If you’re planning a trip to France and wondering, “What documents do I need for the Schengen visa?”, you’re in the right place. The visa procedure can be perplexing, but with the proper guidance, you can create your file in a perfect manner and prevent delays and possible denial.
I am Chloé Laurent, and I have passed the overall process of applying for a French Schengen visa for my clients. Starting with filling VFS forms to document submission at VFS.
In this blog, I explain each document needed to obtain the France Schengen visa. At a glance, on the very top right side, there is the application form, passport, financial proof, travel insurance, how you can stick your documents together, and the process of submission.
Fill Out the France Schengen Visa Application Form
The Schengen visa application form is the first one. You must:
- Get it via the official France-Visas portal.
- Properly sign and date it.
Valid Passport + Copies
Requirements include:
- Valid passport with at least 3 months’ validity after your date of return.
- An amount that was issued in the previous 10 years.
- At least one 2 blank.
Provide a copy of past Schengen visas (in case any).
Two Recent Passport-Sized Photos
These photos have to comply with Schengen visa photo rules:
- Size: 35mm x 45mm
- White on white, unresponsive face
- No covered heads unless as part of a religion
- Consumed in the period of the last 6 months
Proof of Travel Itinerary
The embassy would like to know that you are serious about a plan. You may send:
- Round-trip flight reservations
- Day-by-day travel itinerary
- Travel bookings
Make sure your travel dates match across all documents.
Travel Health Insurance
It is a needed travel insurance concerning your Schengen visa. It must:
- Guarantee at least 30,000 euros
- Be accepted in each Schengen countries
- Cover emergency health care, hospitalisation, and repatriation
- Cover a whole period of your stay
This is readily available on the internet from well-established insurance firms. All you have to do is print and paste the certificate.
Proof of Financial Means
This is subject to what occupation or job you are currently offering.
You need to show:
- Personal bank statements
- A bank account certificate
- Sponsorship letter
- Proof of income sources like salary, pension, or investments
In case you have to finance yourself, you will require evidence of approximately 65 to 120 euros a day, depending on the status of your accommodation.
Read Also: Travel Health Insurance for Schengen Visa (2025 Guide)
Proof of Employment or Status
This section depends on your current occupation.
For Employees
- Employment letter with job title, salary, and start date
- Approved leave of absence
- Last 3 salary slips
For Business Owners
- Business registration document
- Recent tax records
- Company bank statements
For Students
- Student ID card
- Enrollment certificate
- NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the university
For Retired Persons
- Pension documents or a retirement certificate
- Proof of pension payments
Pension payment records. Pension payments must be evidenced by vouchers that satisfy the following requirements:
Proof of Accommodation
French need evidence of your place of residence. Documents that are accepted are:
- Accommodations in a hotel by name and contacts
- Airbnb confirmations
- Rental contract in case you are a long-term resident
- Ensure that you accommodate the period as per your itinerary.
Make sure the accommodation period matches your itinerary exactly.
Visa Fee Payment
To date, the French Schengen visa fee is:
- €80 for adults
- €40 for children aged 6–12
- Nothing to spend under 6, and some categories of exemption
You have to pay a fee through the official way (at VFS or the consulate) and include a payment receipt.
How to Submit These Documents
Method 1: French Embassy or Consulate
- Present your papers personally
- Provide biometric data (fingerprints, photo)
- Attend an interview if required
Method 2: VFS Global
VFS Global is the official outsourcing partner of France in most countries and thus takes up the visa applications on behalf of France.
- Visit VFS Global France
- Book your appointment
- You should deliver your documents to the application center
- Pay an additional service charge
VFS will forward your application to the French Embassy.
Method 3: France-Visas Online Portal
VFS will transmit your application to the French Embassy.
- Visit: https://france-visas.gouv.fr
- Create an account
- Complete the visa wizard (type of visa, stay duration, etc.)
- The process of submitting a pre-application is online
FAQs
1. What documents do I need for a France Schengen visa?
You’ll need: a valid passport, a visa form, a photo, travel insurance, flight & hotel bookings, proof of funds, and a cover letter. Add job or student proof if applicable.
2. What is the bank balance needed in case of a Schengen visa to France?
A good amount to be spent would be at least 120 euros a day inside a day. To go on a 10-day trip, you must have an amount of money in your bank account above 1200 euros.
Read Also: How to Apply for a Sweden Work Visa (2025 Guide)
Final Thoughts
Schengen visa in France may appear to be an intimidating process, but it gets a lot easier once you have learnt the process and acquired the necessary supporting documents, thus it appears to be a simple goal.
Starting with a form of visa application to flight reservations, financial evidence, insurance for traveling, and cover letters, each form is a key to your desire and compliance. Delays and rejection can occur due to the lack of just one requirement
