Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C)

Visitor Visa

The Schengen Visa (Type C) allows entry to France and free movement across all 27 Schengen Area countries for tourism, business, or family visits. France is the main entry point when it is your primary destination.

Duration

Up to 90 days within any 180-day period

Processing Time

15 calendar days (can take up to 45 days in peak season)

Cost

EUR 90 (adults), EUR 45 (children 6-12), free for children under 6

Requirements

Valid passport with at least 3 months validity beyond planned departure from Schengen
Proof of accommodation in France (hotel booking or host attestation)
Travel medical insurance with minimum EUR 30,000 coverage
Proof of sufficient financial means (EUR 65/day minimum or host attestation)
Clear purpose and itinerary for the visit
Intent to return to home country after the visit

How to Apply

1
Check visa requirements on france-visas.gouv.fr using the visa wizard
2
Complete the online visa application form on the France-Visas portal
3
Book an appointment at the French Consulate or authorized visa center (TLScontact/VFS Global)
4
Pay the visa fee (EUR 90 for adults)
5
Attend the appointment with all required documents and provide biometrics
6
Submit your passport and supporting documents
7
Wait for processing — track application status online
8
Collect your passport with the Schengen visa sticker

Documents Required

Valid passport with 2+ blank pages and at least 3 months validity beyond return date
Completed and signed Schengen visa application form
Two recent passport photographs (35x45mm, white background)
Travel medical insurance certificate (EUR 30,000 minimum coverage)
Round-trip flight reservation
Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or attestation d'accueil from host)
Proof of financial means (bank statements for 3 months, pay slips)
Cover letter explaining purpose of visit

Popular For

touristsfamily visitorsbusiness travelerscultural visitors

Apply on Official Website

Always verify current requirements on the official government website. Visa rules change frequently.

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