France

Want to visit the Eiffel Tower or stroll through Paris? Planning your trip becomes easier when the Schengen visa process for France remains simple. Fast Holidays guides you through the France visa requirements, document preparation, bookings, and every step of your France Schengen visa application so you can travel with confidence.

What type of Schengen visa for France is best for me?

Short-stay visa for France (up to 90 days)

The Type C (tourist) Schengen visa is the most common option. It allows you to stay in France and travel across Schengen countries for up to 90 days within 180 days.

You can use it for:

• Tourism and holidays
• Business meetings
• Family or friend visits
• Short courses, training, or events

PRO TIP: It can be issued as single-entry or multiple-entry depending on your travel plan.

Long-stay visa for France (more than 90 days)

Planning to stay longer than 90 days? Then you need a Type D long-stay visa. People usually apply to work, study, join family, or live in France long term.

Types of Long-Stay Visas for France

• A long-stay visa that acts as a Home permit (VLS-TS). You must confirm it online within three months of arriving in France. Use the website of the Directorate General for Foreign Nationals in France (DGEF). If you skip this step, you may lose your right to stay.
• Long-stay visa that tells you to request a Permit to stay within 2 months of arrival. Within two months of arriving, visit your local prefecture (or sous-prefecture). Then apply for your Permit to stay.

Required Documents for Your France Visa Application

General Documents

• A completed France Schengen visa application form.
• A valid passport with at least two blank pages. It must be issued within the last 10 years. It must also stay valid for at least three months after you leave the Schengen Area.
• Valid UK Immigration status (BRP or eVisa). It should last at least three months after your return.
• Two recent passport-size photos on a plain light background.
• Proof of accommodation, such as a hotel reservation or a host invitation.
• Travel medical insurance with at least €30,000 cover.
• Flight or train reservations, including your return journey.
• A travel itinerary and a cover letter.
• Proof that you can pay for your stay, including your last three months’ bank statements.
• An employer letter or proof of self-employment.

Extra Documents (Based on Your Purpose of Travel)

• Employed: Employer letter, bank statements, and approved leave.
• Self-employed: Business licence, company bank statements, and an invitation letter for business visits.
• Student: Registration letter and student ID or course certificates.
• Medical treatment: Hospital appointment letter, medical report, and receipts.
• Business, official, or events: Invitation letter, proof of purpose, and proof of funds.
• Under 18s: Proof of your parents’ income and written consent from a parent.

Tip: Requirements can change. So check the latest checklist on the official France-Visas website before you apply.

France Schengen Visa Fee

The visa fee depends on the applicant’s age:

• Adults: €90
• Children aged 6 to 11: €45
• Children under 6: free

The visa application centre also charges a service fee. This is extra, so check the current amount before you book.

France Visa Processing Time

Most decisions take up to 15 calendar days. However, some cases take up to 45 days. So apply early, especially in busy travel seasons.

Why Apply With Fast Holidays?

Fast Holidays guides you through every step of your Schengen France visa application, from understanding the France Schengen visa cost to ensuring your form is accurate, complete, and submitted on time. Our experts help you avoid delays and improve your chances of approval.