France Schengen Visa guide: Requirements & application

Last updated: April 2024

We currently don't offer this visa, but you can find more information on the France Embassy website.

Join our waitlist to be notified as soon as we offer this visa.

Learn everything you need to know about the France Schengen Visa application below.

What is the France Schengen Visa?

The France Schengen Visa is one of the most popular visas for visiting the Schengen Area.

It lets you visit France and all other Schengen countries without getting a visa for every destination.

What can I do with the French Schengen Visa?

• Visit France and other Schengen countries for tourism and visit family and friends

• Attend business meetings, conferences, and other business activities

• Take a short recreational course or play sports

• You can do paid work for up to 90 days in France (conditions apply)

What can I not do with a French Schengen Visa?

• Do paid work, live, or study in France for a period longer than 90 days in France

Who requires the France Schengen Visa?

Both foreign nationals from the European Union and nationals of Schengen countries have the privilege of traveling visa-free between Schengen nations.

Additionally, people from the following countries can also visit the Schengen zone without a visa:

• United States
• United Kingdom
• Australia
• New Zealand
• Canada

However, most other travelers must apply for a France Schengen Visa and attend an interview.

How long can I stay in the country with the France Schengen Visa?

You can visit France and the Schengen zone for up to 90 days per entry within every 180 days.

The French authorities determine whether you are granted a single-, double-, or multiple-entry visa. Visas with multiple entries are valid between 180 days to 5 years.

Which documents do I need to apply for the France Schengen Visa?

Below we've listed some of the most common travel documents needed for this visa application:

• Visa application form

• Two photographs: Taken within the last three months

• Valid passport: Valid for at least 6 months from the arrival date in France and 2 blank pages, and issued within the last 10 years

• Fingerprints (only if you are older than 12): You will be required to provide fingerprints during your visa appointment, unless you have been granted a biometric Schengen visa in the past 59 months

• Travel itinerary: You can include details such as your return flight, hotel accommodations, or tour schedules in this document

• Financial statements: Bank statements, employment contracts, or salary slips demonstrating that you have sufficient financial means to pay for your entire trip

• Medical insurance: With minimum coverage of €30,000 for emergency medical treatment and repatriation in an emergency

Those who meet these basic requirements should have no problem getting their French Visa applications approved.

Do I need the French Schengen Visa if I'm transiting through the country?

Transit Schengen visas are granted to eligible nationals who only intend to change transportation means within the Schengen area.

There are two transit visa categories:

1. Airport Transit Schengen Visa

2. Transit Schengen Visa for Seafarers

Check with your nearest French embassy if you require a Transit Visa.

How to apply for the France Schengen visa online with iVisa

To get the France Schengen Visa, follow the instructions on the website of the French Embassy n your country.

How much does the France Schengen Visa cost, and how long does it take?

The government fee of about US$84.85 must be paid in cash at the VAC or consulate (half-price for minors between the ages of 6 and 12 and free for minors under 6 years old).

From the interview appointment, the decision can take up to 45 days.

Entry requirements and restrictions in France

For all travelers, COVID-19 testing, vaccination, or quarantine is currently not required to enter the Schengen Zone and France.

Where can I learn more?

If you have questions about applying for a France Schengen Visa, we are here to help.

Our dedicated online team of customer service agents is available 24/7 via online chat or WhatsApp.