Overview of steps and documents

France sets annual quotas by nationality. Large quotas (i.e. 1,000+) are usually never filled. For the best chances, apply early in the year. Consult the French consulate in your country on the status of the quota. If there are no more spots remaining, you will need to wait until the following year.

• 7,000 for Canada
• 1,500 for Argentina
• 500 each for Brazil and Taiwan
• 400 each for Chile and Colombia
• 300 each for Ecuador, Mexico, Peru, and Uruguay
• 2,000 for South Korea
• 1,800 for Japan
• 750 for Hong Kong
• No quota for Australia and New Zealand

Applications should be submitted no earlier than three months before your planned departure date. Here is an overview of the steps:

• Step 1: Fill out the online visa application on France-Visas.
• Step 2: Pay the €99 visa application fee*.
• Step 3: Book an in-person appointment.
• Step 4: Attend the appointment and submit your application. This step should be no earlier than 3 months before your planned travel date.
• Step 5: Await approval; your passport will be returned with the visa affixed inside.

*Canadians are exempt. To confirm for your nationality, enter your information into the Visa wizard.

Documents required:

In addition to the completed visa application form, applicants should be ready to present supporting documents:

• Valid passport
• 2 ID photographs (35mm x 45mm)
• Private health insurance for duration of stay. More details in chapter 3.
• Proof of sufficient savings, varies by nationality
  – Canadians: €2,500 or the equivalent
  – Australians: AU$5,700
  – Japanese: €3,100 or the equivalent
  – Argentinians: €2,500 or the equivalent
• Commitment to not overstay visa (e.g., return flight purchased, extra savings to purchase one later on, affidavit to leave France)
• Letter of motivation explaining why you are applying. See sample.
• Certain nationalities only: Background/police/criminal check
• Certain nationalities only: Medical certificate attesting to adequate health

To see the exact list for your nationality and situation, enter your information into the Visa wizard.