than cheap imports, which has helped it build one of the world’s strongest economies.
Can you live in Switzerland with an EU passport?
Yes, most EU/EFTA citizens can live and work in Switzerland without restrictions. They just need to obtain a residence permit. EU citizens can stay for up to 90 days without one, but longer stays require registration.
Is Switzerland part of the Schengen?
Yes, Switzerland is part of the Schengen Area. Along with Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein, it’s one of the non-EU countries that participates in passport-free travel within the zone.
Why is Norway not in the Euro 2020?
Norway didn’t qualify for Euro 2020. Despite having talented players like Erling Haaland, their national team finished outside the qualifying spots for the tournament.
Are Norway in the Euros 2021?
No, Norway didn’t qualify for the delayed Euro 2021 either. Their team finished behind Spain, Sweden, and Romania in qualifying, missing out on the tournament.
Why does Norway not use the euro?
Norway doesn’t use the euro because it’s not a full EU member. It’s only associated with the EU through the European Economic Area (EEA), so it keeps its own currency, the Norwegian krone.
