Schengen Visa

• Appointment Booking Requirements: Direct appointment booking is not possible without completing specific steps. Additionally, securing accommodation for your intended travel dates with a free cancellation option is essential, as the application process cannot proceed without confirmed accommodation.

• Visa Application Guidance: If your travel itinerary suggests a longer stay in other European countries than in the issuing country, your visa application will be refused. Ensure that you apply for a Schengen visa from the country where you plan to spend the majority of your stay.

• Application for France: This guide specifically addresses the application process for France, offering a comprehensive DIY approach to obtaining your Schengen Visa from one of the most generous countries in issuing visas.

Initiating Application: Start your visa application at France-Visas.

Document Preparation: Ensure you have the following ready:

• Your passport

• Original and photocopies of your supporting documents

• Two photos in ISO/IEC format

Online Application:

• • Apply online by selecting “Start your application” followed by “Create an account”.

  • After account creation, a verification email will be sent. Click on the link within to verify your account.

Filling Out Questionnaires:

• • Hotel Details: Book your accommodation through booking.com or agoda.com, choosing options with free cancellation in case of visa refusal.

  • Travel Itinerary: At this point, only specify the travel dates. Actual travel itinerary tickets are not required until your visa appointment is confirmed.

  • Example Answers:

    1. Purpose of Visit: Tourism

    2. Length of Stay: Short-stay tourism, private visit (<90 days)

    3. Number of Entries: Multiple entries

Completion of the Form: Upon completion, you will receive a printable application form equipped with a barcoded France Visas-reference number.

Redirect to TLScontact:

• After completing the initial application, you will be redirected to TLS France to create an account.

• Details to Note:

  • Country: United Kingdom

  • Purpose: Ensure to enter the same information as provided previously (short-stay visit, private <90 days)

• Follow the instructions for account generation on TLScontact France and complete the email verification process.

Adding Group Members: If applicable, click on Add Group Member on the application form.

Application Submission:

• It's crucial to fill in the application form with the same information submitted in your France Visa application, including the reference number.

• Verify that all information entered, especially your name, matches the details provided in your initial application. Once submitted, these details cannot be amended.

Additional Services: For those seeking a hassle-free application process, services are available for an additional fee: Apply Anywhere

Scheduling Your Appointment:

• Securing an appointment slot can be difficult due to high demand.

  • Check daily for appointment releases.

  • Typically, new appointment slots are released around 10am-12pm and/or 3-5pm.

  • Slots are taken quickly, so act fast and choose a location convenient for you (e.g., London, Manchester, Edinburgh).

  • Appointments for the next few days to the following week are usually available if checked daily. 

  • For future months, schedules are released regularly—persistence is key.

• The appointment fee is £65 (subject to change), which includes express courier service. Payment confirmation will be sent via email.

• Appointment dates can be altered before the actual appointment, at an additional cost.

Document Preparation:

• While waiting for your appointment, ensure you have all necessary documents prepared. 

  • If your appointment is months away, secure your travel tickets during this period.

  • Print the visa application receipt to review the list of supporting documents required.

  • Print all documents in advance to avoid last-minute inconveniences.

• Essential Documents:

  • Printed and signed application form.

  • Passport photocopy - only pages with visas, entry/exit stamps, or inscriptions. No need for blank pages.

  • Printed France-Visas receipt.

  • ID photograph (a photobooth is available at the TLS centre). Sample Photos

  • BRP photocopy.

  • Airfare/Train tickets, preferably with cancellation/refund insurance.

  • Hotel accommodation receipts (email printouts).

  • Employment Certificate.

  • Last 3 months of Payslips.

  • Last 3 months of Bank statements.

  • Printed Travel Health Insurance, typical costs ranging from £11-16. (Coverwise, Compare the Market).

  • Printed email confirmation of your appointment.

• Additional Documents (to Strengthen Your Application):

  • Official travel document note verbale (for official trips only).

  • Daily itinerary.

  • Tickets for activities (e.g., Disneyland, Eiffel Tower, tour buses).

  • Cover letter matching your travel dates, highlighting your intent to explore France.

Day of Appointment:

• You will receive two email reminders, 72 hours and 24 hours before your appointment.

• Arrive with time to spare, as entry times are strictly adhered to. Late arrivals may need to reschedule, incurring additional costs. Coffee shops are available nearby if you arrive early.

• Upon entry, state your application's Schengen visa country to be directed accordingly.

• A receptionist will request your documents:

  • Present your email confirmation.

  • Your passport and BRP will be checked.

  • A registration number will be issued.

  • Wait for your turn to present documents to the agents.

• When it's your turn, present all required documents. Be prepared for questions to verify the details of your application. Ensure your responses match your application.

• After the document review, you will be asked to pay £69 for visa and application services.

• Confirm the delivery address for your passport. You may change it to a nearby Royal Mail office if convenient.

• Queue for biometric data collection. Upon completion, you'll receive acknowledgement of biometric data collection. After biometrics, your application is complete. 

Post-Appointment:

• Check the TLS website for updates on your application status. You'll also receive emails regarding when your application is ready for collection and when it has been collected by the courier.

• Note that the visa delivery service may not wait if you're unable to answer their call, opting to re-attempt delivery the next day.

• To ensure receipt, consider having it delivered to a location where someone can accept it on your behalf, such as a hospital reception.

• Passports with the approved Schengen visa may be delivered a few days to a week before departure, so prepare for potential anxiety.

Total Fee: The total visa fee amounts to approximately £134 (may vary).

Wren Apolinar

• wrenapolinar@gmail.com 

• A passionate research nurse at Southampton General Hospital and avid global traveler, dedicated to advancing medical care and embracing cultural experiences.