What are the differences between long and short stay visas for France?
Obtaining a visa for France is not always easy. Indeed, there are several types of visas for France. It is therefore necessary to pay attention to which visa you are applying for to come to France. In this article, we will explain the differences between short stay visas and long stay visas for France.
What is a long stay visa for France?
This type of visa must be applied for by any foreigner wishing to come to France for a period of more than 3 months. With this visa, you can stay in France for a determined period only. The reasons for obtaining a long-stay visa can be professional or personal.
A long-stay visa can be considered as a residence permit (VLS-TS) for a period between 3 and 12 months. To extend the duration of your stay in France, you must then apply for a residence permit for one of the following reasons
- employee, scientist, researcher, temporary worker
- students, employees and ICT trainees and their families
- talent passport
Europeans do not need to obtain a VLS-TS to stay in France, nor do people from Andorra, the Vatican, Monaco or Saint Martin. The long-stay visa also allows you to travel throughout the Schengen area for 90 days within a 180-day period.
What is a short stay visa for France?
This type of visa must be requested by any foreigner wishing to come to France for a period of less than 3 months. Unlike the long-stay visa, it does not allow you to bring other family members or to engage in any professional activities. On the other hand, it is possible to obtain a multiple entry visa (also called a circulation visa) to make several short stays (90 to 180 days) in a period of 6 months to 5 years.
There are two types of short stay visas for France:
The visa specific to overseas territories wishing to come to France valid for 90 days only.
The Schengen type C visa or uniform visa to travel in France and in the whole Schengen area. If you leave the Schengen area, even during your visa, you cannot re-enter.
The short stay visa is authorized for the following reasons: certain professional activities, business trips, training and internship, tourism, family or private visit. Once the short stay visa expires, you must wait 180 days to apply for a new one.
Visa France App helps you get your visa for France
Whether you are looking to obtain a long-stay visa or a short-stay visa, the Visa France app helps you with all your procedures. You can download it on your smartphone or tablet on Android or iOs.