France visa from Pakistan: How to apply for a France Schengen Visa

If you're a Pakistani citizen planning a trip to France, you'll need a visa to enter the country. This guide will provide you with all the necessary information on visa types, application steps, and documentation requirements to help simplify your journey.

Do Pakistani citizens need a visa for France?

Yes, Pakistani citizens must have a visa to travel to France. Since France is part of the Schengen area, the Schengen visa is required for any stay of up to 90 days in a 180-day period. This visa allows travel to other Schengen countries as well, in line with the 90/180 rule.

Learn more about the France Schengen Visa

Other types of France visas available to Pakistanis

Depending on your reason for visiting France, there are several visa options. Here are the main types:

• Business visa: For short-term business travel, including attending conferences, meetings, or trade fairs. It may also apply to temporary work assignments​.

• Student visa: If you plan to study in France for over 90 days, a student visa is necessary for the duration of your studies​.

• Long-stay visa: For visits over 90 days, a long-stay visa is required for purposes like work, family reunification, or retirement.

• Transit visa: If you're transiting through France en route to another country, you may need a transit visa for brief stays in the airport's international zone​.

How to apply for a France Schengen Visa from Pakistan

While we do not currently process Schengen visa applications, we can still guide you through the steps:

1.Complete the visa application form: Fill out the Schengen visa application form available on the official France-Visas website.

2.Schedule an appointment: Book your appointment at a Visa Application Center (VAC) in Pakistan well in advance, as appointment slots can fill up quickly​.

3.Prepare your documents: Ensure all your documents, such as your passport, travel itinerary, and proof of financial means, are in order. See the full list of required documents below​.

4.Attend your appointment Submit your application in person, provide your biometrics (if you haven't provided biometric data for a Schengen visa in the last 59 months), and pay the application fee​.

Required documents for a France Schengen Visa application from Pakistan

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare for your visa application:

• Visa application form: Completed and signed​.

• Two photographs: Passport-sized, taken within the last three months.

• Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in France, have at least two blank pages, and must have been issued within the last ten years​.

• Proof of accommodation: A hotel reservation, an invitation from a host, or details of your accommodation​.

• Financial proof: Recent bank statements, proof of income, or other financial documents to show you can cover your stay​.

• Travel itinerary: Details of your flight, accommodation, and of your travel schedule​.

• Medical insurance: Minimum coverage of EUR 30,000 for emergency medical expenses​.

France Schengen Visa fees and processing times for Pakistanis

The France Schengen Visa fee for Pakistani citizens is 90 euros (approximately USD $98 or 27 199 Pakistan rupees), and is payable at the Visa Application Center. Minors between the ages of 6 and 12 receive a 50% discount, while minors under 6 are exempt from the fee​.

After your visa appointment, the processing time usually takes up to 15 days, so applying early is advisable to avoid delays​.

Tips for a smooth visa application

• Create a checklist: Keep track of all the documents you need for your application to ensure nothing is missed.

• Prepare a cover letter: Adding a cover letter explaining your travel plans and intentions can add clarity to your application.

• Be organized: Ensure all your documents meet the consulate's guidelines to avoid delays in processing.

Common challenges for Pakistanis applying for a France Schengen Visa

• Booking an appointment: Due to high demand, securing a visa appointment can be difficult, with waiting times of several weeks​.

• Meeting financial requirements: You must provide clear financial documentation, such as bank statements or salary slips, which can sometimes be a challenge​.

• Limited visa validity: Some applicants may receive visas with restricted validity periods. Always check your visa to ensure it covers your intended travel dates​.

Frequently asked questions about the France Schengen Visa

Can I extend my Schengen visa while in France?

Schengen visas cannot typically be extended once in France. If you need to stay longer than 90 days, consider applying for a long-stay visa or a residency permit​.

What can I do if my visa application is denied?

You can either appeal the decision through the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs or reapply with additional supporting documentation.

Do you need more information?

If you need to apply for a visa or require further information, you can reach out to the French Embassy in Islamabad.

Address: Diplomatic Enclave, G5, Islamabad

Phone: +92 51 201 15 75