France Visa Policy

As France belongs to the list of Schengen countries, you should apply for a France Schengen visa to make your short trip (less than 90 days). Reasons to apply for this type of visa can be tourism, visiting family or friends, business trips, medical examination or treatment, short-term education, exchange programs, and many other non-permanent nuances.

If you want to study in France for more than 90 days (such as bachelor's, master's, doctoral, etc.) or work permanently in an institution located here, you should apply for a France National visa, if you have official invitations or letters of acceptance from those educational and business institutions.

France Schengen Visa

For European territory (mainland France), France complies with Schengen regulations related to the Schengen area and issues a short-stay Uniform Schengen visa. If you intend to transit through a French airport without exiting the "international zone," please check whether you need to apply for an "A" airport transit Schengen visa.

Depending on the purpose, the types of France Schengen visa usually consist of:

Tourism
Business
Visiting family or friends
Cultural
Sports
Official visit
Study
Medical reasons
Airport transit

Depending on the type and frequency of travel to France, a Schengen visa can be single-entry, double-entry, and multi-entry. The validity period of a single Schengen visa usually covers the period of travel specified in the France application form. If you frequently travel to the Schengen area, you may obtain a one-, two-, three- and five-year multi-entry Schengen visa, depending on the French consulate's decision. However, you should note that you can stay in the Schengen area for a maximum of 90 days in any case. In this case, holders of multi-entry long-term Schengen visas can remain in the Schengen area maximum of 90 days every 180 days.

France Short-stay Visa Costs:

When applying for a Schengen visa, each person must pay a visa fee. This fee is non-refundable regardless of the visa result. The Schengen visa fee for citizens of Azerbaijan, Russia, and Armenia is currently 35 EUR. These three countries benefit from reduced visa costs under an agreement with the Schengen countries. In other countries, this amount is 80 EUR for people over 12 years old, 40 EUR for children 6-12 years old, and free for children under six years old.

In most cases, if you belong to one of the following categories, you are exempt from visa fees by providing relevant evidence:

Close relatives of those legally living in the Schengen area (close relatives include spouse, children (including adopted), parents (or guardians), grandmothers, grandfathers, grandchildren);
Pensioners;
Members of official delegations, including permanent members of official delegations, participating in formal meetings, consultations, negotiations, and exchange programs, as well as events of intergovernmental organizations based on an official invitation;
Pupils, students, graduate students, and pedagogical staff traveling with them for research and educational purposes within the framework of the official educational program;
People with disabilities and accompanying persons if necessary;
Participants of international sports events and persons accompanying them in connection with their professional activities;
Official visits of journalists and technical staff

France Tourist Visa

If you intend to visit France with the purpose of tourism for a period shorter than 90 days, depending on your nationality, you might be required to obtain a France Tourist visa first.

The French Tourist visa permits you to stay in France for 90 days at most per 180 days. If your permission is not marked as a Limited Territorial Validity visa, in general, you are permitted to travel with this visa to the other Schengen countries within that period.

Required Documents for France Tourist Visa

1. Application Form

You can also fill the France Schengen Visa application form electronically and then print a hard-copy

2. Two Photos

Photos should be of passport format a recent whole-face capture with a light background.
It must be in the size of 3.5x4.5, colored, and the head should take 70-80% of the photo.
You must be looking straight at the camera with a neutral facial expression (no smile and mouth closed).
Try to avoid uniforms or colors matching the background.

3. Passport and Copy of the Main Page

Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the return date.
It also must have at least two blank pages.

4. Copy of Previous Schengen Visas

You should also present a copy of all the Schengen visas that you obtained before.

5. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if Your Country of Residence and Citizenship are Different)

A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents. The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to France.

6. Flight Ticket Reservation

Ticket reservation should indicate the date of entry to and the date of departure from the Schengen area exactly.

7. Travel Insurance

Insurance must have a minimum of 30,000 € coverage within France and the entire Schengen area.

8. Proof of Accommodation for Your Entire Stay in France

Proof of accommodation includes the reservation of a hotel or a tenancy agreement or certificate of ownership

9. Proof of Civil Status

Proof of civil status includes marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, death certificate of spouse, etc.

10. Means of Subsistence

Proof of sufficient financial means for the period of stay, such as bank statements. When applying for France Visa, you must be able to prove to the France Embassy or Consulate possessing the daily money amount of 120 EUR if holding no proof of prepaid accommodation. If you have a prepaid hotel, this amount reduces to 65 EUR/daily for the period of covered hotel accommodation, while the rest is 120 EUR.

11. Proof of Professional Status

For example, employment contract, certificate of employment, extract from the trade and companies’ register, school attendance certificate, proof of pension

12. For Minors:

Birth certificate or copy of the family book and travel authorization signed by the holder(s) of parental authority in the forms required under local law, along with a copy of his/her/their identity document (if the minor is not traveling with his/her parents or guardian)
Letter of consent from parent/s or legal guardian/s, if traveling unaccompanied

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for France Tourist Visa

The average processing time for a France Tourist visa is 3-25 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

France Tourist Visa Fee

Since 02 February 2020, the fee for Schengen visas has been 80 EUR, to be paid upon submission of the application. Additionally, you may also need to pay other Administrative fees such as the Visa Application center fee, courier service fee, etc., depending on the country and location of your documents' submission.

Reduced Visa Fees for Certain Nationalities

According to the agreement, signed between The EU and Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Russia, Serbia, and Ukraine, visa fee reduced to 35 EUR for the citizens of these countries.

Visa fees are waived by all Schengen states for the following categories of persons, regardless of their nationality:

Children under six years
School pupils, undergraduates, postgraduates, and accompanying teaching staff who undertake trips for the purpose of study or training
Representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations
Researchers from third countries traveling within the European Community for the purpose of carrying out scientific research as defined in Recommendation 2005/761/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 September 2005
For the “replacement” of an old, valid visa in a “full” travel document (one that has no empty pages) with a new visa valid for the same period in the applicant’s new travel document
For the spouses, same-sex partners in a civil union, and minor single children of France citizens
Parents of minor France citizens
Family members of EU/EEA nationals

Where to Apply for France Tourist Visa?

You will apply for a France Tourist visa in France Visa Application Centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

France Business Visa

A France Business visa gives you the authorization to enter France and stay here for a period of up to 90 days within six months, as permitted. It permits its holder to engage in business-related activities such as attending meetings or conferences, conducting or attending the training, conducting internal audits, installing equipment, or performing other temporary services for a client, local affiliate, or branch office.

Required Documents for France Business Visa

1. Application Form

You can also fill the France Schengen Visa application form electronically and then print a hard-copy

2. Two Photos

Photos should be of passport format a recent whole-face capture with a light background.
It must be in the size of 3.5x4.5, colored, and the head should take 70-80% of the photo.
You must be looking straight at the camera with a neutral facial expression (no smile and mouth closed).
Try to avoid uniforms or colors matching the background.

3. Passport and Copy of the Main Page

Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the return date.
It also must have at least two blank pages.

4. Copy of Previous Schengen Visas

You should also present a copy of all the Schengen visas that you obtained before.

5. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if Your Country of Residence and Citizenship are Different)

A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents. The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to France.

6. Flight Ticket Reservation

Ticket reservation should indicate the date of entry to and the date of departure from the Schengen area exactly.

7. Travel Insurance

Insurance must have a minimum of 30,000 € coverage within France and the entire Schengen area.

8. Proof of Accommodation for Your Entire Stay in France

Proof of accommodation includes the reservation of a hotel or a tenancy agreement or certificate of ownership

9. Proof of Civil Status

Proof of civil status includes marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, death certificate of spouse, etc.

10. Means of Subsistence

Proof of sufficient financial means for the period of stay, such as bank statements. When applying for France Visa, you must be able to prove to the France Embassy or Consulate possessing the daily money amount of 120 EUR if holding no proof of prepaid accommodation. If you have a prepaid hotel, this amount reduces to 65 EUR/daily for the period of covered hotel accommodation, while the rest is 120 EUR.

11. Proof of Professional Status

For example, employment contract, certificate of employment, extract from the trade and companies’ register, school attendance certificate, proof of pension

12. Invitation Letter

The document must be sealed, signed, and contain the full address and contact address of the receiving enterprise; name and position of the person signing the invitation letter; purpose and duration of the visit; the party who will cover the travel expenses.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for France Business Visa

The average processing time for a France Business visa is 5-20 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

France Business Visa Fee

Reduced Visa Fees for Certain Nationalities

Visa fees are waived by all Schengen states for the following categories of persons, regardless of their nationality:

Children under six years
School pupils, undergraduates, postgraduates, and accompanying teaching staff who undertake trips for the purpose of study or training
Representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations
Researchers from third countries traveling within the European Community for the purpose of carrying out scientific research as defined in Recommendation 2005/761/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 September 2005
For the “replacement” of an old, valid visa in a “full” travel document (one that has no empty pages) with a new visa valid for the same period in the applicant’s new travel document
For the spouses, same-sex partners in a civil union, and minor single children of France citizens
Parents of minor France citizens
Family members of EU/EEA nationals

Where to Apply for France Business Visa?

You will apply for a France Business visa in France visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

France Visiting Family and Friends Visa

A short stay Family/Friend visa allows you to travel to France to visit family or friends for up to 90 days.

Required Documents for France Family Visit Visa

1. Application Form

You can also fill the France Schengen Visa application form electronically and then print a hard-copy

2. Two Photos

Photos should be of passport format a recent whole-face capture with a light background.
It must be in the size of 3.5x4.5, colored, and the head should take 70-80% of the photo.
You must be looking straight at the camera with a neutral facial expression (no smile and mouth closed).
Try to avoid uniforms or colors matching the background.

3. Passport and Copy of the Main Page

Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the return date.
It also must have at least two blank pages.

4. Copy of Previous Schengen Visas

You should also present a copy of all the Schengen visas that you obtained before.

5. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if Your Country of Residence and Citizenship are Different)

A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents. The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to France.

6. Flight Ticket Reservation

Ticket reservation should indicate the date of entry to and the date of departure from the Schengen area exactly.

7. Travel Insurance

Insurance must have a minimum of 30,000 € coverage within France and the entire Schengen area.

8. Proof of Accommodation for Your Entire Stay in France

Proof of accommodation includes the reservation of a hotel or a tenancy agreement or certificate of ownership

9. Proof of Civil Status

Proof of civil status includes marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, death certificate of spouse, etc.

10. Means of Subsistence

Proof of sufficient financial means for the period of stay, such as bank statements. When applying for France Visa, you must be able to prove to the France Embassy or Consulate possessing the daily money amount of 120 EUR if holding no proof of prepaid accommodation. If you have a prepaid hotel, this amount reduces to 65 EUR/daily for the period of covered hotel accommodation, while the rest is 120 EUR.

11. Proof of Professional Status

For example, employment contract, certificate of employment, extract from the trade and companies’ register, school attendance certificate, proof of pension

12. For Minors:

Birth certificate or copy of the family book and travel authorization signed by the holder(s) of parental authority in the forms required under local law, along with a copy of his/her/their identity document (if the minor is not traveling with his/her parents or guardian)
Letter of consent from parent/s or legal guardian/s, if traveling unaccompanied

13. Documents That Reflect the Purpose of Visit

In case of visiting close relatives such as a spouse, children, parents (including guardians), grandparents:

The letter of invitation, documents proving the relationship, a document confirming the status of the inviting person in the Schengen area, documents about the address where the invitee will stay (payment for utilities, etc.) must be presented.

If visiting other relatives or friends:

Invitation letter (must be official), documents proving the relationship, documents about the address where invitee will stay (if invitee will be accommodated by inviter) must be presented.

In case of attending the funeral:

An official document confirming the fact of death and documents proving the relationship must be presented.

In case of visiting a military or civilian grave:

An official document confirming the existence and protection of the grave; documents proving the relationship must be presented.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for France Family Visit Visa

The average processing time for a France Family visit visa is 3-25 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

France Family Visit Visa Fee

Since 02 February 2020, the fee for Schengen visas has been 80 EUR, to be paid upon submission of the application. Additionally, you may also need to pay other Administrative fees such as the Visa Application center fee, courier service fee, etc., depending on the country and location of your documents' submission.

Reduced Visa Fees for Certain Nationalities

Visa fees are waived by all Schengen states for the following categories of persons, regardless of their nationality:

Children under six years
School pupils, undergraduates, postgraduates, and accompanying teaching staff who undertake trips for the purpose of study or training
Representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations
Researchers from third countries traveling within the European Community for the purpose of carrying out scientific research as defined in Recommendation 2005/761/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 September 2005
For the “replacement” of an old, valid visa in a “full” travel document (one that has no empty pages) with a new visa valid for the same period in the applicant’s new travel document
For the spouses, same-sex partners in a civil union, and minor single children of France citizens
Parents of minor France citizens
Family members of EU/EEA nationals

Where to Apply for France Family Visit Visa?

You will apply for a France Family visit visa in France visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

France Cultural Visa

The France Schengen Cultural Visa enables you to enter France for cultural purposes, such as attending cultural events.

Required Documents for France Cultural Visa

1. Application Form

You can also fill the France Schengen Visa application form electronically and then print a hard-copy

2. Two Photos

Photos should be of passport format a recent whole-face capture with a light background.
It must be in the size of 3.5x4.5, colored, and the head should take 70-80% of the photo.
You must be looking straight at the camera with a neutral facial expression (no smile and mouth closed).
Try to avoid uniforms or colors matching the background.

3. Passport and Copy of the Main Page

Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the return date.
It also must have at least two blank pages.

4. Copy of Previous Schengen Visas

You should also present a copy of all the Schengen visas that you obtained before.

5. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if Your Country of Residence and Citizenship are Different)

A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents. The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to France.

6. Flight Ticket Reservation

Ticket reservation should indicate the date of entry to and the date of departure from the Schengen area exactly.

7. Travel Insurance

Insurance must have a minimum of 30,000 € coverage within France and the entire Schengen area.

8. Proof of Accommodation for Your Entire Stay in France

Proof of accommodation includes the reservation of a hotel or a tenancy agreement or certificate of ownership

9. Proof of Civil Status

Proof of civil status includes marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, death certificate of spouse, etc.

10. Means of Subsistence

Proof of sufficient financial means for the period of stay, such as bank statements. When applying for France Visa, you must be able to prove to the France Embassy or Consulate possessing the daily money amount of 120 EUR if holding no proof of prepaid accommodation. If you have a prepaid hotel, this amount reduces to 65 EUR/daily for the period of covered hotel accommodation, while the rest is 120 EUR.

11. Proof of Professional Status

For example, employment contract, certificate of employment, extract from the trade and companies’ register, school attendance certificate, proof of pension

12. For Minors:

Birth certificate or copy of the family book and travel authorization signed by the holder(s) of parental authority in the forms required under local law, along with a copy of his/her/their identity document (if the minor is not traveling with his/her parents or guardian).
Letter of consent from parent/s or legal guardian/s, if traveling unaccompanied

13. An Invitation Letter When You Take Part as a Participant

That document must contain the organization's full address and name, contact details (phone number, e-mail address); name and position of the person signing the documents; the purpose of the event and the role of participants from your country; duration of stay, the name of the person or institution that will cover the applicant's travel and living expenses.

14. Entrance Ticket or Voucher to the Event when Attending an Event as a Spectator or Guest

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for France Cultural Visa

The average processing time for a France Cultural visa is 5-20 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

France Cultural Visa Fee

Reduced Visa Fees for Certain Nationalities

Visa fees are waived by all Schengen states for the following categories of persons, regardless of their nationality:

Children under six years
School pupils, undergraduates, postgraduates, and accompanying teaching staff who undertake trips for the purpose of study or training
Representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations
Researchers from third countries traveling within the European Community for the purpose of carrying out scientific research as defined in Recommendation 2005/761/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 September 2005
For the “replacement” of an old, valid visa in a “full” travel document (one that has no empty pages) with a new visa valid for the same period in the applicant’s new travel document
For the spouses, same-sex partners in a civil union, and minor single children of France citizens
Parents of minor France citizens
Family members of EU/EEA nationals

Where to Apply for France Cultural Visa?

You will apply for a France Cultural visa in France visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

France Sports Visa

The France Schengen Sports Visa lets you enter France for the purpose of sport, both as a spectator and participant.

Required Documents for France Sports Visa

1. Application Form

You can also fill the France Schengen Visa application form electronically and then print a hard-copy

2. Two Photos

Photos should be of passport format a recent whole-face capture with a light background.
It must be in the size of 3.5x4.5, colored, and the head should take 70-80% of the photo.
You must be looking straight at the camera with a neutral facial expression (no smile and mouth closed).
Try to avoid uniforms or colors matching the background.

3. Passport and Copy of the Main Page

Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the return date.
It also must have at least two blank pages.

4. Copy of Previous Schengen Visas

You should also present a copy of all the Schengen visas that you obtained before.

5. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if Your Country of Residence and Citizenship are Different)

A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents. The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to France.

6. Flight Ticket Reservation

Ticket reservation should indicate the date of entry to and the date of departure from the Schengen area exactly.

7. Travel Insurance

Insurance must have a minimum of 30,000 € coverage within France and the entire Schengen area.

8. Proof of Accommodation for Your Entire Stay in France

Proof of accommodation includes the reservation of a hotel or a tenancy agreement or certificate of ownership

9. Proof of Civil Status

Proof of civil status includes marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, death certificate of spouse, etc.

10. Means of Subsistence

Proof of sufficient financial means for the period of stay, such as bank statements. When applying for France Visa, you must be able to prove to the France Embassy or Consulate possessing the daily money amount of 120 EUR if holding no proof of prepaid accommodation. If you have a prepaid hotel, this amount reduces to 65 EUR/daily for the period of covered hotel accommodation, while the rest is 120 EUR.

11. Proof of Professional Status

For example, employment contract, certificate of employment, extract from the trade and companies’ register, school attendance certificate, proof of pension

12. For Minors:

Birth certificate or copy of the family book and travel authorization signed by the holder(s) of parental authority in the forms required under local law, along with a copy of his/her/their identity document (if the minor is not traveling with his/her parents or guardian)
Letter of consent from parent/s or legal guardian/s, if traveling unaccompanied

13. An Official Document Confirming Participation Must Be Submitted by the Competent Authorities of France or the National Sports Federations of Your Country or France when Participating in an International Sporting Event as an Athlete

The document must contain the full address and name of the organization, contact details (phone number, e-mail address), name and position of the person signing the documents, the purpose of the event and the role of participants from your country, duration of stay, the name of the person or institution that will cover the applicant's travel and living expenses.
An entrance ticket or voucher for a sporting event must be presented when attending an international sporting event as a spectator or guest

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for France Sports Visa

The average processing time for a France Sports visa is 3-25 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

France Sports Visa Fee

Reduced Visa Fees for Certain Nationalities

Visa fees are waived by all Schengen states for the following categories of persons, regardless of their nationality:

Children under six years
School pupils, undergraduates, postgraduates, and accompanying teaching staff who undertake trips for the purpose of study or training
Representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations
Researchers from third countries traveling within the European Community for the purpose of carrying out scientific research as defined in Recommendation 2005/761/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 September 2005
For the “replacement” of an old, valid visa in a “full” travel document (one that has no empty pages) with a new visa valid for the same period in the applicant’s new travel document
For the spouses, same-sex partners in a civil union, and minor single children of France citizens
Parents of minor France citizens
Family members of EU/EEA nationals

Where to Apply for France Sports Visa?

You will apply for a France Sports visa in France visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate.

France Official Visit Visa

A France Schengen Visa for Official Visits to France is an entry permit for you to participate in meetings, consultations, negotiations, exchange programs, other events held in France by intergovernmental organizations. The main document that you need to apply for this visa is an official invitation letter.

Required Documents for France Official Visit Visa

1. Application Form

You can also fill the France Schengen Visa application form electronically and then print a hard-copy

2. Two Photos

Photos should be of passport format a recent whole-face capture with a light background.
It must be in the size of 3.5x4.5, colored, and the head should take 70-80% of the photo.
You must be looking straight at the camera with a neutral facial expression (no smile and mouth closed).
Try to avoid uniforms or colors matching the background.

3. Passport and Copy of the Main Page

Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the return date.
It also must have at least two blank pages.

4. Copy of Previous Schengen Visas

You should also present a copy of all the Schengen visas that you obtained before.

5. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if Your Country of Residence and Citizenship are Different)

A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents. The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to France.

6. Flight Ticket Reservation

Ticket reservation should indicate the date of entry to and the date of departure from the Schengen area exactly.

7. Travel Insurance

Insurance must have a minimum of 30,000 € coverage within France and the entire Schengen area.

8. Proof of Accommodation for Your Entire Stay in France

Proof of accommodation includes the reservation of a hotel or a tenancy agreement or certificate of ownership

9. Proof of Civil Status

Proof of civil status includes marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, death certificate of spouse, etc.

10. Means of Subsistence

Proof of sufficient financial means for the period of stay, such as bank statements. When applying for France Visa, you must be able to prove to the France Embassy or Consulate possessing the daily money amount of 120 EUR if holding no proof of prepaid accommodation. If you have a prepaid hotel, this amount reduces to 65 EUR/daily for the period of covered hotel accommodation, while the rest is 120 EUR.

11. Proof of Professional Status

For example, employment contract, certificate of employment, extract from the trade and companies’ register, school attendance certificate, proof of pension

12. Invitation Letter

The document should be on the official letterhead of the inviting institution or international organization and reflect the name, surname, and position of the authorized person signing the letter, purpose, and duration of the visit.

13. Signed and Stamped Letter of Confirmation from the Relevant State Body or Organization That You are a Member of the Official Delegation That Will Participate in Official Meetings and Negotiations

The document should reflect the name and full address of the state body or organization, the name and position of the person signing the document, your name and position; purpose, and duration of the visit.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for France Official Visit Visa

The average processing time for a France Official Visit visa is 3-25 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

France Official Visit Visa Fee

Reduced Visa Fees for Certain Nationalities

Visa fees are waived by all Schengen states for the following categories of persons, regardless of their nationality:

Children under six years
School pupils, undergraduates, postgraduates, and accompanying teaching staff who undertake trips for the purpose of study or training
Representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations
Researchers from third countries traveling within the European Community for the purpose of carrying out scientific research as defined in Recommendation 2005/761/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 September 2005
For the “replacement” of an old, valid visa in a “full” travel document (one that has no empty pages) with a new visa valid for the same period in the applicant’s new travel document
For the spouses, same-sex partners in a civil union, and minor single children of France citizens
Parents of minor France citizens
Family members of EU/EEA nationals

Where to Apply for France Official Visit Visa?

You will apply for a France Official Visit visa in France Visa Application Centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

France Study (up to 90 days) Visa

A France Schengen Study (Short-term) visa is granted to you to undertake trips to France for study or educational training, which requires staying in France up to 90 days per half a year.

Required Documents for France Study (up to 90 days) Visa

1. Application Form

You can also fill the France Schengen Visa application form electronically and then print a hard-copy

2. Two Photos

Photos should be of passport format a recent whole-face capture with a light background.
It must be in the size of 3.5x4.5, colored, and the head should take 70-80% of the photo.
You must be looking straight at the camera with a neutral facial expression (no smile and mouth closed).
Try to avoid uniforms or colors matching the background.

3. Passport and Copy of the Main Page

Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the return date.
It also must have at least two blank pages.

4. Copy of Previous Schengen Visas

You should also present a copy of all the Schengen visas that you obtained before.

5. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if Your Country of Residence and Citizenship are Different)

A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents. The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to France.

6. Flight Ticket Reservation

Ticket reservation should indicate the date of entry to and the date of departure from the Schengen area exactly.

7. Travel Insurance

Insurance must have a minimum of 30,000 € coverage within France and the entire Schengen area.

8. Proof of Accommodation for Your Entire Stay in France

Proof of accommodation includes the reservation of a hotel or a tenancy agreement or certificate of ownership

9. Proof of Civil Status

Proof of civil status includes marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, death certificate of spouse, etc.

10. Means of Subsistence

Proof of sufficient financial means for the period of stay, such as bank statements. When applying for France Visa, you must be able to prove to the France Embassy or Consulate possessing the daily money amount of 120 EUR if holding no proof of prepaid accommodation. If you have a prepaid hotel, this amount reduces to 65 EUR/daily for the period of covered hotel accommodation, while the rest is 120 EUR.

11. Proof of Professional Status

For example, employment contract, certificate of employment, extract from the trade and companies’ register, school attendance certificate, proof of pension

12. For Minors:

Birth certificate or copy of the family book and travel authorization signed by the holder(s) of parental authority in the forms required under local law, along with a copy of his/her/their identity document (if the minor is not traveling with his/her parents or guardian)
Letter of consent from parent/s or legal guardian/s, if traveling unaccompanied

13. An Enrolment Certificate Allowing Attendance of Courses

Certificate of completion of courses attended

14. Proof of Visit

Original Letter of Acceptance by the French Education Institution including details of the course, duration, and fees with proof of payment.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for France Study (Schengen) Visa

The average processing time for a France Schengen visa is 3-25 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

France Study (Schengen) Visa Fee

Reduced Visa Fees for Certain Nationalities

Visa fees are waived by all Schengen states for the following categories of persons, regardless of their nationality:

Children under six years
School pupils, undergraduates, postgraduates, and accompanying teaching staff who undertake trips for the purpose of study or training
Representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations
Researchers from third countries traveling within the European Community for the purpose of carrying out scientific research as defined in Recommendation 2005/761/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 September 2005
For the “replacement” of an old, valid visa in a “full” travel document (one that has no empty pages) with a new visa valid for the same period in the applicant’s new travel document
For the spouses, same-sex partners in a civil union, and minor single children of France citizens
Parents of minor France citizens
Family members of EU/EEA nationals

Where to Apply for France Study (Schengen) Visa?

You will apply for a France Schengen visa in France Visa Application Centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

France Medical Visa

France Schengen Visa for Medical purpose allows you to enter France and seek and receive medical treatment for your health condition. This visa is designated for those who need to receive medical care in France for up to 90 days.

Required Documents for France Medical Visa

1. Application Form

You can also fill the France Schengen Visa application form electronically and then print a hard-copy

2. Two Photos

Photos should be of passport format a recent whole-face capture with a light background.
It must be in the size of 3.5x4.5, colored, and the head should take 70-80% of the photo.
You must be looking straight at the camera with a neutral facial expression (no smile and mouth closed).
Try to avoid uniforms or colors matching the background.

3. Passport and Copy of the Main Page

Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the return date.
It also must have at least two blank pages.

4. Copy of Previous Schengen Visas

You should also present a copy of all the Schengen visas that you obtained before.

5. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if Your Country of Residence and Citizenship are Different)

A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents. The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to France.

6. Flight Ticket Reservation

Ticket reservation should indicate the date of entry to and the date of departure from the Schengen area exactly.

7. Travel Insurance

Insurance must have a minimum of 30,000 € coverage within France and the entire Schengen area.

8. Proof of Accommodation for Your Entire Stay in France

Proof of accommodation includes the reservation of a hotel or a tenancy agreement or certificate of ownership

9. Proof of Civil Status

Proof of civil status includes marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, death certificate of spouse, etc.

10. Means of Subsistence

Proof of sufficient financial means for the period of stay, such as bank statements. When applying for France Visa, you must be able to prove to the France Embassy or Consulate possessing the daily money amount of 120 EUR if holding no proof of prepaid accommodation. If you have a prepaid hotel, this amount reduces to 65 EUR/daily for the period of covered hotel accommodation, while the rest is 120 EUR.

11. Proof of Professional Status

For example, employment contract, certificate of employment, extract from the trade and companies’ register, school attendance certificate, proof of pension

12. For Minors:

Birth certificate or copy of the family book and travel authorization signed by the holder(s) of parental authority in the forms required under local law, along with a copy of his/her/their identity document (if the minor is not traveling with his/her parents or guardian)
Letter of consent from parent/s or legal guardian/s, if traveling unaccompanied

13. Invitation Letter

The document must contain the full address and contact details of the medical institution, name and position of the person signing the document, patient's name, citizenship, and date of birth, duration of treatment and length of stay, the estimated cost of treatment, confirmation of full or partial payment for treatment by a doctor or hospital (if any payment has been made), evidence that the applicant has sufficient financial resources to cover the costs of treatment or that a third party will cover these costs, confirmation of the need for treatment and escort at the same institution.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for France Medical Visa

The average processing time for a France Medical visa is 3-25 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

France Medical Visa Fee

Reduced Visa Fees for Certain Nationalities

Visa fees are waived by all Schengen states for the following categories of persons, regardless of their nationality:

Children under six years
School pupils, undergraduates, postgraduates, and accompanying teaching staff who undertake trips for the purpose of study or training
Representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations
Researchers from third countries traveling within the European Community for the purpose of carrying out scientific research as defined in Recommendation 2005/761/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 September 2005
For the “replacement” of an old, valid visa in a “full” travel document (one that has no empty pages) with a new visa valid for the same period in the applicant’s new travel document
For the spouses, same-sex partners in a civil union, and minor single children of France citizens
Parents of minor France citizens
Family members of EU/EEA nationals

Where to Apply for France Medical Visa?

You will apply for a France Medical visa in France Visa Application Centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

France Transit Visa

A transit visa is a visa that is valid for a very short period. Depending on your nationality and destination country, you may need to have a transit visa to connect to a foreign airport or cross through a foreign country.

In France, two types of transit visas are Airport transit visas and Short-stay visas.

An airport transit visa allows you to pass through the international zone of an airport, without entering the country’s territory. Please note that not all foreign travelers are subject to this regulation.

The short-stay visa is granted to a traveler who intends to go from one non-Schengen country to another non-Schengen country by crossing through the territory of France or any other Schengen member country. The visa may be valid for one or several crossings of a maximum duration of up to 5 days each.

Required Documents for France Transit Visa

1. Application Form

You can also fill the France Schengen Visa application form electronically and then print a hard-copy

2. Two Photos

Photos should be of passport format a recent whole-face capture with a light background.
It must be in the size of 3.5x4.5, colored, and the head should take 70-80% of the photo.
You must be looking straight at the camera with a neutral facial expression (no smile and mouth closed).
Try to avoid uniforms or colors matching the background.

3. Passport and Copy of the Main Page

Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the return date.
It also must have at least two blank pages.

4. Copy of Previous Schengen Visas

You should also present a copy of all the Schengen visas that you obtained before.

5. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if Your Country of Residence and Citizenship are Different)

A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents. The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to France.

6. Flight Ticket Reservation

Ticket reservation should indicate the date of entry to and the date of departure from the Schengen area exactly.

7. Travel Insurance

Insurance must have a minimum of 30,000 € coverage within France and the entire Schengen area.

8. Proof of Accommodation for Your Entire Stay in France

Proof of accommodation includes the reservation of a hotel or a tenancy agreement or certificate of ownership

9. Proof of Civil Status

Proof of civil status includes marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, death certificate of spouse, etc.

10. Means of Subsistence

Proof of sufficient financial means for the period of stay, such as bank statements. When applying for France Visa, you must be able to prove to the France Embassy or Consulate possessing the daily money amount of 120 EUR if holding no proof of prepaid accommodation. If you have a prepaid hotel, this amount reduces to 65 EUR/daily for the period of covered hotel accommodation, while the rest is 120 EUR.

11. Proof of Professional Status

For example, employment contract, certificate of employment, extract from the trade and companies’ register, school attendance certificate, proof of pension

12. For Minors:

Birth certificate or copy of the family book and travel authorization signed by the holder(s) of parental authority in the forms required under local law, along with a copy of his/her/their identity document (if the minor is not traveling with his/her parents or guardian)
Letter of consent from parent/s or legal guardian/s, if traveling unaccompanied

13. Copy of Your Valid Visa for Your Final Destination

If a visa is not required for the final destination, then hotel confirmation or other documents are also accepted.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Notes to Consider While Applying for the French Schengen Visa with Transit Purpose:

In the following cases foreigners do not need an Airport Transit French Visa, regardless of nationality:

Holders of a diplomatic, or, service passport;
Holders of green card,
French re-entry permit holders,
Residency permit in one of the European Union countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, Monaco, Andorra, Holy See, San Marino, Canada, Japan or the United States of America,
Holders of a valid US visa;
Spouse or minor child of an EU national;
As well as flight crew members.

Processing Time for France Transit Visa

The average processing time for a France Transit visa is 3-25 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

France Transit Visa Fee

Reduced Visa Fees for Certain Nationalities

Visa fees are waived by all Schengen states for the following categories of persons, regardless of their nationality:

Children under six years
School pupils, undergraduates, postgraduates, and accompanying teaching staff who undertake trips for the purpose of study or training
Representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations
Researchers from third countries traveling within the European Community for the purpose of carrying out scientific research as defined in Recommendation 2005/761/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 September 2005
For the “replacement” of an old, valid visa in a “full” travel document (one that has no empty pages) with a new visa valid for the same period in the applicant’s new travel document
For the spouses, same-sex partners in a civil union, and minor single children of France citizens
Parents of minor France citizens
Family members of EU/EEA nationals

Where to Apply for France Transit Visa?

You will apply for a France Transit visa in France Visa Application Centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

France National (Long-stay) Visa

For any stay in France exceeding 90 days, you are required to apply in advance for a long-stay visa. In this instance, your nationality does not exempt you from requirements.

Whatever the duration of your planned stay, the length of your long-stay visa must be between three months and one year. To extend your stay beyond the period of validity of your visa, you must apply for a residence permit at a corresponding administration.

During its period of validity, the long-stay visa is equivalent to a Schengen visa, enabling you to move around and stay in the Schengen Area outside France for periods not exceeding 90 days over any period of 180 consecutive days, under the same conditions as if you held a Schengen visa.

Citizens of the European Union, European Economic Area, Switzerland, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, and the Vatican may stay in the European territory of France without a visa for longer than 90 days.

A long-stay visa can be issued for the following reasons:

Stay for an extended period for tourist or personal reasons;
Carry out a professional activity;
Pursue education;
Join family members.

In any of the above situations, you will be required to attach supporting documents specific to your case to your application package and follow the respective procedures.

In exceptional cases, travelers may be eligible for specific visas:

In the event of successful entrance examination or admission upon interview to an institution of higher learning, under a short-stay visa bearing the specification “étudiant-concours” (student course) you may apply for a student residence permit from the corresponding administration;
As a holder of a visa bearing the specification “mineur scolarisé” (school-going minor) to attend a school or an institution of higher learning, you may stay 11 months in France, renewable for the duration of your studies;
As a holder of a long-stay visa bearing the specification “Vacances-travail” (working holiday);
As a family member of a national of a European Union Member State, European Economic Space state, or Switzerland, subject to visa requirements, and holder of a short-stay visa, you will be able to apply for a residence permit once in France.

France Long-stay Visa Costs:

The application fee for every long-stay visa for France is 99 EUR. However, for a long-stay visa for France and other French territorial areas, for a foreign child legally adopted by French citizens, the application fee is 15 EUR. The family members of French citizens, as well as the family members of a citizen of another Member State of EU/EEA and Switzerland, are exempt from the visa fee requirement.

In addition, in the case of a study visa if you are in a country with an EEF procedure France long-stay visa fee to be paid is 50 EUR.

France Study (National) Visa

A France Study Visa allows you to study or train, participate in a student exchange, or work as an unpaid intern for more than three months in France.

To apply for a France Study Visa, you must meet the following conditions:

You must be over 18 years of age;
You must have already chosen your training course or studies;
You must be accepted by a higher education establishment. Enrolment conditions differ depending on your nationality. Please check the Etudes en France website to see if your country is included in the online enrolment scheme. For other countries, check the enrolment conditions in terms of specialties and level of education on Campus France.

Required Documents for France Study (National) Visa

1. Application Form

You can also fill the France Schengen Visa application form electronically and then print a hard-copy

2. Two Photos

Photos should be of passport format a recent whole-face capture with a light background.
It must be in the size of 3.5x4.5, colored, and the head should take 70-80% of the photo.
You must be looking straight at the camera with a neutral facial expression (no smile and mouth closed).
Try to avoid uniforms or colors matching the background.

3. Passport and Copy of the Main Page

Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the return date.
It also must have at least two blank pages.

4. Copy of Previous Schengen Visas

You should also present a copy of all the Schengen visas that you obtained before.

5. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if Your Country of Residence and Citizenship are Different)

A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents. The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to France.

6. Flight Ticket Reservation

If the length of stay is more than 6 months then a one-way ticket will be enough.

7. Proof of Accommodation

Proof of accommodation for the first three months: hotel reservation or statement/undertaking from the host (establishment/institution or private individual) or explanatory letter from the student.

8. Proof of Civil Status

Proof of civil status includes marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, death certificate of spouse, etc.

9. Means of Subsistence

Proof of a minimum monthly income of €615: certificate of scholarship or bank statement showing a deposit in a French bank account or an undertaking to accept financial liability from a guarantor who must provide proof of adequate, reliable, and regular income, as well as a copy of their ID document.

10. Proof of Professional Status

For example, employment contract, certificate of employment, extract from the trade and companies’ register, school attendance certificate, proof of pension

11. For Minors:

Birth certificate or copy of the family book and travel authorization signed by the holder(s) of parental authority in the forms required under local law, along with a copy of his/her/their identity document (if the minor is not traveling with his/her parents or guardian)
Letter of consent from parent/s or legal guardian/s, if traveling unaccompanied

12. Purpose of Travel/stay

For the country following the EEF-Etudes en France procedure, the pre-registration certificate generated by the EEF-Pastel application, stating the EEF ID number. For the country outside of the EEF-Etudes en France procedure, certificate of pre-registration (or registration) in an establishment of higher education or training.

13. All Documents Submitted for Admission to an Educational Institution

This includes a certificate from an educational institution in your country, diploma, transcript, CV, motivation letter, etc.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Notes to Consider While Applying for France Study Visa:

The list of countries with EEF procedures are followings:

Algeria, Argentina, Benign, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Chile, China, Colombia, Comoros, Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Egypt, Gabon, Guinea, Haiti, India, Indonesia, Iran, Ivory Coast, Japan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Madagascar, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mexico, Morocco, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, Senegal, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Togo, Tunisia, Turkey, United States, Vietnam.

Processing Time for France Study (National) Visa

The average processing time for a France Study (National) visa is 5-60 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

France Study (National) Visa Fee

The application fee for every long-stay (national) visa for France is 99 EUR. However, for a long-stay visa for France and other French territorial areas, for a foreign child legally adopted by French citizens, the application fee is 15 EUR. The family members of French citizens, as well as the family members of a citizen of another Member State of EU/EEA and Switzerland, are exempt from the visa fee requirement.

In addition, in the case of a study visa if you are in a country with an EEF procedure France long-stay visa fee to be paid is 50 EUR.

Where to Apply for France Study (National) Visa?

You will apply for a France Study (National) visa in France Visa Application Centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

France Family Reunion Visa

Third-country nationals legally residing in France often wish to bring over their non-French family members who live outside the European Union, whether to remain there temporarily or permanently. Therefore, France Family Reunion Visa was designated.

If you living in France wish to bring your family to France, all you have to do is to be able to prove that you can maintain yourself financially.

On the other hand, third-country nationals will have to obtain a Family Reunion visa, a long-stay visa that can later be extended to a residence permit.

Required Documents for France Family Reunion Visa

1. Application Form

You can also fill the France Schengen Visa application form electronically and then print a hard-copy

2. Two Photos

Photos should be of passport format a recent whole-face capture with a light background.
It must be in the size of 3.5x4.5, colored, and the head should take 70-80% of the photo.
You must be looking straight at the camera with a neutral facial expression (no smile and mouth closed).
Try to avoid uniforms or colors matching the background.

3. Passport and Copy of the Main Page

Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the return date.
It also must have at least two blank pages.

4. Copy of Previous Schengen Visas

You should also present a copy of all the Schengen visas that you obtained before.

5. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if Your Country of Residence and Citizenship are Different)

A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents. The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to France.

6. Flight Ticket Reservation

The one-way ticket will be enough.

7. Proof of Accommodation

Proof of accommodation includes a tenancy agreement or certificate of ownership of a family member living in France.

8. Proof of Civil Status

Proof of civil status includes marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, death certificate of spouse, etc.

9. Means of Subsistence

Proof of sufficient financial means, such as bank statements.

10. Proof of Professional Status

For example, employment contract, certificate of employment, extract from the trade and companies’ register, school attendance certificate, proof of pension

11. If You are Spouse of French Citizen:

Proof of nationality of the spouse living in France, which can be a passport or identity card.

12. If You are the Foreign Child/Spouse of an EU Citizen

Both biological parents’ passport; authorization by a parent – if the child is traveling with only one parent; court decision – if only one parent, has the sole custody of the child; valid passport of the European citizen of the EU / EEA / Swiss National; a sworn statement – from the EU family member, which states that the visa applicant is their dependent; proof of relationship – between the child/spouse and the citizen residing in France.

13. If You are the Foreign Parent of a French Child

Proof of the family ties between the applicant and the French child, full birth certificate; proof of the child’s French nationality, valid passport, or CNIS; proof that you travel along or join the French national in France.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for France Family Reunion Visa

The average processing time for a France Family Reunion visa is 5-60 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

France Family Reunion Visa Fee

Where to Apply for France Family Reunion Visa?

You will apply for a France Family Reunion visa in France Visa Application Centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

France Entrepreneurship or Independent Profession Visa

If you want to come to France to create or engage in activities as a self-employed person or in a liberal activity in France, then you must apply France Entrepreneurship or Independent Profession Visa. These activities can be creating or engaging in economic activity or setting up as a private medical practitioner.

Required Documents for France Entrepreneurship Visa

1. Application Form

You can also fill the France Schengen Visa application form electronically and then print a hard-copy

2. Two Photos

Photos should be of passport format a recent whole-face capture with a light background.
It must be in the size of 3.5x4.5, colored, and the head should take 70-80% of the photo.
You must be looking straight at the camera with a neutral facial expression (no smile and mouth closed).
Try to avoid uniforms or colors matching the background.

3. Passport and Copy of the Main Page

Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the return date
It also must have at least two blank pages.

4. Copy of Previous Schengen Visas

You should also present a copy of all the Schengen visas that you obtained before.

5. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if Your Country of Residence and Citizenship are Different)

A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents. The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to France.

6. Flight Ticket Reservation

The one-way ticket will be enough.

7. Proof of Accommodation

Proof of accommodation includes a tenancy agreement or certificate of ownership.

8. Proof of Civil Status

Proof of civil status includes marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, death certificate of spouse, etc.

9. All Supporting Documents Attesting to Your Ability to Carry Out the Planned Retail, Manufacturing, or Craft Activity

This includes degrees/diplomas, professional qualifications, employment certificates, etc.

10. A Certificate of No Criminal Record or an Equivalent Document from the Country of Which You are a National

11. The Completed “Retailer, Craftsperson, Manufacturer” Form

12. If You are Starting a Business:

A written presentation of your project, your business plan, and a multi-annual estimated budget.
Business buyout: Copy of the sales agreement or contract.
Creating a foreign legal person: Proof of nomination or a letter of intent from the competent body for the nomination + copy of the articles of association of the legal person under foreign law.
Lease-management: Copy of the lease-management agreement or contract + extract from the companies register or from the trade directory of the previous manager (dated within three months) + copy of the lease drawn up in the owner’s name.
Proof of the letter of guarantee from a French-based credit institution or approved insurance company to stand guarantor or proof of a credit balance from an account in the applicant’s name opened at a French-based credit institution.
Starting a business: Depending on the business in question, a copy of the commercial lease agreement stating the business activity or the sub-lease contract stating the activity and where possible authorization from the owner of the premises, or any other documents regarding the business premises or a copy of the business domiciliation contract.
Starting a company under French law, as a subsidiary of a foreign company (1/2): Proof of nomination or where possible, a letter of intent from the competent body for the nomination + copy of the articles of association of the legal person under foreign law.
Starting a company under French law, as a subsidiary of a foreign company (2/2): Copy of the commercial lease agreement stating the business activity or of the sub-lease contract stating the activity and where possible authorization from the owner of the premises, or any other documents regarding the business premises + copy of the draft articles of association with a draft breakdown of share capital.
Starting a company under French law: Copy of the commercial lease agreement stating the business activity or of the sub-lease contract stating the activity and where possible authorization from the owner of the premises, or any other documents regarding the business premises + copy of the draft articles of association with a draft breakdown of share capital.

13. If You are Joining an Existing Business:

As appropriate, an extract from the company’s registration on the company registers dated within three months or an extract from the trade directory dated within three months.
A tax status certificate for the company (P237).
Certificate from URSSAF (French body managing social security payments) proving that the company is up to date in its payments.
If the applicant does not have employee status, any certified accounting document proving that the company can pay the applicant a monthly income at least equivalent to the French minimum wage (SMIC).
If the applicant has employee status, the original employment contract as well as a copy.
If you are joining a company, a copy of its articles of association.
Proof of nomination or where possible, a letter of intent from the competent body for the nomination.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for France Entrepreneurship Visa

The average processing time for a France Entrepreneurship visa is 5-60 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

France Entrepreneurship Visa Fee

Where to Apply for France Entrepreneurship Visa?

You will apply for a France Entrepreneurship visa in France Visa Application Centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

France Job Search/Business Creation Visa

The Job Search/Business Creation visa for France is a Long-Term Residency Permit, which allows you to stay in the country for six months and look for a job or create your own business. This visa is restricted to students who have left France after earning at least a Master’s level qualification at a nationally-approved educational institution, or which is on a list set by decree, and who want to return to France to seek employment or set up a business, within four years of their graduation.

You will receive a long-stay visa serving as a residence permit (VLS-TS) marked “Job Search/Business Creation.” It must be validated within three months of arriving in France.

Required Documents for France Job Search/Business Creation Visa

1. Application Form

You can also fill the France Schengen Visa application form electronically and then print a hard-copy

2. Two Photos

Photos should be of passport format a recent whole-face capture with a light background.
It must be in the size of 3.5x4.5, colored, and the head should take 70-80% of the photo.
You must be looking straight at the camera with a neutral facial expression (no smile and mouth closed).
Try to avoid uniforms or colors matching the background.

3. Passport and Copy of the Main Page

Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the return date
It also must have at least two blank pages.

4. Copy of Previous Schengen Visas

You should also present a copy of all the Schengen visas that you obtained before.

5. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if Your Country of Residence and Citizenship are Different)

A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents. The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to France.

6. Flight Ticket Reservation

The one-way ticket will be enough.

7. Proof of Accommodation

Proof of accommodation includes a tenancy agreement or certificate of ownership.

8. Proof of Civil Status

Proof of civil status includes marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, death certificate of spouse, etc.

9. Means of Subsistence

Any proof of financial subsistence, corresponding at least to the amount of the monthly basic maintenance allowance paid by the French Government to foreign scholarship holders (€615) during the entire first year.

10. Copy of the Degree Obtained in the Four Years Prior to Your Application

It should be at least equivalent to a Master’s degree or on the list established by decree.

12. Copy of Your Residence Permit with the Mention "Student" or "Student – Exchange Program", That You Held When You Obtained Your Degree in France

Otherwise, any document justifying that you are in possession of this residence permit.

13. Where Applicable, Any Proof of a Project to Create a Business in an Area Corresponding to Your Training

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for France Job Search/Business Creation Visa

The average processing time for a France Job Search/ Business Creationvisa is 5-60 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

France Job Search/Business Creation Visa Fee

Where to Apply for France Job Search/Business Creation Visa?

You will apply for a France Job Search/Business Creationvisa in France Visa Application Centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

ICT Posted Employee and Professional Work Placement Visa

You must apply for an ICT Posted employee and professional work placement Visa if you are a national of a non-Member State of the European Union, the European Economic Area, or Switzerland.

When the contract with the original employer remains in effect, employees are considered a seconded employees. They are sent to France to exercise a temporary mission in the context of an intra-company transfer or a service provision.

Where employees are sent to France under an intra-company transfer, they can obtain a multi-year “Intra-company transfer” residence permit (“Salarié détaché ICT”), subject to criteria.

Second employees are, by definition, not meant to remain in France. At the end of their three years under seconded ICT employees, they must either return to their country of origin, their assignment having come to a close, or request a change of status to another residence permit, enabling them to exercise a salaried activity in France.

Foreign seconded employees who are not eligible for the “ICT seconded employee” residence permit can still perform work for their employer in France, under the “Temporary Worker” temporary residence permit, which entitles holders to engage in the salaried activity. The employer must file an application for the said work permit in advance. The job situation will, however, be taken into consideration.

Required Documents for France ICT Posted and Professional Work Placement Visa

1. Application Form

You can also fill the France Schengen Visa application form electronically and then print a hard-copy

2. Two Photos

Photos should be of passport format a recent whole-face capture with a light background.
It must be in the size of 3.5x4.5, colored, and the head should take 70-80% of the photo.
You must be looking straight at the camera with a neutral facial expression (no smile and mouth closed).
Try to avoid uniforms or colors matching the background.

3. Passport and Copy of the Main Page

Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the return date
It also must have at least two blank pages.

4. Copy of Previous Schengen Visas

You should also present a copy of all the Schengen visas that you obtained before.

5. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if Your Country of Residence and Citizenship are Different)

A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents. The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to France.

6. Flight Ticket Reservation

The one-way ticket will be enough.

7. Proof of Accommodation

Proof of accommodation includes a tenancy agreement or certificate of ownership.

8. Proof of Civil Status

Proof of civil status includes marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, death certificate of spouse, etc.

9. Means of Subsistence

Proof of sufficient resources to support your own needs and those of your family members without having recourse to social security benefits.

10. Cerfa Form N°15619*01, Accompanied by the Documents Listed on It

11. Employment Contract or Any Local Legal Equivalent Document

In addition, if necessary, a letter from the employer stating the conditions of remuneration in accordance with the current job, the duration of the mission, and the location of the host company. Proof that the applicant will be a trainee and may return to an entity, established in a third country, belonging to the same company at the end of his mission.

12. Proof of at Least Six Months Seniority in the Group of Companies

13. Proof That the Company Employing You and the Company in Which You are Carrying Out Your Assignment or Work Placement Belong to the Same Group of Companies

14. Proof of a Higher Education Qualification

15. Proof of the Professional Qualifications and Experience Required in the Enterprise Group and, Where Appropriate, Proof of Compliance with the Conditions Governing the Pursuit of a Regulated Profession

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for France ICT Posted Employee and Professional Work Placement Visa

The average processing time for a France ICT Posted Employee and Professional Work Placement Visa is 5-60 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

France ICT Posted Employee and Professional Work Placement Visa Fee

Where to Apply for France ICT Posted Employee and Professional Work Placement Visa?

You will apply for a France ICT Posted Employee and Professional Work Placement Visa in France Visa Application Centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

France Au Pair Visa

The visa is designated for those who want to come to France under the Au Pair program to share the family's responsibility for childcare as well as some housework and receive a monetary or non-monetary allowance for personal use.

Required Documents for France Au Pair Visa

1. Application Form

You can also fill the France Schengen Visa application form electronically and then print a hard-copy

2. Two Photos

Photos should be of passport format a recent whole-face capture with a light background.
It must be in the size of 3.5x4.5, colored, and the head should take 70-80% of the photo.
You must be looking straight at the camera with a neutral facial expression (no smile and mouth closed).
Try to avoid uniforms or colors matching the background.

3. Passport and Copy of the Main Page

Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the return date
It also must have at least two blank pages.

4. Copy of Previous Schengen Visas

You should also present a copy of all the Schengen visas that you obtained before.

5. National Identity Card and Resident Permit/Visa Copy (if Your Country of Residence and Citizenship are Different)

A copy of the documents must be presented along with other documents. The required validity period for these documents is three months beyond the date of your travel to France.

6. Flight Ticket Reservation

The one-way ticket will be enough.

7. Proof of Accommodation

Proof of accommodation includes a tenancy agreement or certificate of ownership of a family member living in France.

8. Proof of Civil Status

Proof of civil status includes marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, death certificate of spouse, etc.

9. Means of Subsistence

Proof of sufficient financial means, such as bank statements.

9. Agreement Between an Au Pair and the Host Family for a Maximum of One Year (CERFA)

10. Any Document That May Attest to Basic Knowledge of the French Language

11. Any Document That May Attest the Level of Secondary Teaching or Professional Qualifications

12. Travel Insurance

Insurance must have a minimum of 30,000 € coverage within France and the entire Schengen area.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for France Au Pair Visa

The average processing time for a France Au Pair visa is 5-60 calendar days. It depends on your visa application country.

France Au Pair Visa Fee

Where to Apply for France Au Pair Visa?

You will apply for a France Au Pair visa in France Visa Application Centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

EMBASSY INFORMATION AND LOCATION

Embassy of

Located in

FAQ

Is it enough to present my passport and France Schengen visa when I get to the border control in the Schengen area or any other documents required too?

Having a visa in your passport does not necessarily guarantee that you will be authorized to enter the Schengen area. The border police may refuse your entry.

If you were granted a France short-stay visa or were exempt from obtaining a France short-stay visa during your arrival in France, you must be able to satisfy all the border police’s requests and be able to show the following:

Your passport (with a visa, if this applies to your situation);
Supporting documents for the purpose of your trip to France, your means of subsistence during your stay, and the means to return to your country of origin.
You must have an insurance certificate covering all medical and hospital expenses for which you may be liable for the duration of your stay in France and medical repatriation costs and expenses in the event of death.

If you hold a France multiple-entry visa, then you must carry a health insurance certificate during every trip.

If you were granted a France long-stay visa, the border police would only ask to see your passport containing the visa. It must have a stamp showing the date of entry into France.

Is it possible to work in France while I study with my France Student Visa?

Students from within the EEA and Switzerland are free to pursue work alongside their studies without any restrictions. However, if you are a third-country national, you can work up to 965 hours per year (equivalent to 60% of a full working year) as part of the permissions granted with the VLS-TS visa and residency permit. Internships completed as part of a study program are not counted within this.

If my France visa application is refused, can I apply for an appeal?

Under the provisions of French and European law, decisions about refusing entry visas to France are justified.

If you intend to object to the decision before the administrative court, you must also file an administrative appeal to the Commission de Recours Contre les Décisions de Refus de visa (appeals board for visa refusal rulings) within two months (CRRV – BP 83609 – 44036 NANTES CEDEX 1). This prior recourse, which must be justified, written in French, and signed, is compulsory before any appeal made to the administrative court.

The exercise of graceful or hierarchical remedies shall not have the effect of extending the period of prior administrative appeal before the Commission de Recours Contre les Décisions de Refus de Visa.

Can I extend my France Short-Stay Schengen Visa?

Yes, you can extend your France Schengen visa only in exceptional cases where new facts and special reasons arise after entry in France. These special reasons are to continue receiving medical treatment, to take part in the funeral after the sudden death of a family member, to give support to a person close to you who is going through some hardship, no flight connections because of consecutive earthquakes, wars or other reasons, etc.

If I am planning to stay in France and Netherlands for three days in each, which country's Schengen visa should I apply for?

Whenever you plan to travel throughout the Schengen Area, you are required to apply for the Schengen visa of the Schengen country where you plan to stay the most of your trip. In your case, the period of stay in each country is the same, so you need to apply for the visa to the one that you plan to enter first.

Can someone else apply for a France Schengen visa on my behalf?

Each applicant must come in person to proceed to the biometric data capture.

Personal appearance is mandatory for all visa applicants unless you are exempted from biometric data capturing. If you are exempted from biometric data capture, a representative can apply on your behalf. The representative has to provide a signed letter of authorization and the original and copy of his/her ID card. The representative cannot be a minor.

Personal appearance exemption conditions:

Children under 12 years of age. Finger scans are not required;
An applicant has a previous Schengen visa delivered within 59 months, and with the remarks, “VIS” is mentioned.

Note that if the applicant’s latest Schengen visa mentions “VIS 0”, the applicant is still required to provide their biometric data, as the “VIS 0” visa means only alphanumeric data and a photograph are provided, but no fingerprint. In addition, if your remarks “VIS” are mentioned on a long-stay visa “Type D”, your personal appearance still required.

Could the French Embassy/Consulate request me to provide additional documents or information?

The French Embassy may request you to provide additional documents or information, according to your personal situation, even after you have submitted all the required documents mentioned in the official website of the Embassy/Consulate/Visa Application Center of France.

When should I apply for a France visa?

You may only submit your France visa application within 180 days before your date of departure. We recommend that you apply at least 15 working days before the date you intend to travel to France or Schengen Area.

I am a regular visitor to France. Will I have to provide all documentation each time I apply?

Yes. Every time you apply for a visa to France, you must submit all the necessary supporting documents. If you are a frequent traveler to France, you can request a multiple-entry Schengen visa with the validity of three months, six months, one year, two, and five years. However, the decision on whether to grant you such visa depends on the consul.

Do I get my fee refunded in case of my France visa refusal?

No. France application fee covers the handling of the application, regardless of the result.

Blogs About France That Might Inspire You to Visit

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What to pack for a trip to France?

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France Visa Policy

Check the visa policy for France to plan your trip

Do You Need Visa to Visit France?

Visa is required

Visa is free

Do You Need Visa to Visit France? Check It Out!

Visa Types

Visa Types & Categories to Apply for France

France Schengen Visa

France Schengen Visa

France Short-stay Visa Costs:

France Tourist Visa

Required Documents for France Tourist Visa

Processing Time for France Tourist Visa

France Tourist Visa Fee

Reduced Visa Fees for Certain Nationalities

Where to Apply for France Tourist Visa?

France Business Visa

Required Documents for France Business Visa

Processing Time for France Business Visa

France Business Visa Fee

Reduced Visa Fees for Certain Nationalities

Where to Apply for France Business Visa?

France Visiting Family and Friends Visa

Required Documents for France Family Visit Visa

Processing Time for France Family Visit Visa

France Family Visit Visa Fee

Reduced Visa Fees for Certain Nationalities

Where to Apply for France Family Visit Visa?

France Cultural Visa

Required Documents for France Cultural Visa

Processing Time for France Cultural Visa

France Cultural Visa Fee

Reduced Visa Fees for Certain Nationalities

Where to Apply for France Cultural Visa?

France Sports Visa

Required Documents for France Sports Visa

Processing Time for France Sports Visa

France Sports Visa Fee

Reduced Visa Fees for Certain Nationalities

Where to Apply for France Sports Visa?

France Official Visit Visa

Required Documents for France Official Visit Visa

Processing Time for France Official Visit Visa

France Official Visit Visa Fee

Reduced Visa Fees for Certain Nationalities

Where to Apply for France Official Visit Visa?

France Study (up to 90 days) Visa

Required Documents for France Study (up to 90 days) Visa

Processing Time for France Study (Schengen) Visa

France Study (Schengen) Visa Fee

Reduced Visa Fees for Certain Nationalities

Where to Apply for France Study (Schengen) Visa?

France Medical Visa

Required Documents for France Medical Visa

Processing Time for France Medical Visa

France Medical Visa Fee

Reduced Visa Fees for Certain Nationalities

Where to Apply for France Medical Visa?

France Transit Visa

Required Documents for France Transit Visa

Processing Time for France Transit Visa

France Transit Visa Fee

Reduced Visa Fees for Certain Nationalities

Where to Apply for France Transit Visa?

France National (Long-stay) Visa

France National (Long-stay) Visa

France Long-stay Visa Costs:

France Study (National) Visa

Required Documents for France Study (National) Visa

Notes to Consider While Applying for France Study Visa:

Processing Time for France Study (National) Visa

France Study (National) Visa Fee

Where to Apply for France Study (National) Visa?

France Family Reunion Visa

Required Documents for France Family Reunion Visa

Processing Time for France Family Reunion Visa

France Family Reunion Visa Fee

Where to Apply for France Family Reunion Visa?

France Entrepreneurship or Independent Profession Visa