Secure Your France Visa From Dubai, UAE
Travel from the UAE to France on a valid visa and immerse yourself in the romance of Paris, the beauty of the French Riviera, and the rich history of iconic landmarks.
Who Needs a Visa to Travel to France?
Here’s how to check if you need a visa for or not:
UAE Residents (Expatriates)
If you are a foreign national residing in the United Arab Emirates and want to visit France, you need to apply for a Schengen visa before your trip. This requirement applies to expatriate residents of the UAE with passports from countries that do not have visa-free access to the Schengen area.
Emirati Passport Holders
Citizens of the UAE holding Emirati passports can travel to France without a visa for short visits.
Primary Considerations
- Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date.
- Purpose of Visit: Clearly define the purpose of your trip (tourism, business, study, family visit, etc.) because the requirements and visa type depend on it.
- Visa Procedure: First, complete the application on the official online visa portal. Once the online application form is filled, you must book an appointment to submit your documents and biometric data at a VFS application center.
France Visa Documents for UAE Residents
To successfully apply for a France visa from Dubai, you must prepare a set of supporting documents.
Below is a checklist to ensure you have all necessary papers in order:
1 Visa Application Form
Fill out the application form and ensure all information is accurate and matches your other documents. Any errors could lead to delays or even rejection by the consulate.
2 Valid Passport
Provide your original passport and copies of any previous Schengen visas. Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months after your planned departure and should have at least two blank pages.
3 Passport Photos
Two recent passport-size photos (35×45 mm) with a white background, as per Schengen standards. These should be taken within the last 6 months.
4 Flight Tickets & Itinerary
A round-trip flight reservation or booking confirmation showing your entry to and exit from France. If you plan to visit multiple countries including France, provide a detailed itinerary.
5 Travel Insurance
Schengen travel insurance is mandatory. Obtain a policy with coverage of at least €30,000 for medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation, valid for all Schengen countries. The policy must cover the entire duration of your stay.
6 UAE Residence Proof
UAE residents must show proof of legal residency. Your UAE residence permit should be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you plan to leave France.
7 No Objection Letter
If you are employed in the UAE, include a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer. This letter should state your position, salary, and confirm they have no objection to your trip to France on leave. It should ideally mention your expected return-to-work date. If self-employed or a business owner, include your trade license and a self-signed letter outlining your business activities.
8 Financial Proof
Provide recent bank statements (last 3–6 months) stamped by the bank, showing regular income and sufficient funds to cover your expenses in France. If a sponsor will finance your trip, include an affidavit of support and the sponsor’s financial documents.
9 Accommodation Proof
Submit proof of accommodation in France for your entire stay. This can be confirmed hotel bookings, an invitation letter (if you will stay with family/friends, along with a copy of your host’s ID and proof of address), or a rental agreement. The accommodation details should match the dates of your itinerary.
10 Fee Payment Receipt
Before your appointment, you will pay the visa fee and VFS service fee. The fee for a short-stay France visa is approximately €80 for adults, €40 for children aged 6–12, and free for children under 6. Keep the receipt as proof and include it in your application packet.
France Visa Types & Specifics
France offers different visa categories depending on the purpose of your visit and length of stay.
Here are the common French visa types for UAE residents:
Ideal for those planning leisure trips, sightseeing, or visiting family in France. This France tourist visa (Type C Schengen) allows stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It can be issued for single or multiple entries. Applicants must show they have enough funds, travel insurance, and a clear itinerary.
For professionals traveling for meetings, conferences, or business events in France. Like the tourist visa, a business visa usually permits stays up to 90 days in 180 days. Additional documents such as an invitation letter from the French company or conference organizers are required, along with details of the business activities. Financial proof is also needed to show you can support the trip or that your company is sponsoring it.
If you have secured employment in France, you will need a work visa. Your French employer typically must first obtain authorization in France (work permit approval). Once that’s done, you can apply for the work visa at VFS. Requirements include the work contract or work permit, proof of qualifications, and possibly police clearance certificates. This visa allows you to live and work in France for longer than 90 days.
Students admitted to a university or college in France will need a student visa. Requirements include an acceptance letter from the French educational institution, proof of tuition payment (or scholarship documents), and evidence of sufficient financial means to support yourself (either personal funds or a sponsor).
If you have immediate family (spouse, children) who are French citizens or residents, you might apply for a family reunion or spouse visa. This visa for UAE residents with family ties in France allows longer stays and can lead to residency. You will need to show proof of the family relationship (e.g., marriage certificate for a spouse, birth certificates for children). This visa is typically a pathway to a residence permit in France so you can live with your family.
France offers the Talent Passport visa for investors, entrepreneurs, and other highly skilled individuals. If you plan to invest a significant amount in France or start a business, or you are a highly skilled professional in certain fields, you may be eligible for this long-stay visa. For instance, investors putting in €300,000 in a French venture or those with an innovative startup idea can apply. This visa grants residency rights and can lead to multi-year residence permits, with the benefit of visa-free travel in the Schengen Area.
Apply for a France Visa From Dubai
Applying for a France visa as a Dubai resident involves a structured process, but we’re here to simplify it for you. A French Schengen application entails preparing a comprehensive file – often 50+ pages of forms and documents. At Schengen Visa Dubai, we have perfected the process for UAE residents.
Ready to get started? Just fill in your details below, and our team will provide you with personalized guidance on securing your France visa hassle-free.
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Our Process
Free Visa Consultation
Begin with a free assessment of your needs. We offer a consultation to help you understand the requirements and eligibility for a French visa. Our experts will discuss your travel plans, determine the appropriate visa type (tourist, business, etc.), and guide you on the needed documents.
Document Preparation
Our team assists you in gathering and organizing all the necessary documents. We ensure every paper meets the guidelines of the French consulate and VFS Global. We make sure your application file is complete. Thorough preparation means you’re less likely to face delays or rejections due to missing information.
Application Submission
We guide you through the online form on the France-Visas portal. Then, we schedule your submission appointment at the VFS Global visa application center on your behalf. Our team double-checks everything and then hands over the complete bundle to VFS for processing. By entrusting us, you avoid errors and ensure that your application is filed correctly in one go.
Fly to France
With your visa in hand, it’s time to get ready for your journey! We provide a final checklist to ensure you have all necessary items before you travel. Double-check your passport, itinerary, accommodation confirmations, and travel insurance. Now you can pack your bags and look forward to exploring France.
Passport Collection
After submission, we keep track of the status of your application. You can also track it online using the reference number provided. Once the visa decision is made by the French consulate, your passport will be returned to the VFS center. We will notify you immediately. If your application is approved, we can collect the passport on your behalf and even arrange visa at your doorstep delivery for your convenience.
Appointment Assistance
We coordinate and book an appointment for you at the VFS Global center (Dubai or Abu Dhabi, as per your convenience). On the appointment date, you’ll visit the VFS office to submit your application and provide biometric data (fingerprints and photograph). If an interview at the embassy or consulate is required (usually for specific cases or long-stay visas), we help you prepare for that as well.
Why Choose Us
Expert Guidance
Our team of experienced visa consultants offers step-by-step support to navigate the complex procedures effortlessly. From the moment you start your French visa application to the day you get approval, we provide expert guidance. We stay updated on the latest rules and ensure you get the right information for a successful outcome.
Customized Service
Every travel plan is unique. We deliver personalized solutions that match your specific needs. Whether you need a fast-track appointment or have special circumstances, our service is tailored to you. We take into account your residency status in the UAE, travel history, and personal circumstances to provide a solution that fits. Our one-on-one approach makes the process stress-free.
Transparent Fee
No hidden charges, no surprises. We maintain complete transparency in our fees. Before you start, we inform you of the visa fee (payable to the consulate/VFS) and our service charges. This way, you know exactly what to budget. Our competitive pricing and high approval success make us a top choice for France visa facilitation in Dubai.
Document Verification
Small mistakes can lead to rejections. That's why we have a meticulous document verification process. We review every form and paper in your file to ensure accuracy and completeness. By the time your application is submitted, it will be error-free and in full compliance with the requirements. This maximizes your chances of approval on the first try.
100% Compliance
We strictly adhere to all consulate guidelines and legal requirements. Our process aligns with the official procedures set by the French authorities. This means every application we handle is fully compliant – from Schengen regulations to local VFS rules. With us, you can have peace of mind knowing your application meets all the standards and won't be rejected for non-compliance.
Real Time Tracking
Stay updated with your visa status in real time. We track and monitor the progress of your application continuously. Our team will update you at each stage – appointment confirmation, submission, processing, and outcome. You can also reach out anytime to check the status. We know how important your travel plans are, so we stay on top of your application until you have your visa in hand.
France Visa Specifics
France offers different visa categories depending on the purpose of your visit and length of stay. Here are the common French visa types for UAE residents:
The standard Schengen visa fee for short-term visits to France (up to 90 days) is €80 for adults. Children between 6 and 12 years old pay €40, and children under 6 are exempt from the fee. Long-term visa fees (for work, study, etc.) are higher (usually around €90–€100, depending on the visa). In addition to the base fee, there is a service charge by VFS Global for handling the application.
You can book your appointment online through the VFS system after completing the France-Visas form. We help you find a convenient date and time for your appointment at the VFS center. During busy travel seasons, slots fill up fast, so try to reserve a slot early. If you need to change your appointment, the system allows rescheduling, but it could add wait time.
The typical processing time for a France Schengen visa is about 15 calendar days from the day of submission. However, it can vary. Many applications are decided sooner, but during peak periods (like holidays or summer), it could extend to 30 days or more. In rare cases requiring additional documents or security checks, it might take up to 45 days. It’s recommended to apply about a month (3–4 weeks) before your intended travel date.
France Visa – Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I submit my France visa application if I live in Dubai or Abu Dhabi?
All applications for France from the UAE are processed by the French Consular Section in Abu Dhabi. However, you do not have to travel to the embassy to apply. Visa applicants residing in the UAE can apply at the VFS Global visa center. There are VFS offices in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and you can choose either based on your convenience.
How long does it take to get a France visa from Dubai?
Typically, it takes about 15 working days after submission for a short-stay France visa to be processed. Many applicants get a result within 1–2 weeks. However, during peak travel periods or if there are missing documents, processing can be delayed up to 30 or even 45 days. It’s best to apply about a month (4–6 weeks) before your intended departure.
How early should I apply for a France visa?
You can apply as early as 6 months before your planned trip. We strongly suggest applying at least 3–4 weeks ahead of your travel date. At a minimum, the consulate requires that applications be lodged no later than 15 days before your trip.
Is an interview required as part of the visa process?
How much is the France visa fee for UAE residents?
The short-stay Schengen visa fee for France is approximately around €80 for adults. Children 6–12 years pay about around €40, and those under 6 years old are free. Long-stay visa fees (for stays over 90 days, like work, student, or family visas) are higher, roughly around €90–€100 depending on the visa type. In addition, VFS Global charges a service fee is applicable.
Can I track the status of my visa application?
Yes, you can track your application status online. After you apply, you will receive a receipt with a reference or tracking number. Use this on the VFS Global tracking and Track your application. Enter the reference and your last name to see updates. The status will typically show “under process”, and later update to “processed” once the decision is made and your passport is ready for collection.
What if my visa application is rejected?
First, you’ll receive an official refusal letter stating the reason(s) for denial. Common reasons include incomplete documentation, insufficient financial proof, unclear travel purpose, or inconsistencies in the application. With that information, you can address the issues and submit a new application. Essentially, you correct or add the missing pieces (for example, provide additional documents or clearer evidence of ties to the UAE) and reapply. Alternatively, you have the right to appeal the decision.
How long can I stay in France on a Schengen visa?
A Schengen short-stay visa allows a maximum stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This could be one 90-day trip or multiple shorter trips that add up to 90 days total. The visa sticker on your passport will indicate the allowed number of entries (single, double, or multiple) and the validity period during which you can use those days.
Can a France Schengen visa be extended?
Extensions of Schengen visas are extremely rare. In principle, the visa cannot be extended beyond its initial validity. The only exceptions are unforeseen serious circumstances, such as a medical emergency or flight cancellations that extend your stay beyond your control.
Do UAE citizens need to apply for a visa to visit France?
UAE nationals (Emirati passport holders) do not need a visa to travel to France for short stays up to 90 days. They enjoy visa-free entry for tourism, family visits, or business meetings, as France and the Schengen zone have an agreement with the UAE. However, for long-term stays (over 90 days) or purposes like work and study, even Emirati citizens must apply for the relevant French long-stay visa or permit.
What is the France-Visas portal and do I have to use it?
France-Visas is the official online portal for French visa applications worldwide. Yes, all applicants must use this portal as the first step of the process. On France-Visas, you’ll fill out the application form online and get a list of required documents. After that, you’ll print the form and book an appointment with VFS Global to submit everything in person. Think of France-Visas as the online step and VFS as the offline step. We can guide you through each part to ensure it’s done correctly.