France Visa Options for Foreign Nationals
France offers multiple visa options for tourism, education, employment, and family reunification. This guide explains key types and how to apply.
🇫🇷 1. France Tourist/Visit Visa
This is a short-stay Schengen visa (Type C) valid for up to 90 days.
- ✅ Purpose: Tourism, visiting family/friends, attending events
- 📄 Required documents:
- Passport (valid +3 months)
- Travel insurance (min. €30,000 coverage)
- Return flight reservation
- Hotel bookings or invitation letter
- Bank statements (last 3 months)
- 📍 Apply via France-Visas Portal
🎓 2. France Student Visa (Long Stay – Type D)
- ✅ For studies longer than 90 days (university, language, training)
- 📄 Required documents:
- Acceptance letter from French institution
- Proof of funds (€615/month)
- Accommodation in France
- Visa application form + photos
- 📝 You must register at Campus France before applying
- 🔗 Campus France Website
💼 3. France Work Visa
You must first secure a job offer from a French employer who will initiate the work permit request with the French authorities.
- ✅ Visa Types:
- Talent Passport – for highly qualified individuals
- Employee Long-Stay Visa – for general workers
- 📄 Documents:
- Work contract & employer sponsorship
- Educational certificates
- CV & motivation letter
- 🔗 Apply at France-Visas
👪 4. Family/Spouse Visa
Foreign nationals with a spouse or family member legally residing in France can apply for family reunification.
- ✅ Marriage certificate or birth certificate for dependents
- ✅ Proof of legal residence of family member in France
- ✅ Income and accommodation requirements
- 📍 Apply via OFII (French Immigration Office) or Embassy
🏡 Long-Term Residence & Settlement in France
- 📌 Temporary residence permit (Carte de séjour): renewable annually
- 📌 Permanent residence possible after 5 years of legal stay
- 📌 French citizenship application after 5+ years and language integration
- 📌 EU Long-Term Residence permit is also available