While money may not be able to buy happiness, it can certainly secure a visit to the enchanting land of France. People from all corners of the world flock to this picturesque country for various purposes, including tourism, business, work, and study. Regardless of your reason for visiting, France offers a specific visa for each purpose. If you’re planning to visit your relatives or friends in France, the France Visit Visa, also known as the France Schengen Visit Visa, is the key to your journey.

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What is France Visit Visa? france visit visa

The France Visit Visa, categorized as the France Schengen Visit Visa, is designed for individuals whose primary objective is to reunite with their family members or friends residing in France. This falls under the Schengen C category, offering short-term stays with a validity of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The visa can be issued as single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry, depending on your needs. However, the ultimate decision lies with the consular officer.

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How to Apply for a Visit Visa for France from India? To apply for the France Visit Visa, follow these steps:

1. Collect all the necessary documents required for your visa application.

2. Create an account on the French visa application portal known as French-Visas.

3. Fill out the online application form, providing all the required details. Since there is a single form for all French C category visas, specify your purpose of visit as “family/friends visit.”

4. Upon completing the form, you will receive an email containing the completed application form. Print this email.

5. Schedule a visa appointment at a Visa Application Center (VAC) for document submission and biometric data collection. You can do this by contacting the VAC or visiting their website.

6. Attend the appointment in person with the appointment confirmation receipt, completed application form, required documents, and the applicable fees.

It’s essential to carry the original documents for verification during the appointment. However, submit only photocopies (excluding your passport) to the VAC. Ensure that all your documents are genuine, as any misinformation or fake documents can lead to visa rejection, which may impact your travel plans.

Please note that if you have submitted your biometrics in the Schengen Visa Information System (VIS) within the past 5 years, there is no need to submit them again. Your previous biometric data is stored in the system and can be used for your current application. In such cases, you don’t have to be present at the appointment in person; someone else can submit the application on your behalf.

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Eligibility for France Schengen Visit Visa To be eligible for a Schengen visitor visa, you must meet the following conditions; failure to meet these criteria will result in your application being rejected:

• You must be a resident of your home country while applying from within. If you reside in a foreign country under a residence permit, you may apply from there.

• You must possess a valid passport that meets the specified requirements.

• Your primary purpose of the visit must be to reunite with your family members or friends residing in France.

• You must have received an invitation from your family member or friend living in the country.

• You must have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in France or be sponsored by someone.

• You should apply for the visitor permit only if:

  • France is your sole destination, or
  • France is one of your multiple Schengen destinations, and you will spend the majority of your time there, or
  • France is your port of entry.

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Documents Required for France Schengen Visit Visa The following documents are typically required for a France Visit Visa application at the appointment center. However, keep in mind that additional specific documents may be necessary based on individual circumstances. Verify the exact requirements before applying:

• Valid Indian Passport:

  • Must have at least 2 blank pages.
  • Should be valid for at least 6 months from the intended travel date.
  • Include any old passports, if applicable.

• Covering Letter:

  • Must include the applicant’s basic details, such as name, designation, and address.
  • Clearly state the purpose and duration of the visit.
  • Mention the source of funds.
  • Must be signed by the applicant and addressed to the French embassy.

• Travel Itinerary:

  • Proof of accommodation.
  • Confirmed flight tickets.

• Invitation Letter:

  • From your family member or friend living in France, including all relevant details.

• Travel Insurance:

  • Coverage for expenses up to 30,000 Euros.

• Proof of Occupation:

  • Personal bank statements.
  • Copy of an updated passbook.

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Photo Specifications of France Visit Visa Ensure that your visa photo adheres to the following specifications:

• Dimensions: 35mm x 45mm.
• Colored photograph.
• The head must be centered.
• The photo must have been taken within the last 3 months.
• Background: Solid, plain white, or grey.
• At least 80% face coverage.
• Neutral facial expression.
• Non-thick framed glasses and prescription glasses are permitted.
• Headgear is allowed only for religious reasons.
• Facial hair is permitted.

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Processing Time of France Visit Visa The processing time for a France Visit Visa depends on various factors such as entry type, application volume, intended duration of stay, and other variables. Under normal circumstances, visa applications are processed within 15 working days. However, due to potential variations, it’s advisable to apply well in advance. Apply at least 15 days before your planned travel date but no more than 3 months in advance.

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France Visit Visa Fees The total fees for obtaining a France Visit Visa include application fees, biometric charges, express processing fees, and other service charges. Application fees can vary based on the number of entries, visa validity, foreign exchange rates, and other factors. To ensure accuracy, check the exact fee amounts before beginning your application.

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After Submission Once you have successfully submitted your visa application and paid the fees at the Visa Application Center (VAC), the center will forward your application package to the respective embassy or consulate, based on jurisdiction. If your visa is approved, you can collect your passport with the visa sticker at the VAC, or opt for it to be delivered to your address for a fee.

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How to Check Visa Status To track the status of your visa application:

• Use SMS notification services provided by the VAC.
• Access the tracking portal on the VAC’s website and enter your application number and name.
• Contact your travel agency to assist you in tracking your application.

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When You Have This Visa Once you obtain a France Visit Visa, remember the following key points to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit:

• Be mindful of the visa’s expiry date and the number of entries specified on the visa sticker. Do not overstay your permitted duration in the country, and adhere to the entry type of your visa (e.g., single-entry).

• Travel to France within 6 months of the visa issuance date, as the visa becomes invalid after this period.

• Always carry copies of your passport and other travel documents, including the visa and travel insurance, while traveling within the country.

• While traveling as a visitor, refrain from engaging in work or other employment activities.

• Note that France Visit Visas are non-extendable, so plan your departure before the visa expires to avoid any legal issues.

• You are allowed to visit any of the Schengen countries while holding a Uniform France Schengen Visit Visa. However, if you have been issued a Limited Territorial Validity (LTV) visa, you are restricted to visiting only the countries listed on the visa sticker.

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