VISAS FOR FRANCE

What kind of visa and Specific regulations

Different types of visas :

  • An airport transit visa is issued by the consulate of the country where the airport is located. The traveler should stay in the international zone of the airport.
  • A Schengen visa :

    - a transit visa (from 1 to 5-days) and a short stay visa (from 1 to 90 days every 6 months) are issued by the consulate of one of the Schengen states (Please check the difference between these two visas in the heading "Do you need a visa to enter").

    - a circulation visa is a short stay visa valid within 1 to 5 years, issued in the case of short and frequent professional visits.
  • A long stay visa (stay over 90 days) is issued by the consulate of the country of stay. Then a residency card will be required in the most of the cases. A birth certificate and its translation certified by the consulate will be necessary. Long stay visa applicants can refer to the customs section.

Specific regulations :

  • Delays and procedure: it is the responsability of the requerant to be aware of the delays and the requirements for the issuance of the visas before making the travel arrangements and before applying for the visa. Note that  neglecting to include a document or to fill out the forms properly may extend the processing time.
  • the applicant should contact the appropriate consulate depending on his/her residence and destination (refer to the list of the consulates general of France and jurisdictions)
  • Visas for Monaco as a main destination, and for the French overseas departments and territories are issued by a consulate of France.
  • Holders of non US diplomatic or official passports should contact their Embassy in order to obtain the proper documents before applying for a visa, if needed.
  • US citizens do not require a short stay visa, except in the following cases:

    - holders of diplomatic or official passports on mission, crew members, or journalists on assignment:
    These applicants must submit 1 application form, a valid passport, a cover letter from the appropriate office or embassy, or from their company.
    Diplomatic or official passport holders must apply at the Consulate General of France in Washington-DC in New-York, Los Angeles, Atlanta or San Francisco depending on their jurisdiction.
    - US students enrolled in schools and universities in France (see specific section)
    - Artists, researchers and some other workers, if they have a paid activity in France.
  • Residents aliens should present a residency card, or a US visa valid at the time they apply and for at least 2 months beyond the last day of stay in France.
  • Non-resident aliens visiting the US under a B1/B2 visa, and holders of a re-entry permit or a refugee travel document cannot apply for a long-term visa.
  • Applications for a short stay visa from holders of B1/B2 visas in the United States are subject to a heavier and longer procedure.
  • individuals married with an E.U citizen , or intending to marry soon, please contact the consulate for further information.
  • The citizens of the European Union and EEE, of Liechtenstein, Monaco and the Holly See do not need a long stay visa for France and the French overseas departments. The citizens of Andorra, Switzerland and San Marino do not need a long stay visa for France only. A fortiori all these citizens do not require a short stay visa.


After reading the General Information section, refer to each following specific section for more information.

 

 

 

PROCESSING TIME

  • Short stay :

An average processing time with a minimum of 2 weeks may be necessary. Therefore you can apply for this visa no earlier than 6 weeks before your departure.

  • Long stay :

Expect an average delay of up to 3 months.

It is the responsability of the requerant to be aware of the delays and the requirements for the issuance of the visas before making the travel arrangements and before applying for the visa. Note that neglecting to include a document or to fill out the forms properly may extend the processing time.

  • Long stay student over the age of 18:

Expect an average delay of up to 1 and 1/2 months.

 

 

 

DO YOU NEED A VISA TO ENTER :
FRANCE AND THE SCHENGEN STATES / 
FRENCH OVERSEAS DEPARTMENTS /
FRENCH OVERSEAS TERRITORIES / MONACO

 

FRANCE AND THE SCHENGEN STATES


Schengen States : Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden.

1- NO VISA is required for a SHORT STAY not exceeding 3 months in a SCHENGEN STATE for tourism or business purposes for the applicants of the following countries :


Andorra *, Argentina, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Cyprus, South Korea, Czech Rep., European Union * and EEE (Germany, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, The United-Kingdom, and Sweden), Hong-Kong (only passport issued by the HKSAR), Hungary, Israël, Japan, Liechtenstein*, Macao (only pasport issued by MSAR), Malta, Mexico, Monaco *, New Zealand, Poland, Roumania, San Marino*, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland*, The Holy See*, Uruguay; USA.


The citizens of the countries marked with the sign * do not need a visa for a long stay in France.

 

2- SPECIFIC CASES :

  • For Australia, Bolivia , Brunei, Costa Rica, Croatia, El Salvador, Estonia, Guatemala, Honduras, Latvia, Lithuania, Malaysia, Nicaragua, Panama,Paraguay, Singapore and Venezuela no visa is required for France. Check with the consulate of the other Schengen States.
  • However, the citizens of Brazil, Canada, Cyprus, South Korea, Hong Kong SAR, Japan, Malta, Mexico, Malaysia; Singapore, USA and Venezuela should apply for a visa if they are to receive a salary in France. The visa is required by France to US citizens holders of diplomatic or official passports on mission, crew members and journalists on assignment, students enrolled in schools and universities in France even for a short stay.

 

3- YOU NEED A VISA IF YOU ARE OF A NATIONALITY NOT MENTIONED ABOVE AND/OR FOR A LONG STAY. A delay of procedure may be required.

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FRENCH OVERSEAS DEPARTMENTS

Overseas Departments : Martinique, Guadeloupe, St Martin, St Barthelemy, French Guiana, La Réunion


It is specific visa, but the applicant should present the same requirements as for a Schengen visa.

1- For a short stay not exceeding 3 months, and as a tourist, a citizen from the following countries needs only a valid passport without a visa :


Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Bolivia , Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, South Korea, El Salvador, Estonia, European Union* and EEE (Germany, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Greece, Hong-Kong (only passport issued by the HKSAR), Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, The United-Kingdom, and Sweden), Guatemala, Honduras, Hungary, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein*, Lithuania, Macao (only passport issued by MSAR),Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Poland, St-Marin, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland, The Holy See, Uruguay, USA, Venezuela.


The citizens of the countries marked with the sign * do not need a visa for a long stay .

 

2- Specific cases:


The citizens of Canada, Cyprus, South Korea, Japan, Malta, Mexico, Malaysia; Singapore, USA and Venezuela should apply for a visa if they are to receive a salary. The visa is required by France to US citizens holders of diplomatic or official passports on mission, crew members and journalists on assignment, students enrolled in schools and universities in France even for a short stay.

 

3- YOU NEED A VISA IF YOU ARE OF A NATIONALITY NOT MENTIONED ABOVE AND/OR FOR A LONG STAY . For a short stay you should present the documents required for a Schengen visa. Refer to the specific section depending on the length and purpose of stay. A delay of procedure may be required.

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FRENCH OVERSEAS TERRITORIES:


Overseas Territories : New Caledonia, French Polynesia, Wallis and Futuna and other French overseas communities.


It is a specific visa, but the applicant should present the same requirements as for a Schengen visa.


1- As a tourist and for a short stay lasting up to 1 month, applicants from the following countries need only a valid passport :


Argentina, Australia (especially up to 3 months in New-Caledonia, French Polynesia , Wallis and Futuna), Bolivia Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, South Korea, El Salvador, Estonia, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong-Kong *(only for holders of a passport issued by the HKSAR), Hungary, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Macao *(only for holders of a passport issued by MSAR),Malaysia, Mexico, Monaco, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Poland, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Uruguay, USA.


* citizens of Hong-Kong and Macao still need a visa for New-Caledonia.


2- Specific cases :


Citizens of Canada, Cyprus, South Korea, Japan, Malta, Mexico, Malaysia; Singapore, USA , should apply for a visa if they are to receive a salary. The visa is required by France to US citizens holders of diplomatic or official passports on mission, crew members and journalists on assignment, students enrolled in schools and universities in France even for a short stay.

For a stay up to 3 months, the citizens of: Andorra, European Union and EEE (Germany, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Norway Portugal, Spain, The United-Kingdom, and Sweden), Liechtenstein, Malta, Monaco, San Marino, Switzerland, The Holy See, may travel with a valid passport.


3- YOU NEED A VISA IF YOU ARE OF A NATIONALITY NOT MENTIONED ABOVE AND/OR FOR A LONG STAY . For a short stay you should present the documents required for a Schengen visa. Refer to the specific section depending on the length and purpose of stay. A delay of procedure may be required.

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MONACO


A visa Schengen is also valid for Monaco as a part of your travel, but you must apply at a Consulate of France if Monaco is your main destination.


For a short stay visa , the process regulations are the same as the ones for a Schengen visa (see the " Schengen visa " section or specific section).


For a long stay visa, the regulation is the same as the one for a long stay visa for France. Please note that you may be required to show additional documents.


No visa is required for the citizens of the European Union, and Liechtenstein.

 

 

 

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE FOLLOWING VISAS
Schengen/Airport transit/Student/Special student visa for minors/
"Au pair"/
Long stay/Artists/Teacher assistant/Foreign traders' card/Work visa/
Professors and researchers holders of a protocol


SCHENGEN VISAS (1-90 DAYS)

Important : Your personal appearance is required when submitting your application.

  • Transit visa, type B (1-5 days): If coming from a non-Schengen State, with a main destination in a non-Schengen State and transiting through France (ie. USA-Paris-India) with either a standby ticket/buddy pass or with the intention to stay 1 to 5 days in France. The validity of the transit visa can not exceed five days. The Consulate General of France requires that you show a residency card or a visa issued by this country (if needed) if you are not a citizen of this country.
  • Short stay visa (1-90 days) : If coming from a non-Schengen state with a main destination in one or several Schengen states and back directly to the first point of departure (i.e. USA - Paris - Lisbon - USA) - even for 1 to 5 days - a short stay Schengen visa will be issued, not a transit one.
  • Circulation visa (1-5 years) : It is a short stay visa valid for several short visits within 1 year . This visa is issued on business matters to aircrew members and also businessmen or tradesmen having an invitation letter from France or people having special interests in France.

        1 - GENERAL INFORMATION SCHENGEN VISAS

Important : Your personal appearance is required when submitting your application.


The Schengen States are: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden.

  • The visa is issued for a stay not exceeding 90 days within a 6 month period, by the consulate of one of the Schengen States, and is usually valid for all the other Schengen countries and Monaco. The traveler in multiple Schengen countries can apply at one of the Schengen countries consulates.
  • No visa is required for a short stay not exceeding 3 months in a Schengen state for tourism or business, for the applicants of the following countries :


    Andorra; Argentina, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Cyprus, South Korea, Czech Rep., European Union and EEE (Germany, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Norway Portugal, Spain, The United-Kingdom, and Sweden), Hong-Kong (only passport issued by the HKSAR), Hungary, Israël, Japan, Liechtenstein, Macao (only passport issued by the the MSAR), Malta, Mexico, Monaco, New Zealand, Poland, Roumania, Saint-Marin, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland, The Holy See, Uruguay.
  • Specific cases:


    - For citizens of Australia, Bolivia , Brunei, Costa Rica, Croatia, El Salvador, Estonia, Guatemala, Honduras, Latvia, Lithuania, Malaysia,Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Singapore and Venezuala no visa is required for France. Check with the consulate of the other Schengen states.


    - However, the citizens of Brazil, Canada, Cyprus, South Korea, Hong Kong SAR, Japan, Malta, Mexico, Malaysia; Singapore, USA and Venezuela should apply for a visa if they are to receive a salary in France.


    - US citizens do not require a visa, except in the following cases:
            - holders of diplomatic or official passports on mission, crew members and journalists on assignment: these applicants must submit 1 application     form, a valid passport, a cover letter from the appropriate office or embassy, or from their company. Diplomatic or official passport holders must apply at the Consulate General of France in Washington-DC in New-York, Los Angeles, Atlanta  or San Francisco depending on their jurisdiction.
            - US students enrolled in schools and universities in France (see specific section)
            - Artists, researchers and some other workers, if they have a paid activity in France.
            - Holders of non US diplomatic or official passports should contact their Embassy to obtain the proper documents before applying for a visa.

 

        2 - WHERE YOU SHOULD APPLY FOR A SCHENGEN VISA


1 - If you intend to visit only one Schengen country, you must apply at the Embassy or the Consulate of that particular country.

2 - If you intend to visit several Schengen countries, you must apply for a visa at the Embassy or Consulate of the country which is your main destination (where you will spend the most amount of time in) If you are travelling for business, regardless of your main destination, you must apply to the consulate of the country you are doing business in.

3 - If you intend to visit several countries but do not have a main destination, you should apply for a visa at the Embassy or Consulate of the country which is your first point of entry, provided that you are spending the exact number of days in each Schengen countries.

4 - If you do not need a visa for the Schengen country which is your main destination or first point of entry, please note that you may require a visa for other Schengen countries you wish to visit. You should then apply at the Embassy or Consulate of the first country which does require a visa.

5 - The visa is issued only by a Consulate of France if Monaco is the main destination.


Contact the appropriate consulate depending on your address in the USA and your destination in the Schengen area.


Note that the applicant should apply for the visa and should obtain it in his/her country of residence before traveling. A delay may be required.

 

        3 - REQUIREMENTS FOR A SCHENGEN VISA :

Important : Your personal appearance is required when submitting your application.

  • Passport valid for a period of three months beyond the applicant's last day of stay in the Schengen states. Please make sure your passport has a blank page to affix the visa.
  • 2 short stay visa application forms completely and legibly filled out. Please print in black. Indicate also your phone numbers and e-mail.

  • 2 recent passport size photographs (loose, NOT glued). Passport size photographs : 1.36 x 1.75 inches. Photographs must have a white background with a full-face view of the person without wearing a hat or dark glasses. Photos must be taken within 6 months.
  • A proof of resident status in the USA and its copy.( green card, valid US visa and copy of valid I-20, I-94 or valid I-AP66, visas...) if you are not a US citizen. Applications for a short stay visa from holders of B1/B2 visas in the United States are subject to a heavier and longer procedure, and the personal appearance is required.
  • the visa issued by the country of final destination (+ 1 copy), if needed.
  • Reservation with detailed itinerary. The roundtrip airline tickets are required only at the time the visa is issued (+ 1 copy). Be aware that your visa will not be issued without a photocopy of your entire ticket or the e-ticket receipt.
  • A letter from your insurance company confirming : international general medical/health insurance coverage of $36000 dollars and emergency evacuation coverage (these 2 items must be stated in the letter from the insurance company). This letter must be joined with a copy of your insurance card. If you do not have insurance, you must purchase travellers insurance for the entire duration of your trip and provide proof of purchase + 1 copy (again stating the 2 items mentioned above). You can do so by calling Travelex at 1 800 228 9792 or InsureMyTrip.com at 1 800 487 4722.
  • Proof of employment (for example, letter from the company stating continuing employment after the period of leave, and last payslip).
  • According to the purpose of the trip , one of the documents listed below :
        For tourism : Hotel reservation with complete address and reservation number, proof of registration with an organized tour, attestation of accommodation , etc.(+ 1 copy). If travelling to other Schengen countries, hotel reservation for each country for duration of entire trip is required.
        For business : official business invitation letter from a company in France (+ 1 copy).
        For private visit (family or friends) : Attestation of accommodation ("attestation d'accueil") (original + 1 copy) = your host in France can obtain this document at the City Hall, the police station or the gendarmerie squad office, by showing a proof of identity and 2 proofs of lodging (rental contract, and phone bill or power bill...). A copy of your passport may be needed to obtain this document.
  • Proof of sufficient funds to cover the cost of your stay : 2 last bank statements (+ 1 copy), travellers checks if visiting the United States, 80 dollars per day are suggested. For business: letter from the employer indicating the name and address of the companies in France, and guaranteeing the travel expenses (+1 copy)
  • For a minor, if travelling alone, a notarized parental authorization signed by both parents or guardian. If the minor travels with 1 parent, an authorization signed by the 2nd parent is required (+ 1 copy).
  • A proof of residence in our jurisdiction (AL, NC, SC, GA, MS, TN) : copy of your drivers license.
  • Prepaid self-adressed envelope if you wish the Consulate to send back your passport by mail. Only UPS, Express mail, Priority mail, certified mail (registered mail) will be accepted. If not, the personal appearance will be required for the retrieval of the passport.  The Consulate is not responsible for any loss of mail or documents within.

 

        4- PROCESSING FEE :

Important : Your personal appearance is required when submitting your application.

Payment by credit card (Visa, Mastercard)  or cash. There is now a flat rate for processing the afore mentioned visas. However, the fee in dollars varies according to the current exchange rate. Please click here to find out the current fee.


        5- REMARKS : 

The Consular Administration has full authority to appreciate and request more documents than those submitted by the applicant. Note that the visa does not in itself grant you the right to enter a French territory. It is necessary that you carry the original documents used to obtain the visa with you at all times. Border authorities may request that you show them upon entry to France.

 

        6 - Other Schengen visa offices in Washington D.C :

Embassy of Austria 3524 International court,NW, Washinton, DC 20008, (202) 895 6700
Embassy of Belgium 3330 Garfield St NW , Washinton, DC 20008, (202) 625 5854
Embassy of Denmark 3200 Whitehaven St, NW, Washinton, DC 20008, (202) 2344300
Embassy of Finland:3301 Massachusetts av., NW, Washinton, DC 20008, (202) 2985800
Embassy of Germany 4645 Reservoir Rd NW, Washinton, DC 20007, (202) 298 4000
Embassy of Greece 2211 Massachusetts Av. NW, Washinton, DC 20008, (202) 232 8222
Embassy of Iceland 1156 15th st, suite 1200, NW, Washinton, DC 20005, (202) 2656653: at this time, the Embassy of Iceland does not issue a Schengen visa :contact the Embassy of Denmark
Embassy of Italy 3000 Whitehaven st. NW, Washinton, DC 20008, (202) 6124400
Embassy of Luxembourg 2200 Massachusetts Ave, NW , Washinton, DC 20008, (202) 265 4171
Embassy of Norway 2720 34th St, NW, Washinton, DC 20008, (202) 333 6000
Embassy of The Netherlands 4200 Linnean Ave. NW, Washinton, DC 20008, (202) 2742628
Embassy of Portugal 2310 Tracy Pl. NW , Washinton, DC 20008, (202) 332 3007
Embassy of Spain 2375 Pennsylvania Av., NW, Washinton, DC 20037, (202) 728 2330
Embassy of Sweden,Suite 900, 1501 M St, NW, Washinton, DC 20005, (202) 4672600

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AIRPORT TRANSIT VISA - TYPE A

Read GENERAL INFORMATION before applying.

No airport transit visa is required for holders of diplomatic, official or special passports, and for crewmembers on a mission if they are citizens of the countries which have signed the Treaty of the Chicago Convention (except for the USA, by reciprocity).


IMPORTANT: a transit visa may be required (read further).

 

        1 - GENERAL INFORMATION AIRPORT TRANSIT VISAS :

You do not need an airport transit visa unless you are holder of a passport or a refugee travel document issued by one of the following countries:


Afghanistan, Albania, Angola, Bengladesh, Burkina Faso (*), Cameroon (*) Rep.of Congo, Erythrée, Ethiopia, Gambia (*), Ghana, Guinea,(*) Haïti, India (*), Irak, Iran, Ivory Coast (*), Liberia, Libya, Mali (*), Nigeria, Pakistan, Senegal (*), Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria(*), and Palestinians holders of a travel document for refugee which has been issued by Egypt, Lebanon or Syria.


However, no airport transit visa is required if the citizens of the above-mentioned countries have a "refugee travel document", an "alien residency card", or a "permit to reenter" (Form I-327 rev: 06-13-96) issued by the USA, or a permanent visa in either of the countries of the European Union, or a residence permit in Liechtenstein, Switzerland, Monaco, Andorra, the Holy See, San Marino, Canada or Japan. This document should authorize you to re-enter the mentioned country without conditions.
For citizens of the countries followed by the sign (*), the airport transit visa is not required, if they are holders of a valid visa issued by a country of the European Union and EEE (Germany, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Norway Portugal, Spain, The United-Kingdom, and Sweden), Canada, Switzerland and the USA.

Holders of the Advance Parole document (I 512) do need an airport transit visa to transit through France.


DELAY OF PROCEDURE: The visa can be issued within 2 to 4 weeks when the file is complete and dropped at the appropriate consulate, depending on the place of stay in the USA and destination in the Schengen area. Note that the applicant should apply for the visa and should obtain it in his/her country of residence/stay before traveling.


         2 - ITINERARY AND WHERE TO APPLY FOR AIRPORT TRANSIT VISAS :

1 - You travel from the USA via a SCHENGEN STATE AIRPORT to a NON-SCHENGEN COUNTRY: You just need to connect a second flight. The airport transit visa is issued by the consulate of the country where the airport is located. You are allowed to remain in the international zone, but not to go through immigration control.
If the arrival and the departure take place in 2 different airports (Paris-Roissy and Paris-Orly), you need a transit visa type B (see short stay visa).


2-You travel from the USA via a FRENCH AIRPORT to enter another SCHENGEN COUNTRY or you have a second transit in another SCHENGEN STATE AIRPORT:
The passport control is done at the first point of entry in the Schengen area.. All flights between two or more Schengen States are considered to be "domestic" flights.
If you don't need a visa for the Schengen state of your main destination, a transit visa or a short stay visa may be required by France which is your first point of entry, depending on your nationality.
If you transit by a French airport and if you need a visa for the Schengen state which is your main destination, you should apply for a short stay visa at the consulate representing this country.


3 - You travel from the USA via a French airport to enter Switzerland by Bale or Geneva, you should apply for a transit visa depending on your nationality (check short stay visa).

 

        3 - REQUIREMENTS FOR AIRPORT TRANSIT VISAS :

  • passport signed and valid for at least 3 months after the last day of stay,
  • 1 short stay visa application form completely and legibly filled out. Please print in black. Indicate your phone numbers and e-mail
  • 2 recent passport size photographs (loose, NOT glued). Passport size photographs : 1.36 x 1.75 inches. Photographs must have a white background with a full-face view of the person without wearing a hat or dark glasses. Photos must be taken within 6 months.
  • Round trip airline tickets with confirmed reservations at the time of issuance of the visa. (+ 1 copy)
  • the visa issued by the country of final destination, if needed.
  • For a minor, if travelling alone, a notarized parental authorization signed by both parents or guardian. If the minor travels with 1 parent, an authorization signed by the 2nd parent is required (+ 1 copy).
  • A proof of residence in our jurisdiction (AL, NC, SC, GA, MS, TN) : copy of your drivers license.
  • Prepaid self-adressed envelope if you wish the Consulate to send back your passport by mail. Only UPS, Express mail, Priority mail, certified mail (registered mail) will be accepted. If not, the personal appearance will be required for the retrieval of the passport.  The Consulate is not responsible for any loss of mail or documents within.


         4- PROCESSING FEE :

Payment by credit card (Visa, Mastercard)  or cash. There is now a flat rate for processing the afore mentioned visas. However, the fee in dollars varies according to the current exchange rate. Please click here to find out the current fee.

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STUDENT VISAS

Read GENERAL INFORMATION before applying.

This procedure applies in the case of the student is over 18 years old at the date of arrival or within 3 months after the arrival in France.

Important : Your personal appearance is required when submitting your application.

        1 - GENERAL INFORMATION STUDENT VISAS :

Apply at the appropriate consulate depending on your address in the USA (home or university). Note that the applicant should apply for the visa and should obtain it in his/her country of residence before traveling. A delay of procedure may be required.


There are 3 kinds of student visas available, depending upon the length of studies in France as indicated in the letter of enrollment:


        1 - a Schengen visa , multiple entries, for a stay up to 3 months: the student should use the short stay visa application form. The visa fee that applies is the Schengen one, but the requirements are the same as for a temporary long stay visa.


        2 - the temporary long stay visa (from 3 to 6 months), multiple entries, is valid for the whole stay. The student does not need a residency card. The student use the long term visa application form and refer to the "student" visa fee.


        3 - One year-visa (stay over 6 months): the visa is valid 3 months, 1 entry. The student should use the long term visa application form and refer to the "student" visa fee. Within this delay, and after the arrival in France, the students must complete the proper documentation with the French school or university, have to go for a medical check-up to a doctor from the Office des Migrations Internationales. Then they should contact the "Prefecture de police" in order to obtain the student residency card (carte de séjour) and present there the visa, the original documents previously required for the visa, a birth certificate and the medical results.



         2 - REQUIREMENTS STUDENT VISAS :

Important : Your personal appearance is required when submitting your application.

  • Passport signed and valid for a period of three months beyond the applicant's last day of stay in France.
  • 2 short stay or 2 long stay visa application forms signed and legibly filled out. Please print in black. Indicate your phone numbers and e-mail. Indicate the dates of stay.
  • 2 recent passport size photographs (loose, NOT glued). Passport size photographs : 1.36 x 1.75 inches. Photographs must have a white background with a full-face view of the person without wearing a hat or dark glasses. Photos must be taken within 6 months.
  • A proof of resident status in the US ( green card, valid US visa along with a copy of valid I-20 or valid  I-797A, or valid I-AP66, visas...) for non US citizens .
  • Prepaid self-adressed envelope if you wish the Consulate to send back your passport by mail. Only UPS, Express mail, Priority mail, certified mail (registered mail) will be accepted. If not, the personal appearance will be required for the retrieval of the passport.  The Consulate is not responsible for any loss of mail or documents within.
  • A proof of enrollment at a US college or university or most recent diploma (original + 1 copy)
  • Certificate of enrollment or pre-enrollment ("Attestation d'inscription") issued by your school in France stating clearly the length and exact dates of your studies (original + 1 copy). IMPORTANT : acceptance letters from US schools with programs abroad will NOT be accepted. ISEP letters are not accepted either.
  • Reservation and detailed itinerary first. The physical tickets must be presented only at the time of visa issuance
  • A proof of residence in our jurisdiction (AL, NC, SC, GA, MS, TN) : copy of your drivers license.
  • Financial guarantee  : a notarized letter of financial guarantee from your parents or legal guardians stating that you will be provided a minimum of $600 a month for the duration of your studies, plus a copy of their most recent bank statements (original + 1 copy). Two exceptions : 1) if you are financially independent from your parents, you can submit a copy of your most recent bank statement (original + 1 copy)  -  2) If you are a recipient of a scholarship or grant, you may provide official documentation justifying this ((original + 1 copy).             
  • medical insurance (original + 1 copy) :
            - stay up to 6 months: when applying for a visa, the students should present a letter from their insurance company stating that the coverage is valid in France. This letter must be joined with a copy of your insurance card. Also accepted is the CIEE card (Council for International Educational Exchange) which provides insurance automatically (original + 1 copy)
            - stay over 6 months: after their arrival in France, the students under 28 years old and enrolled in a French school which is affilieted to the French Social Security, must join this social security for the length of their studies. This point is verified by the Prefecture when the students apply for the residency card. The reimbursement of the medical expenses amounts to 70%. For the 30% remaining, these students have the choice to join a french student insurance OR make use of their own insurance with worldwide coverage (letter from the insurance company). However, the students over 28 years old, or enrolled in a French school which is not affiliated to the French Social Security, cannot join this social security: they must show a proof of insurance registration with a coverage valid in France when they apply for the residency card.
  •   If under 18 at the date of arrival or within 3 months after the arrival in France, you should add to the general required documents : a notarized parental authorization, signed by both parents indicating the name and occupation of the person appointed as guardian of the minor for the duration of the stay.
  • Scholarships : FRENCH GOVERNMENT, FOREIGN GOVERNMENT OR INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION SCHOLARSHIPS, AND RECIPIENTS OF AN E.U PROGRAM . A scholarship recipient only needs to present the first four items on the requirements list, plus a letter granting and indicating the amount of the scholarship and the length of stay in France. The applicant will also have to go for a medical check-up to a doctor accredited to this Consulate and will have to present a medical certificate (original + 1 copy). The medical check up is paid by the scholarship recipient, but the visa is free of charge.



        3- PROCESSING FEE :

Important : Your personal appearance is required when submitting your application.
Payment by credit card (Visa, Mastercard) or cash. There is now a flat rate for processing the afore mentioned visas. However, the fee in dollars varies according to the current exchange rate. Please click here to find out the current fee.



        4- REMARKS :

The Consular Administration has full authority to appreciate and request more documents than those submitted by the applicant. The latter is hereby informed that submitting the aforementioned documents does not ensure automatic issuance of the visa.

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SPECIAL STUDENT VISAS FOR MINORS


The following procedure applies in the case the student will be less than 18 years old after the 3rd month following the entry in France.

Important : Your personal appearance is required when submitting your application.

         1 - GENERAL INFORMATION STUDENT VISAS FOR MINORS :


The long stay visa (from 4 to 11 months), multiple entries, is valid for the whole stay.


The processing delay for a minor in the case of a stay over 3 months is at least 6 weeks. An incomplete file may increase the delay of issuance of the visa.


Note that the applicant should apply for the visa at the appropriate consulate depending on the current address in the USA (home or university) and should obtain it in his/her country of residence before traveling.



         2 - REQUIREMENTS FOR STUDENT VISAS FOR MINORS :

Important : Your personal appearance is required when submitting your application.

  • Passport signed and valid for a period of three months beyond the applicant's last day of stay in France (+ 3 copies of the main page)
  • For non US citizens, the proof of the status in the USA (alien residency card, or valid US visa and valid I-20, or valid  I-797A)
  • 4 long stay visa application forms , signed and legibly filled out. Please print in black. Indicate your phone numbers, e-mail address and the exact dates of entry and exit.
  • 2 recent passport size photographs (loose, NOT glued). Passport size photographs : 1.36 x 1.75 inches. Photographs must have a white background with a full-face view of the person without wearing a hat or dark glasses. Photos must be taken within 6 months.
  • Prepaid self-adressed envelope if you wish the Consulate to send back your passport by mail. Only UPS, Express mail, Priority mail, certified mail (registered mail) will be accepted. If not, the personal appearance will be required for the retrieval of the passport.  The Consulate is not responsible for any loss of mail or documents within.
  • A letter of admission ( pre-enrolment ) from the school which the applicant plans to attend to in France (original and 4 copies)
  • notarized parental authorization, signed by both parents indicating the name and occupation of the person appointed as guardian of the minor for the duration of the stay (original and 4 copies)
  • a letter of" Engagement de prise en charge " filled out by an educational organization in France, or the host family in France along with a copy of his/her residency card if the host is an alien. The letter must state that they will assume responsibility for payment of all expenses relating to accommodation, education, and repatriation costs (original and 4 copies).
  • the previous school report or equivalent diploma of the baccalaureat (original and 4 copies)
  • a vaccination certificate (diphteria, tetanus, poliomieletis,BCG) (original and 4 copies)
  • a medical insurance valid in France (letter from the insurance company) (original and 4 copies)
  • a civil insurance (letter from the insurance company) (original and 4 copies)
  • A proof of residence in our jurisdiction (AL, NC, SC, GA, MS, TN) : copy of your drivers license.

 

        3- PROCESSING FEE :

Important : Your personal appearance is required when submitting your application.

Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted  as well as cash. There is now a flat rate for processing the afore mentioned visas. However, the fee in dollars varies according to the current exchange rate. Please click here to find out the current fee.

 

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" AU PAIR VISAS" for FRANCE

Important : Your personal appearance is required when submitting your application.


        1- GENERAL INFORMATION "AU PAIR" VISAS :

Applicants must be between 18 and 30 years old.
They should apply at the appropriate consulate depending on their address in the USA.
The applicant should apply for the visa and should obtain it in his/her country of residence before traveling.
Note that a delay of procedure may be required.

 

       2-  REQUIREMENTS FOR AU PAIR VISAS :

Important : Your personal appearance is required when submitting your application.

  • Passport signed and valid for a period of 3 months after the last day ot stay.
  • 2 Long stay visa application forms completely and legibly filled out in French. Please print in black. Indicate your phone numbers and e-mail

 

  • 2 recent passport size photographs (loose, NOT glued). Passport size photographs : 1.36 x 1.75 inches. Photographs must have a white background with a full-face view of the person without wearing a hat or dark glasses. Photos must be taken within 6 months.
  • A proof of resident status in the US ( green card, valid US visa along with a copy of valid I-20 or valid I-AP66, visas...) if you are not an American citizen.
  • Employment contract signed by a DDTEFP (Direction départementale du travail, de l'emploi et de la formation professionnelle) depending on the French family residence ( + 1 copy ).
  • Student ID or proof of studies in the US (+ 1 copy)
  • Letter of admission from a French school ( + 1 copy)
  • A proof of residence in our jurisdiction (AL, NC, SC, GA, MS, TN) : copy of your drivers license.
  • Prepaid self-adressed envelope if you wish the Consulate to send back your passport by mail. Only UPS, Express mail, Priority mail, certified mail (registered mail) will be accepted. If not, the personal appearance will be required for the retrieval of the passport.  The Consulate is not responsible for any loss of mail or documents within.

 

        3- PROCESSING FEE :

Important : Your personal appearance is required when submitting your application.

Payment by credit card (Visa, Mastercard) or cash is accepted. There is now a flat rate for processing the afore mentioned visas. However, the fee in dollars varies according to the current exchange rate. Please click here to find out the current fee.



The Consular Administration has full authority to appreciate and request more documents than those submitted by the applicant. The latter is hereby informed that submitting the aforementioned documents does not ensure automatic issuance of the visa.

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VISAS FOR ARTISTS

Important : Your personal appearance is required when submitting your application.


    1- GENERAL INFORMATION VISAS FOR ARTISTS :

The file must contain all the documents indicated. Additional documents may, where appropriate, be required.
You may be required to present your file in person.
Presentation of a complete file does not necessarily mean that a visa will be issued



    2- REQUIREMENTS FOR ARTISTS VISAS :

 

·         Application form for a short-stay visa. To obtain the visa application form, click here. (PDF format - 40 Kb)

  • 2 recent passport size photographs (loose, NOT glued). Passport size photographs : 1.36 x 1.75 inches. Photographs must have a white background with a full-face view of the person without wearing a hat or dark glasses. Photos must be taken within 6 months.

·         Valid travel document (valid for at least three months longer than the visa applied for)

·         Ticket for the entire outward and return journey (at the time of the application's presentation, only documentary evidence of the reservation is required)

·         Employment contract stamped by a DDTEFP (Departmental Employment and Vocational Training Directorate)

(in the absence of a contract, see under business trip or self-employment)

·         Documentary evidence of financial resources, or certificate of assumption of responsibility for payment by the organization issuing the invitation

·         Assistance agreement covering medical and repatriation expenses, where appropriate

·         Prepaid self-adressed envelope if you wish the Consulate to send back your passport by mail. Only UPS, Express mail, Priority mail, certified mail (registered mail) will be accepted. If not, the personal appearance will be required for the retrieval of the passport.  The Consulate is not responsible for any loss of mail or documents within.

 

 

LONG STAY VISITOR VISAS

Important :
- Your personal appearance is required when submitting your application
- All long stay visitors visa applications must be submitted by appointment ONLY, Tuesday through Thursday, between 3pm and 5pm. Please request for an appointment by EMAIL at visas@consulfrance-atlanta.org.

        1 - GENERAL INFORMATION LONG STAY VISAS :

A visa is required for a long stay (over 90 days) in France, in the French Overseas department or territory, or in Monaco.
However, the citizens of the European Union, Liechtenstein, Monaco, The Holy See do not require a long stay visa for France and for the French overseas departments. The citizens of Andorra, San Marino and Switzerland do not require a long stay visa for France only.


Non -resident aliens visiting the US under a B1/B2 visa, and holders of a permit to reenter or a refugee travel document cannot apply for a long-term visa.


Note that the applicant should apply for the visa and should obtain it in his/her country of residence before traveling. Applications should be submitted at the appropriate consulate depending on the applicant address in the USA.


Note that an average period of two months (more for Monaco) is required for processing the application. The applicant will be notified.


Read General Information before applying.

 

        2 - REQUIREMENTS FOR LONG STAY VISITOR VISAS :

!!! All documents must be translated in French !!!

Important : Your personal appearance is required when submitting your application.

  • 4 recent passport size photographs (loose, NOT glued). Passport size photographs : 1.36 x 1.75 inches. Photographs must have a white background with a full-face view of the person without wearing a hat or dark glasses. Photos must be taken within 6 months.
  • PLEASE INCLUDE A COPY OF YOUR VALID PASSPORT OR TRAVEL DOCUMENT.
  • A long stay visa annex form completed, signed and notarized (one per adult)
  • Any documents presented that are not in French ,must be translated; these do not have to certified translations, but ones that must be accurate and neatly typed.
  • A detailed letter stating the purpose of your stay in France (tourism, ect.) (original + 4 copies)
  • A note, date and signed by the applicant, stating that he/she does not intend to have in France a paid professional activity which requires a work permit (original + 4 copies)
  • Proof of status as a resident in the United-States, (FOR NON US CITIZENS) for example a Resident Alien Card, I-20, F-1, or valid  I-797A, etc (original + 4 copies)
  • A notarized letter from you bank giving your most recent account balance, or the last three months bank statements ( the amount of you bank balance should be sufficient to support yourself during your stay in France. Please note that there are no set monetary requirements, merely a reasonable amount based on the duration of the requested stay).(original + 4 copies)
  • Proof of health insurance valid for travel in France. Kindly note that insurance cards usually do not indicate coverage outside of the United States. A letter from you provider will suffice. US Medicaid or Medicare are not valid abroad! (original + 4 copies)
  • A proof of residence in our jurisdiction (AL, NC, SC, GA, MS, TN) : copy of your drivers license.
  • According to the purpose of your stay one of the following  :
            1- Proof of lodging in France : a deed of ownership of property or a lease agreement 
            2- Proof of financial support from you sponsor in France : Proof of your sponsor's employment/assets
                3- If for Business:(1) A detailed letter from your employer in the United States stating(i)the purpose of your travel, (ii)the name(s) and address(es) of the company(ies) to be visited in France, (iii) the transportation, including the name(s) of the hotel(s) AND (2) a reciprocal letter from the company(ies) in France you will visit, stating items (i)-(v) set forth in (1) above.
  • A copy of your valid US drivers license from our jurisdiction (GA, AL, MS, TN, NC, SC)

 

  • Prepaid self-adressed envelope if you wish the Consulate to send back your passport by mail. Only UPS, Express mail, Priority mail, certified mail (registered mail) will be accepted. If not, the personal appearance will be required for the retrieval of the passport.  The Consulate is not responsible for any loss of mail or documents within.
  • For  MONACO: the applicant should add the following documents:
        - 5 application forms and 5 photographs instead of 4
        - A notarized letter stating that you have never been convicted for any offense or crime in the US or in any country and that you have never been filed for bankruptcy. (+ 2 copies )
        - A work contract certified by the Labor Department of Monaco (if it is the case)
        - Authorization to manage a company or set up a business (if it is the case)
        -a medical certificate by a physician accredited by the consulate
        -a lease or lease agreement, a certificate of lodging, a deed, or a written commitment to show such a document within three months after the arrival in Monaco.

 

The Consulate reserves the right to request more documentation as each case is unique and different. The applicant is hereby informed that submitting the aforementioned documents does not ensure automatic issuance of the visa.