Are you a US green card holder planning a trip to France? Make sure you understand the visa requirements before heading off to your French getaway.
In this complete guide, we’ll cover short visits and long-term stays, helping ensure your trip is free of any hitches.
A quick tip: with your iRoamly France travel eSIM, you can easily access visa information online or search for information online, making your travel preparations even smoother.
Do US Green Card Holders Need a Visa to Travel to France?
Yes, US green card holders require a visa for travel to France. Regardless of how long you plan to stay, as a citizen of a non-EU country, you will be subject to specific rules.
If you are a national of a third country that does not have a visa-free regime with the EU, you must apply for a Schengen visa when traveling with a green card.
For shorter visits, you will need a Schengen visa, while longer stays will require different visa types depending on the purpose of your visit.
Types of French Travel Visas for US Green Card Holders:
Schengen 90 Days or Less Short-Stay Visa:
All Green Card holding tourists and business visitors can apply for this 90 day or less visa type, as long as you have the following:
A valid green card, held for at least a year prior to application.
Sufficient funds to cover your stay in France.
Travel insurance which covers your stay in France.
Application Fee - various amounts apply per visa type, see the French visa portal for current rates.
National Long-Stay Visa:
If you're staying in France more than 90 days, whatever your reason for being there, work, study, or family, you need to apply for a national long-stay visa, which requires:
A valid green card and passport.
Relevant evidence to support the reason for your stay (for instance, a work contract, confirmation of enrollment at a French educational institution).
Accommodation in France.
Application Fee - see French visa portal for full details: https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/united-states-of-america
Other Visas:
Depending on the reason for your sponsored visit (work, cultural exchange, studies) there are a number of specific visas you may need to apply for:
Student Visa: If you will be studying in France, you need to provide documentation from the educational institution in France that you have been accepted.
Work Visa: Legal work in the country necessitates a job offer from a local employer.
Internship Visa: You need an internship agreement with a company in France to qualify.
Artist and Cultural Profession Visa: Must provide documentation from a relevant French organization for employment.
All these visa can be processed through any US embassy/consulate that handles Schengen country representations.
If you're applying for a France visa, be sure to allow enough time for the process, as it may take longer than expected.
Visa Exemptions for Some Travelers
While most travelers do need a visa, some exceptions apply, usually by traveler type:
Diplomatic Passports: Those holding a diplomatic passport and traveling on official business are not required to hold a visa to enter France.
Special Agreements: Individuals from countries with specific agreements with France or the EU might have different entry requirements.
Family Members of EU Citizens: Family members of an EU citizen may have easier entry if traveling with or joining the EU citizen in France.
Long-term EU Residents: Holders of resident permits from another EU country may be permitted visa exemption for short stays in France.
Spouse of a French Citizen: If you are married to a French national, you may not need any further documentation if your relationship can easily be confirmed.
Members of Parliament, Officials, or Public Servants: Those working in public service for their home country or international service positions may have differing entry requirements.
Ship or Air Crew: Those in transit or serving onboard on international services may have visa requirements related to their work.
Always check current requirements – and potential exemptions – with a French consulate or on official French immigration websites before finalizing any travel plans.
FAQs:
Do green card holders need a visa to travel to Europe from USA?
Yes, if they plan to stay longer than 90 days within the Schengen Zone.
How many countries can green card holders travel without visa?
It depends on the individual traveler's nationality and the passport they hold.
Do US citizens need a visa for France in 2024?
US citizens can visit France visa free for short stays (up to 90 days) for tourism or business.
Summary:
Understanding the visa requirements for travel to France as a green card holder is essential for a smooth trip.
Knowing which type of visa you require, and its related process, helps ensure your trip to France is as wonderful as it should be.
Prepare, apply, and get ready to discover all that France has to offer.