Securing a visa from uk to france has become a primary concern for thousands of travelers, expatriates, and retirees following the United Kingdom's departure from the European Union. Whether you are a British citizen looking to retire in the Dordogne, an Indian national residing in London wanting a weekend in Paris, or a US citizen based in the UK planning a relocation, the bureaucratic landscape has shifted significantly. The process now involves strict income requirements, mandatory biometric appointments, and navigation of the Schengen rules.
While the "freedom of movement" era has ended for British passport holders, the pathway to France remains open—provided you prepare correctly. This guide serves as the definitive resource for processing your visa from uk to france, addressing the specific nuances for various nationalities currently living across the Channel.
Key Data: Visa from UK to France at a Glance
| Requirement Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Portal | France-Visas (Government Site) |
| UK Processing Partner | TLSContact (Centers in London, Manchester, Edinburgh) |
| Short-Stay Fee (Tourist) | €90 (Adults) / €45 (Children 6-12) |
| Long-Stay Fee | €99 (Standard) |
| Processing Time | 15 working days (Standard) to 2 months (Long Stay) |
| Minimum Passport Validity | 3 months beyond planned exit date |
Do You Need a Visa? The 90/180 Rule Explained
The first step in applying for a visa from uk to france is determining if you actually need one. This depends entirely on your citizenship, not just your residency in the UK.
- UK Citizens: You do not need a visa for tourist visits under 90 days. You can spend up to 90 days in any 180-day rolling period within the Schengen Area visa-free. However, for any stay longer than 90 days (retirement, work, or long holidays), a Long-Stay Visa is mandatory.
- Non-UK/Non-EU Nationals (e.g., India, China, Russia) living in the UK: Even if you have a UK Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), you likely need a Schengen Visa for even a short weekend trip to Paris, unless your country has a specific waiver.
- EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens: You have freedom of movement and do not need a visa to live or work in France, regardless of your UK residency status.
For those planning a permanent move, we recommend reading our comprehensive France relocation guide to understand the broader context of moving across the Channel.
Types of Visa from UK to France Available
If you have determined you need entry clearance, you must select the correct category. Applying for the wrong type is the most common reason for rejection.
1. Short-Stay "Schengen" Visa (Type C)
This is for tourism, business trips, or family visits lasting less than 90 days. This is primarily for non-UK/non-EU nationals residing in the UK (e.g., an Indian citizen on a UK Skilled Worker visa).
2. Long-Stay Visitor Visa (VLS-TS Visiteur)
The most popular visa from uk to france for British retirees and second-home owners. It allows you to live in France for up to one year (renewable).
Crucial Restriction: You cannot work on this visa. You must prove sufficient passive income (pension, savings) to support yourself.
3. Talent Passport (Passeport Talent)
A 4-year renewable visa for highly skilled workers, investors, or artists. This is ideal for UK tech workers or entrepreneurs wanting to relocate to hubs like Station F in Paris.
Step-by-Step Application Process in the UK
The application process is a hybrid system involving the French government online portal and a private contractor (TLSContact) in the UK.
Important: You must apply from the country where you are legally resident. You cannot come to the UK on a tourist visa and apply for a French visa; you must do it from your home country. However, if you have a UK Residence Permit (BRP), you can apply from the UK.
- Complete the Online Form: Visit the official France-Visas website. Create an account and fill out the application. At the end, you will receive a registration receipt and a list of required documents.
- Book an Appointment with TLSContact: You cannot go to the French Embassy directly. You must book an appointment with TLSContact. They have centers in London, Manchester, and Edinburgh. Appointments can be scarce, so book at least 1 month in advance.
- Attend the Biometric Appointment: Bring your passport, the printed application form, and all supporting documents (originals and photocopies). They will take your fingerprints and photo.
- Wait for Processing: Your passport is sent to the Consulate. Once a decision is made, TLSContact will notify you to collect your passport.
Nationality-Specific Considerations
Applying for a visa from uk to france varies significantly depending on the passport you hold. Here is a breakdown for the major groups residing in the UK.
📍 For UK Citizens
The Brexit Factor: You are now a "Third Country National." For long stays, you must prove income (approx. €1,353/month for a single person).
Healthcare: You can use a GHIC for short trips, but for long-stay visas, you must have private health insurance until you can register with the French healthcare system (PUMA).
📍 For US Citizens in the UK
Residency Proof: You must show your UK BRP valid for at least 3 months beyond your return from France.
Taxation: If moving to France, be aware of FATCA. France and the US have a tax treaty, but you must continue filing US taxes. The French visa application may require proof of US tax compliance.
📍 For Indian Nationals
Schengen Requirement: Unlike UK/US citizens, you generally need a Schengen visa even for a 3-day tourist trip.
Documentation: The French consulate in London is strict regarding "proof of return." Ensure you have an employment letter from your UK employer and strong bank statements.
📍 For SE Asian Citizens
(Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, etc.)
Travel Insurance: Mandatory coverage of €30,000 for medical emergencies and repatriation is strictly enforced.
Itinerary: You must provide a detailed itinerary. If visiting other Schengen countries, apply to France only if it is your main destination or point of entry.
Financial Requirements: UK vs. France Living Costs
A major part of the application for a visa from uk to france is proving you can afford to live there. For a long-stay visitor visa, you generally need to show income equivalent to the French minimum wage (SMIC), which is roughly €1,353 net per month (as of 2024).
Understanding the France relocation guide financial section is vital, but here is a quick comparison of monthly living costs to help you budget for your visa application financial proof.
| Expense Category | London (UK) | Paris (France) | Bordeaux (France) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1-bed City Center) | £2,200 | €1,300 (£1,110) | €850 (£725) |
| Public Transport (Monthly) | £180 | €84 (£72) | €45 (£38) |
| Utilities (Monthly) | £250 | €180 (£153) | €150 (£128) |
| Meal (Mid-range Restaurant) | £80 | €60 (£51) | €50 (£42) |
*Exchange rates and costs fluctuate. France living costs are generally lower than London, but Paris remains expensive compared to regional France.
Common Reasons for Rejection
To ensure your application for a visa from uk to france is successful, avoid these common errors:
- 1. Insufficient Travel Insurance: UK GHIC cards are NOT enough for long-stay visas. You need a private policy with €30,000 minimum coverage for medical and repatriation.
- 2. Unclear Accommodation: You must prove where you will stay. If staying with friends, a handwritten note is insufficient; you need an official "Attestation d'accueil" from the local Town Hall in France.
- 3. Applying Too Late: TLSContact appointments in the UK are in high demand. Applying 2 weeks before travel is risky. Aim for 2-3 months prior.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are the most common queries regarding the visa from uk to france process.