Find out everything you need to know about France Researcher Visa application process and requirements.
What Is the France Researcher Visa?
The Researcher Visa for France is a long-stay visa designed for non-European Union nationals who are engaged in scientific research or university-level teaching. This visa is ideal for researchers, scientists, and academics who have a hosting agreement with a recognized French research institution or university. With this visa, researchers can enjoy the benefits of living and conducting their research in France, including access to state-of-the-art facilities, collaboration opportunities with eminent researchers, and the rich cultural experiences that France offers.
Check if need a visa to visit France
Researcher Visa Requirements for France
Explore the key requirements for obtaining your Researcher Visa for France. This section covers the necessary documentation, eligibility criteria, and any specific conditions you must meet to successfully apply for and secure your visa.
Valid Passport
Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned stay in France and have at least two blank pages.
Hosting Agreement
A signed hosting agreement from a French research institution or university, detailing the purpose and duration of your research.
Proof of Income or Funding
Documentation proving you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself during your stay. This could be a scholarship offer, grant details, salary slips, etc.
Health Insurance
Proof of health insurance covering medical expenses in France.
Proof of Accommodation
Evidence of where you will be staying during your time in France, such as a lease agreement or a letter of invitation.
Completed Visa Application Form
The long-stay visa application form, filled out and signed.
Visa Fee Payment
Proof of payment of the visa application fee (amount varies by country).
Biometric Data
Applicants must provide biometric data, including fingerprints and a digital photo.
Understand the process of applying for an France Researcher Visa, including key steps, document submission, and what to expect throughout the application.
Secure a Hosting Agreement
Before you can apply for the visa, you need to secure a hosting agreement (convention d’accueil) from a recognized French research institution or university. This document confirms that you will be hosted for research purposes.
Gather Required Documents
Collect all necessary documents such as your passport, proof of income or funding, health insurance, accommodation proof, and the hosting agreement.
Complete Online Visa Application
Fill out the long-stay visa application form on the official French visa website. Ensure all details are correct and consistent with your documents.
Book an Appointment at a French Consulate
Schedule an appointment at your nearest French consulate or embassy through their online booking system to submit your visa application and biometric data.
Attend the Visa Appointment
On the appointed day, attend your appointment with all your documents. Be prepared for an interview where you may be asked about your research and stay in France.
Await Visa Decision
After submitting your application, all you need to do is wait for the processing, which typically takes a few weeks. You will be notified once your visa is ready for collection.
Travel to France
Once you get your visa, you're all set to travel to France! Make sure you carry all the documents you submitted during your travel.
Validate Your Visa in France
Upon arrival in France, you must validate your visa within three months. This can be done online via the French government's dedicated website.
If you're planning to apply for the Researcher Visa, ensure that you have a detailed hosting agreement from a recognized French institution. This agreement is crucial, as it outlines the nature of your research, the institution you'll be working with, and your source of funding. It’s also advisable to start the application process well ahead of your intended departure date to avoid any last-minute hiccups. Furthermore, make sure all your documents are translated into French if they aren't already. Lastly, always keep a copy of every document submitted, for your records and in case any questions arise during the process.
