France Tourist Visa from India: Application, Appointment & Complete Guide 2025

France, known for its magnificent Eiffel Tower, stunning Riviera beaches, exceptional wines, and profound cultural treasures, boasts being one of the most sought-out countries worldwide. Every year, a large number of Indian nationals visit France for leisure, business, education, or to meet family. If you’re planning a trip to France in 2025, keep in mind that you will need to get a Visa for France. If you do not have a valid Visa, then most likely a France tourist Visa.

From this article, you will be able to learn the necessary steps for applying for a France visa, how to book a visa appointment, required documents, processing time, visa fees, and much more—including answers to common questions Indian passport holders have.

Do Indian Passport holders need to apply for a Visa for France?

The answer is Yes. Indian nationals are required to apply for the Visa before travelling to France. Since France is part of the Schengen Area, Indian passport holders will require a Schengen visa (Type C) for short term visits including tourism, business, or family visits.

Types of France Visa for Indian Citizens.

🔹 Short Stay Visa (Type C) – Schengen Visa 

• Valid up to 90 days in a 180 day period.
• Ideal for travelling and tourism, business meetings, or visiting family or friends.

🔹 Long-Stay Visa (Type D)

• Available for stays exceeding 90 days.
• For working, studying, family gatherings, or moving permanently.

In this post, we will examine the France tourist visa for Indians, which falls under the short stay Schengen visa category.

France Tourist Visa from India: Summary

With a France tourist visa, Indians can visit France and other Schengen countries for a maximum period of 90 days. The visa usually allows for single or multiple entries and should be utilized within a certain period.

France Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens

Here’s the full list of documents needed to apply for a France tourist visa:

1. Visa Application Form

• Filled out online at France-Visas portal.
• Must be printed and signed.

2. Passport

• Must be valid for a minimum of 3 months after the scheduled return date.
• Must have a minimum of 2 blank pages.
• Must include copies of all old passports and previous visas, if applicable.

3. Photographs

• Two (2) passport size photographs taken recently.
• 35×45 mm size, white background.

4. Cover Letter

• Must describe the travel plan including the reason for visiting, intended period of stay, and funding details.

5. Flight Reservations

• Airline tickets purchased for a round trip with entry and exit from the Schengen zone.

6. Accommodation Proof

• Invitation letter from a host in France or hotel bookings.

7. Travel Insurance

• Insurance policy must cover a minimum of €30,000, and must be valid in all Schengen countries.

8. Proof of Financial Means

• Bank statements from the last 3 to 6 months.
• Income Tax Returns (ITR).
• Payslips or proof of employment.

9. Employment/Study Documents

• Employed: Company ID and NOC from employer.
• Self-employed: Business registration and GST or tax details.
• Students: NOC from the institution and enrollment certificate.

How to Book France Visa Appointment

This is where steps 1 through 5 of booking France Visa appointment would go.

Submitting visa documents and biometrics is done through VFS Global, which manages French visa applications in India on behalf of the French Embassy and Consulates.

France Visa Application Centers in India

As VFS France Visa Application Centers have been set up recently, they can be found in the following cities: 

• New Delhi
• Mumbai
• Bangalore
• Chennai
• Hyderabad
• Kolkata
• Ahmedabad
• Pune
• Kochi
• Chandigarh
• Jalandhar

Make sure to arrive for your France Visa appointment on time. You should be arriving 15 minutes in advance and  with original documents. 

France Visa Processing Time (2025)

Note: Delays may occur during peak travel seasons (April–August and November–December). Apply at least 3–4 weeks in advance.

France Visa Fees for Indian Citizens (2025)

Additional charges may apply for SMS alerts, courier services, and premium lounge (optional).

France Visa Application Tips 

• Make sure you clearly submit a well-planned itinerary.
• Submit legitimate bookings (temporary ones for visa purposes are acceptable) and pay the required fee.
• Ensure that your documents are in English or French, certified translations can be included.
• Make sure to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover the expenses.
• Consider adding an attestation d’accueil (host invitation letter verified by French authorities) if you are visiting your family or friends.

Sample Cover Letter for France Tourist Visa

To: The Visa Officer,

Embassy of France, New Delhi

Subject: Application for France Tourist Visa

Dear Sir/Madam,

My name is [Full Name]. I am an Indian national with passport number [XXXXXXXX]. I am planning a trip to France for tourism from [Start Date] to [End Date]. My itinerary includes visiting Paris, Lyon, and Nice.

I have secured all necessary arrangements for travel, accommodation and insurance, and I will personally bear all expenses of the trip. I have attached all the necessary documents for your review.

I would appreciate your consideration of my visa application.

Best Regards,

[Full Name]

[Phone Number]

[Email]

Contact – French Embassy in India

French Embassy, New Delhi 

Office Address: 2/50-E, Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi – 110021

Phone Number: +91-11-4319 6100

Website:  https://in.ambafrance.org/  

Closing Remarks

While applying for a France tourist visa from India, the process is easy if you book in advance, follow instructions, organize the necessary paperwork, and have a clear itinerary. With a well-organized application, scheduling the visa appointment early can go a long way toward success. 

A trip will France guarantees a wonderful vacation full of rich experiences as you traverse the streets of Paris, visit beautiful beaches along the French Riviera, and discover historic castles and scenic countryside. Don’t delay – start planning your application and make your European vacation a reality!