---
title: France visa for citizens of Russia
description: "Citizens of Russia need a visa for France and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 90 days. Fee: €90 + €35 service fee. Processing: 15–45 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/france/russia
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# France visa for citizens of Russia

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.*

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

## 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

- **Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages, issued within last 10 years)** (Identity): Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen area
- **Completed and signed Schengen visa application form** (Identity): Available online on France-Visas portal
- **Two recent passport-size photographs (35x45mm, white background)** (Identity): Must meet ICAO standards
- **Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)** (Travel): Valid for entire Schengen area and duration of stay
- **Round-trip flight reservation or itinerary** (Travel): Not necessarily paid ticket, but confirmed booking
- **Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, rental agreement, or invitation letter)** (Travel): For entire stay in Schengen area
- **Bank statements for last 3 months** (Financial): Must show sufficient funds for the trip
- **Employment letter or proof of student status** (Employment): Stating position, salary, and approved leave
- **Travel history (copies of previous Schengen visas if any)** (Supporting, optional): Helps demonstrate travel pattern
- **Marriage certificate or birth certificate (if applicable)** (Supporting, 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.

## FAQs

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

## More

- [France visa for every passport](/visa/france)
- [Every destination for Russia passport holders](/visa/passport/russia)