Business Visa - France
Short-stay business visits or long-stay business assignments in France.
Purpose
For short-term business (meetings, conferences, trade fairs) or longer assignments (branch setup, ICT, professional missions).
Who it's for
- Short-stay: visitors attending events, training, or negotiations.
- Long-stay: employees transferred to French branches, long-term consultants, founders establishing operations.
Key requirements (short-stay)
- Invitation or letter from French host/company detailing purpose and duration.
- Proof of employer ties and sufficient funds.
- Travel insurance, passport, accommodation, and return travel.
Key requirements (long-stay)
- Detailed business plan or employer assignment letter.
- Proof of funds or salary conditions for posted employees.
- Company registration steps or prior authorisations where necessary.
Documents checklist
- Passport & photos; completed application.
- Official business invitation, conference registration, or trade fair passes.
- Employer cover letter and proof of employment.
- Proof of finances and accommodation.
- Travel insurance.
Application process
- Short-stay: apply for Schengen business visa with invitation and employer letters.
- Long-stay: apply for the appropriate national visa, present business documents/approvals, then register locally after arrival.
Rights & limitations
- Short-stay permits business events but not long-term employment.
- Long-stay rights depend on the specific visa/permit issued.