Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C)
Travellers visiting France or the Schengen area for tourism, family, business or events for short periods.
The Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) is a French visitor & short stay visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€90 (adult); ~€45 for children aged 6-11) and processing time (~15 calendar days), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) is for
Travellers visiting France or the Schengen area for tourism, family, business or events for short periods.
No path to residence; you must apply for a long-stay visa to settle.
Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) - eligibility criteria
- Valid passport issued within last 10 years, 3+ months beyond stay
- Travel medical insurance with €30,000 cover
- Proof of accommodation and sufficient funds
- Round-trip travel reservation and clear purpose of visit
- Intent to leave before visa expires
Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) (France) is ~€90 (adult); ~€45 for children aged 6-11, with an indicative processing time of ~15 calendar days. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at France-Visas.
| Type | Short stay |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | At a French consulate or visa centre (TLScontact/VFS) abroad |
| Length of stay | Up to 90 days in any 180-day period |
| Work rights | No work permitted |
| Study rights | Short courses only, no enrolment |
| Government fee | ~€90 (adult); ~€45 for children aged 6-11 |
| Processing time | ~15 calendar days |
| Route to PR | No path to residence; you must apply for a long-stay visa to settle. |
Pathway & next steps
No path to residence; you must apply for a long-stay visa to settle.
Many applicants also compare VLS-TS · Long-Stay Visa Equivalent to Residence Permit (VLS-TS), Visiteur · Visitor Long-Stay Visa/Permit (Visiteur), WHV (PVT) · Working Holiday Visa (Programme Vacances-Travail). Run a free VisaChief check to see which French route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) pitfalls we fix
Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) cost?
The Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) government fee is ~€90 (adult); ~€45 for children aged 6-11. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at France-Visas before applying.
How long does the Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~15 calendar days. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) lead to permanent residence?
No path to residence; you must apply for a long-stay visa to settle.
Can I work on the Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C)?
Work rights: No work permitted.
Who can apply for the Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C)?
Travellers visiting France or the Schengen area for tourism, family, business or events for short periods.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official France government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- France-Visas - official France immigration authority