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Requesting a visa

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All foreign nationals wishing to enter France must be able to submit statutory documents at the border concerning the reasons for their stay, their means of support and accommodation arrangements.

A visa is generally required, in the absence of a waiver. For general information and for preparing, submitting and tracking your visa application, log on to France-Visas , France’s official visa site.

France-Visas is a single portal with all the information you need to guide you through the process and help you every step of the way (preparing the application, entering details, submitting and tracking the application).

The main steps in applying for a visa

Do I need a visa?

First, use “Visa Wizard” on the France-Visas site to check, based on your situation, whether you need a visa and if so, what type. The wizard will also tell you what documents must be enclosed with your application, along with the relevant fee.

Complete your application online

Once you have checked that you need a visa, you can complete your application on our online portal . You will be asked to create an account and France-Visas will support you in each step of the process.

Submit your application to the visa centre.

Once you have completed your online application, all you have to do is submit it to your local visa centre. France-Visas will provide you with all necessary information on how and where to submit your application.

Track your visa application.

Once your application has been submitted, track its progress and find out how and when you can collect your passport and how to prepare for your trip to France.

Waiting times for appointments and for processing applications will vary depending on your nationality and the time of year. Users are therefore asked to submit their visa applications well in advance of their departure date .

Applying for a French residence permit

Holders of an entry and long-stay visa marked “carte de séjour à solliciter à l’arrivée en France” (residence permit to be applied for upon arrival in France) are required to contact the French prefectural authority in their place of residence, in order to apply for a residence permit within two months of entering the French territory.

Family members of a national of an EU Member State, the EEE or Switzerland who wish to submit a request for a “family member of a union citizen” residence permit must contact the competent French prefectural authority, in order to apply for a residence permit within three months of entering the French territory.

Holders of a long-stay visa marked “CESEDA R.311-3” are required to contact the French Immigration and Integration Office (OFII) immediately on arrival in France.

For more informations

Update: March 2020

On the same topic

Studying in France

Visiting France

Investing in France

France Facts

Accueil > Applying for a short-stay visa

Applying for a short-stay visa

Date of update

As a citizen of a State outside the European Union, the European Economic Area or Switzerland, are you looking to visit or stay in France for a short period?

Typically, you should apply for a short-stay visa.

A short-stay visa authorizes foreign nationals to enter and stay in French territory for up to 3 months.

Short-stay visas can be single-entry for one short stay or multiple-entry for several successive short stays.

Obtaining a short-stay visa

Where to apply.

Applications must be submitted to the French embassy or consulate in the applicant’s country of residence.

When processing visa applications, the visa authorities normally invite applicants to attend their premises in person.

Some formalities, such as arranging appointments and submitting applications, may be outsourced to external service providers. (VFS Global, TLS, etc.).

The application is initiated online via the official website france-visas.gouv.fr.

This first step allows the applicant to verify the need for him to obtain a visa using the Visa Assistant. The user can then apply for a visa via a personal account and then find out how to submit their file, often with the service provider from the Consulate or Embassy. Thanks to the france-visas.gouv.fr website, visa applicants can now follow the progress of their application directly online.

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• Fact sheet: long stay visa
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Company directors

• Appointed Directors : Passport talent « Company director»

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Work permit

• Obtaining a work permit
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• Fact sheet : work permit
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Accompanying family

• Fact sheet: “Accompanying family” simplified procedure
• Travel document for foreign minors (DCEM)
• Family members of an EU, EEA or Swiss Nationals
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Do you need to travel in the overseas departments and regions?

The overseas departments and regions (Guadeloupe, French Guiana, Martinique, Reunion Island and Mayotte) are not part of France’s European territory.

The Schengen agreements thus do not apply on these overseas territories.

• Foreign nationals holding a short-stay Schengen visa may thus not enter an overseas department, authority or territory;
• Foreign nationals issued a specific short-stay visa to one of the overseas departments, this visa does not allow them to enter the Schengen Area.

More details on the website of the Ministry of the Interior

When to apply

Processing timescales for short-stay visas can vary from one embassy or consulate to another.

Applicants are advised to apply relatively early, but no earlier than three months before the planned date of arrival in France

Helpful tip: All documents must be submitted in French (originals together with a set of photocopies). Visa applications are not processed until a complete application has been received.

France-visas provides the public with a precise list of the documents to be provided in support of a visa application, adapted to the purpose of the stay and the personal situation of the foreign national.

To submit a short-stay visa application, applicants should typically present the following documents:

• Issued in the last 10 years.
• Valid for at least three months after the planned date of departure from French territory.
• Short-stay visa application form (Cerfa no. 14076*01) duly completed, signed and dated via France-visas website and France-visas receipt.
• Three standardized  passport photos.
• €32.50 a day for foreigners with an accommodation certificate.
• €65 a day for foreigners with proof of a hotel room booking.
• €120 a day for foreigners without proof of a hotel room booking.
• Proof of a  guarantee of repatriation to the foreign national’s usual place of residence.
• Proof of insurance  covering medical and hospital expenses up to at least  €30,000 .
• Evidence of the  reasons for and conditions of the stay:
• Tourist visits: Hotel booking showing the applicant’s name, lease agreement, etc.
• Family or personal visit: Original and photocopy of proof of accommodation ( accommodation certificate ).
• Transit: Travel bookings, visa for final destination, etc.
• Business travel: Letter of invitation from the host (company, seminar or conference organizer, etc.).
• Internships and training: Internship agreement.

A full list of specific supporting documents to be submitted with a visa application, depending on the purpose of the stay and the foreign national’s personal circumstances, is freely available to the public at the France-visas website.

 For further details, please visit France-visas

Proof of accommodation

Any foreigner wishing to stay in France for no longer than three months, especially for a family or personal visit, must provide proof of accommodation. This can take the form of a hotel booking or an accommodation certificate supplied by a person hosting the foreign national in their home. The host must apply in person to the town hall in their place of residence, signing Cerfa form no. 10798*03 .

Cost of a short-stay visa

Application and visa fees are charged when the application is submitted. They range from €35 to €60 depending on the nationality of the applicant, to whom a receipt is issued. Fees can be found on France-visas. Fees are not refunded if a visa application is unsuccessful.

Helpful tip: Some formalities, such as arranging appointments and submitting applications, may be outsourced to external service providers. Any fees they charge are in addition to standard application fees, and are payable by the applicant.

The process for initiating a visa application is divided into several stages as explained on the official website France-visas.gouv.fr:

Download the “Schengen” short stay visa application form Cerfa 14076*03 .

Download the visa for a department or an overseas territory application form  Cerfa 15934*01 .

Access to all the forms on the France-visas website

How to read a short-stay visa sticker

For further information, please visit the website of France-visas.gouv.fr .

Visa territorial validity

The territorial validity of the visa in France is specified on the sticker.

When the sticker bears the indication “ valid for France except TCOM ”, the visa is valid for mainland France and the territories of Guadeloupe, French Guiana, Martinique, Reunion and the community of Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon.

When the sticker bears the indication “ DFA ”, the visa is valid only for Martinique, Guadeloupe and French Guiana, and for the community of Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon.

Lastly, if the sticker only lists the name of a single overseas department or region, it authorises entry only to this department or region. On the sticker, the mark is “ DEPARTEMENT D’OUTRE MER (FRANCE) ”, the visa entitles you only to enter the departement or region specified in the « REMARQUES / REMARKS » section.

Consular or diplomatic authorities may reject visa applications.

The reasons for rejection must always be given in writing.Le ressortissant étranger may informally appeal such decisions free of charge and ask the relevant authority to reconsider their application.

Applications can also be referred to the French Visa Application Appeals Commission (Commission de recours contre les décisions de refus de visa d’entrée en France – CRV).

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Schengen short-stay visa (foreigner in france for up to 3 months).

Verified 27 March 2024 - Directorate for Legal and Administrative Information (Prime Minister)

Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland (outside EU), Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein (outside EU), Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland (outside EU)

Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland

A set of computer techniques that automatically identify an individual based on their physical, biological, or behavioral characteristics. Most of them have the particularity of being unique and permanent (DNA, fingerprints, iris, etc.).

Heavy acts (drug trafficking, impersonation, facilitation of illegal entry, movement or residence, concealed work, scams, etc.) which make a person dangerous in the future

European file allowing law enforcement and magistrates from Schengen countries to have information on wanted persons (fugitives, missing persons, etc.). Foreigners refused entry to a Schengen country are also entered in this register.

You are a foreigner and you want to stay in France for less than 3 months? You must have a visa short-term (Type C). This visa is common to the countries of the Schengen area . It allows you to stay in France and in the other countries of space Schengen , except in exceptional circumstances. Other documents are also required, depending on the purpose of the stay. Here's the information you need to know.

Who must hold a Schengen short-stay visa?

You are affected if you meet the following 3 conditions:

• You are foreigner
• Your stay is one maximum duration of 3 months in France (or in another space country) Schengen )
• You don't have a residence permit or long-stay visa in a space country Schengen

Warning  

This procedure does not concern a foreigner who is a national of European country nor the members of his family living in France with him.

Depending on your nationality and the type of passport, you may be exempt from the visa requirement. You can check if you need a visa using the Visa Assistant service. The process is done on the Internet:

Check if you need a visa - Visa Assistant

What is a Schengen short-stay visa?

A visa is a sticker affixed by a country's administration to a person's passport to allow him or her to enter and stay for a specified period of time.

The short-stay visa allows you to enter and travel in France and other countries in space Schengen .

Exceptionally, it may be valid in France or in one or more countries in space Schengen only (for example, France and Belgium).

Unlike a national long-stay visa (type D) , the visa Schengen does not allow you to settle in France.

On what grounds can a Schengen visa be granted?

This visa can be granted for example for one of the following reasons:

• Tourist trip
• Business travel
• Family visit
• Short Training, Internship
• Exercise of a paid activity (for example if you are an artist on tour in France, sportsman, model, etc.), after having obtained a provisional work permit

What is the authorized length of stay with the Schengen visa?

The short-stay visa allows you to stay for a maximum of 90 days for a continuous stay or for several stays in the countries of space Schengen over a period of 180 days.

At the end of this 90-day maximum, you must leave the space Schengen .

A simulator allows you to calculate the maximum length of a non-European foreigner's stay in the Schengen area:

Calculate the maximum permissible length of short stays in Schengen countries

What documents are required for a short stay, in addition to the visa?

Depending on the reason for your stay, you must present the following documents, in addition to the visa:

• Proof of your livelihood (cash, traveler's checks, international bank cards, etc.)
• Proof of guarantees for your repatriation (return transport ticket, etc.)
• Insurance covering medical and hospital expenses, including social assistance, for care you may receive in France (the minimum coverage requested is €30,000 )
• Proof of reception or proof of accommodation in a hotel or a host establishment, if your stay is part of a private or family visit
• Documents on the purpose and conditions of your stay in France, if your trip is touristic or professional or is for hospitalization or research work

If you want to work during your short stay, you must have a work permit .

How to apply for a Schengen visa?

You must complete your visa application on the internet:

Apply for a visa

The request must be made at the earliest 3 months before departure planned.

After completing your application on the internet, you must make an appointment at the French Consulate of the country in which you reside.

The process is done on the Internet.

Who shall I contact

• Visa department (French embassy/consulate abroad)

Please note

If the main destination cannot be determined, it is the country of entry into the Schengen area who is competent to issue you the visa.

For example, if you plan to spend 15 days in Belgium and 15 days in France for tourism arriving through Belgium, you must make your request at the Belgian consulate.

Validity of the passport

Your passport must be valid at least 3 months after the end date of your visa. It must also have been issued since under 10 years .

Recording of the applicant's data

Your data biometrics are saved to a file, called Visabio .

These data are the scanned images of your photo and fingerprints (children under 12 years of age are not affected).

You cannot object to this registration. However, you have the right to access and correct the file.

What is the cost of a Schengen visa?

To find out the cost of the visa, you can consult the Rates of the pages of the France-Visas wizard:

France-Visas - Cost of visa according to country

The amount of the visa fee must be paid to the visa office at the time of application.

In countries where the State has entrusted the receipt of applications to a private provider, the application fees must be paid to that provider. The latter may also charge additional service charges abroad.

After payment, a receipt with an indication of the amount paid shall be given to the applicant.

In case of refusal of the visa or cancelation of the stay, the amount paid is not refunded.

Can the issue of a Schengen visa be refused?

A Schengen visa may be refused on the following grounds:

• You can't introduce the supporting documents concerning your stay in France (proof of accommodation, resources, medical insurance, etc.)
• You present false travel documents or documents of questionable authenticity
• You have already stayed 90 days during the current period of 180 days in the French territory
• Your presence in France would represent a threat to public order
• You are registered for the purposes of non-admission in the Schengen Information System or pose a threat to the security, public health or international relations of a country the Schengen area
• You are subject to a prohibition order ( judicial prohibition of french territory , expulsion order , return ban , administrative inadmissibility )
• Your intention to leave French territory before the end of the visa is not established
• You cannot provide precise information about the purpose and conditions of your stay in France

The short-stay visa requested by the holder of a diplomatic or service passport may be refused to a national of a State which does not cooperate sufficiently in the readmission of its nationals in an irregular situation or which does not comply with a bilateral or multilateral agreement on the management of migratory flows.

Your Schengen visa may be refused:

• Explicitly by a written decision which must specify the reason for the refusal
• Implicitly if your request is not answered after 2 months

Can an appeal be lodged against a refusal to issue a Schengen visa?

You can appeal against a visa refusal decision in court. But you must first make a mandatory prior administrative remedy (Rapo).

How to make a Rapo?

You must write to the Deputy Director for Visas of the Directorate-General for foreigners in France (Ministry of the Interior), which is responsible for examining administrative appeals against decisions by diplomatic or consular authorities to refuse short-stay visas.

The Rapo must be trained in 30 days from the date on which you were notified of the visa refusal decision.

The Deputy Director of Visa may:

• Dismiss your appeal, or
• Either instruct the consulate to issue you the requested short-stay visa.
• Deputy Director of Visas

What if the Rapo is rejected?

The Rapo : titleContent shall be rejected:

• Either if a written decision to refuse is sent to you (explicit rejection),
• Or if you don't have a response within 2 months of sending your RAPO (implicit rejection).

You can then file an application for annulment, within 2 months after the implicit or explicit rejection of your Rapo.

The Administrative Court of Nantes has jurisdiction to hear and determine actions for annulment of visa refusals.

Administrative Court of Nantes

Who can help me?

Find who can answer your questions in your region

Statute and miscellaneous references

Regulation of 13 July 2009 establishing a Community Code on Visas

Articles 16, 17, 32 (2), 34 (6) and Annex 6

Code of entry and residence of foreigners and right of asylum: Articles L312-1 and L312-1-1

Principle of short-stay visas

Code of entry and residence of foreigners and right of asylum: article R313-1

Documents relating to the purpose and conditions of the stay

Code of entry and residence of foreigners and right of asylum: article R313-2

Livelihood documents

Code of entry and residence of foreigners and right of asylum: article R313-3

Coverage of medical and hospital expenses

Code of entry and residence of foreigners and right of asylum: Articles R313-4 to R313-5

Repatriation guarantees

Code of entry and residence of foreigners and right of asylum: Articles R142-1 to R142-10

Visabio File

Code of entry and residence of foreigners and right of asylum: Articles D312-3 to R312-8

Appeal against visa refusals

Code of Administrative Justice: Articles R312-6 to R312-19

Jurisdiction of the Administrative Court of Nantes: Article R312-18

Decree No. 2014-1292 of 23 October 2014 on exceptions to the principle of "silence means acceptance" and exceptions to the 2-month period of birth of implied decisions (domestic)

Implicit refusal in case of silence on the visa application by the consulate for more than 2 months

Order of 10 May 2010 on the documents and visas required for foreigners to enter the European territory of France

Online services and forms

Online service

What is the "student competition" short-stay visa?

Additional topics

The steps of applying for a visa

Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs

How to read a Schengen visa sticker? (PDF - 33.7 KB)

Photo Standards for a Visa Application (PDF - 586.5 KB)

Specific disputes: jurisdiction of the administrative court of Nantes

Map of the Schengen area

All of Europe

Compulsory prior administrative appeal

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Student visa for France: login to France-Visas!

Since April 17, 2021, international students can apply for an online visa on France-Visas. The new service is accessible to students applying for a long stay visa living in a country where visa application is outsourced and available online.

Since April 7, the France-Visas application offers a new service to international students by allowing to submit digital copies of their supporting document during completion of their online visa application. The new service is first accessible to international students living in a country where visa application is outsourced and available online. This service helps accelerate the transfer to the outsourced service provider.

Digital visa application prerequisites

To complete a digital visa application, you must comply with the following conditions:

• Be an international student applying for studies in France;
• Apply for a long-stay visa for studies only; and
• Live in a country including an outsourced service provider collecting visa applications.

Online visa application steps

If you comply with the prerequisites, you may apply for a student visa by completing the following four steps:

• Complete your online visa application on France-Visas and transfer your documents;
• Submit in person your passport and completed form at the collection centre;
• Follow your online application on the service provider’s website; and
• Retrieve your passport.

Online visa application: tutorial

To know everything about online visas, the steps and required specifications, watch this video tutorial to be guided in your process.

Digitalising supporting document is meant to simplify visa applications for international students.

Create your account on France-Visas

Complete your online application on france-visas, uploading your documents to france-visas, related contents.

• Student visa applications: Digitalising supporting documents https://france-visas.gouv.fr/web/france-visas/numerisation

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Follow the main steps to come study in France

France Visa – How to Apply, Fees, Full Process

Dreaming of a vacation amidst the Parisian streets, sipping wine in Bordeaux , or enjoying the views of the French Riviera? France is, undoubtedly, a top destination for travelers.

However, before embarking on your journey, understanding the visa process is crucial.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve deep into everything you need to know about obtaining a France visa.

Apply Online

In this article…

Types of France Visas

France is a part of the Schengen Area, which consists of 26 European countries that have abolished passports and other types of border control at their mutual borders.

For most short stays (up to 90 days), a Schengen visa suffices. For longer stays, national visas are required.

💡 Tip: Buy travel health insurance before your trip.

Check out popular travel insurance plans and choose one that suits you.

Most plans only cost less than $20 a day.

1. Determine Your Visa Type

• Short Stay (Schengen) Visa : For tourist visits, business trips, or family visits lasting up to 90 days.
• Long Stay Visa : For more extended periods, such as for work, studies, or family reunification.

The purpose and duration of your stay dictate the type of visa you’ll need.

2. Gathering Necessary Documentation

The specific documents you need can vary based on the visa type and purpose:

• Standard Requirements : Valid passport, completed application form , recent photographs, travel insurance , round trip ticket, proof of accommodation, and proof of funds.
• For Students : Admission letter, proof of funds, and health insurance.
• For Workers : Employment contract, academic qualifications, and sometimes a work permit.

3. France Visa Application Process

• Step 1 : Complete the online application form available at France-Visas, the official visa website.
• Step 2 : Gather all necessary documentation .
• Step 3 : Book an appointment at your local VFS Global center or French Consulate .
• Step 4 : Attend the visa interview. The interview typically involves questions about your travel plans, funds, and accommodation.
• Step 5 : Pay the visa fee.
• Step 6 : Wait for the decision. Visa processing times vary, but Schengen visas typically take 15 calendar days.

4. France Visa Fees

Visa fees can change based on age, duration, and visa type:

• Schengen Visa : Around €80 for adults and €40 for children (6-12 years).
• Long Stay Visa : Costs can vary widely, from €99 to €200 or more, depending on the type and duration.

Always check the current rates on the official website or through your application center.

5. After Arriving in France

Short Stay Visitors : Nothing further is required. Enjoy your stay!

Long Stay Visitors : You may need to register at the local town hall (mairie) or with the French Office of Immigration and Integration (OFII).

6. What If Your Visa Is Denied?

There could be various reasons for visa denials, such as insufficient funds, unclear travel purpose, or concerns about potential overstay. If denied, you have the right to appeal within one month.

7. France Visa – Extensions and Modifications

Extending your visa while in France is challenging unless there are extenuating circumstances, such as medical emergencies. Ensure that you plan accordingly and always adhere to the duration mentioned in your visa.

8. Overstaying Consequences

Overstaying your visa can result in fines, deportations, or bans from reentering the Schengen Area. Always respect the visa stipulations.

Tips for a Smooth France Visa Application Process

• Plan Ahead : Aim to apply at least 3-6 months before your intended travel date.
• Accurate Documentation : Ensure all your documents are current and translated into French, if necessary.
• Proof of Ties : Showing ties to your home country can increase your chances of approval, as it indicates you’re less likely to overstay.

While the process might seem daunting, obtaining a French visa is straightforward with the right preparation.

Whether you’re planning a short holiday or a long stay in France, following the guidelines outlined above will set you on the right path. Bon voyage!

(Note: This article provides a general overview, but visa regulations and procedures can change. Always check the official French consulate or embassy website or consult with an immigration attorney for the most current information and your specific circumstances.)

FAQs on France Visa Application

What is the Schengen Visa?

A Schengen Visa allows you to travel among the 26 Schengen Area countries, including France, for short stays up to 90 days.

How early should I apply for my French visa?

It’s recommended to apply at least 3-6 months before your intended travel date.

Is travel insurance mandatory for a France visa?

Yes, travel insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000 is compulsory for Schengen visa applicants.

Can I work in France with a tourist visa?

No, a tourist visa doesn’t grant the holder the right to work. You’d need a specific work visa or permit.

How long does visa processing usually take?

A Schengen visa typically takes up to 15 calendar days. However, this can vary depending on the consulate and time of year.

Are visa fees refundable if my application is denied?

No, visa fees are non-refundable regardless of the outcome.

Do I need a separate visa for each Schengen country I visit?

No. A Schengen visa allows travel among all Schengen countries. However, apply from the country you plan to spend the most time in.

Can I extend my visa while in France?

Extensions are rare and typically only granted under specific circumstances, such as medical emergencies.

What is the difference between a Schengen visa and a long-stay visa?

A Schengen visa allows short stays up to 90 days. A long-stay visa is for those intending to stay in France longer, such as for work or study .

What happens if I overstay my visa?

Overstaying can result in fines, deportations, or bans from reentering the Schengen Area.

Do children also need to pay the visa fee?

Children aged 6-12 have a reduced fee, while those under 6 are generally exempted. Always check current rates.

Can I visit other countries outside the Schengen Area with my France visa?

No, a France visa (Schengen) is valid only within the Schengen countries.

Are there any biometrics required for the visa application ?

Yes, first-time applicants need to provide biometric data, mainly fingerprinting.

How can I track my visa application?

You can typically track your application through the VFS Global website or the portal where you initially applied.

Do I need to book my flights before applying for the visa?

It’s recommended to have a tentative flight itinerary but not always mandatory to have a confirmed ticket.

Is it possible to bring my pet to France?

Yes, but there are specific requirements and vaccinations needed. Ensure you check the guidelines.

I have a US, UK, or Canadian visa. Do I still need a visa for France?

Yes, regardless of other visas, you’ll need a Schengen or appropriate French visa to enter France.

What should I do if my passport with a valid France visa is lost or stolen?

Report the loss immediately to local police and contact your country’s embassy or consulate in France. You may need a new visa to exit France.

Can I change the purpose of my visa once I’m in France?

No, the visa is issued for a specific purpose. Any changes would require a new visa application.

I’ve been denied a France visa before. Can I apply again?

Yes, you can reapply, but ensure you address the reasons for the initial denial in your new application.

• US Visa – How to Apply, Fees & Full Process
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Consulate General of France in London

Home > Consulate in London > Visas > Applying for a French visa in the United Kingdom

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Applying for a French visa in the United Kingdom [fr]

Visa applications submitted in the United Kingdom are processed by the French Consulate in London.

For general information and for preparing, submitting and tracking your application, log on to France-visas , the official website for visa application to France : https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en_US/web/france-visas .

Reminder : the French Consulate in London has outsourced the reception of visa applications to TLScontact . Please note that appointments with TLScontact are free of charge - be aware of fraudulent agencies/ websites promising earlier appointments for a fee.

France-visas is a single portal with all the information you need process and help you every step of the way (preparing the application, entering details, submitting and tracking the application).

The main steps in applying for a visa

Do i need a visa.

Complete your application online

Submit your application to the visa centre

Track your visa application

Published on 24/10/2023

• Do you wish to speak to an advisor regarding your visa application?

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• Visas and immigration
• What you need to do

How to apply for a visa to come to the UK

Choose a visa.

You may need a visa to come to the UK to study, work, visit or join family.

There are different visas depending on:

• where you come from
• why you want to come to the UK
• how long you want to stay for
• your personal circumstances and skills

Before you apply, you must check if you need a visa and what type you need. Depending on your nationality, you might not need a visa to visit or transit through the UK.

Your application must be approved before you travel.

You do not need to apply for a visa if you’re an Irish citizen.

If you want to visit the UK

Apply for a Standard Visitor visa to visit the UK for up to 6 months. For example:

• for a holiday or to see family and friends
• for a business trip or meeting
• to do a short course of study

You must apply for a Marriage Visitor visa if you want to visit the UK to get married or register a civil partnership.

If you have a visitor visa you cannot take a job in the UK.

If you’re travelling through the UK

You might need a visa if you’re travelling through the UK on your way to another country, for example if you have a layover between flights.

Apply for a visa to travel through the UK .

If you want to study in the UK

Your course length, type and place of study affect which visa to apply for.

A Standard Visitor visa lets you do a short course of study that lasts no longer than 6 months.

A Short-term study visa lets you come to the UK to study an English language course that is over 6 months and up to 11 months.

A Student visa is usually for a longer course. You must be sponsored by a licensed college or university and have a confirmed place. On this visa, you may be able to do some work.

A Child Student visa is for 4 to 17 year olds who want to study at an independent school. If you’re 16 or over, this visa lets you do some work.

If you want to work in the UK

You can work in the UK on a short or long-term basis with a work visa. There are many types of work visa .

The visa you need depends upon:

• your skills and qualifications
• if you have a job offer and sponsorship
• if you want to bring your family with you
• what you’ll be doing - for example sporting, charitable or religious work

You can set up a business with an Innovator Founder visa .

If you want to join family in the UK

If you’re a spouse, partner or family member of someone who has British citizenship or settlement in the UK, you can apply for a family visa to join them. They may need to show that they can support you financially.

You may be able to apply for indefinite leave to remain ( ILR ) after a set amount of time living in the UK.

If your family member is in the UK on a visa

You may be able to apply for a visa to join a family member who’s in the UK on a visa. They must be either:

• your spouse or partner
• your parent if you’re 18 or under

Check what visa you’ll need to join them.

Family reunion visas for refugees

If you were separated from your partner or child when you were forced to leave your country, they can apply to join you in the UK.

Your family members can apply if you have been given asylum or 5 years’ humanitarian protection, and not have British citizenship.

If your family member is from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein

You can apply for a free EU Settlement Scheme family permit to come to the UK if you have a close family member who:

• was living in the UK by 31 December 2020
• has pre-settled or settled status
• you had a relationship with by 31 December 2020 (unless you’re applying for a child who was born or adopted after this date)

Close family members include your spouse or civil partner, child, grandchild, parent or grandparent.

A family permit lets you live, work and study in the UK for up to 6 months. You can apply to the EU Settlement Scheme to stay in the UK after your family permit expires. You usually need to apply within 3 months of arriving in the UK.

Other ways to get permission to live in the UK

If you’re from the eu, switzerland, norway, iceland or liechtenstein.

If you started living in the UK by 31 December 2020, you may be able to apply to the free EU Settlement Scheme instead of applying for a visa. The deadline to apply was 30 June 2021, but you can still apply if you can show reasonable grounds for the delay in applying.

Check if you can still apply to the EU Settlement Scheme .

You can only apply from outside the UK if you have a valid passport or national identity card with a biometric chip.

Commonwealth citizens

You can apply for an Ancestry visa to work in the UK if you have a British grandparent and meet other eligibility criteria.

You may have right of abode to live in the UK.

If you’re a Commonwealth citizen and cannot prove your right to be in the UK, read about the Windrush scheme .

Returning residents

You’ll need to apply for a returning resident visa to come back to the UK if one of the following is true:

you had indefinite leave to remain under the EU Settlement Scheme (‘settled status’) and left the UK for more than 5 continuous years (or 4 continuous years if you’re a Swiss citizen or their family member)

you had permanent permission to stay in the UK (‘indefinite leave to remain’) but it was not under the EU Settlement Scheme and you left the UK for more than 2 years

Other visas

There may be another visa that’s right for you based on your circumstances. Check if you need a visa and what other visas you’re eligible for.

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