Type C — Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C)
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Type C — Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C)

Tourist

At a Glance

Processing Time

2–4 weeks

Estimated Cost

EUR €90

Stay Duration

3 months

Not renewable

Renewal

Not renewable

Family

Not specified

PR Pathway

None

Sponsor

No job offer needed

Work

Remote not required

France flag

Living in France

Cost of Living
4% cheaper than United States
Avg Salary€31,000
Quality of Life
173/200

Overview

Up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, family visits, or transit across the Schengen Area.

The French Schengen Type C is a short-stay visa permitting non-EU nationals to spend up to 90 days in any 180-day period across the 29-country Schengen Area. A single visa covers tourism, business meetings, family visits, and transit — no separate permit needed for each member state.

The application fee is EUR 90 and travel insurance of at least €30,000 is mandatory. Processing typically takes 2–3 weeks, with up to 45 days in complex cases. The visa is strictly non-immigrant: no work authorization, no renewal, and no pathway to residency.

This visa is ideal for non-EU travelers making a short trip to France or multiple Schengen countries for tourism, business, or family purposes.

France

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Stay & Extensions

Initial grant3 months

Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Valid passport

Travel insurance (€30,000)

Proof of purpose

Financial means

Proof of return

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Passport

Photos

Travel insurance

Invitation/hotel booking

Flight itinerary

Bank statements

Employment/enrollment letter

Application Process

1

Gather documents

Prepare passport, photos, proof of funds, accommodation, and travel insurance

2

Book appointment

Schedule visa application at French embassy or consulate

3

Submit application

Present documents and complete visa application form

4

Pay visa fee

EUR 90 for standard processing

5

Biometric data

Provide fingerprints and photo if required

6

Await decision

Processing typically takes 1-4 weeks

7

Collect passport

Pick up passport with visa at consulate

Application Forms

Go to application portal
Schengen visa application form
Application for Schengen Visa (CERFA 14076-04)
Fill online

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