Visitor Long-Stay Visa/Permit (Visiteur)
Self-funded people living in France without working, such as retirees or long-term visitors.
The Visitor Long-Stay Visa/Permit (Visiteur) is a French visitor & short stay visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€99 visa + €225 OFII/residence tax) and processing time (~2-4 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Visitor Long-Stay Visa/Permit (Visiteur) is for
Self-funded people living in France without working, such as retirees or long-term visitors.
After 5 years' continuous residence you may apply for a 10-year resident card.
Visitor Long-Stay Visa/Permit (Visiteur) - eligibility criteria
- Proof of resources at least equal to the minimum wage for the year
- A formal undertaking not to work in France
- Comprehensive health insurance
- Accommodation in France
- Valid passport and clean record
Visitor Long-Stay Visa/Permit (Visiteur) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Visitor Long-Stay Visa/Permit (Visiteur) (France) is ~€99 visa + €225 OFII/residence tax, with an indicative processing time of ~2-4 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at France-Visas.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | At a French consulate abroad (VLS-TS), then prefecture for renewal |
| Length of stay | 1 year, renewable |
| Work rights | No work permitted |
| Study rights | Informal study only |
| Government fee | ~€99 visa + €225 OFII/residence tax |
| Processing time | ~2-4 weeks |
| Route to PR | After 5 years' continuous residence you may apply for a 10-year resident card. |
Pathway & next steps
After 5 years' continuous residence you may apply for a 10-year resident card.
Many applicants also compare VLS-TS · Long-Stay Visa Equivalent to Residence Permit (VLS-TS), Conjoint de Français · Spouse of a French National Permit (Vie Privée et Familiale - Conjoint), Carte de Résident · Long-Term Resident Card (Carte de Résident - 10 Years). 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 Visitor Long-Stay Visa/Permit (Visiteur) pitfalls we fix
Visitor Long-Stay Visa/Permit (Visiteur) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Visitor Long-Stay Visa/Permit (Visiteur) cost?
The Visitor Long-Stay Visa/Permit (Visiteur) government fee is ~€99 visa + €225 OFII/residence tax. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at France-Visas before applying.
How long does the Visitor Long-Stay Visa/Permit (Visiteur) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~2-4 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Visitor Long-Stay Visa/Permit (Visiteur) lead to permanent residence?
After 5 years' continuous residence you may apply for a 10-year resident card.
Can I work on the Visitor Long-Stay Visa/Permit (Visiteur)?
Work rights: No work permitted.
Who can apply for the Visitor Long-Stay Visa/Permit (Visiteur)?
Self-funded people living in France without working, such as retirees or long-term visitors.
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