Europe – France Visa – Residence Permits

1. Do I need a visa to visit France as a tourist?

Yes, visitors from certain countries are required to obtain a visa before traveling to France for tourism purposes. The specific visa requirements vary depending on your nationality and the duration of your stay.

2. How do I know if I need a visa?
You can check if you need a visa by visiting the website of the French Embassy or Consulate in your country. You can also consult with your nearest French diplomatic mission for more information.

3. How do I apply for a tourist visa for France?
You will need to submit an application to the French Embassy or Consulate in your country, providing documentation such as a valid passport, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, and proof of financial means.

4. What is the processing time for a tourist visa?
The processing time for a tourist visa may vary depending on your country of residence, but it typically takes around 15 days to process.

5. Is there an expedited processing option available?
Yes, some French diplomatic missions offer expedited processing services at an additional fee.

6. Can I extend my tourist visa while in France?
It is possible to extend your tourist visa while in France, but it is recommended that you apply for the extension at least one month before your current visa expires.

7. Can I work on a tourist visa in France?
No, you are not allowed to work on a tourist visa in France. If you wish to work in France, you will need to obtain the appropriate work permit.

8. Do I need travel insurance for my trip to France?
While it is not mandatory, it is highly recommended that you have travel insurance when traveling to France or any other country.

9. Can I enter other Schengen countries with my French tourist visa?
Yes, tourists with a valid French Schengen visa can enter and travel within other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a period of six months from their date of entry. However, it is recommended to primarily visit and spend the majority of your time in France as stated in your visa application.

2. How long can I stay in France with a tourist visa?


The maximum length of stay with a tourist visa in France is 90 days within a six-month period. After this time, you would need to leave the country and re-enter if you wish to continue your stay as a tourist. It is important to check the expiration date on your visa to ensure that you do not overstay your allowed time.

3. What is the process for obtaining a France Schengen visa?


The process for obtaining a France Schengen visa is as follows:

1. Determine the type of visa you need: The first step is to determine the type of visa you need based on your purpose of travel, such as tourism, business, or medical visit.

2. Check the processing times: It is important to check the processing times for visa applications for the country where you will be submitting your application. This can vary depending on your nationality and time of year.

3. Gather required documents: You will need to submit a range of documents along with your visa application, including a completed and signed application form, a valid passport with at least 3 months validity beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen area, proof of travel insurance, proof of accommodation and financial means, and any other required supporting documents.

4. Get an appointment: You may need to schedule an appointment at the nearest French consulate/embassy in your country or at an external service provider like a Visa Application Centre (VAC).

5. Submit your application: On the day of your appointment, you will need to submit all required documents and pay the application fee.

6. Attend an interview (if required): Depending on your nationality and purpose of travel, you may be required to attend an interview at the consulate/embassy or VAC.

7. Wait for processing: Once you have submitted your application and paid the fee, it will be processed by the authorities. This can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.

8. Collect your passport with decision: After processing is complete, you will be able to collect your passport with either a stamped visa or a rejection letter explaining why your visa was not approved.

9. Travel to France: If your application is successful, make sure to check that all information on the visa sticker in your passport is correct before travelling to France or any other Schengen country.

10. Comply with entry and stay requirements: Upon arrival in France, you may be asked to present your passport with the visa sticker to immigration officials. It is important to comply with the entry and stay requirements specified on your visa.

4. Can I work or study on a tourist visa in France?

No, a tourist visa does not permit you to work or study in France. You would need to apply for a specific visa that allows you to do so, such as a student visa or a work visa. It is important to follow the regulations and restrictions of your visa type while in France. Violating the terms of your visa can result in penalties, including deportation and being banned from entering France in the future.

5. How do I apply for a residence permit in France?


To apply for a residence permit in France, follow these steps:

1. Determine which type of residence permit you need: Depending on your reason for living in France (e.g. work, study, family reunification), you will need to apply for a specific type of residence permit.

2. Gather the required documents: The documents needed for your application will vary depending on your situation, but generally include proof of identity, proof of address, proof of financial means, and any relevant certificates or diplomas.

3. Make an appointment: You will need to make an appointment at the French consulate or embassy in your home country to submit your application and biometric data.

4. Prepare and submit your application: Fill out the application form and gather all required documents. Submit everything at your appointment with the consulate or embassy.

5. Pay the application fee: The fee for a residence permit varies depending on the type of permit you are applying for. Check with the consulate or embassy for specific fees.

6. Wait for a decision: Processing times can vary, so it is important to apply well in advance of your planned move to France.

7. Collect your residence permit: If approved, you will be notified by email or phone when your residence permit is ready to be collected at the consulate or embassy.

8. Register with local authorities: Within 2 months of arriving in France, you must register with the French Office of Immigration and Integration (OFII) in order to validate and activate your visa/residence permit.

9. Renewing your residence permit: Most residence permits must be renewed annually; check with local authorities for details on how and when to renew yours.

6. What are the requirements for obtaining a long-term residence permit in France?


To obtain a long-term residence permit in France, one must meet the following requirements:

1. Valid passport: The applicant must have a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity.

2. Financial stability: The applicant must provide proof of sufficient financial stability to support themselves without relying on public assistance.

3. Adequate accommodation: The applicant must have adequate and suitable accommodation in France.

4. Health insurance: The applicant must have health insurance coverage that is valid in France.

5. Integration: The applicant must demonstrate integration into French society by providing proof of language proficiency and cultural knowledge or by attending an integration course.

6. Clean criminal record: The applicant must provide a police clearance certificate from their country of origin and any other countries they have resided in for the past five years.

7. Employment or self-employment: To be eligible for a long-term residence permit, the applicant must be employed or self-employed in France or have sufficient funds to support themselves without working for up to five years.

8. Continuous residency: The applicant must have resided in France legally for at least five years before applying for a long-term residence permit.

9. Renewal of temporary residence permits: If the applicant has been residing in France under a temporary residence permit, they can apply for a long-term residence permit if their current permit is about to expire.

10. Medical examination: Applicants from certain countries may also need to undergo a medical examination to ensure they do not pose any health risks to the French population.

Note: Specific requirements may vary depending on the type of long-term residence permit being applied for (e.g., family reunion, scientific research, student, etc.). It is recommended to consult with the French consulate or immigration authorities for detailed information and guidance on specific requirements and procedures.

7. Can I renew my French residence permit?

The residency permit in France is valid for a fixed period. It needs to be renewed if you wish to continue residing legally in the country. The process of renewal should start at least two months before your current permit expires.

To renew your French residency permit, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Check your eligibility: Before applying for a renewal, make sure that you are still eligible for the same type of residency permit.
2. Prepare required documents: You will need to gather all the necessary documents such as a valid passport, proof of income, proof of accommodation, and any other documents that may be required depending on the type of residence permit you are renewing.
3. Complete the application form: You will need to complete and sign the application form for renewal (Cerfa No. 15614*0). Make sure to provide accurate and up-to-date information.
4. Pay the fees: You will need to pay the fees for renewing your residence permit. The amount may vary depending on your situation and type of permit.
5. Submit your application: Once you have completed all the necessary steps, you can submit your application either by mail or in person at your local Prefecture or town hall.
6. Attend an interview (if required): In some cases, an interview may be required as part of the renewal process. You will be notified if this is necessary.
7. Wait for a decision: It may take several weeks for a decision to be made on your renewal application. If it is approved, you will receive a new residency card by mail or you may have to collect it in person.
8. Notify relevant authorities: Once you receive your new residence permit, make sure to notify relevant authorities such as your employer and bank.

It is important to note that if you fail to renew your French residence permit before it expires, you may face penalties and even risk losing your legal status in the country. Therefore, it is essential to start the renewal process early and make sure to follow all the necessary steps carefully.

8. Is there a limit on how long you can stay in France with a residence permit?


The length of time you can stay in France with a residence permit depends on the type of permit you have been granted. There are different permits for different purposes such as work, study, family reunification, etc. Each permit has its own validity period and may be renewed or extended depending on your circumstances.

In general, temporary residence permits are valid for one year and can be extended up to four years. Long-term residence permits are valid for 10 years and are renewable. However, if you hold a long-term residence permit as an EU Blue Card holder or in certain other specific categories, it can be renewed indefinitely.

It is important to note that holding a residence permit does not automatically grant you unlimited time in France. You must ensure that you follow the rules and regulations pertaining to your specific permit in order to maintain your legal status in the country.

9. What documents do I need to provide for a residence permit application?


The specific documents required for a residence permit application may vary depending on the country and the individual’s situation. However, some common documents that may be required include:

1. A valid passport or travel document
2. Completed application form (may be available online)
3. Proof of purpose for residency (e.g. work contract, study enrollment)
4. Proof of sufficient financial means to support oneself during the stay
5. Proof of accommodation (e.g. rental agreement)
6. Health insurance coverage
7. Passport-sized photographs
8. Biometric data (such as fingerprints or a digital photo)
9. Police clearance certificate or criminal record check from home country
10.Import/export declaration forms for personal belongings
11.Certified copies of marriage/divorce certificates, if applicable
12.Other supporting documents as requested by the immigration authorities (e.g. bank statements, employment contracts)

10. How long does it take to get a French residence permit?


The processing time for a French residence permit can vary, but generally it takes 2-3 months from the date of application. However, this may be longer in some cases if there are delays or additional documents are required. It is recommended to apply for a residence permit at least 3 months before it is needed.

11. Can I travel within the Schengen Area with a French residence permit?

Yes, you can travel within the Schengen Area with a valid French residence permit. The Schengen Agreement allows for free movement of citizens and legal residents within its member countries (including France). However, it is always advisable to check with the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit beforehand for any additional entry requirements or restrictions.

12. Do I need health insurance to obtain a French residence permit?


Yes, health insurance is required to obtain a French residence permit. You will need to provide proof of health insurance coverage when applying for your residence permit.

13. What is the difference between “ordinary” and “exceptional” reasons for obtaining a French residence permit?


Ordinary reasons for obtaining a French residence permit include employment, family reunification, or studying in France. These are considered typical and necessary reasons for someone to live in the country.

Exceptional reasons refer to circumstances that are not common or could not have been predicted. For example, a natural disaster in the person’s home country may make it unsafe for them to return, or they may be a victim of trafficking and require protection.

In general, exceptional circumstances must involve humanitarian concerns or serious international obligations that justify the issuance of a residence permit outside of the normal application process. They must be supported by strong evidence and cannot be based solely on convenience or personal preference.

14. Can foreigners buy property in France and obtain residency through this route?

Yes, non-EU citizens can purchase property in France and obtain residency through this route. However, there are several requirements that must be met:

1. Long-stay visa: Non-EU citizens who wish to stay in France for longer than 90 days (e.g. to buy or invest in property) will need to apply for a long-stay visa from their local French consulate.

2. Proof of funds: As part of the visa application process, you will need to prove that you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay in France without needing to work.

3. Property ownership: Non-EU citizens can purchase residential or commercial real estate in France without any restrictions. However, some restrictions may apply for agricultural land or certain types of properties near borders or coastlines.

4. Residency permit (carte de sejour): Once you have purchased a property in France, you can apply for a temporary one-year residency permit through the local Préfecture (regional administration office).

5. Renewal of residence permit: After the first year, you can renew your temporary residence permit for two additional years, and then apply for a 10-year permanent residence permit.

6. Dual citizenship: It is possible to become a dual citizen of both France and your home country through this route.

It is recommended to consult with a legal professional or immigration lawyer for specific guidance on purchasing property and obtaining residency in France as a non-EU citizen.

15. Are there any language requirements for obtaining a French residence permit?


Yes, non-EU citizens applying for a residence permit in France may be required to demonstrate proficiency in French. This is typically done by passing a French language test or providing evidence of completed French language courses. The specific language requirements vary depending on the type of residence permit and the individual’s situation (e.g. family members of EU citizens may be exempt from this requirement).

16. If my spouse is an EU citizen, do I still need to apply for a French residence permit?


If your spouse is an EU citizen who has either lived in France for more than three months or intends to do so, you may apply for a residence permit providing proof of family attachment by relations. This permit will be valid for five years if the family ties have existed for at least two years and are still maintained at the date of application – A “Carte de séjour – membre de la famille UE” (Residence permit – Family member of a European Union citizen). You may also apply directly through the prefecture without having an ADS stamp.

If you do not have proof of family attachment or your spouse does not meet certain conditions (e.g. being employed or self-employed in France), then you would need to apply for a different type of residence permit as a non-EU citizen.

17. Can I bring my family members with me on my French residency?

Your family members can come to live with you in France if they are EU/EEA citizens or Swiss nationals. They will also have the right to stay and work in France without any restrictions. If your family members are not EU/EEA or Swiss citizens, they may need a visa to enter and stay in France with you.

18. Will my spouse be able to work in France if I have French residency?
If your spouse is an EU/EEA citizen or a Swiss national, they will have the right to work in France without any restrictions.

If your spouse is not an EU/EEA or Swiss citizen, they may need a visa that allows them to work in France. The type of visa they need will depend on their nationality and the purpose of their stay in France.

19. Can I purchase property in France if I have French residency?
Yes, as a French resident, you can purchase property in France just as any other French citizen would. You will not face any restrictions based on your residency status.

20. Can I apply for French citizenship with just a French residency?
No, having French residency does not automatically make you eligible for French citizenship. You must meet certain requirements, such as living in France for a specific period of time (usually at least 5 years), being able to speak French fluently, and passing a citizenship test before you can apply for citizenship.

18. How does Brexit affect UK citizens living in or moving to France?


Brexit, the United Kingdom’s exit from the European Union, will have a significant impact on UK citizens living in or planning to move to France. Here are some of the main ways that Brexit may affect UK citizens in France:

1. Residency rights: As a member of the EU, UK citizens currently have the right to live and work in any other EU country without restrictions. After Brexit, this will no longer be automatic for UK citizens living in France. However, under the Withdrawal Agreement between the UK and EU, those who are already living and working in France before December 31, 2020 (the end of the transition period) will have their rights protected and can apply for a new residence permit with similar rights as they have now.

2. Healthcare: Under current EU rules, UK citizens living in France are entitled to access healthcare through the French public healthcare system through their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). After Brexit, this may no longer be valid and affected individuals may need to obtain private health insurance.

3. Driving licenses: Currently, UK driving licenses are valid across all EU countries. After Brexit, UK citizens living in France may need to exchange their UK license for a French one.

4. Education: Many British expats send their children to school in France. With Brexit, UK students may no longer qualify for reduced fees or free education at public schools.

5. Pensions: Withdrawing your pension from outside of Europe could have added costs after Brexit. There is also some likely uncertainty around who will pay taxes once you become resident.

6. Property ownership: British buyers own thousands of properties throughout diverse regions within France – mainly holiday homes and second properties – creating an enormous amount of wealth into local French communities nationwide (estimated at over £7Billion). The same goes formany tens of thousands retiring there entirely creating local workforces being hugely impacted by Furseville associates Lockdown job offers.

7. Mobility: With the UK’s exit from the EU, there may be additional barriers to travel between the UK and France, such as increased border checks and regulations.

It is important for UK citizens living in or planning to move to France to stay updated on any changes that may affect them as a result of Brexit. Individuals are encouraged to check the official websites of the French government and the UK government for updates and information on how they can prepare for these changes.

19.Can individuals from non-EU countries still apply for permanent residency in France?

Yes, individuals from non-EU countries can apply for permanent residency in France. The process and requirements may vary depending on the individual’s nationality and situation, so it is best to check with the French authorities or a qualified immigration lawyer for specific details. Generally, non-EU citizens may be able to apply for permanent residency after living legally in France for five continuous years. They will need to provide proof of stable income, integration into French society, and sufficient knowledge of the French language.

20.What happens if my application for a French residence permit is denied or rejected?


If your application for a French residence permit is denied or rejected, you will not be able to stay in France for an extended period of time. You may be asked to leave the country immediately or at a later specified date.

You may also have the opportunity to appeal the decision or reapply for a different type of residence permit. It is important to carefully review the reason for the denial and seek legal advice if necessary.

If you choose to stay in France after being denied a residence permit, you could face penalties and potentially be banned from entering the country in the future. It is important to follow the instructions given by French authorities and explore all available options before making any decisions.