How to apply for France visitor visa from India
Applying for a France Visitor Visa from India includes several steps, from gathering the required documents to attending a visa interview. Follow this detailed step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth process for your France visitor visa from India.
Step 1: Determine the Right Visa Type
Determining the right visa class is completely based on the purpose of travel. You need a Schengen short-stay visa (Type C) for short visits, valid for up to 90 days within 180 days.
Purpose of Visit:
✔ Tourism – Exploring France for leisure
✔ Family or Friend Visit – Invitation from a relative or friend
✔ Business or Conference – Attending meetings or corporate events
Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents:
Your success in obtaining a France visitor visa from India requires submitting the correct & complete documents to the French authority. You need to provide translated originals of all documents in English or French together with proper documentation standards specified by the consulate.
You must submit the following France visitor visa requirements:
✅ Valid Passport – Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your return date, with at least 2 blank pages.
✅ Completed France Visa Application Form – Available online via the France-Visas website.
✅ Recent Photographs – Two passport-sized photos (as per Schengen specifications).
✅ Cover Letter – A formal letter explaining your trip purpose, travel itinerary, and financial details.
✅ Flight Reservation – Proof of round-trip ticket booking.
✅ Hotel Booking or Invitation Letter – If staying with a friend/relative, an official invitation letter (Attestation d’accueil) is required.
✅ Travel Medical Insurance – Must cover €30,000 for medical emergencies and be valid in all Schengen countries.
✅ Financial Proof – Last 3–6 months' bank statements, ITR returns, salary slips, or sponsorship proof to show financial stability.
✅ Employment Proof – No-objection certificate (NOC) from your employer or business registration proof if self-employed.
Step 3: Apply Online via France-Visas Portal:
To apply for a France visitor visa from India, you need to apply online and fill out the visa application form, upload the required documents, pay applicable charges, get the reference number and print the completed form. If you need any assistance with the application process, feel free to let me know!😊
Step 4: Schedule a Visa Appointment at VFS Global:To schedule a France Visitor Visa appointment, select your nearest visa application centre, choose a suitable date and time, and confirm your appointment. Ensure you carry all required documents and attend the biometric verification at the VFS centre on the scheduled date.
Step 5: Attend the Visa Appointment & Biometrics:On the date of your appointment, You need to visit the VFS Global center at your scheduled time. Please carry all supporting documents. You also need to complete biometrics(fingerprints & photograph)at VFS, and the collection officer may ask additional questions. You must be prepared and ensure all documents are to avoid delays.
Step 7: Collect Your Passport & Visa DecisionOnce your France Visitor Visa application is processed, you can collect your passport and visa decision from the VFS Global center or opt for courier delivery. If approved, check the visa details, including validity and conditions. If rejected, review the refusal letter for reasons and consider reapplying with stronger documentation.