---
title: France visa for citizens of Botswana
description: "Citizens of Botswana need a visa for France and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 90 days. Fee: €90. Processing: 15–45 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/france/botswana
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# France visa for citizens of Botswana

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.*

Official application site: https://france-visas.gouv.fr/

## 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

- **Valid Botswana passport (with at least 3 months validity beyond planned departure)** (Travel): Original and photocopy of biodata page.
- **Completed and signed visa application form** (Supporting): Online form printed from France-Visas website.
- **Two recent passport-sized photographs (35x45mm, white background)** (Supporting): Must meet Schengen photo guidelines.
- **Round-trip flight itinerary or reservation** (Travel): Shows entry and exit from Schengen area.
- **Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)** (Travel): Valid for entire Schengen stay.
- **Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter)** (Travel): For all nights of stay.
- **Proof of financial means (bank statements last 3 months)** (Financial): Minimum €65 per day.
- **Employment letter (or proof of occupation)** (Employment): Must include salary, leave approval, and return intent.
- **Visa fee payment receipt** (Supporting): Paid at VFS centre.
- **Cover letter explaining purpose of visit** (Supporting, optional): Optional but recommended.
- **Copy of previous Schengen visas (if any)** (Supporting, 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.

## FAQs

### 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](https://france-visas.gouv.fr/)

## More

- [France visa for every passport](/visa/france)
- [Every destination for Botswana passport holders](/visa/passport/botswana)