France draws over 17 million Briton travelers annually, for Paris, Nice, and Beaujolais. Whether you are a UK resident or wish to enjoy France you should gain knowledge of visa requirements and processes. This guide will first provide the details of how to apply for a French Schengen visa while staying in the UK, as this way you will be able to get easily ready for your journey.
Do UK Citizens Need a France Visa
UK citizens with valid passports can travel without a visa. However, residents of other nationalities may need a visa, depending on their nationality.
Visa Eligibility
- Your UK residence permit must be valid for at least one month beyond your planned departure date from France confirming your legal stay in the UK.
- If you hold a 3-month UK visa, extend it for an additional three months to become eligible and begin the extension process before your current visa expires.
- If France is your primary destination where you plan to stay the longest, or if it’s the first Schengen country you’ll visit, you need to apply.
- For stays exceeding 90 days in France, get a residency permit instead of a Schengen visa for a legally extended stay.
- If you’re not a UK resident, apply for a French visa at the appropriate Embassy, Consulate, or Visa Application Centre in your country of residence.
France Visa Requirements
- Your passport must have been issued within the last 10 years, have at least two blank pages, and remain valid for at least three months
- Ensure your UK residence permit or identity card is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure
- Complete the French visa application form accurately and sign it.
- Provide a recent passport-sized photo with a light background, showing your full facial features, taken within the last three months.
- Write a concise yet comprehensive cover letter explaining the purpose of your visit.
- Present round-trip flight or travel reservations, detailing your planned transport and itinerary.
- Show evidence of travel insurance covering medical emergencies and repatriation throughout your stay.
- Provide proof of accommodation, such as a hotel booking, rental agreement, or invitation from your French host.
- Submit a recent UK bank account statement for the past three months, demonstrating funds of at least 65€ per person per day. This amount may vary based on your accommodation arrangements.
Additional Requirements Based on Employment Status
For UK Employees: Provide your employment contract, recent UK bank statements, leave permission from your employer, and income tax-related documents.
The Self-Employed: Include your business license, company bank statements, and income tax-related documents.
International Students: Submit proof of enrollment and a no-objection certificate from your UK school or university.
Retirees: Provide pension statements covering the past six months.
For Unemployed Individuals Married to an EU Citizen: Include a Confirmation of Employment letter from your spouse’s employer, your spouse’s valid passport, and a legally translated marriage certificate if applicable.
France Visa Application Procedure
- Determine the appropriate French short-stay visa based on your purpose of travel.
- Find out where to submit your French visa application within the UK.
- Decide when to apply, keeping in mind that applications can be made up to six months before your planned trip.
- Collect all required documents according to the visa requirements.
- Schedule an interview appointment at the French visa application center.
- Attend the interview, which is a crucial part of the application process.
- Complete the payment of the French visa application fee.
- Allow sufficient time for the processing of your visa application after submission.
Scheduling a French Visa Appointment in London
Securing an appointment is a vital part of the French visa application process. You have several options to choose from:
Direct Appointment at French Consulate General: Book a free appointment directly at the French Consulate General in London on designated days, usually Wednesday mornings.
Through TLScontact: Use it to book appointments in London, Edinburgh, or Manchester either by phone or through their online application system.
Visa Types and Processing Time
Schengen visas cover different travel purposes like business, tourism, and family visits. Depending on your needs, you could get a single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry visa. Processing usually takes at least 15 days from your application date. Apply at least 20 workdays (4 weeks) before you plan to leave to avoid delays.
France Visa Fees and Exemptions
Adults: £73 (€80)
Children (6-12 years): £36.5 (€40)
Children (under 6 years): Free
Some groups, like spouses of French citizens or EU family members, are exempt from fees. Check with the French Consulate for exemptions.
Getting a French Schengen visa as a UK resident requires understanding the requirements and procedures. Follow this guide to prepare for your journey to France confidently. Though the visa process may seem complex, it’s essential for exploring all that France has to offer.
