France Tourist Visa Guide

France, a country that captivates travelers with its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Mont Blanc, offers an array of stunning sights and experiences. From French wines to delectable pastries like Croissants and Eclair, the nation beckons tourists from around the world. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the details of obtaining a France tourist visa for Indian citizens, covering the application process, fees, eligibility criteria, required documents, and more.

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What is France Tourist Visa? The France Schengen tourist visa, often referred to simply as the France tourist visa, grants travelers the opportunity to explore the French Republic and partake in tourist activities. Falling under the Schengen category, these visas are typically issued for a maximum duration of 90 days within a 180-day period. They come in various entry types, including single-entry, double-entry, and multiple-entry. However, citizens of other Schengen countries and visa-exempt nations enjoy permit-free entry.

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How to Apply for France Tourist Visa? Applying for a France tourist visa from India primarily involves an online process, with document submission conducted offline at a Visa Application Center (VAC). The processing of these applications is handled by the Embassy or Consulates of France in India. Before commencing your application, it’s essential to ensure your eligibility for a tourist permit. Follow these steps to apply for a France tourist visa:

  1. Gather all the necessary documents required by the embassy.
  2. Visit the France-Visas website and register for the application.
  3. Complete the visa application form with accurate details. You will receive a confirmation email.
  4. After completing the form, schedule an appointment at one of the VACs. This can be done through their website or by contacting them directly.
  5. Attend the appointment with your documents and the application confirmation printout.
  6. Pay the required fees and submit your biometrics during the appointment.

Note: If you have submitted your biometrics in the past 5 years, they are still valid in the Schengen VIS (Visa Information System), and you are not required to submit them again. In such cases, you can choose to send the application via a third party.

Ensure that you submit only genuine documents and provide accurate information. Providing false details or fake documents can lead to visa rejection. Carry original documents to the VAC but submit only photocopies (except for the passport).

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Eligibility for France Tourist Visa To be eligible for a France tourist visa, you must meet specific conditions. Failure to meet these criteria will render you ineligible to apply, resulting in the rejection of your application. The eligibility criteria include:

  • Applying from your home country, or if residing in a foreign nation, holding a residence permit from that country.
  • Possessing a valid passport.
  • Having the primary purpose of the visit as tourism-related activities.
  • Demonstrating sufficient funds to support your stay in France.
  • Applying for the visa if:
    • France is your sole destination, or
    • France is one of your multiple Schengen destinations, where you will spend the majority of your time, or
    • France is your port of entry.

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Documents Required for France Tourist Visa The France tourist visa requirements for Indian citizens include the following list of documents to be submitted at the VAC during your appointment:

  • A valid passport:
    • With at least 2 blank pages.
    • Valid for at least 6 months from the intended travel date.
    • Include any old passports, if applicable.
  • Printout of the application confirmation.
  • A covering letter:
    • Including the applicant’s basic details.
    • Clearly stating the source of funds for the stay.
    • Explicitly mentioning the purpose and duration of the visit.
    • Signed by the applicant and addressed to the French embassy.
  • Travel itinerary/documents:
    • Detailed travel itinerary.
    • Proof of round-trip flight booking.
    • Proof of accommodation.
  • Medical travel insurance coverage of at least 30,000 Euros.
  • Proof of occupation:
    • If employed:
      • Copy of employment contract.
      • Employee ID card copy.
      • Letter from the employer granting leave for the travel period.
      • No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the company.
    • If self-employed:
      • A copy of the business license.
      • Copy in the commerce register or as a partner in a company.
    • If a student:
      • Letter granting leave for the travel period or NOC from the institution.
      • Proof of admission.
    • If retired:
      • Pension statement for the last 6 months.
      • Copy of retirement letter/relieving letter.
  • Financial documents:
    • Personal bank statements for the last 3 months or a copy of the passbook showing recent funds, or
    • Income tax papers/salary slips (If employed).
    • Income tax statement (ITR) for the last 3 years or Form No. 16 (if self-employed).

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Photo Specifications of France Tourist Visa Ensure that your visa photo meets the following specifications:

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

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Processing Time The processing time for a French tourist visa can vary due to factors like the number of entries, application volume at the embassy, verification issues, and more. Typically, you can expect your application to be processed in approximately 15 working days. However, due to potential uncertainties, it is advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.

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France Tourist Visa Fees The fees for a French tourist visa for Indian nationals depend on several key parameters, including entry type, validity, biometric charges, and additional service fees. The fee amount can also fluctuate based on the Euro’s foreign exchange rates. To avoid any discrepancies, it is recommended that you confirm the exact fee amount before initiating your visa application.

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After Submission Upon successful submission and fee payment, your visa application will undergo processing. It’s important to note that the VACs are responsible for application submission but not for processing; this is exclusively handled by the Embassy or Consulates of France in India. If further verification or additional documentation is required, you will be duly notified. If your application is approved, you can collect your passport and visa from the respective VAC, or opt for delivery at an additional charge.

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How to Check Visa Status While waiting for a response, you can check the status of your France tourist visa application. This can be done by visiting the VAC’s website and entering your application number and name in the respective tracking portal. Alternatively, you may contact the travel agency through which you applied to inquire about the status.

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When You Have This Visa Once you have obtained your France tourist visa, keep the following points in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience:

  • Take note 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 ensure that you travel within 6 months of the visa issue date to avoid invalidation.
  • Carry copies of your travel documents with you while traveling within France to handle emergencies effectively.
  • While on a tourist permit, refrain from engaging in employment or other work-related activities. Your visit should be limited to tourism and activities allowed under the Schengen category.
  • Remember that tourist permits cannot be extended except in extreme and unforeseeable circumstances.
  • You are allowed to visit other Schengen countries while on this visa; however, not all European countries are part of the Schengen agreement, so your travel options may be limited to Schengen member nations.

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Frequently Asked Questions

In normal circumstances, tourist permits cannot be extended. However, in exceptional cases where you are forced to stay in France due to Force Majeure or other humanitarian reasons, an extension may be granted. In all other situations, you must leave the country once your permit expires.

No, you are not allowed to remain in the country beyond the visa’s expiration date. Staying beyond this period is considered an offense and can result in deportation and a ban from re-entering the Schengen region. If you need an extended stay, you should return to your home country and apply for another permit, with a history of compliance with immigration laws potentially facilitating a smoother and faster application process.

There are no specific mandatory medical tests for the short-term tourist category. Since tourists stay in the country for only up to 90 days, the French government does not require a medical report. However, for your own well-being, it is advisable to undergo a medical check-up before traveling to any foreign country.

No, it is strictly prohibited to convert a tourist permit into a work permit. According to the entry criteria, you must leave the country when your current permit expires. There is no provision for extension or conversion. If you wish to work in France, you must return to your home country and apply for a work permit from there.

Yes, you are permitted to visit other Schengen countries while holding a France tourist visa. However, please note that not all European countries are part of the Schengen agreement. You can travel to Schengen member nations like Germany and Italy, but you may not visit European countries such as the UK and Belarus, as they are not part of the Schengen agreement.

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