Visa Requirement Summary

A tourist visa for France, also known as a short-stay Schengen visa, allows you to visit France for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This visa is ideal for vacations, sightseeing, or visiting family and friends. To apply, you'll need a valid passport, completed application form, recent passport-sized photos, travel insurance, proof of accommodation, and a round-trip travel itinerary. You may also need to show financial proof that you can support yourself during your stay. Submit your application at the French consulate or visa application center in your country. Processing usually takes about 15 days, so apply well in advance.

Duration of stay in france

Quick Facts

- Tourist visa for France allows stays up to 90 days

- Apply at French consulate or visa center

- Required documents: passport, application form, photo, travel itinerary

- Processing time: usually 15 days

- Fee: around 80 euros

Application Process

Step-by-Step Guide

Sure! Here's a simple step-by-step guide on how to apply for a tourist visa to France:

1. Check if You Need a Visa:

- Visit the official French consulate website or contact them to confirm if you need a visa based on your nationality.

2. Gather Required Documents:

- Valid passport (valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned stay).

- Completed visa application form.

- Recent passport-sized photos.

- Proof of travel (flight itinerary or reservation).

- Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, invitation letter if staying with someone).

- Travel insurance covering at least €30,000.

- Proof of financial means (bank statements, pay slips, etc.).

3. Book an Appointment:

- Schedule an appointment at the nearest French consulate or visa application center. This can usually be done online through their official website.

4. Pay the Visa Fee:

- Check the current

Online Application Links

Here's the information presented in a clear and easy-to-read format:

Online Application Links for France Tourist Visa:

1. France-Visas Official Portal

2. VFS Global for France

These links will direct you to the official portals where you can apply for a tourist visa to France.

Documents Required

List of Documents

Here's a simple and easy-to-understand list of documents needed for a visa application to France:

- Valid Passport (must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned stay)

- Visa Application Form (completed and signed)

- Passport-sized Photos (recent, in color, and according to the specifications)

- Proof of Accommodation (hotel reservation, rental agreement, or invitation letter from a host)

- Travel Itinerary (flight reservations or other proof of travel plans)

- Travel Insurance (covering medical expenses up to 30,000 euros)

- Proof of Financial Means (bank statements, payslips, or a letter of sponsorship)

- Purpose of Visit (invitation letter, business meeting details, or school enrollment letter)

- Proof of Civil Status (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.)

- Previous Visas (if applicable, copies of previous visas)

- Proof of Employment or Studies (employment contract, letter from employer, or proof of school enrollment)

Fees

Visa Fees

The cost of a visa application for France varies based on the type of visa you need. For a short-stay visa (up to 90 days), the fee is generally around $88. For a long-stay visa (more than 90 days), the cost is about $116. Note that these prices can change, so it's always a good idea to check the latest fees on the official French consulate or embassy website before applying.

Additional Costs

In France, you might encounter additional costs such as service fees and express processing fees. Service fees can apply to banking, utilities, or ticket booking services. Express processing fees are charged for faster handling of requests, such as expedited passport or visa services. Always check the specific service provider's terms to understand the full cost.

Processing Time

Standard Processing Time

The standard processing time for a visa to France typically takes about 15 days. However, this can vary depending on the type of visa, the time of year, and the applicant's circumstances. It's always a good idea to apply well in advance of your planned travel dates to allow for any unexpected delays.

Express Processing Options

In France, faster processing options for various services can help expedite your requests. For instance, when applying for a passport, you can opt for an express service, which typically reduces the processing time from several weeks to just a few days. Similarly, some visa applications offer expedited processing for an additional fee. For urgent mail, La Poste provides express delivery services like Chronopost, ensuring next-day delivery within France. Always check the specific service provider's website for the most current information and fees related to expedited processing options.

Validity

Visa Duration

A standard tourist visa for France is typically valid for up to 90 days within 180 days.

Entry Type

In France, you can have both single-entry and multiple-entry options for visas. Single entry allows one-time entry, while multiple entry permits multiple entries within the visa's validity period.

Extensions

Extension Process

To extend your visa in France, follow these steps:

1. Check Eligibility: Ensure your visa type allows for extensions. Short-stay visas (less than 90 days) are rarely extended.

2. Start Early: Begin the process at least 2 months before your current visa expires.

3. Gather Documents: Prepare necessary documents such as your passport, current visa, proof of financial means, health insurance, and a reason for the extension.

4. Visit the Prefecture: Make an appointment at the local Prefecture (administrative office) in the area where you reside.

5. Submit Application: Complete the application form provided by the Prefecture and submit it along with your documents.

6. Pay Fees: Be ready to pay any applicable fees for processing your extension.

7. Wait for a Decision: The Prefecture will review your application and notify you of their decision. Processing times can vary.

If approved, you will receive

Extension Fees

In France, extending your visa usually involves some costs. The fee for a visa extension can range from 30 to 100 euros, depending on the type of visa and your specific situation. You may also need to pay for additional documents or services, such as translation or notarization. It's best to check with the local prefecture or consulate for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Validity of Extensions

In France, the duration for which a visa can be extended varies depending on the type of visa you hold. Short-stay visas (up to 90 days) can be extended in exceptional cases, such as medical emergencies or serious personal reasons. Long-stay visas (more than 90 days) can also be extended, typically for up to one year, provided you meet specific criteria and apply before your current visa expires. Always check with local authorities for the most accurate information.

Additional Information

Special Requirements

If you are planning to travel to France, there are a few requirements you should be aware of:

 

1. Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from France.

 

2. Visa: Citizens from many countries, including the U.S., Canada, and Australia, do not need a visa for short stays (up to 90 days). Check if your country requires a visa.

 

3. COVID-19: As of now, travelers may need to provide proof of vaccination, a negative COVID-19 test, or recovery from COVID-19. Check the latest updates as these requirements can change.

 

4. Health Insurance: It is recommended to have travel health insurance that covers medical expenses in France.

 

5. Customs: Be aware of restrictions on certain items like alcohol, tobacco, and large sums of money.

 

Always check the latest travel advisories and entry requirements from official sources before your trip.

Travel Advisories

As of now, France is generally safe for travelers. However, be aware of potential strikes and demonstrations, which can disrupt transportation and public services. Pickpocketing and petty theft are common in tourist areas, so stay vigilant. Always check the latest travel advisories from your government before planning your trip.

Quick Facts About the Country

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Cost Amount (per day)
$ 60.00
Total Score
5 / 5 Stars
Safety
Great
English Speaking
Great
Quality Of Life
Great
Family
Excellent
Community
Excellent
Fun
Excellent
Food Safety
Excellent
Education Level
Excellent
People Density
Okay
Hospitals
Excellent
Nightlife
Excellent
Free Wifi In City
Great
Friendly To Foreigners
Excellent
Freedom Of Speech
Great
Female Friendly
Excellent
LGBT Friendly
Excellent