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French visa application process: Explained

Moving to France can be an exciting new chapter—whether you’re pursuing a career, studying at a university, starting a business, or joining loved ones abroad. 


But before you can enjoy life in France, there’s one essential hurdle: navigating the visa application process.


For many, applying for a French visa feels overwhelming. 


There are forms to fill out, documents to collect, and strict requirements to meet (plus the risk of delays if anything goes wrong).


Visa rules also vary depending on your reason for moving, which makes it even more important to understand your options from the start.


> In this guide, you’ll learn:
> 
> * Which French visa you need based on your goals
> * What each visa type requires (from documents to health insurance)
> * How long the process takes and what steps to take
> * What happens after your visa is approved
> * And the most common mistakes to avoid


By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap to follow—so you can apply with confidence and focus on what matters most: your new life in France.


## Why are you moving abroad?


Before diving into paperwork and requirements, the first (and arguably most important) step in the visa process is understanding *why* you’re moving to France.


Visa categories are designed around intent. 


Someone coming for a short\-term holiday will follow a very different process than someone relocating to launch a solo\-entrepreneur business, study at a French university, join a spouse, or retire (in fact, we offer [visa‑approved insurance for retirees](https://feather-insurance.com/en-fr/health-insurance/expat/retirees)). 


Your purpose for moving directly influences which visa you’ll need, what documents you’ll have to prepare, and what [visa-compliant health insurance](https://feather-insurance.com/en-fr/health-insurance/expat/us) you should get.


We’ve seen how this first step—defining your purpose—can shape the entire visa process. It determines which application route you take, what documents you’ll need, and [how to get health insurance](https://feather-insurance.com/blog/health-insurance-france-guide/).


If you’re feeling uncertain, working with [relocation specialists](https://www.easystart.me/) can be a helpful way to clarify your goals and ensure you’re following the right path. 


Once your visa type is confirmed, companies like Feather can assist with visa\-compliant health insurance to help you meet the application requirements smoothly and efficiently.


## The most common visa types explained


Each country has its own naming system, but here are the main visa categories you’re likely to come across in France:


### Tourist and Short\-Stay Visas


If your stay will be 90 days or less and you’re visiting for tourism, business meetings, or family visits, you’ll likely need a **Short\-Stay Visa**. 


In France and much of Europe, this is known as the **Schengen Visa (Type C)**. 


It allows travel throughout the 26 countries of the Schengen Area, but it does *not* permit work or long\-term study.


### Student Visas


Planning to attend university or language school? You’ll need a **Long\-Stay Student Visa**, known in France as the **Visa de Long Séjour valant Titre de Séjour (VLS\-TS) – Étudiant(e)**. 


To qualify, you’ll need:


- Proof of enrollment
- Accommodation
- Sufficient financial resources to support yourself during your studies.
- [Student health insurance](https://feather-insurance.com/en-fr/health-insurance/expat/students)


This visa often allows part\-time work during your time in France (up to 20 hours per week), and in some cases, it can lead to long\-term residency.


### Work Visas


If you’ve secured a job offer abroad, a **Work Visa** is likely your path forward. 


In France, the most common version is the **VLS\-TS Salarié**, which is tied to an employment contract. 


There’s also a **VLS\-TS Travailleur Temporaire** for shorter\-term contracts.


Highly skilled professionals working in a specialized field might qualify for the **EU Blue Card**, which offers more flexibility and mobility across EU countries.


### Freelancer and Self\-Employment Visas


If you’re self\-employed, a freelancer, or a digital nomad, you may qualify for a **Profession Libérale Visa** in France. 


This long\-stay visa is tailored to independent workers who can demonstrate financial stability and a viable business or freelance activity.


France also offers a variation for entrepreneurs under the **Passeport Talent – Créateur d’Entreprise**, which is ideal for business founders and startup builders.


In some countries, dedicated **Digital** **Nomad Visas** are now available, allowing remote workers to live abroad while working for foreign clients or companies.

> Learn more about [French freelancer health insurance](https://feather-insurance.com/en-fr/health-insurance/expat/freelancers).

### Family Reunification Visas


If you’re joining a family member such as a spouse, parent, or child, you’ll need a **Family Reunification Visa**, known in France as the **Visa Vie Privée et Familiale**. 


You must prove your relationship and, in most cases, that your sponsor can financially support your stay.


This visa can often lead to residency rights and, eventually, naturalization depending on your status and duration of stay.


### Talent and Investor Visas


For entrepreneurs, investors, and highly skilled professionals, France offers the **Passeport Talent**. This visa includes several subcategories, such as:


- Skilled Employees
- Researchers
- Founders of Innovative Startups
- Artists and Performers
- Economic Investors


These visas often come with streamlined processing and residency benefits, making them attractive to those who contribute to the local economy or cultural sector.


## How to apply for a French visa


No matter which visa you’re applying for, the success of your application will largely depend on the completeness and accuracy of your documentation. 


Below is a breakdown of the core documents typically required for most visa types:


- **Valid passport:** Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay. If your passport is set to expire soon, renew it *before* applying. Many embassies will automatically reject applications based on short passport validity.
- **Completed visa application form:** Every country requires a visa application form, usually filled out online or downloaded from the official embassy or consulate website. It’s essential to answer all questions honestly and completely, as missing or inconsistent information can lead to delays.
- **Passport\-Sized Photos:** These must meet specific guidelines, typically in terms of size, background color, and facial expression. It’s a small detail, but incorrect photo specs are a surprisingly common reason for application rejection.
- **Proof of purpose:** This is what justifies your stay, as authorities require clear documentation to verify that your reason for entering the country is valid and verifiable. It could be:  

	- A job contract or offer letter for a work visa
	- A university enrollment letter for a student visa
	- A marriage certificate or birth certificate for a family visa
- **Proof of financial means:** You will need to demonstrate that you can financially support yourself during your stay. This might include recent bank statements, pay slips, a contract showing income, or a letter of financial sponsorship. Most countries require proof of a minimum monthly income (recommended 1800€/month) or savings threshold.
- **Proof of accommodation:** Whether it’s a signed rental lease, hotel reservation, or letter from a host, you need to demonstrate where you’ll be staying upon arrival. For long\-stay visas, French embassies often prefer a more permanent housing arrangement.
- **Criminal background check:** This isn’t always required, but many long\-stay or residency visas will request a recent police certificate to verify that you don’t have a serious criminal record. This must usually be issued by your home country (or any country where you have lived for 6 months or more recently).
- **Valid health insurance:** One of the most critical components, especially for long\-stay visas. Many countries, including France, require proof of [comprehensive health insurance](https://feather-insurance.com/en-fr/health-insurance/expat/visa-renewal) that covers emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation.


Health insurance is a key requirement for most French long\-stay visas. Your coverage must include emergency care, hospitalization, and repatriation and it needs to meet strict local standards.


At [**Feather**](https://feather-insurance.com/en-fr/health-insurance/expat?utm_source=easy-start), we offer expat\-focused plans specifically designed to meet the requirements of French visas. With a fast, 100% digital process, you’ll get your visa\-compliant certificate in minutes, making your application smoother and more secure.




## Common Mistakes to Avoid


Even the most well\-prepared applicants can run into unexpected issues during the visa process. 


These are some of the most common mistakes we’ve seen and the reasons they can seriously impact your relocation plans:


- **Applying for the wrong visa category:** Each visa is designed for a specific purpose, such as work, study, family, or freelance. Applying under the wrong category can lead to an automatic rejection, even if your intentions are genuine. It’s essential to match your application with the correct visa type based on your long\-term goals.
- **Submitting outdated or incomplete documents:** Missing bank statements, an expired passport, or unsigned forms are all small errors that can have big consequences. Immigration authorities are strict about documentation, and even minor omissions can delay or derail your application entirely.
- **Underestimating visa processing times:** Some visas can take weeks (or even months) to process. Many applicants underestimate this and end up in a stressful race against the clock. Always apply early and factor in time for unexpected delays, especially during peak travel or holiday seasons.
- **Booking non\-refundable travel before receiving a decision:** While it’s tempting to book flights or accommodations in advance, doing so before your visa is approved can be risky. If your visa is delayed or denied, you may lose money on bookings that you cannot use. Always buy a refundable ticket in case of any delays during the process.
- **Forgetting to validate or register your visa after arrival:** In France, long\-stay visa holders are required to validate their visa (e.g., the **VLS\-TS**) within a specific timeframe, typically within the first three months. Failing to do so can put your legal status at risk, even if your visa was approved.


Working with visa, immigration, and relocation specialists (we’ve heard great things from [**EasyStart Relocation**](https://www.easystart.me/)) can make all the difference. These companies offer tailored support, carefully reviews your documents, and manages the finer details, ensuring your move is smooth, compliant, and worry\-free from start to finish.

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7 insurances you need in France

## 1\. Health insurance (assurance santé)

France has one of the world’s best healthcare systems, but it can feel complicated when you’re new. 

Health insurance is how you pay for care here. 

The public system (Sécurité Sociale) covers most residents, but you usually still pay part of the costs yourself. 

That’s why many people also have a “mutuelle”, a private top-up policy that pays what the state doesn’t.

To sum up…

There are three main types of health insurance in France:

* **Public health insurance**: For residents who are part of the social security system. It reimburses most of your doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescriptions, but you’ll usually cover a small portion yourself.

* [**Private health insurance**](https://feather-insurance.com/en-fr/health-insurance/private): Works alongside the public system to reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Often offered by employers or purchased individually.

* [**Expat health insurance**](https://feather-insurance.com/en-fr/health-insurance/expat): Ideal if you’re applying for a visa or have just arrived and aren’t yet eligible for the public system. It can also bridge the gap while you wait to be registered (which can take months).

For a comprehensive overview of how the system works and guidance on selecting the right cover, we’ve created a detailed guide on [health insurance in France](https://feather-insurance.com/blog/health-insurance-france-guide/).

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## 2\. Car insurance (assurance auto)

[Car insurance](https://feather-insurance.com/en-fr/car-insurance) protects you financially if your vehicle is damaged or if you cause damage to others. In France, it’s not optional. 

It’s a legal requirement for every car owner.

There are three main coverage levels:

* **Au tiers**: Basic third-party coverage. Pays for damage you cause to others, not your own car.

* **Intermédiaire**: Adds protections like theft, fire, or glass damage.

* **Tous risques**: The most complete cover. Includes damage to your own car, even if you’re at fault.

France also employs a **bonus-malus** system: safe drivers receive discounts, while those with claims pay more. 

## 3\. Home insurance (assurance habitation)

[Home insurance](https://feather-insurance.com/en-fr/home-insurance) protects your home and belongings from unexpected damage or loss.

Whether it’s compulsory depends on your situation. 

If you’re renting, it’s mandatory ( your landlord will usually ask for an **attestation d’assurance** before you move in). 

Co-owners in an apartment building are often required by the **syndic** to have it. 

If you own your home outright and live in it, it’s technically optional, but most banks make it a condition if you have a mortgage. 

Typical coverage includes:

* **Civil liability**: If you cause damage to someone else’s property or injure someone (e.g., a water leak from your flat damages a neighbor’s ceiling).

* **Water damage**: Burst pipes, leaks, or flooding inside the home.

* **Theft**: Compensation for stolen items, usually with limits for valuables.

* **Natural catastrophes**: Storms, floods, earthquakes — covered under France’s special regime.

* **Temporary accommodation**: Hotel or rental costs if your home is uninhabitable after a claim.

Watch for common exclusions, such as wear and tear, damage resulting from poor maintenance, or valuables exceeding your policy’s limit. 

## 4\. Liability insurance (responsabilité civile vie privée)

[French liability insurance](https://feather-insurance.com/en-fr/personal-liability-insurance) covers the costs if you accidentally cause damage or injury to someone else in your private life. 

It’s different from [professional liability](https://feather-insurance.com/en-fr/business-liability-insurance/for-freelancers), which protects you in a work context.

It’s usually not legally required, but schools, sports clubs, or summer camps often ask for proof, especially for children.

It works in common everyday scenarios too:

* You spill coffee on a friend’s laptop.

* Your child breaks a neighbor’s window.

* Your dog damages someone’s garden.

It won’t cover intentional acts, injuries caused by motorized vehicles (which require separate insurance), or damage to your own property.

It’s often already included in home insurance or student policies, so check before buying separately. 

## 5\. Legal insurance (protection juridique)

Legal insurance (**protection juridique**) gives you access to legal advice and helps cover certain costs if you have a dispute.

It’s optional, but often offered as an add-on to home or car insurance. Standalone policies exist, too. 

Before buying, check the coverage cap (the maximum they’ll pay) and any waiting periods before you can make a claim.

Typical situations where it can help include:

* **Landlord disputes** (e.g., deposit not returned, repairs not done)

* **Noisy neighbors** (mediation or legal action)

* **Online purchases** (goods not delivered or faulty)

* **Employment conflicts** (unfair dismissal, unpaid wages)

With protection juridique, you can usually choose your own lawyer, although some insurers have partner networks that may expedite the process. 

The insurer may cover lawyer fees, court costs, and expert reports, but only up to your policy limits and for disputes covered under your contract.

## 6\. Disability insurance (assurance prévoyance)

Disability insurance, often called **prévoyance**, protects your income if you can’t work due to illness or injury. 

There are generally waiting and elimination periods that apply (a set time before benefits begin, ranges from weeks to months).

Payments last until recovery, retirement age, or the end of the policy term (any trustworthy insurer should make that clear on their website).

Benefits may be taxable depending on the policy type and how premiums were paid.

If you, or your family, rely on your income to meet ongoing expenses, having prévoyance means you won’t have to drain savings or rely solely on state benefits, which are often limited.

## 7\. Life insurance (assurance décès/vie)

In France, **assurance décès** is a type of life insurance that pays a lump sum if the policyholder dies during the contract period, whereas **assurance vie** is a savings and investment product with tax advantages.

With assurance décès, the main goal is protection: ensuring your family has financial support if you’re no longer there. 

With assurance vie, the aim is long-term savings or estate planning; you can withdraw funds during your lifetime, and at death, beneficiaries often benefit from favorable inheritance tax rules.

Regardless of the type, you choose who receives the money, and the policies generally bypass most inheritance taxation rules.

If you want straightforward family protection, a simple [French term life policy](https://feather-insurance.com/en-fr/life-insurance) (assurance décès) is usually enough. If you’re thinking about building savings with an eye on estate planning, Assurance Vie is the better tool.