Travelling to France? Here's Why You Must Book Your Visa Appointment Online
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France now requires online booking for visa appointments to simplify applications for long-stay and short-stay visas.
France has launched a new digital system that makes it mandatory for all visa applicants to book their appointments online. The updated process, now in force, is intended to make applications faster, more organised, and user-friendly.
Whether you are applying for a short-stay Schengen visa or a long-stay national visa, this rule applies to all foreign visitors. The move is also expected to cut down on intermediaries and streamline documentation.
Here's a detailed look at how the new process works.
Step 1: Check If You Need A Visa
To begin the process, applicants should head to the official Visa Wizard page. This online guide helps you figure out whether you need a visa, and if so, which type suits your travel purpose. It also outlines the documents you'll need to prepare and provides details on the applicable fees. If you have visited the Schengen Area recently, you can use the Visa Calculator tool to check how many days you're still allowed to stay.
Step 2: Confirm Eligibility Before Scheduling
Before moving forward, applicants must ensure that the Visa Wizard confirms their need for a visa. Only those who meet the eligibility criteria outlined by the tool can book an appointment. This step helps prevent invalid applications and streamlines the overall process.
Once the appointment request is approved, applicants will receive an email containing the date, time, and location of their visa appointment. To secure the slot, they must reply and confirm their availability. If confirmation isn't sent, the appointment will be automatically cancelled.
Before attending the scheduled visa appointment, applicants must complete their visa application on the official France-Visas website. On the day of the appointment, they should bring a printed copy of the application form along with all required supporting documents. Incomplete paperwork or mismatched personal details may lead to delays or rejection.
At the visa appointment, officials will review your documents, take biometric data (photo and fingerprints), and collect the application fee. However, if you've provided fingerprints for a Schengen visa within the past 59 months, you may be exempt from appearing in person.
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