France Tourist Visa Requirements for Indians
Indian passport holders planning to visit France for tourism, sightseeing, or visiting friends and family must apply for a France Schengen Tourist Visa. This visa allows a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period in France and other Schengen countries.
Complete Document Checklist
- France visa application form
- Passport-sized photograph
- Valid passport
- Proof of identity
- Cover letter explaining travel purpose
- Proof of financial means
- Proof of employment / social ties
- Flight itinerary
- Proof of accommodation
- Travel medical insurance
Visa Application Form
Applicants must complete the France Schengen visa application form online and submit a printed and signed copy at the Visa Application Centre (VAC).
Passport Photo
- Size: 35 mm × 45 mm
- White background
- Neutral facial expression
- No older than 6 months
Valid Passport
- Valid for at least 3 months after departure from the Schengen Area
- Issued within the last 10 years
- Minimum two blank pages
Proof of Identity
Submit a copy of your Aadhaar Card or PAN Card.
Cover Letter (Proof of Travel Purpose)
Your cover letter should clearly explain your travel purpose, itinerary, financial means, and intent to return to India.
Proof of Financial Means
- Bank statements for the last 3–6 months (signed & stamped)
- Income Tax Returns (ITR) for the last 2 years
- Salary slips or income proof
Recommended funds: €60–70 per day of stay (approximately €1,800–€2,100 for a 30-day trip).
Proof of Employment / Social Ties
- Employment letter or leave approval
- Business documents (for self-employed applicants)
- Marriage certificate or family proof (if applicable)
Proof of Travel
Roundtrip flight reservations or itineraries are required. Fully paid tickets are not mandatory at the time of application.
Proof of Accommodation
- Hotel reservations covering the entire stay
- Invitation letter from a host in France (if applicable)
Travel Insurance
- Minimum coverage of €30,000
- Valid across all Schengen countries
- Covers medical emergencies, repatriation, and hospitalisation
Special Applicant Scenarios
Housewives / Dependents
- Sponsorship letter from spouse or family member
- Sponsor’s bank statements and ITR
- Proof of relationship
Business Owners
- Company registration documents
- GST certificate and business PAN
- Business bank statements and ITR
Retired Applicants
- Pension statements (last 6 months)
- Proof of savings or investments
Unemployed Applicants
You may still apply if you can demonstrate sufficient savings or sponsorship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is confirmed flight booking mandatory?
No. A flight itinerary or reservation is sufficient.
Is travel insurance mandatory?
Yes. Without valid insurance, the visa application will be rejected.
Are Income Tax Returns compulsory?
Yes. ITR for the last two years is generally required.
Can I apply without confirmed accommodation?
Yes. Temporary hotel bookings or invitation letters are acceptable.
Can I apply if my passport has only one blank page?
It may be accepted, but renewing your passport is strongly recommended.
Important Notes
- Visa requirements may change without notice
- Submission of documents does not guarantee approval
- Always verify details on official French Embassy websites
vfsvisaupdate.com is an independent informational website and is not affiliated with VFS Global, any embassy, or government authority. Visa rules may change at any time.