Botswana passport → France

France visa for citizens of Botswana

Embassy / VFSShort-stay Schengen visa (Type C)

Citizens of Botswana need a visa for France and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · Short-stay Schengen visa (Type C)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Visa validity	90 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	15–45 days
Government fee	€90
Passport validity	At least 3 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	€65 per day of stay

How to apply

1
Check visa requirements
Visit France-Visas website to confirm you need a short-stay Schengen visa.
2
Complete online application form
Fill out the form on France-Visas website and print it.
3
Gather required documents
Collect all documents listed above.
4
Book an appointment at VFS Global centre
Appointment required for biometric enrollment and document submission.
5
Attend appointment and submit documents
Bring original documents, photos, and passport. Pay visa fee.
6
Enroll biometrics
Provide fingerprints and photograph at the centre.
7
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 15-30 days.
8
Collect passport with visa decision
Either pick up at centre or receive by courier (if opted).

Documents checklist

Travel

Valid Botswana passport (with at least 3 months validity beyond planned departure)
Original and photocopy of biodata page.
Round-trip flight itinerary or reservation
Shows entry and exit from Schengen area.
Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
Valid for entire Schengen stay.
Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter)
For all nights of stay.

Financial

Proof of financial means (bank statements last 3 months)
Minimum €65 per day.

Employment

Employment letter (or proof of occupation)
Must include salary, leave approval, and return intent.

Supporting

Completed and signed visa application form
Online form printed from France-Visas website.
Two recent passport-sized photographs (35x45mm, white background)
Must meet Schengen photo guidelines.
Visa fee payment receipt
Paid at VFS centre.
Cover letter explaining purpose of visit
Optional
Optional but recommended.
Copy of previous Schengen visas (if any)
Optional
May strengthen application.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: €65 per day

bank statements
sponsorship letter
credit card

Must cover entire stay.

Good to know

Apply well in advance; processing may take up to 30 days.
Ensure passport has at least 3 months validity beyond planned departure.
Visa fee non-refundable even if denied.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient or incomplete documentation

Double-check document checklist and provide all required items.

Weak ties to home country

Provide strong proof of employment, family, or property in Botswana.

Inadequate travel insurance

Purchase insurance covering at least €30,000 and valid for entire trip.

FAQ

Do citizens of Botswana need a visa for France?

Citizens of Botswana need a visa for France and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Short-stay Schengen visa (Type C).

How long can citizens of Botswana stay in France?

Up to 90 days.

How much does the France visa cost for citizens of Botswana?

Government fee: €90.

How long does France visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of Botswana need for France?

Valid Botswana passport (with at least 3 months validity beyond planned departure); Completed and signed visa application form; Two recent passport-sized photographs (35x45mm, white background); Round-trip flight itinerary or reservation; Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage); Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter); and 5 more.

How long must my passport be valid for France?

At least 3 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://france-visas.gouv.fr/

Sources

france-visas.gouv.fr

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