Navigating the France visa application process doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
In this guide, we’ll break down the steps you need to follow, the documents you’ll need to gather, and tips to help you stay on track.
By the way, don’t forget to bring your iRoamly France travel eSIM – it’s the perfect way to share experiences and easily check visa information online.
France Visa Requirements
First, check if you need a France visa.
Because France is one of the 26 Schengen Area countries, visa requirements can depend on your nationality. Citizens of France visa-exempt countries can enjoy short stays in France without a problem. If your country isn’t on that list, however, you’ll need a visa to visit.
How to Apply for a French Visa
For nationals of non-visa-exempt countries, you will need to:
1. Check What Type of Visa You Need
Different visa types cover your reason for travel and how long you intend to stay, but the main categories are:
Short-stay visa: For tourism, family visits, and similar, with up to 90 days stay in a 180-day period.
Long-stay visa: For stays longer than 90 days, whether that’s to work, to study, or to join family.
2. Apply Online through the French Visa Website
Start your visa application at the official French Visa Website:
https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/
3. Required Documents
Check your individual requirements (every application is different) at the France-Visas: required documents.
Everyone will need:
A passport or travel document issued in the last ten years, valid for three months longer than your visit and with at least two blank pages.
Two passport-style photos.
Personalized documents to support your application.
4. Book an Appointment
Determine which consulate will handle your application.
Appointment slots fill up quickly, so book your appointment at a Visa Application Centre well in advance of your trip, up to six months before a short-stay visit or three months before long-stay.
5. Biometrics and Fees
All French visas require biometric data, taken in person from applicants aged 12 or older.
Visa Application Centre Fee – €80, payable by you when you attend your appointment.
Exemptions
Previous biometric data can exempt you from in-person data capture if collected within the past 59 months.
Track Your Application and Passport Return
Be notified when your passport containing your visa is available to collect. Visa processing takes an average of 15 days, or up to 45 days in some circumstances – plan ahead!
Process complete! You’re now ready to collect your passport with your visa inserted.
Gather the Rest of Your Supporting Documents
You’ll also need a range of documents to support your application, including:
Current Passport: Needs to be valid for at least three months after you intend to leave the Schengen area, issued within the last 10 years, and contain at least two blank pages.
Passport Photos: Two passport photos that are recent and feature a white background.
Proof of Residence: This should feature your legal status, for example a Green Card or relevant visa documentation.
Health Insurance: Proof of international health insurance valid for the period, with a minimum €30,000 coverage for medical emergencies.
Itinerary: Either a return ticket, or a complete itinerary featuring your name.
Proof of Accommodation: Either hotel bookings or confirmation from other lodging, with your name.
Additional documents depending on visa type
You’ll then need to have some of the following key documents depending on the type of visa you are applying for:
Tourist Visa:
Bank Statements: Showing three months of funds.
Pay Slips: Your last three month’s pay slips.
Work Visa:
Letter of Employment: Stating your role, trip reason, and guarantee to return.
Embassy Fee: An €80 fee to be paid at the appointment.
Study Visa:
School Records: That is mentioned on your letter of acceptance.
Vaccination Card: Photocopy of a vaccination card/passport.
Additional for minors (third parties below 18):
Letter of Consent: A notarised letter of consent from both parents.
Or a court decision or parent’s death certificate if relevant.
FAQs
What are some must-see places in France?
Some of the top places to visit in France include:
Eiffel Tower in Paris
Versailles Palace
Mont Saint-Michel
How long does it take to get a visa for France?
Usually, visas are processed within 15 days, but there can be extenuating circumstances.
How much does a visa for France cost?
The standard fee for a French visa application is €80.
What documents are needed for a French visa?
A valid passport, passport photographs, proof of accommodation, and any additional papers relating to the visa category you are applying under.
Summary
Applying for a French visa may seem daunting, but once you know what’s expected, the process becomes far less intimidating.
With your documents in order, requirements met, and preparation complete, experience awaits you: a fantastic trip to beautiful France.
Bon voyage!