Ethiopia passport → France

France visa for citizens of Ethiopia

Embassy / VFSSchengen visa (short-stay)

Citizens of Ethiopia 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 · Schengen visa (short-stay)
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 + €30 service fee
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	€65 per day of stay (at least €585 for a short stay)

How to apply

1
Check visa requirements
Visit France-Visas website to confirm eligibility.
2
Complete the online application form
Fill and submit the form on France-Visas, print the receipt.
3
Gather required documents
Assemble all documents as per checklist.
4
Book an appointment
Schedule at TLScontact or VFS Global center in Ethiopia.
5
Attend appointment and provide biometrics
Submit fingerprints, photo, and documents in person.
6
Pay visa fee and service fee
Pay at center; keep payment receipt.
7
Wait for processing
Processing usually takes 15–45 calendar days.
8
Collect passport
Collect or receive courier with visa decision.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (2 blank pages, issued within 10 years)
Completed and signed visa application form
Passport-size photo (35mm x 45mm, white background)

Travel

Flight itinerary (round-trip or onward)
Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or letter of invitation)

Financial

Bank statements for the last 3–6 months

Employment

Proof of employment (employer letter) or student status

Supporting

Copy of previous Schengen visas (if applicable)
Optional
Cover letter explaining trip purpose
Optional

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: €65 per day of stay (minimum €585 total for a short stay)

Bank statements (last 3–6 months)
Sponsorship letter if applicable

Good to know

Application must be submitted at least 15 days before travel but no more than 6 months ahead.
Passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from Schengen area.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect application form

Double-check all fields and sign the form.

Insufficient funds proof

Provide clear bank statements and a cover letter explaining funding.

Missing travel insurance or accommodation

Ensure insurance covers entire Schengen area and stay duration.

Overstay or visa violation history

Provide honest explanation and evidence of compliance.

FAQ

Do citizens of Ethiopia need a visa for France?

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

How long can citizens of Ethiopia stay in France?

Up to 90 days.

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

Government fee: €90 + €30 service fee.

How long does France visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of Ethiopia need for France?

Valid passport (2 blank pages, issued within 10 years); Completed and signed visa application form; Passport-size photo (35mm x 45mm, white background); Flight itinerary (round-trip or onward); Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage); Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or letter of invitation); and 4 more.

How long must my passport be valid for France?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

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

Sources

france-visas.gouv.fr

Plan your trip to France

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