Here’s a complete and easy-to-follow article on how to apply for a France visa for Pakistani citizens:
France is one of the most visited countries in the world — famous for its Eiffel Tower, culture, and world-class education. If you’re a Pakistani citizen planning to visit France for tourism, study, work, or family reasons, you’ll need to apply for a French Schengen visa.
This guide will walk you through all the steps, required documents, and tips to make your France visa application smooth and successful.
🛂 Types of France Visas for Pakistanis
Before applying, decide which visa category suits your purpose:
- Short-Stay Visa (Schengen Visa) – For stays up to 90 days.
- Tourism
- Family or friend visit
- Business trip
- Cultural or sports events
- Long-Stay Visa – For stays over 90 days.
- Study
- Work
- Family reunion
- Residence
📍 Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a France Visa from Pakistan
Step 1: Determine Your Visa Type
Visit the official French visa website: https://france-visas.gouv.fr
Select your reason for travel, and the system will guide you to the correct visa type.
Step 2: Create an Online Account
- Go to the official visa portal: https://france-visas.gouv.fr/web/france-visas/
- Click “Access your visa application” and create an account.
- Fill out the online visa application form with accurate information.
Step 3: Schedule an Appointment via VFS Global
All French visa applications from Pakistan are processed through VFS Global.
Visit the relevant VFS website for your city:
- Islamabad: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/pak/en/fra
- Karachi: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/pak/en/fra
- Lahore: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/pak/en/fra
Book your appointment to submit biometrics and documents.
Step 4: Prepare the Required Documents
Here’s the list of documents you’ll need:
For a Short-Stay Visa (Tourist/Visit):
- Completed and signed visa application form
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Two passport-size photos (white background)
- Cover letter explaining the purpose of your visit
- Travel itinerary (flight and hotel bookings)
- Travel insurance (minimum coverage €30,000)
- Proof of financial means (bank statements from last 6 months)
- Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or invitation letter)
- Visa fee payment receipt
For a Long-Stay Visa (Study/Work/Residence):
- All of the above, plus:
- Admission letter (for students) or job offer (for workers)
- Proof of sufficient funds or scholarship
- Police character certificate
- Medical certificate
- Educational documents (attested copies)
Step 5: Visit the VFS Center
On your appointment day:
- Arrive 15–30 minutes early
- Bring all original documents and photocopies
- Provide biometric data (fingerprints + photo)
- Pay the visa fee and service charges
Step 6: Track Your Visa Application
After submission, you can track your visa status online using your VFS tracking ID at:
👉 https://visa.vfsglobal.com/pak/en/fra
Step 7: Collect Your Passport
Once a decision is made, you’ll receive an SMS or email. You can:
- Pick up your passport in person, or
- Have it delivered via courier (if you opted for this service)
💶 France Visa Fees (Approximate 2025 Rates)
| Visa Type | Fee in Euros | Approx. PKR |
|---|---|---|
| Short-Stay (Schengen) | €80 | PKR 25,000–28,000 |
| Long-Stay | €99 | PKR 30,000–35,000 |
| Service Fee (VFS) | €25–30 | PKR 8,000–10,000 |
🕒 France Visa Processing Time
- Short-Stay Visa: 15 to 30 working days
- Long-Stay Visa: 30 to 60 working days
Apply at least 4–6 weeks before your travel date.
✅ Tips for a Successful Visa Application
- Double-check all your documents for accuracy.
- Ensure your bank statement shows sufficient and stable funds.
- Book refundable flights and hotels (in case of visa refusal).
- Be honest during your interview if called.
🌍 Final Thoughts
Getting a France visa from Pakistan may seem challenging, but with careful preparation and accurate documents, it’s quite manageable. Whether you’re visiting Paris for tourism or moving to study in Lyon, following the above steps will help ensure a smooth and successful application.