How long does the French visa application process take?

Processing times vary by visa type: Talent Passport typically takes 2-3 months, Long-Stay Visitor Visa takes 2-4 weeks, and Employee Visas take 3-4 months. We help you plan your timeline and avoid delays by ensuring complete, accurate documentation from the start.

What is the Talent Passport and who qualifies?

The Talent Passport (Passeport Talent) is a multi-year residence permit for skilled professionals. You qualify if you have: a job offer with minimum €53,836 annual salary, are a company executive/rep, researcher, artist, or startup founder. It allows your spouse to work in France and can be renewed for up to 4 years at a time.

Can I work in France on a Long-Stay Visitor Visa?

No, the Long-Stay Visitor Visa (visa de long séjour visiteur) does not permit employment in France. It's designed for retirees, those with passive income, or remote workers employed by non-French companies. You must prove sufficient financial resources (minimum €1,747/month) and cannot work for French employers.

Do I need a lawyer for my French visa application?

While not legally required, professional guidance significantly increases success rates. French visa applications require extensive French-language documentation, specific formatting, and knowledge of consular requirements that vary by location. We've achieved a 95% approval rate by ensuring applications meet all requirements before submission.

What happens if my visa application is denied?

If denied, you receive a written explanation (often in French) within 2 months. You can appeal the decision within 2 months or reapply addressing the stated concerns. We review denial reasons, strengthen your application, and guide you through the appeal or reapplication process to maximize success on the second attempt.

Can my family come with me on my French visa?

Yes, most long-stay visas allow family reunification. Spouses and minor children can apply for accompanying visas. Talent Passport holders' spouses receive automatic work authorization. We handle family visa applications simultaneously to ensure your family can relocate together.

France Visa & Immigration Services for Americans

Expert guidance through France's visa system with a 95% approval success rate

95% Success Rate

Our thorough preparation ensures approval

Faster Processing

Complete applications avoid delays

Documentation Support

We handle translations and formatting

Family Included

We process spouse and children visas

Visa Types We Handle

🎯 Talent Passport (Passeport Talent)

For skilled professionals, executives, and entrepreneurs

Multi-year residence permit for qualified professionals with minimum €53,836 annual salary. Includes work authorization for spouse and renewable up to 4 years.

Who qualifies:

Skilled professionals with job offers
Company executives and representatives
Researchers and scientists
Artists and performers
Startup founders (French Tech Visa)

🏖️ Long-Stay Visitor Visa

For retirees and those with passive income

Ideal for retirees, remote workers (non-French employers), or individuals with passive income. Renewable annually. Does not permit employment in France.

Requirements:

Proof of income (€1,747+/month)
Health insurance coverage
Accommodation in France
Clean criminal record

💼 Employee Visa (Salarié)

For those with a French job offer

Required when you have a job offer from a French employer. Includes work authorization and can lead to permanent residence after 5 years.

What we handle:

Labor market test (DIRECCTE)
Employer documentation
Work contract verification
OFII registration

🎓 Student Visa & Research

For university programs and academic research

For enrolled students and researchers. Allows part-time work (964 hours/year) and can transition to work visa after graduation.

We assist with:

Campus France process
University enrollment verification
Financial proof (€615/month)
Student residence permit renewal

Our Visa Process

Assessment

We evaluate your situation and determine the best visa strategy for your goals

Preparation

We compile documents, handle translations, and prepare your complete application

Submission & Follow-up

We submit to the consulate and track your application until approval

Not Sure Which Visa You Need?

Every situation is unique. Book a free 30-minute consultation to discuss your goals, timeline, and get a personalized visa strategy with next steps.

Usually responds within 24 hours • Consultation in English

France Visa Questions Answered

Common questions about obtaining a French visa as an American