How do I get a Schengen visa for France?
To apply for a Schengen visa for France, UK-based travellers must submit a completed application through the official France-Visas portal, book an appointment at TLScontact, provide required documents including proof of travel insurance with minimum €30,000 medical cover, attend a biometric appointment, pay the visa fee, and track their application online. Single-entry visas allow stays up to 90 days in the Schengen area.
Do you need a visa?
Most UK citizens do not need a visa for short trips to France up to 90 days within any 180-day period. However, non-UK nationals residing in the UK may require one depending on their nationality.
Who doesn’t need a visa?
- British citizens for trips ≤ 90 days.
- Citizens from countries with visa-free agreements.
- Holders of UK residence cards with specific exemptions.
Who must apply?
- Non-UK nationals requiring a Schengen visa.
- Visitors planning to stay longer than 90 days.
Remember: Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond your planned stay, and the 90/180-day Schengen rule applies strictly.
Types of France visas
- Short-stay (Type C) tourist/business: Allows up to 90 days for tourism, business, or family visits. Most common for UK travellers.
- Multiple-entry add-ons: Options include double, triple, or one-year multiple-entry visas, depending on travel needs and previous visa history.
- Long-stay (Type D): For stays beyond 90 days, including work, study, or family reunification. Usually requires additional paperwork and approval.
Which one to choose?
If your visit is under 90 days, the short-stay Schengen visa (Type C) is what you need.
Document checklist
- Passport: Issued within last 10 years, valid ≥3 months after return
- France-Visas application form: Fully completed and signed
- Photo: 1 photo, 35 × 45 mm, white background
- Travel-medical insurance: Minimum €30,000 medical cover for all Schengen states — see Gigasure for fast, compliant Travel Insurance policy
- Proof of funds: At least €65/day with hotel booking or €120/day without
- Proof of accommodation: Hotel booking confirmation or attestation d’accueil
- UK BRP / residence card: For non-UK citizens
- Additional docs: For minors, business travellers, students as required
How to apply: 7 Simple Steps
- Create an account on the official France-Visas portal.
- Complete the online application form and print the receipt.
- Book an appointment with TLScontact (available in London, Manchester, Edinburgh).
- Prepare all required documents and passport photos.
- Attend the biometric appointment (fingerprints and photo).
- Pay the visa fee (note TLScontact accepts card or cash depending on location) and submit your file.
- Track your application online; collect your passport or arrange courier service.
Tip: Apply between 20 and 180 working days before your trip. Processing usually takes 2–15 days but can extend to 45 days during peak periods.
Visa fees
Applicant: Adult (12+)
- Short-stay visa: €90
- Long-stay visa: €120
Applicant: Child (6–11)
- Short-stay visa: €45
- Long-stay visa: N/A
Applicant: Child (<6)
- Short-stay visa: Free
- Long-stay visa: N/A
Applicant: Selected exemptions
- Short-stay visa: Spouses of French/EU citizens, researchers, students, etc.
Note: Visa fees are non-refundable. TLScontact service fee is approximately £30.
Financial means / subsistence requirements
France requires proof you can financially support yourself:
- €65/day if staying in a hotel or rented accommodation.
- €120/day if no accommodation proof is available.
- €32.50/day if hosted by a resident with an attestation d’accueil.
Example: For a 10-day trip staying in a hotel, you must show at least €650 in funds.
Where to apply & biometric data
Applications are submitted at TLScontact centres in London, Manchester, and Edinburgh. In rare cases (e.g., diplomatic passports), you may apply directly via the French consulate.
Biometric data (fingerprints and photo) are valid for 59 months and can be reused if taken since 2021.
Upcoming rule changes
- ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) launches in late 2026. UK travellers will need to apply for a €7 ETIAS authorisation valid for three years before entering Schengen countries, including France. However, this date can change so do bear this in mind and make sure you check well in advance of your trip.
- EES (Entry/Exit System) will roll out from October 2025, replacing manual passport stamping with digital records.
Insurance requirement explained
EU regulations require Schengen visa applicants to have travel medical insurance with:
- Minimum €30,000 coverage for medical emergencies and repatriation.
- Coverage valid for the entire duration of the stay and all transit days within Schengen.
Gigasure offers Schengen-compliant Travel Insurance plans that meet all requirements, with instant certificates issued online to accompany your application. We make taking out a reliable policy a simple, stress-free process so you can quickly focus on planning your French adventure.
Why travellers pick Gigasure Schengen Travel Insurance
- Flexible, affordable plans tailored to your trip length and activities, so your policy is always working for you. We offer a variety of add-ons to enhance your policy and make sure it is fully customised for your needs.
- Easy online purchase with instant coverage confirmation, for a digital-first experience. We believe in keeping things all in one, easily accessible place.
- Dedicated support for visa-related queries from a team that cares about making your trip a seamless and enjoyable one.
- Peace of mind knowing your policy meets Schengen rules.
Troubleshooting & appeals
Common reasons for visa refusal include:
- Insufficient proof of funds or unclear travel itinerary
- Invalid or missing travel insurance
- Incomplete or incorrect documents
If refused, you can appeal within 30 days by submitting a written appeal to the consulate or visa centre, with a small fee. Overstaying can result in fines and future entry bans, so reapply promptly if necessary and avoid the temptation to overstay; even a few days can lead to problems.
Useful Contacts You Might Need
- France-Visas portal - Official application portal and guidelines
- TLScontact UK centres - Appointment booking and tracking
- French Consulate London - Appeals and long-stay visa enquiries
Your Go-To Questions
Can I enter France with a UK BRP?
Yes, UK residence permits may allow visa-free travel to France if you're from certain nationalities so check specific rules carefully. Your nationality, not your residency, usually determines visa requirements. Always verify with the French consulate or official visa portal before booking your trip, to avoid any potential issues or delays.
Can I go to France with a Schengen visa issued by another country?
Yes, a Schengen visa issued by any member state generally allows travel throughout the entire Schengen area. However, you’re expected to spend most of your time in the country that issued the visa. Border agents may ask for proof of your itinerary, so keep documents handy.
Is a France visa different from a Schengen visa?
No, short-stay visas for France are Schengen visas valid for travel in all Schengen countries. They follow the same rules on length of stay and travel between member states. Just make sure France is your main destination or point of entry.
How long is the wait for a France Schengen visa?
Processing typically takes 2–15 days but can extend up to 45 days depending on volume and season. It's best to apply well in advance, up to six months before travel. Delays are common during peak travel periods and holiday seasons, so planning in advance means you have set yourself up with a time buffer.
Do UK citizens need ETIAS for France?
Starting late 2026, yes, ETIAS authorisation will be required for UK travellers to Schengen countries. It’s a quick online application costing €7 and valid for three years. While not a visa, it will be mandatory for entry. Please note, while 2026 is the current date set, this can change so it is not set in stone. The rules may also change, please ensure you check before travelling.
Can I work or study on a tourist visa?
No, work or study requires appropriate long-stay visas (Type D). Tourist visas do not permit paid activities or formal enrolment in courses. Applying for the wrong visa type may lead to refusals or future travel issues, so make sure that the visa you are applying for meets all your travel needs.
What happens if my visa is refused?
You can appeal or reapply but check the refusal reason carefully and ensure all documents and insurance meet requirements. Appeals must be submitted within 30 days, usually to the French consulate. If you reapply, address the original issue as best as you can to avoid repeated rejections.
Ready for delicious croissants, gorgeous castles and the Côte d’Azur?
So, whether you’re wandering the chic streets of Paris, basking in the sun-drenched Riviera, or exploring quaint villages in the French countryside, get your Schengen-approved Travel Insurance with Gigasure. With our tailored coverage and seamless online process, you can start your visa application with confidence, knowing you’re fully protected for every unforgettable moment of your French adventure.
Info accurate May 2025; always verify with French Consulate.
