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France Visa for Indians: Apply for a France Schengen Visa Now
iVisa
10 min read
Updated on Jan 23, 2024

If you are an Indian citizen planning to visit France to explore the beautiful sights and sounds, we've got you covered. France is a dream destination for travelers, students, and business enthusiasts worldwide, and we can help make your dream a reality.

We know visa applications can be confusing and intimidating, but don't worry; we're here to make it as easy as possible. We will guide you through the whole process step by step.

This guide will cover all the different types of visas available, the requirements, and the application process.

france countryside view

Do citizens of India need a visa for France?

Yes, Indian citizens must have a visa to enter France. France is a member of the Schengen area, meaning that India's citizens must have a Schengen visa to travel to France. The Schengen visa allows travelers to visit any 27 Schengen countries for up to 90 days Per Entry within 180 days.

You can check the list of the 27 Schengen countries here.

Types of France Visas Available from India

If you are a citizen of India, you may apply for different French visas, depending on the nature of your travel purpose.

Here are the main types of France visas available from India:

  • Schengen Visa: This is the most common type of visa for short-term stays in France and other Schengen member countries. It allows you to stay for up to 90 days Per Entry within 180 days for purposes such as tourism, business, or visiting friends and family.

Apply now with us for the Schengen visa.

  • Business Visa: This type of visa is intended for business-related travel to France, such as attending conferences, meetings, or trade fairs. It may also be required for short-term work assignments.

  • Student Visa: If you plan to study in France for over 90 days, you must apply for a student visa. This type of visa allows you to stay in France for the duration of your studies.

  • Long-stay Visa: If you plan to stay in France for over 90 days, you must apply for a long-stay visa. This type of visa is required for purposes such as work, family reunification, or retirement.

  • Transit Visa: If you are transiting through France on your way to another country, you may need to apply for a transit visa. This allows you to stay in the airport's international zone for a limited time.

How to get a France Visa from India?

To get a France Schengen visa from India, you can follow these general steps:

  • Use India as your best source: We simplify the Schengen visa application process, offering guidance, document review, and support. Our service is entirely online, which means you can complete your visa application from the comfort of your home or office.

We understand that the visa application process can be frustrating and time-consuming, so we designed our service to help you save time and reduce stress.

  • Determine the type of visa you require based on the purpose of your visit to France (tourism, business, education, etc.).

  • Check the requirements and gather the necessary documents, including a valid passport, a completed visa application form, proof of financial means, and travel medical insurance, among others.

  • We will schedule you an appointment with the embassy or French consulates in India to submit your application and supporting documents.

  • Attend the appointment in person and submit your application and supporting documents. You may also need to provide biometric data, such as fingerprints.

  • Wait for your application to be processed, which can take several weeks. Wait for your France Visa to be approved and collect it from the embassy or consulate.

Note: The exact process and requirements may vary depending on the individual circumstances and type of visa being applied for.

Applying for the France Schengen Visa from India

If you want to apply for a France Schengen visa quickly and easily, we can help. Here are three simple steps to start:

Step 1: Provide your personal and travel details using India's streamlined application form.

Step 2: Carefully check your information and pay the India service fee using a debit, credit card, or PayPal.

Note: The government visa fee must be paid separately at the embassy, consulate, or Visa Application Center (VAC).

After payment, you'll receive a PDF guide to help you answer the rest of the visa application questions. And if you have any questions, you can contact a visa expert.

After everything is answered and submitted, we will review everything and schedule a visa appointment for you. You will be emailed the date, time, and step-by-step instructions on preparing for the interview.

Step 3: Attend your visa interview, bringing all the necessary documents. Don't worry; we will also send you a document checklist.

Then, all you have to do is wait for the government to process and approve your application.

Documents required for a France Schengen Visa application from India

When you apply for a France Schengen Visa with us, you will receive a simplified list of all the required documents you must submit and bring to your visa appointment. Here are the most common documents you will need for your trip:

  • Visa application form: With us, you will receive a shorter and simpler version of the form you must sign and bring to your appointment.

  • Two photographs: Taken within the last three months. You can use our digital photo service to get government-compliant photos if you do not have one.

  • Valid Indian passport: Must be valid for at least three months from your arrival date in France, have at least two blank pages, and have been issued within the last ten years.

  • Fingerprints (only for those over 12 years old): You must provide fingerprints during your appointment unless you have been granted a biometric Schengen visa in the past 59 months.

  • Travel itinerary: This document should include your return flight, hotel accommodations, or tour schedules.

  • Financial statements: You must provide bank statements, employment contracts, or salary slips demonstrating sufficient financial means to pay for your trip.

  • Medical insurance: You must have a minimum coverage of EUR 30,000 for emergency medical treatment and repatriation in case of an emergency.

Processing times and France Visa fees from India

We provide standard processing for the Schengen Visa for France, which takes about 30 days for processing (does not include the time it takes to get a visa appointment or government processing) and is priced at USD $170.99, excluding government fees.

The government fee is approximately USD $0.00 and must be paid in cash at the VAC or consulate. (Minors between the ages of 6 and 12 are eligible for a 50% discount, and minors under 6 are exempt from the fee).

The government processing time for a France visa from India can vary depending on the type of visa and the workload at the French embassy in New Delhi or the consulate where the application is submitted.

In general, it can take up to 15 days for a short-stay visa and up to 2 months for a long-stay visa to be processed. Applying for the visa well before the intended travel date is recommended to avoid any last-minute delays or complications.

What to expect at the France Visa interview in India

As an Indian citizen applying for a France visa, you may be required to attend an interview at the French embassy or consulate in India. Here are some things to expect during the interview:

  • Purpose of the trip: The visa officer will ask you about the purpose of your trip to France, whether for tourism, business, study, or visiting family or friends. Be prepared to provide details and supporting documents, such as flight tickets, hotel reservations, or invitation letters.

  • Financial means: The visa officer may ask about your financial means to cover the trip, including your income, savings, and any financial support from sponsors. You may be required to show bank statements, tax returns, or employment letters.

  • Ties to India: The visa officer may ask about your ties to India, such as your job, family, or property ownership. This ensures you have reasons to return to India after your trip to France.

  • Security and health concerns: The visa officer may ask you about your travel history, criminal record, or health conditions that may pose a risk to public health or security in France.

Note: Be honest, polite, and respectful during the interview. Prepare all the required documents and answer the questions clearly and confidently. If approved, you will be issued a France visa to enter and stay in France for a specific period.

Documents that the French embassy or consulate in India may require from you

  • Passport: Your passport must have at least two blank pages and be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in France.

  • Visa application form: You must complete the visa application form accurately and completely.

  • Photo: You must provide a recent passport-size photo that meets the French visa photo requirements.

  • Travel itinerary: You must provide proof of your travel itinerary, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and a detailed itinerary of your activities in France.

  • Financial documents: You must provide proof of your financial means to cover your France trip, such as bank statements, employment letters, and tax returns. The embassy or consulate may require a minimum amount of funds to be available during your stay in France.

  • Invitation letter: If you are visiting friends or family in France, you must provide an invitation letter from your host stating the purpose and duration of your visit and their contact information.

  • Medical insurance: You must provide proof of medical insurance that covers you for the entire duration of your stay in France, with a minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical expenses, emergency medical treatment, and repatriation.

  • Other documents: Depending on the purpose of your trip, you may be required to provide additional documents, such as a letter of admission from a French university, a business invitation letter, or a marriage certificate.

france country view

Tips for a smooth France Schengen Visa application process for citizens from India

  1. Create a checklist: Create a checklist of all the required documents and tasks you must complete for your visa application. This can help you stay organized and avoid missing anything important.

  2. Use our professional services to your advantage: This can help you stay up-to-date on any changes to the application process and get answers to your questions. You will have a straightforward process with more opportunities to be approved.

  3. Write a cover letter: Consider writing a cover letter to accompany your application. This can help you explain your travel plans and reasons for visiting France and can make your application stand out.

  4. Dress professionally for the interview: If you are required to attend an interview, dress professionally and arrive on time. This can help you make a good impression and increase your chances of success.

Common challenges faced by citizens from India applying for the France visa

You may face some common challenges when applying for a France visa. These challenges include

  • Complicated visa application process: The visa application process can be lengthy and complex, requiring the submission of multiple documents and fulfilling various requirements.

This can be overwhelming for some applicants, especially those applying for the first time. That’s why we created a simplified application form for you.

We will guide you for an easier and more successful process. You can contact us at all times with any questions or concerns.

  • Difficulty in securing visa appointments: Due to the high volume of visa applications, booking a visa appointment at the French embassy in India can be challenging, with wait times ranging from a few weeks to various months.

*That's one of the reasons why you should apply with us. We will deal with this challenging part for you. Our agents will work hard to secure the earliest interview possible for you.

  • Meeting financial requirements: Indian citizens may need help providing the financial documentation required for the visa application process, such as bank statements or proof of income.

If you apply with us, we will send you a detailed list of the documentation they might require from you.

  • Limited visa validity: Some Indian citizens may receive visas with limited validity, which can restrict their travel plans and require them to apply for visas more frequently. We recommend you check your visa validity before planning your trip.

How to avoid a France Schengen Visa rejection

  • Consider utilizing our services — our team of visa experts can assist in the application process, increasing your chance for a successful visa application.

With our expertise, we ensure that your application is complete and accurate. We also guide you through getting any required documentation and in-person processes like the interviews.

Knowing your application is in capable hands gives you peace of mind and saves time and effort.

Frequently asked questions about the France Schengen Visa from India

  • Can I apply for a France Schengen visa from India online?

Yes, you can apply for a France Schengen visa from India online with us.

  • Can I extend my Schengen visa while in France?

In general, Schengen visas cannot be extended while in France. If you need to stay longer than 90 days, you may need to apply for a long-stay visa or seek other options, such as a residency permit.

  • What should I do if my French Schengen visa application is denied?

If your visa application is denied, you can appeal the decision or reapply with additional documentation. We can offer further assistance to help you reapply.

It's important to note that the answers to these questions are general and may vary depending on the individual circumstances of the visa applicant.

Why iVisa?

We have implemented strict security guidelines for all its services. You can be sure that your information is safely managed. Our services are reliable, and our reputation speaks for itself!

Explore the comments section and check our customer success.

Do you need more information?

For questions about the France Schengen Visa or other online applications, please contact our 24/7 customer service team via online chat or email at [email protected]. We're here to make your travel experience easy and stress-free.

Disclaimer
  • iVisa is NOT affiliated with any government agency. This site does not provide legal advice and we are not a law firm. None of our customer service representatives are lawyers and they also do not provide legal advice. We are a private, internet-based travel and immigration consultancy provider dedicated to helping individuals travel around the world. You may apply by yourself directly on the various government websites. The source of information: https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/web/france-visas/home
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