France Visa Guide for Indian Citizens in UK Complete Application Guide 2025
Yes, Indian citizens residing in London need a Schengen visa to travel to France. Your nationality is what matters here, not your UK residence—being an Indian passport holder means you can't skip the visa process. You should apply at the TLScontact center in London, located at 240-250 Pentonville Road, N1 9JY.
Paris, France
Iconic Eiffel Tower
Lyon, France
Historic city center
Nice, France
French Riviera
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France Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens in the UK
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply
UK Residency Requirements
- ✓ Hold a valid Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or residence visa; applications on a visitor visa aren't accepted.
- ✓ Your UK residence permit should be valid for the entire duration of your intended Schengen stay, ideally with some buffer time after your return.
- ✓ Recommended to have 6 months validity afterwards to reduce rejection risk.
Basic Eligibility Criteria
- ✓ No strict age limit; minors must be accompanied by parents or legal guardians with appropriate documentation.
- ✓ Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond planned departure from France.
- ✓ Visa purpose should align with tourism, business, or family visits.
Who Cannot Apply
- ✗ Short-term UK visitors or expired residence permit holders.
- ✗ Applicants with unresolved immigration issues or banned from Schengen countries.
Required Documents Checklist
Essential Documents
💡 Pro Tip: Ensure all documents are translated into English or French if needed, and bring both originals and clear photocopies.
Step-by-Step France Schengen Visa Application Process for Indian Citizens in London
Follow these steps if you want to handle the application yourself
Online Application
Start your journey at france-visas.gouv.fr where you'll complete the online application form. Make sure all details are ready before you begin.
Appointment Booking
Book an appointment through TLScontact. London has multiple centers; slots fill quickly, especially in peak seasons.
Document Preparation
Gather documents, get translations if needed, and make copies. Organization is key.
Appointment Day
Go to your chosen TLScontact center for security, document verification, and biometric collection. Typically 30-45 minutes.
Tracking & Collection
Track your application online. Collect your passport at the center or have it delivered (small fee for postal services).
Travel
Travel on or after the visa start date. Carry supporting documents for immigration checks.
Visa Fees and Processing Time
Adults
€80 (≈ £70)
Children 6-12
€40 (≈ £35)
Children under 6
Free
Standard Processing
Processing usually takes about 15 calendar days, longer in peak seasons.
15 calendar daysService Fees
TLScontact charges ~€25 (£22) plus optional premium services.
€25 / £22Financial Requirements: How Much Money Should Indian Citizens Show?
Daily Financial Requirements
Show at least €120/day for hotel stays, €65/day for prepaid accommodations, or €40/day if hosted with attestation d’accueil. Always have extra funds as a buffer.
Hotel Accommodation
€120/day
Higher daily requirement
Private/Budget Accommodation
€65/day
Lower daily requirement
💡 Bank Statement Requirements
Provide bank statements for 3–6 months showing consistent activity, not just sudden deposits. Balance must cover travel and emergency funds.
Additional Financial Proof
Include salary slips, recent tax returns, employment letters. Recommended to have at least £1,000 in account for better approval chances.
Sponsorship Options
If sponsored, include invitation, host’s bank statements, proof of residency in France, and attestation d’accueil. Ensure authenticity and consistency.
Tips to Increase France Visa Approval Chances from London
Common Rejection Reasons
Insufficient funds, incomplete documents, vague travel plans, or weak ties to the UK are common reasons for rejection.
Preparation Strategies
Apply 4–6 weeks before travel. Organize documents chronologically. Bank statements must show consistent activity. Double-check all forms and photos.
Success Tips
Show strong UK ties, detailed itinerary, consistent financial documents, and a clear cover letter. Honesty is crucial; inconsistencies can cause rejection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Indian citizens in London need a visa to visit France?
Yes, Indian passport holders must obtain a Schengen visa. Apply at a VFS Global France center in the UK. Ensure all documents are ready.
What documents are needed?
Passport, completed application, photos, UK residence proof, itinerary, hotel bookings or invitation, travel insurance, proof of funds, cover letter, proof of employment or student status. Originals plus copies required.
Processing time and cost?
About 15 days standard. Fee €80 (+ VFS service charge ~€25). Apply at least a month before travel, especially during peak seasons.
How much money should I show?
At least €120/day for hotel stays, €65/day for staying with friends/family. Bank statements must cover last 3–6 months. Sponsor documents if applicable.
Expert Verification & Sources
Expert Verification
Reviewed by Visa Expert Kritika, specializing in European visas and UK-based applications (09 Sep 2025).
Source Verification
All information cross-referenced with official embassy sources and current immigration policies as of 06 Sep 2025.
Official Source
Check official source: https://uk.ambafrance.org