Russia passport → France

France visa for citizens of Russia

Embassy / VFSSchengen Visa · Short Stay (up to 90 days)

Citizens of Russia 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 (up to 90 days)
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 + €35 service fee
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements for last 3 months showing sufficient funds (approx. €65 per day of stay)

How to apply

1
Complete online application on France-Visas portal
Fill in the application form and print the receipt.
2
Book an appointment at the visa application centre
Choose VFS Global or TLScontact in Russia (Moscow, St. Petersburg, etc.).
3
Attend appointment in person
Submit documents, provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo).
4
Pay visa fee and service charge
Fee is €80 (€35 service fee for VFS/TLS).
5
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 15 calendar days, can extend to 45 days.
6
Collect passport with decision
Either pick up in person or opt for courier delivery.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages, issued within last 10 years)
Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen area
Completed and signed Schengen visa application form
Available online on France-Visas portal
Two recent passport-size photographs (35x45mm, white background)
Must meet ICAO standards

Travel

Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
Valid for entire Schengen area and duration of stay
Round-trip flight reservation or itinerary
Not necessarily paid ticket, but confirmed booking
Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, rental agreement, or invitation letter)
For entire stay in Schengen area

Financial

Bank statements for last 3 months
Must show sufficient funds for the trip

Employment

Employment letter or proof of student status
Stating position, salary, and approved leave

Supporting

Travel history (copies of previous Schengen visas if any)
Optional
Helps demonstrate travel pattern
Marriage certificate or birth certificate (if applicable)
Optional
For family visits or accompanying spouse

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: €65 per day of stay

Bank statements
Sponsorship letter
Traveler's cheques

Bank statements must be original or certified copies, showing transactions for last 3 months.

Good to know

Visa does not guarantee entry; border police may refuse entry.
Overstaying can lead to ban from Schengen area.
Biometrics are valid for 5 years; if previously enrolled, may not need to repeat.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient funds or unclear source of income

Provide clear bank statements and proof of employment/sponsorship.

Incomplete or incorrect documentation

Double-check all required documents and ensure translations if needed.

Previous visa violations or overstays

Disclose any past issues honestly and provide explanation.

FAQ

Do citizens of Russia need a visa for France?

Citizens of Russia need a visa for France and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Schengen Visa · Short Stay (up to 90 days).

How long can citizens of Russia stay in France?

Up to 90 days.

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

Government fee: €90 + €35 service fee.

How long does France visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of Russia need for France?

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages, issued within last 10 years); Completed and signed Schengen visa application form; Two recent passport-size photographs (35x45mm, white background); Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage); Round-trip flight reservation or itinerary; Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, rental agreement, or invitation letter); 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/

Sources

france-visas.gouv.fr

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