There is no general requirement that you must enter the Schengen Area through the country that issued your visa. Your main destination may be different than your first destination. To prevent complications, stick to your itinerary as best you can.

In 2026, the primary rule for a Schengen visa remains that you should apply to the country that is your main destination (where you will spend the most time). If you are visiting multiple countries for an equal duration, you must apply to the embassy of the country you will enter first. While you are not legally forced to land in the issuing country first if it is your "main destination," doing so is highly recommended to avoid questioning by border guards. If you obtain a visa from France but fly into Germany and never actually visit France, you may be accused of "visa shopping," which can lead to entry denial or future visa rejections. With the full implementation of the Entry/Exit System (EES) in early 2026, your movements within the zone are tracked more precisely, making it more important than ever to ensure your actual travel itinerary aligns with the plan you submitted during your visa application.