french tourist visa application

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All foreign nationals wishing to enter France must be able to submit statutory documents at the border concerning the reasons for their stay, their means of support and accommodation arrangements.

A visa is generally required, in the absence of a waiver. For general information and for preparing, submitting and tracking your visa application, log on to France-Visas , France’s official visa site.

France-Visas is a single portal with all the information you need to guide you through the process and help you every step of the way (preparing the application, entering details, submitting and tracking the application).

The main steps in applying for a visa

Do I need a visa?

First, use “Visa Wizard” on the France-Visas site to check, based on your situation, whether you need a visa and if so, what type. The wizard will also tell you what documents must be enclosed with your application, along with the relevant fee.

Complete your application online

Once you have checked that you need a visa, you can complete your application on our online portal . You will be asked to create an account and France-Visas will support you in each step of the process.

Submit your application to the visa centre.

Once you have completed your online application, all you have to do is submit it to your local visa centre. France-Visas will provide you with all necessary information on how and where to submit your application.

Track your visa application.

Once your application has been submitted, track its progress and find out how and when you can collect your passport and how to prepare for your trip to France.

Waiting times for appointments and for processing applications will vary depending on your nationality and the time of year. Users are therefore asked to submit their visa applications well in advance of their departure date .

Applying for a French residence permit

Holders of an entry and long-stay visa marked “carte de séjour à solliciter à l’arrivée en France” (residence permit to be applied for upon arrival in France) are required to contact the French prefectural authority in their place of residence, in order to apply for a residence permit within two months of entering the French territory.

Family members of a national of an EU Member State, the EEE or Switzerland who wish to submit a request for a “family member of a union citizen” residence permit must contact the competent French prefectural authority, in order to apply for a residence permit within three months of entering the French territory.

Holders of a long-stay visa marked “CESEDA R.311-3” are required to contact the French Immigration and Integration Office (OFII) immediately on arrival in France.

For more informations

Update: March 2020

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How to Get a Tourist Visa for France

Last Updated: October 11, 2022 Approved

wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, 77 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article received 29 testimonials and 90% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 414,219 times.

Approximately 79 million people toured France in 2010, making it the most visited country in the world. Its rich culture, food, wine and scenery make it a great place to visit for a few weeks to a few months. The type of visa you need to visit France depends upon your nationality and your length of stay. France allows citizens of many countries to visit without a tourist visa for 3 months. [1] X Research source If you want to stay longer, you can apply for a French long-stay visa after you have returned home. If you need a Schengen or long-stay visa to enter France, then you must make an appointment with your local French consulate and provide the appropriate documents. This article will tell you how to get a tourist visa for France.

Select a French Visa

• If your native country is Andorra, Monaco or Switzerland, or it is part of the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA), then you do not need a tourist visa to France for any length of time. [3] X Research source
• You will not need a 3-month tourist visa, if you hold a passport from 1 of the following countries: United Kingdom, Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Bermuda, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Holy See, Honduras, Israel, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Monaco, Nicaragua, New Zealand, Panama, Paraguay, San Marino, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland, United States, Uruguay, Venezuela, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China, or the Special Administrative Region of Macao of the People's Republic of China.
• If your country is not listed, then you will most likely need to apply for a 3-month Schengen visa to visit France. Countries that require a Schengen visa include South Africa, India, Algeria, Philippines, Ukraine, China, Thailand, Russia, Zimbabwe and Pakistan. The Schengen visa is based on an agreement between 25 European countries that allows tourists to enter 1 of the 25 countries and go between other Schengen countries without showing their passport. [4] X Research source

• If you need to stay longer than 3 months, apply for a long-term stay visa. This is required for any nationality outside of the EU and EEA. Most often, the applicants for long-stay visas are applying to work, study or attend a family reunion.

Apply for a French Visa

• Allow extra time if you are apply from 1 of the following countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Burundi, Guinea, Iraq, Lebanon, Morocco, North Korea, Palestine, Rwanda, Sudan, Tunisia, Yemen, Algeria, Belarus, Congo, Indonesia, Jordan, Libya, Niger, Oman, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Suriname, United Arab Emirates, Zimbabwe, Bahrain, Burma, Egypt, Iran, Kuwait, Mali, Nigeria, Pakistan, Qatar, Somalia, Syria, Vietnam, or US Refugees.

• Both applications include sections for personal, address, traveling, passport, insurance and return information. Fill it out completely and legibly. Print in black ink or use a typewriter.

• Make 2 copies of all of the identification pages in your passport.

• 3 1.4 by 1.7 inch (3.5 by 4.5 cm) passport photographs. Your face must take up approximately 80 percent of the picture and it must show your ears and hairline.
• Your hotel or tour reservations and your departure and return flight information. These should be separate and detailed documents.
• Proof of medical insurance coverage while you are traveling in France. The minimum coverage for medical expenses shall be EUR 30 000.
• Original bank statements from the last 3 months, to show proof of funds while you are traveling in France.
• Proof of residence in the region where you are applying. A utility bill and an identification card with that address listed may work as proof of residence.

Community Q&A

• If you have already visited France for 3 months, you must leave for 90 days before entering without a visa again. You must also leave for 90 days before applying for a 6-month tourist visa. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• You may also be able to use a credit card to make your visa payment; however, this is not guaranteed. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• If you are a minor, then you must also provide a copy of your birth certificate and a notarized parental authorization letter. If you plan to study, you must have a copy of your French school registration. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• The visa fees in dollars or pounds may change according to exchange rates. Thanks Helpful 40 Not Helpful 16
• There are a number of private companies who submit your Schengen visa for you. You do not need to use a company or pay for an application in order to get a Schengen visa. Thanks Helpful 48 Not Helpful 23

Things You'll Need

• Long-term visa application form
• Schengen (short-stay) application form
• Passport photos
• Airline reservations
• Hotel or tour reservations
• Proof of residence
• Proof of funds
• Proof of medical coverage
• Appointment for Biometric at the French consulate

Other wikiHows

• ↑ https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en_US/web/france-visas/tourist-or-private-visit
• ↑ https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en_US/web/france-visas/short-stay-visa
• ↑ https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en_US/web/france-visas/long-stay-visa
• ↑ https://www.schengenvisainfo.com/who-needs-schengen-visa/
• ↑ https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en_US/web/france-visas/visa-application-guidelines#Etape3
• http://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/en/IMG/pdf/Long_Stay_Visa_Application_Form-2.pdf
• http://www.learn4good.com/travel/fr_visa.htm

About this article

To get a tourist visa for France, make an appointment with your region's French consulate 1-3 months before your departure to France. Before your appointment, look on the French government's website under "Getting a Visa" for all of the documents you should bring. Prepare to fill out 2 copies of the Visa application form and pay a fee of $83 for a short term visa or $138 for a long term visa. Then, go to your appointment and wait 3-6 weeks for your visa to be approved. To learn how to select which French visa you need, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Young couples choose France for a honeymoon or a simple visit. The most romantic country in the world provides an ideal beginning for your life. The experience is memorable with everything. The sense of food, wine, or sex stays with you forever. But, you might need a visa. This text covers whether you need a France visitor visa, its requirements, and the application process.

Table of Contents

Who Needs a France Visitor Visa?

The answer can be a bit tricky. But it is easy to understand. First, you should determine the lengths of your stay in France. When you need to stay up to 90 days, it gets called short-stay. So, you should apply for a short-term visa or visitor visa. The visas introduced on this page are suitable for you. Also, look at the purpose of your visit. The visa you pick must fit the purpose of your visit.

Once you have to stay in France for longer than 90 days, you have to apply for a long-stay visa. The long-stay visa should also suit the purpose of your visit.

To know if you need a France short-stay visa or not, look at this article.

France Visitor Visa Requirements

The required supporting documents for a France visitor visa are as follows:

• Application form (short-stay)
• Valid passport
• Copy of the previous passport (if applicable)
• Health insurance
• Proof to have enough funds to cover the trip
• Proof of accommodation
• Clean record certificate
• Proof to have paid visa fees
• Permission leave (if employed)
• Required documents based on your job status
• Supporting documents for minors

The French embassy you apply to might ask for more documents. It’s quite normal. Also, they could ask for specific documents based on your case. Always remember the point.

France Visitor Visa Application Process

Follow these steps for the application of France visitor visa:

Step 1. Necessity of visa

French visitor visa has different subcategories. Before you apply for one of them, ask: Do I need a visa? As the article explained above, a few states and countries do not need a France visitor visa. Their nationals can visit the country with a passport. See if you are one of them or not. If not, then apply for a visa.

Step 2. Eligibility

Once you know you need a visa, see what visa you need. The visa must suit the purpose of your visit. Also, you must be eligible for the visa. Check the visa’s eligibility. You could work on your conditions to become eligible.

Step 3. Application form

The application form is the first thing to complete. Receive it from the French embassy in your country. Be careful to complete the right one. The form must be for short-stay. Then, print, date, and sign it.

Step 4. Supporting documents

The French officials have set some supporting documents. Start collecting them. You can find the list above. Yet, the authorities might ask for more documents.

Step 5. French embassy

Set a meeting with the French embassy or consulate in your home country. You could arrange one through:

• Their website

Get there in time and bring all the gathered supporting documents. Submit them to the officials.

Step 7. Fees

You must pay a fee for the visa application. Bring enough money to the embassy and be prepared. The embassy might not accept cash. So research it.

Step 6. Interview

Often visa candidates have to pass an interview. The French authorities ask about the nature of the visit to France. Be honest and give true answers. Try not to hide anything.

Step 8. Processing

The finals stage is a time for patience. Wait until the officials process the visa. Once they issue the visa, they will send it to your address.

Now you have the tools to immigrate to France as a Research Analysts by reading our comprehensive guide.

Types of France Visitor Visa

France visitor visa comes in subcategories. Each one of them is for a different purpose. When you need a short-stay visa, pick one that suits the purpose of your visit.

Transit Visa

By law, a few countries may not switch flights in Schengen Area without a visa. So it is for France. The residents of some countries have to hold a visa to catch a connecting flight in France. The visa for this purpose is Transit Visa . It allows people to wait in the French airport’s international zone. They may not enter French or get out of the international zone.

Tourist Visa

More than 90 million visitors take a tour of France every year. If you want to join them, you might need a France tourist visa. Only a few countries need a tourist visa for France. Many more are exempt from it. The EU, EEA, and Schengen Area members are some examples.

France tourist visa comes under the short-term category. It allows people to stay in France for up to 90 days, not longer. Also, people may not work or study under a tourist visa. They have no permission to get involved in any paid business.

Business visa

When you seek to enter France for business, you might need a business visa. If you need it or not depends on your nationality. Some nationalities do not need a visa for short visits to France. They do not need a business visa either. It is only true when they stay in France for up to 90 days. The longer period needs an appropriate visa. Some countries need a visa for short-staus. They also need a business visa. The lengths of stay do not matter for them.

Please note that a business visa is a short-stay visa. It is only valid for three months. Apply for another visa when you have to spend more time in France.

For the two groups, a business visa does not allow any paid work.

Let’s sum up…

This blog got covered all you should know about France visitor visa. You got familiar with whether you need a visa r not, the requirements, its application process, and more.

Look at the left sidebar to know more about other types of France visa.

You could find out more about other countries’ visas by going through the Visa Library’s home page.

Share with us the experience or knowledge you have about visas in the comment section. They are a great help for visa applicants. Your comments allow them to save effort and time, not to mention wasting any.

• Published by
• August 25, 2020

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Foreigners in France

The France-Visa digital portal is now fully deployed

Publié le 07 août 2024 - Directorate for Legal and Administrative Information (Prime Minister)

Depending on his nationality and the length of his stay, a foreigner may need to apply for a visa before traveling to France. The France-Visas portal gathers the necessary information to guide it in its approach; it also makes it possible to realize all the dematerializable events of this procedure in a single tool (entry of information, filing and follow-up of the application...). This has been implemented in stages. It is now fully functional.

The portal France-Visas is being rolled out gradually since October 2017. Over time, experiments have been carried out in particular to enable the complete digitization of files relating to certain types of visas.

Now, on France-Visas you can:

• apply for a visa to France, whatever the type of visa (short or long stay, visa for business reasons, tourist visa, visa to study...);
• monitor the progress of your visa application;
• find general information about visas to come to France.

New features must be added to these in the future. The device shall in particular allow eligible companies and institutions to submit invitations for their foreigner partners subject to the visa requirement.

Please note

On the France-Visas portal, general information content is available in 6 languages:

How to make your request on the France-Visas portal?

When you wish to obtain a visa to come to France, you must:

• check whether this official stamp is necessary for your project ( the visa assistant tool lets you know, based on your situation, whether you need a visa, what type of visa, the associated fee and the supporting documents you need to provide)
• create an account on France-Visas;
• complete the visa application form (this form must include proof of your situation and reason for travel, 2 recent identity photos in accordance with recommendations );
• make an appointment at a visa center (you can find information on France-Visas where to file your application depending on the country you are in );
• show up for the appointment you made , in order to submit your complete file (the consulate service provider checks your file, collects the application fee, collects your fingerprints, then keeps your passport and your documents for transmission to the consulate);
• keep track of your visa application   on the dedicated area of the France-Visas portal. You receive a notification inviting you to pick up your passport at the center where you have deposited it (the processing time is usually 15 days, but it can be longer, especially if the examination of the application justifies it). In some countries, your passport is returned to you by post.

France does not issue a visa upon arrival . You must therefore present yourself in the country with a visa.

If you wish to renew or extend your visa in France, you must contact the prefecture of your place of residence.

Statute and miscellaneous references

Decree No. 2024-810 of 6 July 2024 on the processing of personal data relating to foreigners applying for the issue of a visa called France-Visas

Additional topics

Does a foreigner need a visa to come to France?

Schengen short-stay visa (foreigner in France for up to 3 months)

Does a foreigner in transit in France need to apply for a visa?

Travel abroad: for which country should a Frenchman apply for a visa?

Digital transformation: France-Visas is fully deployed!

Ministry of the Interior

France-Visa: the digital visa application system deployed

Prime Minister

France-Visas (frequently asked questions)

À partir du 1 sept. 2024

Bourse de lycée : ce qu'il faut savoir pour la rentrée 2024 !

Publié le 23 mai 2024

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Publié le 22 mai 2024

Voir toutes les échéances

France Tourist Visa for Indians: A Complete Guide

Last Update: 30-07-2024

Aditya Jain

⚡Quick Summary

Do Indian Citizens Need a Tourist Visa to Visit France?

Yes, Indians need a visa to visit France, commonly known as a Schengen type-C visa. A Schengen visa is a sticker visa (i.e., stamped on the passport) and allows the holder to stay in France and 29 other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. 

Table of Contents

Introduction, can indians get a france visa on arrival, types of france visas for indians, how to apply for a france visa for indians, france tourist visa requirements for indians, france tourist visa photo specifications, what is the france tourist visa processing time for indians, when should i apply for a france schengen visa.

How Much Is The France Tourist Visa Fee?

What is the Validity of a France Tourist Visa for Indians?

How to check the status of a france visa application for indians, do i need an airport transit visa for france as an indian, common reasons for france tourist visa rejection, travel insurance for france tourist visa, what to do after reaching france airport, how to extend your france tourist visa, tips for a successful france tourist visa interview.

Planning on a journey to explore the rich culture of France requires careful planning, and securing a tourist visa for France from India is a crucial step. In this comprehensive guide, we simplify the process of obtaining a France Tourist Visa for Indians, covering essential details such as France tourist visa requirements, application procedures through Teleport or VFS Global, and vital documents needed. 

Whether you're opting for a short-stay visa, a Uniform Schengen visa, or a long-stay visa, we break down the steps to ensure a hassle-free experience. 

If you can't find what you're looking for, feel free to reach out to us if you have any queries or need assistance, our committed team is prepared to offer guidance and support.

Call us at 073148 52914 or reach out to us on WhatsApp

Get ready for a smooth journey to France .

No, France doesn’t grant visas on arrival to Indians. Indians must obtain an approved and valid Schengen visa before their departure to France.

Where Should I Apply For A France Tourist Visa?

A Schengen visa allows you entry in 29 Schengen Region countries. It can become confusing for applicants to know at which Schengen country Embassy they should apply their visa at. 

The below 3 points tell you all the times when you should be applying for your Schengen visa at the French Embassy -

• When you plan to visit only France in the entire Schengen Region

Apply at the French Embassy if France is your sole Schengen destination.

• France serves as your primary point of entry in a multiple Schengen country tour 

If you plan on visiting multiple Schengen countries with comparable lengths of stay (e.g., touring France, Lithuania, and Italy), you need to initiate your visa application at the consulate of your initial entry country, which is France in this case.

• When primary purpose of Schengen tour is a visit to France

The primary purpose of your trip dictates at which Embassy you should be applying your visa. In case of ambiguity, particularly when visiting multiple countries, submit your application to the embassy or consulate of your first entry point into the Schengen Region.

For example, You need to apply your visa at the French Consulate, if your primary purpose involves attending a conference in France while exploring other Schengen countries.

Teleport’s Expert Tip

• Uniform Schengen short-stay visa: A "Uniform Schengen" short-stay visa is issued by a Schengen Area member country. It allows you to transit through or stay in part or all of the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The visa will specify the territories you're allowed to visit. This type of visa is generally issued for tourism, business trips or family visits.
• Long-stay Visa: If you plan to stay in France for more than 90 days, you need to apply for a long-stay visa in advance, regardless of your nationality. Long stay visas can be issued for stay for an extended period for tourist or personal reasons, Carry out a professional activity, Pursue education and/or Join family members. Your long-stay visa can be valid for a minimum of three months and up to one year. If you want to stay longer, you must apply for a residence permit in a prefecture.
• Airport Transit Visa: Indian passport holders flying from a non-Schengen country and staying in the international zone of a French airport in mainland France while waiting for your connecting flight to another non-Schengen country, you may need an Airport Transit Visa (ATV). You do not require an airport transit visa if you are a holder of a valid Schengen visa, a national long-stay visa, or a residence permit issued by a Schengen country.

Get Your France Visa Easily with Teleport

Getting a France visa is now hassle-free with Teleport. Follow these simple steps for a smooth France tourist visa application:

Step 1: Begin Your Application: Start your French tourist visa application through Teleport's user-friendly platform.

Step 2: Application and Payment Completion: Enter your essential travel and passport details and make your visa payment via Teleport, selecting either full or partial upfront payment.

Step 3: Document Preparation and Review: Your designated relationship manager will review and organise all necessary documents for your France visa application.

Step 4: Schedule Your Appointment: Teleport's committed relationship manager will arrange an appointment on your behalf with the VFS Appointment Centre.

Step 5: Visit VFS Centre and Submit Biometrics: Attend your scheduled appointment at the nearby VFS Visa Application Centre, where you'll submit biometrics and required documentation.

Following your appointment, choose between passport delivery via courier or personally picking it up from the visa centre.

✅ For comprehensive support, your dedicated relationship manager is here to guide you through the entire process.

Apply for your France Visa via VFS Global

Step 1: Begin your application

Visit the FRANCE-VISAS website and select "Start your visa application”.

Step 2: Gather the required documents

Before you begin the visa application process, take a few minutes to review all the steps.

Make sure you have the following ready:

• Your passport
• Original documents and photocopies of your supporting documents
• 2 photos with the required specifications

Step 3: Create an Account

Now that you have all the necessary documents, it's time to begin your visa application.

To get started, you'll need to create an account on the visa application website

Once you've successfully created your account, the next steps are to verify your email address and begin completing the application form.

Teleport’s Expert Tip:

Step 4: Book your Appointment

After submitting your visa application, it's time to book an appointment at VFS Visa Application Centre for biometric data collection, which includes fingerprints and a photo.

Once you've made the appointment, you'll receive a confirmation email along with your appointment letter.

If you're applying as a family or group, remember that each member must schedule their individual appointments.

Step 5: Pay your fees

If online payment of service fees is not an option, you'll be required to pay the service fees at the Visa Application Centre along with the visa fees during your appointment.

Step 6: Visit the Visa Application Centre

You must personally submit your fully completed visa application form and documents at one of the designated Visa Application Centers unless directed otherwise.

Step 7: Track your application

You can track your application's status on the France-visas website under the "Track your Application" section.

Or, If you submitted your application at a VFS visa application centre, you can use the VFS online application tracking tool to check your application's status. Simply provide the following details:

• The reference number issued to you while making the payment at the VFS centre.
• Your last name.

Step 8: Collect Your Visa

Once a decision has been reached on your visa application, you can retrieve your documents and passport from the Visa Application Centre. Alternatively, if you chose a courier service during your application submission, your documents will be returned to you by the selected courier.

Refer to Visa Application Guidelines for more details.

Main Documents Required for a France Tourist Visa Application for Indians

Photo requirements for a france visa as an indian citizen includes.

Recent Photo: Your visa photo must be no older than 6 months.

Size and Dimensions: Your visa photo should measure 35mm x 45mm (width x height) with a 80% face coverage.

Head Position: Ensure your head is fully visible and centered in the photo .

Eyeglasses and Headgear: If wearing eyeglasses, no glare should obscure your eyes. Religious headgear is allowed, but your entire face (from chin to forehead, including cheeks and ears) must be fully visible.

Quality: The photo should be in colour, high-resolution, and well-lit, with no shadows, red-eye, or reflections.

The regular processing time for a France tourist visa is approximately 15 working days after your appointment at the Visa Application centre.

Apply for your France Schengen visa as early as possible, ideally at least 3 to 4 weeks before your planned travel date. This allows sufficient time for processing, as visa processing times can vary depending on the embassy or consulate where you apply.

• Consider Peak Seasons: If you plan to visit France during peak tourist seasons or holidays, such as summer or major festivals, it's advisable to apply for your visa even earlier, as consulates may experience higher volumes of applications during these times.
• Know Your Travel Dates: Have a clear understanding of your travel itinerary, including the dates of entry and exit from the Schengen area. Your visa validity will typically be based on these dates, so ensure they are accurate when applying.

The France Visa remains valid for a period of 6 months (180 days). However, the exact validity of your visa is dependent on the discretion of the embassy.

Track Your France Visa Application Status with Teleport

If you've applied for a France visa through Teleport, easily stay updated on your application. Get real-time status updates through WhatsApp, email, or directly from the Teleport Dashboard.

• Log in to the Teleport Dashboard .
• Find 'Your Applications.'
• Click on your submitted application to check its current status.

Track Your France Visa Application Status via VFS Global

You can also track your France visa application status from the VFS Global website

• Visit the VFS online application tracking tool .
• Select the country where you lodged the application
• Enter your application reference number issued to you while making the payment at the VFS centre.
• Enter your last name.

Travellers who are not entering the French territory as a final destination but will travel via the French airport to catch a connecting flight to a different country need a France Airport Transit Visa. 

Generally, if you're not leaving the French airport's international zone during your layover, you may not need an airport transit visa. But if you plan to leave the airport an airport transit visa might be necessary. 

There are three types of France airport transit visas:

• A one-way airport transit visa - This visa authorises one-way transit through a Schengen country;
• A return airport transit visa - This authorises return airport transit through one or two Schengen countries;
• A multiple airport transit visa - You can make several transits through one or more Schengen countries using this visa.
• Inadequate Documentation: Ensure you provide all necessary documents, as missing any might result in rejection.
• False Information: Providing incorrect details can not only lead to rejection but also future bans on visa applications.
• Insufficient Financial Proof: It's crucial to demonstrate enough funds (at least EUR 50- 150 Euros per person per day of the trip) to cover your expenses during the stay.
• Unexplained Income Sources: Clear and transparent information about your income sources is vital to avoid raising suspicions.
• Poor Travel History: Previous instances of overstaying visas, especially in Schengen countries, may impact your application negatively.
• Suspicion of Fraudulent Intent: Failing to explain your visit's purpose clearly can make officials suspicious.
• Criminal Record: A history of criminal activities or involvement in illegal actions can lead to visa rejection.

Teleport's Expert Tip

Yes, when applying for a France visa, it is mandatory to have minimum travel insurance coverage of 30,000 Euros. It's strongly advisable for travellers to consider acquiring health insurance coverage from reputable providers such as Tata AIG, Digit Insurance, HDFC Ergo, and others.

To ensure a smooth and hassle-free exit from the airport upon landing in France, consider the following steps:

• Prepare Your Travel Documents: Have your passport, return ticket, and hotel bookings readily available for quick verification by immigration authorities. This ensures a swift exit from the French airport.
• Unaccompanied Minor Guidelines: If you're an unaccompanied minor, stick with your designated flight attendant for safety. Upon arrival, identify and stay with your assigned adult .
• Familiarise Yourself with France's Regulations: Proceed to the customs area if you have items to declare or if your baggage needs inspection. Familiarise yourself with the Customs Regulations at the France Airport , which conducts inspections to combat money laundering and drug trafficking.

In France, extending a tourist visa is generally discouraged and can be challenging. France Tourist Visas are typically granted for 180 days allowing for a 90-day stay, and extensions are granted only in exceptional circumstances, such as serious illness or unforeseen events that prevent departure like cancellation by a carrier due to bad weather conditions, or a strike.

If you believe you have a valid reason for extending your France tourist visa, contact the Prefecture well before your current visa expires to inquire about the possibility and process of extension. 

You will have to pay a visa extension fee amounting to €30. If your request is motivated by a reason of force majeure, French authorities may exempt you from the extension fees.

Preparing for a France tourist visa interview is crucial to increase your chances of success. Here are some tips to help you ace your interview:

• Complete the Visa Application Form Correctly : Fill out the visa application form accurately and truthfully. Double-check all information before submission to avoid any discrepancies.
• Prepare Supporting Documents : Gather all required supporting documents, including proof of accommodation, travel itinerary, financial means, travel insurance, and any other documents specified by the consulate.
• Provide Strong Financial Proof : Show evidence of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in France. This may include bank statements, sponsorship letters, or income tax returns. We recommend having a minimum of INR 300,000 in your bank account while applying for a France Tourist Visa.
• Be Honest and Transparent : Answer all questions truthfully during the interview. If you provide false information or withhold relevant details, it can lead to current and future visa denials.
• Practice Common Interview Questions : Anticipate questions about your travel plans, purpose of visit, ties to your home country, and financial situation. Practise your answers to ensure clarity and confidence.
• Provide Clear Travel Itinerary : Present a well-defined travel itinerary, including details of your accommodation, sightseeing plans, and transportation arrangements in France.
• Demonstrate Strong Ties to India : Highlight your ties to India, such as employment, family, property ownership, or other commitments, to reassure the visa officer that you intend to return after your visit to France.
• Stay Calm and Composed : Remain calm and composed during the interview, even if you feel nervous. Speak clearly and confidently, and avoid rambling or providing excessive information.
• Follow-Up if Necessary : If additional documents or information are requested after the interview, promptly provide them to the consulate.

Remember, each visa application is unique, and there's no guaranteed formula for success. Thorough preparation and genuine intentions can significantly enhance your chances of obtaining a France tourist visa.

Learn More About France Visas

France Business Visa

France Visa For Indians

France Visa Appointment

Apply France Visa Online

Acquiring a France visa can be made simple by adhering to the guidelines outlined in this guide. Ensure you fulfil the particular France tourist visa requirements relevant to your travel intentions. France's diverse culture and stunning scenery are ready for you to discover.

Wishing you safe travels and a delightful journey through France!

For a seamless France visa application process, consider using Teleport. Our intuitive platform streamlines the application process, ensures that your submission aligns with all necessary standards.

Should you have any inquiries or require any help, call us at +91 73148 52914 or reach out to us on WhatsApp .

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How long does a short-stay visa last, and can I leave and come back on the same visa?

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Accueil > Fact sheet : long-stay visa

Fact sheet : long-stay visa

Date of update

To settle in France for a period of more than 3 months, citizens of a Third State to the European Union, the European Economic Area or Switzerland should apply for a long-stay visa .

Reasons of stay

Long-stay visas depend on the reason for the foreigner’s stay.

They are issued to:

• Exercise a professional activity or invest in France.  
• Carry out an internship or training.  
• Visit for tourist, family or private purposes.  

Related Cards

Visa, staying, working.

• Fact sheet : run a company in France
• Fact sheet : Employees hired by a French company
• Fact sheet: short-stay visa
• Schengen Area
• 10 year certificate of residence
• EU, EEA and Swiss nationals
• Fact sheet: Different visa categories
• Entering and staying in Mayotte
• Travel visa

Residence-permit

• Recruiting a foreign employee: cost for the employer
• Highly skilled employees: “Talent Passport – European Union Blue Card”
• Graduates – “Talent Passport – Qualified employee”
• French Tech Visa for Founders
• ‘Talent Passport –Employee of a young innovative company’ (JEI)
• Talent Passport : new business
• Talent Passport – innovative business project
• French Tech Visa for Employees
• Employees transferred within a group: ‘Talent Passport – Employee on assignment’
• Launch your startup in France
• Resident card
• French Tech Visa for Investor
• Talent Passport ‘Business investor’

Company directors

• Appointed Directors : Passport talent « Company director»

Startup founders

• Temporary residence permit ‘Entrepreneur/independent professional’
• Residence certificate for “Non-salaried professions”
• Temporary residence permit marked “Temporary worker”
• International service provider
• Intra-corporate transferees (ICT) : seconded employees
• Temporary residence permit marked “Employee”

Work permit

• Obtaining a work permit
• Renewing a work permit
• Fact sheet : work permit
• Service provision and work permit

Accompanying family

• Fact sheet: “Accompanying family” simplified procedure
• Travel document for foreign minors (DCEM)
• Family members of an EU, EEA or Swiss Nationals
• Family of French citizens

Helpful tip : Long-stay visas issued for professional reasons allow the holder to exercise a professional activity as soon as the applicant arrives in France, without waiting for the delivery of the residence permit. 

In addition to nationals of the European Union, the EEA and Switzerland, citizens of the following countries do not need to apply for a long-stay visa:

• Third country nationals holding a short-stay visa marked “Famille de Français” (“Family of a French national”).
• Nationals of the principalities of Monaco and Andorra, of San Marino and the Holy See.
• Foreign nationals and their families who have acquired long-term resident status* or “blue card” residence permit*, in another European Union Member State.
• Students who have attended school in France without interruption from the age of 16 and are continuing their studies in the country*.
• Foreign nationals resident in an EU Member State who are posted to France*.

*Even if the foreign citizen is exempted from a long-stay visa, he/she is required to apply for a residence permit. 

Length of stay and validity

The long-stay visa (VLS) is usually valid for 3 months when the length of stay is supposed to be more than 12 months.  It enables the holder to apply for a residence permit on arrival in France. 

If the intended length of stay is less than 12 months, the foreign national will be issued with a long-stay visa valid as a residence permit (VLS-TS), which must be registered in France. The visa is valid for between 3 and 12 months. If the stay exceeds 12 months, an application for a residence permit is required.

Applying for a long-stay visa

Application must be submitted to the French embassy, consulate or to external service providers (VFS Global, TLS, etc.) in the usual applicant’s place of residence. Application cannot be submitted earlier than 3 months before the planned date of arrival in France.

The application is initiated online via the official website  France-Visas .

This first step allows the applicant to verify the need for him to obtain a visa using the Visa Assistant . The user can then apply for a visa via a personal account and then find out how to submit their file, often with the service provider from the Consulate or Embassy.

Thanks to the France-Visas website, visa applicants can now follow the progress of their application directly online.

Processing timescales for long-stay visas can vary from one embassy or consulate to another.

1 –   Gather information on the situation

         2 – Fill out the online application

        3 – Book an appointment and submit a file

        4 – Track the application

Required documents  .

The documents differ for each category of visa and depend on the residence permit issued when the visa expires. For information, the Visa Assistant on the France-visas official website lists the specific documents by reason of stay.

The list of the required documents is also available on the fact sheets corresponding to the reason of stay and immigration status : Residence permit – Welcome to France .

Helpful tip  :  All documents must be submitted in French (originals together with a set of photocopies).  

Visa applications are not processed until a complete application has been received.  

Application and visa fees totaling €99 are charged upon submission of an application, regardless which visa category is chosen.

Find the amounts on France-Visas website.

Fees are not refunded if a visa application is unsuccessful.

Formalities upon arrival in France

3 month long-stay visa holder (VLS)

The long-stay visa holder must apply for a residence permit corresponding to his/her situation from the Préfecture of his/her place of residence in France within the 2 months of the start date of the validity of the visa .

The specific procedure is available on the corresponding reasons of stay fact sheets  : Residence permit – Welcome to France

3-to-12-month visa holder (VLS-TS)

Upon arriving and within the 3 months of the entry into France , the long-stay visa equivalent to a resident permit (visa de long séjour valant titre de séjour – VLS-TS) holder must register on a dedicated website . The long-stay visa is equivalent to a residence permit if it has been registered properly.

The validation procedure is to be followed using the following website:  administration-etrangers-en-france.interieur.gouv.fr .

Depending on the mention of the VLS-TS, the third country national will be invited to pass a medical exam and/or will have to conclude a contract of Republic integration (CIR).

Helpful tip : To extend the stay in France after the validity dates of the VLS-TS, the holder must apply for a residence permit with the Préfecture within the 2 months prior to the expiration dates of the visa VLS-TS.

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What’s It Like Traveling to China These Days?

China has been rolling out new visa-free programs and promising to make travel easier for foreigners. But challenges remain.

By Vivian Wang

Reporting from Shanghai

By some measures, visiting China has never been easier.

China has been making a huge push to attract foreign tourists in recent months. It has rolled out a visa-free program for dozens of countries, with the list still growing. It has pledged to make it easier for visitors to pay for things, book hotels and get around.

The goal is to signal that China is open for business — and fun! — again, after three years of pandemic controls made it literally impossible for most foreigners to enter. The government is especially keen to attract visitors as it tries to rev up growth .

China also wants to show that it is still connected to the world, despite tensions with the West and the growing reach of its security apparatus at home.

In a sign of its eagerness, Beijing has offered the visa waivers to countries that have not done the same in return — a rare move for a government that usually insists on reciprocity.

But actually traveling to China can still be a major challenge. Here’s what to know:

What’s new?

China is unilaterally offering visa-free entry for 15 days to citizens from a slew of countries, mostly Western European ones like France, Germany and Spain. The program began in December and has continued to expand; Australia, New Zealand and Poland were included last month. It is set to run through 2025.

In addition, citizens of more than 50 countries, including the United States, are now eligible for visa-free transit. They can enter China for 72 or 144 hours, depending on their port of entry, if they are continuing on to other destinations.

Transit travelers must stay within certain areas. For example, people flying into Shanghai can only visit the city and the neighboring provinces of Jiangsu and Zhejiang.

China has also promised to reduce logistical headaches for foreigners. WeChat and AliPay — the so-called super apps that most Chinese use for every aspect of daily life, from digital payments to ride hailing to ordering at restaurants — can now be linked to international credit cards, not just Chinese ones. (Most businesses do not accept credit cards directly.) And in May, the government told hotels not to refuse foreign guests, which was once a common practice.

Why is China doing all this?

Simply put: It needs money.

As China’s economy slows, its consumers have been hesitant to spend, fanning fears of deflation. The government also wants to win back foreign investment, after many overseas companies were spooked by China’s long Covid lockdowns and tightening political environment. Visitors on the 15-day visa-free program are allowed not only to sight-see, but to conduct business.

Attracting more visitors would also help the government rebut accusations from the United States and other Western countries that China has become more hostile to foreigners.

Beijing last year revised its counterespionage law to broaden the definition of spying, and state propaganda has warned that seemingly harmless foreigners might be trying to undermine China’s national security. Still, the government insists that reports of xenophobia and rising nationalism are just spin, orchestrated by countries trying to stop China’s rise.

Are more visitors coming?

In the first half of this year, there were 14.6 million arrivals from overseas, according to Chinese statistics. Most of them were visa-free.

That’s 2.5 times as many as China had during the same period last year, but well below the 24 million in the first half of 2019, before the pandemic.

China’s efforts to smooth out visitors’ experiences have also had mixed results.

On a recent Friday in Shanghai, Luka Lefevre, 24, and Charlotte Collet, 21, were cramming as much sightseeing as possible into a 10-hour layover between Paris and Vietnam. They had visited Yu Garden, a temple complex, and were taking photos on East Nanjing Road, a major shopping street.

But they’d had trouble using their phones to pay for things, and had to resort to cash, they said. They were also surprised by the ubiquitous surveillance cameras.

“For us, it’s a little bit too much, because we don’t have this in France,” Ms. Collet said. “But we know that it’s for safety.”

“For 10 hours, it’s O.K.,” Mr. Lefevre added.

Even visitors who’d figured out the Chinese apps said it had taken a while.

Walking along the Bund, Shanghai’s historic waterfront area, Maeline Lachaud and Nadia Hofmann, both Swiss university students, said they had linked their credit cards to AliPay while traveling through Xi’an, Chongqing and now Shanghai. The convenience was “amazing,” they said.

But Ms. Lachaud, a first-time visitor, said she had relied heavily upon Ms. Hofmann, who is minoring in Chinese studies and had visited once before. She hadn’t realized that AliPay had to be used not only to pay, but also to order at restaurants, and that the in-app menus were in Chinese.

Many major tourist attractions across China, such as the Forbidden City in Beijing, also require advance reservations through platforms like WeChat that are largely in Chinese. (Because of the super apps’ ubiquity, many websites in China are poorly maintained.)

“China’s not for beginners,” Ms. Hofmann said.

Vivian Wang is a China correspondent based in Beijing, where she writes about how the country’s global rise and ambitions are shaping the daily lives of its people. More about Vivian Wang