VLS-TS vs Schengen C: which French visa is right for you?
Two entry routes: the Schengen short-stay (Type C) visa for visits up to 90 days, and the long-stay VLS-TS, which doubles as a residence permit for stays beyond 90 days.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Long-Stay Visa Equivalent to Residence Permit (VLS-TS) (VLS-TS) | Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) (Schengen C) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Temporary | Short stay |
| Who it's for | People moving to France for 4-12 months who validate the visa online to obtain residence-permit status. | Travellers visiting France or the Schengen area for tourism, family, business or events for short periods. |
| Government cost | ~€99 visa fee + OFII validation tax (~€200 + €25 stamp for most categories) | ~€90 (adult); ~€45 for children aged 6-11 |
| Processing time | ~2-4 weeks | ~15 calendar days |
| Length of stay | 4 to 12 months | Up to 90 days in any 180-day period |
| Where to apply | At a French consulate abroad, then validate online with OFII after arrival | At a French consulate or visa centre (TLScontact/VFS) abroad |
| Work rights | Depends on category endorsed on the visa | No work permitted |
| Pathway to PR | Renew as a residence permit; counts toward the 5 years for a 10-year resident card. | No path to residence; you must apply for a long-stay visa to settle. |
Which is right for you?
Long-Stay Visa Equivalent to Residence Permit (VLS-TS) (VLS-TS)
People moving to France for 4-12 months who validate the visa online to obtain residence-permit status.
Full VLS-TS guide →Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) (Schengen C)
Travellers visiting France or the Schengen area for tourism, family, business or events for short periods.
Full Schengen C guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, VLS-TS or Schengen C?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) (Schengen C) is the lowest at ~€90 (adult); ~€45 for children aged 6-11. Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
Which is processed faster, VLS-TS or Schengen C?
Indicatively Long-Stay Visa Equivalent to Residence Permit (VLS-TS) (VLS-TS) is the quickest at ~2-4 weeks. Actual timeframes depend on caseload and how complete your application is.
What's the main difference between VLS-TS and Schengen C?
Long-Stay Visa Equivalent to Residence Permit (VLS-TS) (VLS-TS) is for people moving to France for 4-12 months who validate the visa online to obtain residence-permit status. Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) (Schengen C) is for travellers visiting France or the Schengen area for tourism, family, business or events for short periods.