About
A long-stay visa D for France is a one-year renewable residency intended for individuals
planning to reside in France for an extended period without engaging in paid work.
What is a Long-stay Visa Type D?
- It allows stays in France beyond 90 days,
typically up to one year. - The visa is renewable, and leads to
obtaining a residence permit or even
French citizenship after a few years.
Key Benefits:
Extended Stay: Provides the right to stay in France legally for longer than a tourist visa.
Mobility: Access to Schengen countries for short stays during the validity of the visa.
Residency Pathway: The visa is often the first step towards obtaining a renewable residence permit in France.
Proof can include bank statements, pension statements, or income from investments.
Eligibility Criteria:
1. Proof of Sufficient Financial Resources:
- The applicant must demonstrate financial self-sufficiency to cover living expenses without working in France.
- Required amounts (as per the residence permit requirements):
€36,000/year for the main applicant.
€18,000/year for a spouse.
€9,000/year for a child under 16.
Proof can include bank statements, pension statements, or income from investments.
2. Accommodation Evidence:
- Rental agreement or proof of property ownership in France.
- Accommodation must meet minimum space requirements (15 m per person; 80–100 m is ideal).
3. No Work in France:
- Applicants cannot engage in paid employment during their stay.
4. Health Insurance:
- Comprehensive health insurance valid for the entire stay in France.
5. Intent to Return:
- Applicants must demonstrate their intent to leave France after the visa expires (for non-permanent residency applicants).
Application Process:
1. Document Preparation:
- Passport (valid for at least six months beyond the visa duration).
- Application form for a long-stay visa.
- Recent photographs (as per Schengen visa requirements)
- Proof of financial resources and health insurance.
- Accommodation proof.
- Motivation letter explaining reasons for staying in France.
2. Submit Application:
- At the nearest French consulate or visa center in your home country.
3. Visa Processing Time:
- Typically 30 days (may vary based on location and applicant’s nationality).
4. Visa Approval:
- Once approved, applicants receive a visa sticker in their passport.
5. Arrival in France:
- Upon arrival, applicants must validate their visa with the French Immigration and Citizenship Office (OFII) within the first three months.
Renewal Process:
- The Visitor Visa Type D is renewable
annually. - Renewal requires:
- Updated proof of financial means.
- Valid health insurance.
- Proof of accommodation in France.
Pathway to Permanent Residency and Citizenship:
- After holding a long-stay visa and residence permit for 5 continuous years, applicants may qualify for permanent residency.
- To obtain French citizenship, the individual must:
- Be a tax resident in France.
- Pass a French language proficiency exam.
- Demonstrate integration into French society.
Important Notes:
- This visa does not grant permission to work or engage in professional activities in France.
- Failure to comply with the terms of the visa (e.g., insufficient funds or illegal work) may result in visa cancellation or non-renewal.
Contact
[email protected]
to know more about
Visa D (France)
Our Global Team
Attorney at Law, Managing Partner
Attorney at Law
Attorney at Law
Attorney at Law
Attorney at Law
Attorney at Law
Regional Legal Counsel - Central Europe
Chief Markets & Clients Officer
Global Mobility Consultant
Global Mobility Consultant
Luxury Hospitality and Real Estate Consultant - UAE
Real Estate Consultant - Hungary
Real Estate Consultant - Slovakia
Executive Assistant
Administrative Support Specialist
Legal Intern
Legal Intern
Marketing Associate