Latest: Continuous intake. No round-based selection. Applications accepted year-round subject to programme rules and country caps.
About the Long-Stay Visitor Visa
The Long-Stay Visitor Visa is France's digital nomad / freelancer visa programme and one of the most direct routes to permanent residence, typically achievable within 5 years. For foreign nationals who wish to stay in France for more than three months on passive or foreign income without working in France. Popular with remote-income movers and retirees. Requires stable resources at least equal to the French minimum wage.
Applications are processed in 1–2 months on average. Government fees start at $107, and the visa is valid for 1 year.
The Long-Stay Visitor Visa is suited to digital nomad.
Weighing France against another destination? See how it stacks up on visa speed, cost, and permanent residency:
Eligibility requirements
| Job offer required | No |
|---|---|
| Language test | Not required |
Official sources: VLS-TS visiteur · france-visas.gouv.fr
Key facts
Best for
Path to permanent residence
Can lead to PR in approximately 5 years.
Validity period
1 year
How to apply for the Long-Stay Visitor Visa
- 01
Gather your supporting documents
Compile educational credentials, employment history, passport, and any certificates. Have foreign documents officially translated.
- 02
Submit your VLS-TS visiteur application
File online through the official France immigration portal and pay the government fee of $107. Double-check all forms for errors before submission. Mistakes cause delays.
- 03
Attend biometrics and medical (if required)
You may be asked to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) at an approved centre. Some visa categories also require a medical examination by an approved physician.
- 04
Receive decision (1–2 months)
Standard processing takes 1–2 months. Premium or expedited processing may be available for an additional fee. Avoid booking travel until you have a confirmed outcome.
What it costs
Attorney fees and document costs not included. Total spend is typically 2–5x the government fee.
Frequently asked questions
What are the main requirements for the Long-Stay Visitor Visa?
For foreign nationals who wish to stay in France for more than three months on passive or foreign income without working in France. Popular with remote-income movers and retirees. Requires stable resources at least equal to the French minimum wage.
How long does the Long-Stay Visitor Visa take to process?
Processing time for the Long-Stay Visitor Visa is typically 1–2 months from the date a complete application is received. Timelines vary depending on application volume, the completeness of your documents, and whether additional checks are requested. Check the official France immigration website for current processing times before applying.
How much does the Long-Stay Visitor Visa cost?
The government application fee for the Long-Stay Visitor Visa is $107 USD. Total costs (including legal fees, document translations, medical exams, and biometrics) typically run 2–5x the base government fee. Budget accordingly before starting your application.
Does the Long-Stay Visitor Visa lead to permanent residence?
Yes. The Long-Stay Visitor Visa is one of the pathways to permanent residence in France. Eligible holders can generally apply for PR after approximately 5 years of qualifying residence. Conditions apply, so consult a licensed immigration adviser for your specific situation.
Do I need a job offer for the Long-Stay Visitor Visa?
No. The Long-Stay Visitor Visa does not require a prior job offer. You can apply based on your qualifications, work history. This makes it particularly attractive for applicants who want to move first and job-search on arrival.