Explore Paris

Paris, often referred to as the "City of Light," is one of the most iconic and romantic cities in the world. It's renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, world-class art collections, and vibrant cultural scene. Here's an overview: Paris is home to numerous iconic landmarks that attract millions of visitors each year. The Eiffel Tower, a symbol of France and one of the most recognizable structures globally, offers breathtaking views of the city from its observation decks. Other must-see landmarks include the majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral, the historic Louvre Museum with its famous glass pyramid, the Arc de Triomphe on the Champs-Élysées, and the grandiose Palace of Versailles located just outside the city. A Paris is a mecca for art enthusiasts, boasting world-class museums and galleries. The Louvre Museum, one of the largest and most visited museums globally, houses an extensive collection of art and artifacts spanning from antiquity to the 19th century, including Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece, the Mona Lisa. Other notable museums include the Musée d'Orsay, dedicated to Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, and the Centre Pompidou, known for its modern and contemporary art collections. Paris is comprised of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm and character. The historic Marais is known for its narrow streets, trendy boutiques, and vibrant LGBTQ+ scene. Montmartre, with its hilltop location and iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica, exudes a bohemian atmosphere and offers stunning views of the city. The Latin Quarter, home to the Sorbonne University, is famous for its lively cafés, bookshops, and intellectual ambiance. Paris is a paradise for food lovers, offering an unparalleled culinary experience. From Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy bistros and bustling markets, the city's gastronomic scene is diverse and vibrant. Visitors can indulge in French classics such as croissants, baguettes, escargot, foie gras, and decadent pastries like macarons and éclairs. The city's café culture is also an integral part of Parisian life, with sidewalk cafés providing the perfect setting for people-watching and leisurely dining. Paris is synonymous with fashion, serving as a global capital of haute couture and luxury brands. The city's prestigious fashion houses, including Chanel, Dior, and Louis Vuitton, draw fashionistas and shoppers from around the world. From high-end boutiques on the Avenue Montaigne to vintage shops in the Marais, Paris offers a shopping experience that caters to every taste and budget. The Seine River, which flows through the heart of Paris, adds to the city's romantic allure. Strolling along the riverbanks, crossing picturesque bridges like Pont Neuf, or taking a leisurely cruise offers enchanting views of Parisian landmarks illuminated at night. Overall, Paris captivates visitors with its timeless elegance, cultural richness, and romantic ambiance, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking beauty, history, and inspiration.

Overview

Country

France
Best Time to Visit

June, July, August, September, October
Ideal Duration

n/a

Visa Rules

Last updated: 2025-04-24 07:02:54

Tourist Visa

A France Schengen Visa allows you to visit France and other Schengen countries without needing a separate visa for each destination.

This visa allows you to stay in France (and other Schengen countries) for up to 90 days within a six-month period. If your planned stay exceeds 90 days, you'll need a long-stay visa.

Visa Requirements

1. Passports:

o Original passport with at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages.

o Original old passport booklets (if any).

2. Photographs:

o 3 recent passport-size photographs.

o White background, glossy finish, 80% face coverage, dimensions 45mm x 35mm.

3. Cover Letter:

o Addressed to the Visa Officer, The Consulate General of France, Puducherry.

o Briefly outlining the profile of the applicant(s) and purpose of travel with travel dates.

o Plain paper for individuals, company letterhead for officials or sponsored applicants.

4. Bank Statements:

o Original 3 months' personal and company bank statements.

o With seal and signature from the bank.

o Showing proof of funds and income (travel provisions of 120 euros/day).

o Statements should be of relevant and active accounts, closer to the date of visa application.

5. Income Tax Returns:

o Latest 3 years' Income Tax Acknowledgement (ITR-V) for individuals and the company.

6. Itinerary / Air Tickets:

o Return air tickets and internal flight/train tickets (if applicable).

o Day-wise itinerary of the tour.

7. Purpose of Travel / Accommodation:

Proof of accommodation:

o "Attestation d'accueil" (if staying with a private individual) OR

o Hotel reservation OR

o Proof of sufficient means to cover accommodation costs (120 euros/day) OR

o Lease agreement.

8. Supporting Credentials (Based on Applicant Type):

o For businessmen, employees, students, newlyweds, etc., specific documents like NOCs, leave sanction letters, school/college IDs, marriage certificates, etc., may be required.

9. Additional Supporting Documents (If Available):

o Fixed deposit receipts, public shares/debentures certificates, asset evaluation reports.

10. Travel Insurance:

o Valid travel insurance from Embassy-approved companies.

o Minimum coverage of EUR 30,000 for at least 30 days.

Ensure all documents are prepared as per the consulate's specifications to facilitate a successful visa application process.

Business Visa

1. Passports

• Original Passport with at least 6 months validity and at least 2 blank pages.

• Passport should have been issued within the last 10 years.

• Original old passport booklets if any.

2. Photographs

• 3 photographs each.

• White background; Glossy finish; 80% face covered with a little shoulder to be seen; Eyes and face to be clearly visible.

• Dimensions: 45mm x 35mm.

3. Covering Letter

• A covering letter per individual/family/company addressed to The Visa Officer, The Consulate General of France, Puducherry.

• The Covering Letter should brief the purpose of travel and business relation with the French business partner.

• Covering Letter has to be on the company letterhead for officials/sponsored applicants.

4. Bank Statements

• Original 3 months personal and company's bank statements with the seal and signature from the bank.

• Bank statements should be of relevant and active accounts which show proof of funds and income.

• Bank statements should be of a closing date closer to the date of visa application (A4 size preferred).

5. IT Returns

• Latest 3 years Income Tax Acknowledgement / ITR-V (Saral) of individuals and the company.

6. Invitation Letter

• Invitation letter from the French Company stating the exact purpose and period of the visit.

7. Itinerary / Air Tickets

• Return air tickets with all internal flight/train tickets if any.

• Day-wise itinerary.

8. Purpose of Travel / Accommodation

• Invitation from a company or an authority to participate in conferences or events of a commercial, industrial or professional nature.

• Letter of introduction stating the purpose of visit on company/organization letterhead paper, signed by the competent authority.

• If sponsored, supporting documents of sponsoring and of personal income details of the sponsor.

• "Attestation d'accueil" (in case of accommodation at a private individual) or hotel reservation or sufficient means to cover the cost of accommodation (travel provisions of 120 euros/day) or lease agreement.

9. Supporting Credentials

Businessmen:

• Proprietorship certificate / Certificate of Registration / Memorandum of Association, Articles of Association / Partnership Deed.

• NOC from other partners or Directors in case of the partnership.

• A letter from lawyer/chartered accountant / Confirmation of Chamber of Commerce concerning evidence of established business, certificate of registration of the company (Optional).

Employees:

• Leave sanction letter from the company (from the Government body in case of Government employees / public servants).

• Last 3 months Salary Statements (only for Private firms).

• Company ID card (optional).

• Retirement Certificate or Letter / Copy of Pension Book (for retired employees).

Students:

• Leave sanction letter from the educational institution (for travel during working days).

• Bonafide Certificate from the educational institution (for travel during vacations).

• School/College ID card (optional).

Newly Wed / Honeymooners (if the spouse's name is not endorsed in their passports):

• Marriage Certificate (Original).

• Wedding Invitation card/Photographs (in case the marriage certificate is not ready).

Children traveling and unaccompanied by both parents / either parent:

• A notary attested NOC on a stamp paper from both/either of the parents respectively if both/either of them unaccompanied.

• Passport copies/copy of both/either of the parents.

Travelers unaccompanied by spouses/partners:

• A notary attested NOC on a stamp paper from the unaccompanied spouse.

• Passport copy of the unaccompanied spouse. If not a passport holder, any Govt ID Proof mentioning spouse's name can be submitted.

If the applicant is sponsored:

• Proof of sponsorship and/or private accommodation by completing a national form of the Schengen State concerned (see the website of the Member State of destination).

• Pension statements for the last three months.

• Proof of regular income generated by ownership of property or business.

10. Additional Supporting Documents (if available):

• FD Receipts from banks.

• Public shares/debentures certificate.

• Asset evaluation report from a CA.

Disclaimers

The above list of documents is the standard requirement for the visa application. The Embassy/Consulate/High Commission/Application Centres reserve the right to request additional documents for verification.

Travelspoc does not guarantee the outcome of any visa application. Decisions on visa applications are at the sole discretion of the respective Embassy/Consulate/High Commission.

Visa Application Centres and Embassy Information

Visa Application Centres: Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkatta, Puducherry, Bengaluru, Whitefield Bengaluru, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Jalandhar, Ahemadabad, Goa, Pune, Hyderabad, Cochin

Embassy of France, Delhi

Address: 2/50-E Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110 021

Tel : 91 (11) 4319 6100

Consulate General of France, Bombay

Address: Wockhardt Towers, East Wing, 5th floor Bandra - Kurla Complex 400051 Mumbai

Tel. [0091] (22) 66 69 40 00

Address: Consulate General of France, Kolkata

21C, Raja Santosh Road, Alipore, Kolkata - 700 027

Tel: + 91 (0) 33 40 16 32 00

Consulate General of France, Bangalore

Address: 21 Palace Road, Vasanthnagar, Bangalore 560 052

Tel: +91 80 2214 1200