A Schengen visa is typically valid for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This means you can stay in the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days total, whether continuously or split across multiple trips. The visa validity period depends on your application, supporting documents, and the discretion of the issuing consulate. Some travelers may receive single-entry visas valid only for a specific trip, while others, especially frequent travellers, may be granted multiple-entry visas valid for one, three, or even five years, subject to conditions and previous travel history.