If you’ve found love in a French national and dream of joining your hearts in the picturesque landscapes of France, acquiring a French spouse visa is the initial stride towards turning this dream into a reality. In this guide, we’ll guide you through the intricacies of the application process, ensuring that you embark on your journey well-prepared.Â
Table of contents
Your family situation
You’ve found your heart’s desire in a French national. Your stay, however, is limited to a delightful 90 days. You need to apply for a long stay visa if you wish to stay longer.Â
Supporting documentation for a French spouse visa application
In preparation for your journey to acquire a French spouse visa, it is imperative to compile the requisite supporting documents. These documents substantiate your marital status and, crucially affirm your spouse’s French nationality. The comprehensive list of necessary documents includes:Â
- A valid travel document issued within the last decade. It must possess a minimum of tow unmarked pages and be valid for a duration extending at least three months beyond your intended departure from the Schengen Area. For long-term stays, the validity should extend at least three months beyond the requested visa expiry date. Ensure that all pages containing visas, entry and exit stamps, or any relevant inscriptions are scanned and submitted.
- An identification photograph
- If you are not a national of your country of residence, provide proof of legal residency (e.g. a resident permit)
- For holders of official travel documents, a note verbale is mandatory
- Evidence affirming your spouse’s French nationality
- A complete copy of the French marriage certificate. This certificate should be issued by a French town hall or transcribed in the consular civil status registers, particularly for marriages not solemnised in France.
How to request a French spouse visa?
Timing is everything! You can apply for your visa as early as 3 months prior to your planned travel date. Keep in mind, it’s wise not to book any flights before your visa gets the nod. Depending on the consulate of France visa offices, you might have to twirl through a waiting period of 3 weeks to 3 months. Track the progress of your visa request through your France-visas account. Note that while the PACS (French civil partnership) is a beautiful commitment, it doesn’t guarantee a visa or resident permit.Â
How to apply for a spouse and relative visa in France?
Gather your supporting documentation: This includes proof of marital status, your spouse’s French nationality, evidence of shared life with your partner, and your intention to maintain it in France. See above for the full list of documents needed.Â
Submit your application: Fill out the form diligently. Ensure you have all necessary documents and pay the associated fees.Â
Await the visa decision: This is the nail-biting part. While waiting, cross-check your travel arrangement and ensure everything is in order.Â
What to do when you arrive in France with your French spouse visa?
Congratulations on arriving in France! In your first three months, you need to:Â
Register with OFII: This is pivotal. Register your visa online and pay the residence permit delivery tax. You need to validate your visa online within the first 3 months following your arrival in France.Â
Keep your receipt: It serves as your proof of payment and will be needed to collect your residence permit.Â
Integration contract (CIR) and medical appointment: OFII will schedule these appointments. Make sure to attend them.Â
Other things that will help you settle when arriving in France are to:
- Learn or improve your french skills
- Register for healthcare and health insurance
- Open a French bank account
- Find a school for your children
> You might be interested in this article: 7 essential steps for a successful arrival in France
What to do when your VLS-TS is about to expire?
In order to extend your stay beyong the period of validity of your visa, you must apply for a residence permit at a prefecture.Â
Read more about permanent residency and how to apply for it here.Â
Useful resources
France-Visas Official Website: The official portal for visa applications to France. It provides comprehensive information on the different types of visas, required documents, application procedures, and more. Visit the website here.Â
OFII (Office Français de l’Immigration et de l’Intégration): The official French immigration and integration office. OFII plays a crucial role in the process of settling in France after obtaining a visa. Their website offers valuable information on mandatory procedures for new arrivals. Visit the website here.Â
France Diplomatie – Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs: This official government website offers a wealth of information on French foreign policy, including visa procedures. Visit the website here.Â
