France Visit Visa 2026: Complete Application Guide

France Visa Overview

France is a member of the Schengen Area, a zone of 26 European countries that have abolished passport control at their mutual borders. A Schengen visa issued by France allows:

• Entry into all 26 Schengen countries
• Stay of up to 90 days within any 180-day period
• Multiple entries (if granted)
• Travel throughout Schengen zone during validity

Important: Apply to the country where you'll spend the most time, or if equal time, the country of first entry. If France is your main destination, apply for a French Schengen visa.

Who Needs a France Visa?

Visa-Exempt Countries

Citizens of certain countries can visit France and the Schengen Area without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period:

• United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand
• United Kingdom (post-Brexit)
• Japan, South Korea, Singapore
• Brazil, Argentina, Mexico
• Many other countries (check official EU list)

ETIAS Note: Starting 2025, visa-exempt travelers will need ETIAS authorization (€7, valid 3 years). Check current requirements before travel.

Visa-Required Countries

Citizens of many countries need a Schengen visa before travel. This includes nationals of:

• India, China, Pakistan, Bangladesh
• Most African countries
• Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam
• Russia, most CIS countries
• Many Middle Eastern countries

Types of French Visas

Short-Stay (Schengen) Visa - Type C

For tourism, business visits, family visits, or transit. Maximum 90 days in 180 days.

• Single entry: One entry allowed
• Double entry: Two entries allowed
• Multiple entry: Unlimited entries during validity (up to 5 years for frequent travelers)

Long-Stay Visa - Type D

For stays exceeding 90 days (study, work, family reunion, retirement). Not covered in this guide.

Visa Requirements

General Requirements

• Passport: Valid for 3+ months beyond planned departure, with 2 blank pages
• Application form: Completed and signed (online or paper)
• Photos: 2 recent passport photos (35x45mm, white background)
• Travel insurance: Minimum €30,000 coverage, valid in all Schengen countries
• Flight reservation: Round-trip booking or itinerary
• Accommodation proof: Hotel bookings, Airbnb confirmation, or invitation letter
• Financial means: Bank statements, employment letter, or sponsor letter
• Visa fee: €80 adults, €40 children (6-12), free under 6

Financial Requirements

You must demonstrate sufficient funds for your stay. France's official minimum is:

• €120/day if staying in hotel
• €65/day if staying with host
• Show 3-6 months of bank statements
• Credit card statements may supplement

Accommodation Proof

• Hotels: Confirmed booking with name and dates
• Airbnb/Rentals: Confirmation with full address
• Staying with host: "Attestation d'accueil" (official hosting certificate) from French host, obtained at their local mairie

Application Process

Step 1: Determine Visa Need

Check if your nationality requires a visa. If visa-exempt, check ETIAS requirements.

Step 2: Gather Documents

Collect all required documents. Allow 2-4 weeks for document gathering.

Step 3: Book Appointment

Schedule appointment through:

• VFS Global: France's visa processing partner in most countries
• TLS Contact: Used in some countries
• French Embassy: Direct appointments in some locations

Book 4-6 weeks in advance during peak season (summer, holidays).

Step 4: Attend Appointment

Attend in person with:

• All original documents plus copies
• Completed application form
• Visa fee payment (card or cash depending on center)
• Biometrics will be collected (fingerprints, photo)

Step 5: Wait for Processing

Processing typically takes:

• Standard: 15 calendar days
• Extended: Up to 45 days in complex cases
• Peak periods: May take longer

Step 6: Collect Passport

Once processed, collect your passport with visa from the application center or have it couriered.

Tips for Successful Application

Document Tips

• Provide more documentation than minimum required
• Ensure all documents are current (within 3 months for bank statements)
• Translate non-English/French documents if required by your embassy
• Organize documents in order of checklist

Common Rejection Reasons

• Insufficient financial proof
• Unclear purpose of travel
• Missing or expired documents
• Concerns about return intention (no ties to home country)
• Previous Schengen overstays

Demonstrating Ties to Home Country

To show you'll return home, provide:

• Employment letter stating return expected
• Property ownership documents
• Family ties (spouse, children remaining home)
• Business ownership evidence
• University enrollment if student

Costs and Fees

Category	Fee
Adult visa fee	€80
Children 6-12	€40
Children under 6	Free
Service fee (VFS/TLS)	€30-50
Travel insurance	€20-50
Courier (optional)	€15-30

Total typical cost: €100-160 per person

After Arrival in France

• Keep documents handy: Carry passport, visa, and travel documents
• 90/180 rule: Track your days—you can stay maximum 90 days in any 180-day period across ALL Schengen countries
• Border control: French authorities may ask about accommodation, finances, return plans
• Extensions: Generally not possible for tourist visas—plan return within validity

Official Resources

For the most current and authoritative information, consult these official sources:

• France Immigration - Official visa and immigration information
• France Tourism - Official tourism board with travel resources