UK Visa for French Citizens: 2024 Application Fees in FranceThis detailed guide is designed for French citizens and residents navigating the post-Brexit visa system. Since January 1, 2021, French nationals are required to have a visa for work, study, or long-term stays in the UK, while short-term visits remain visa-free. Non-EU nationals in France, including those from India, Pakistan, South Africa, and Nigeria, need a visa for any UK trip. The guide outlines the current fees ranging from €138 for a six-month tourist visa to €2,218 for a spouse visa, providing essential information for various UK visa categories.
Table of Contents
1. Overview: UK Visa for French Citizens 2024
Do French Citizens Need a Visa for UK?
| Activity Type | Visa Requirement |
|---|---|
| Tourism, Business Meetings, Academic Conferences | French citizens can stay in the UK for up to six months without a visa for tourism and short business meetings. |
| Work, Study, Settlement | French citizens require specific visa. |
| Business Travel (extended activities) | Depending on the nature of activities, French citizens may require a UK Visa. |
UK Visa Fees France
The UK Visa Fees France varies by visa type, with tourist visas at US$145, student visas at US$619, and spouse visas at US$2,332.
| Visa Type | UK Visa Fees France 2023 |
|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | €138 (6-months) |
| Student Visa | €589 |
| Skilled Worker | €864 (up to 3 years) €1,707 (over 3 years) |
| Spouse Visa | €2,218 |
UK Visa Processing Time in France
| Visa Type and Service | Processing Time and Cost from France (2023) |
|---|---|
| Non-Settlement Visas (Standard Processing) | 10-15 working days (2-3 weeks) |
| Non-Settlement Visas (Priority Service) | 5-7 working days, Extra Cost: €601 |
| Settlement Visas (Standard Processing) | Up to 12 weeks |
| Settlement Visas (Priority Service for French Passport Holders and Residents) | 6 weeks, Extra Cost: €601 |
| Super-Priority Service | Next working day, Service Fee: €1,202 |
Note: Extended processing up to 12 weeks may occur in some cases for non-settlement visas from France due to various factors such as document verification or administrative delays.
UK Visa for French Residents
- UK Visa from France for Indian Passport Holders: As non-EU residents in France, Indian nationals need a UK visa for visiting, working, studying, and family settlement.
- Pakistani Passport Holders: Similar requirements apply to Pakistani nationals in France. They must obtain a UK visa for the same range of purposes.
Can I travel to UK with French residence permit?
- Purpose: For short holidays or visits to the UK from France.
- Processing Time: Typically, 10-15 working days for non-settlement visas, including visit visas.
- Priority Services: Available for faster processing in France.
- Application Submission: Biometric submissions usually occur at TLS application centre 54ter, Rue de Châteaudun, 75009 Paris, France.
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2. UK Visit Visa from France 2024
French citizens, classified as non-visa nationals, are generally exempt from requiring a visa for UK visits lasting up to 6 months. This does not apply to non-EU nationals living in France, who need a visa for both tourism and visiting the UK. However, as outlined in Paragraph V 1.3 of Appendix V of the Immigration Rules, there are particular circumstances under which French citizens are required to obtain a UK visa:
- When they plan to marry or form a civil partnership in the UK, or to give notice of such.
- If they intend to stay in the UK for a period exceeding six months.
Standard Visitor Visa to UK from France
The standard visitor visa is for tourism, family visits, business meetings, short-term studies, and other allowed activities. French and EU residents in France typically don’t need a standard visa to visit the UK. However, non-EU residents like Indian or Pakistani passport holders must apply for a standard visa to visit the UK.
Essential Criteria: UK Visit Visa from France
To secure a UK Visit Visa from France, applicants must satisfy multiple criteria. The foremost requirement is stating the clear purpose of the visit, whether it’s tourism, business, or visiting family. Applicants also need to provide proof of financial means to support their stay in the UK, along with evidence of accommodation arrangements. Furthermore, proof of onward or return travel is required to ensure the applicant intends to leave the UK after the visit. Meeting these essential criteria is critical for obtaining a UK Visit Visa from France.
In the year ending September 2022, a total of 358 French applied for visitor visa UK. 298 applications resolved, 232 visit visas granted to French nationals, and 53 applications rejected. Therefore, the UK visitor visa success and refusal rate from France are 77.85% and 17.79%, respectively.
UK Visit Visa Fee from France
As of 2023, UK visa fees from France are €138 for a 6-month visa, €481 for a 2-year visa, €927 for a 5-year visa, and €1,157 for a 10-year visa. All these visas have a maximum stay limit of 180 days per visit.
The standard visitor visa processing time from France is usually 3-weeks. French citizens and residents in France can fast track the decision time to within one week, by purchasing the priority service for €601.
Applying for a UK Tourist Visa from France
French citizens seeking a UK tourist visa must undertake the process of completing an online application form. This includes submitting documentation that proves intent to return to France, financial solvency, and a comprehensive travel itinerary. The visa application is accompanied by a fee of €138, and applicants are required to provide biometric data at a visa application center.
Essential Documents for French Nationals:
- Evidence of Intent to Return to France: A letter from an employer or educational institution in France affirming your commitments post-UK trip.
- Financial Stability Proof: Bank statements to demonstrate enough financial resources for your UK stay are essential.
- Travel Itinerary: Detailed plans, including confirmed bookings for accommodation and transportation in the UK.
Snapshot: Other UK Visitor Visas from France
| Visa Type for French Citizens | UK Visa Fees France 2023 |
|---|---|
| Marriage Visitor Visa: For French citizens to get married or registering civil partnership in the UK. Duration: Up to 180 days. | €138 |
| Private Medical Treatment Visa: For French to get private medical treatment in the UK lasting 6-11 months. Note: Attendants must apply separately. | €240 |
| Visiting Academics: For French academic professionals engaging in research or educational exchanges for up to 12 months. | €240 |
| Permitted Paid Engagement (PPE): For French professionals to perform short-term paid tasks like lecturing or assessing, available for up to 30 days. | €138 |
| Parent of Child Student Visa: For French parents of children in fee-paying day schools in the UK. Duration: 12 months. | €766 |
3. Student Visa UK from France
The UK Student Visa permits French citizens to pursue a range of educational opportunities in the UK, from higher education to Student Union roles.
In the year ending September 2022, a total of 4,299 French applied for student visa UK. 4,329 applications resolved, 4,211 student visas granted to French, and 53 applications rejected. Therefore, the UK student visa success and refusal rate for French are 97.27% and 1.22%, respectively.
UK Student Visa Fees from France
French students applying for a UK Student Visa are required to pay a standard fee of €589, with the processing time typically spanning about 3 weeks. For those needing quicker processing, there’s an option for expedited service at an additional cost of €601.
Moreover, French students must also cover the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is £624 per year, as part of their visa application.
Short-term English Language Visa
The short-term study visa is designed for French studying English in the UK for 6-11 months, costing €240. A 6-month course costs €138.
Work Rights for Students from France
- Students who are enrolled in degree-level courses are given the opportunity to work for up to 20 hours a week during term time, and full-time during their vacation periods.
- For sub-degree level courses, the limit is 10 hours per week.
- Dependents of degree-level students can work; however, those of sub-degree students cannot.
Post-Study Work Opportunities
French graduates can avail a 2-year post-study work visa. PhD holders can get a 3-year visa.
4. Family Visa to UK from France 2024
The UK Family Visa under Appendix FM allows French citizens to join family members who are either settled in the UK or British citizens. Categories range from spouse visas to adult dependent relatives and parent of a British child visas.
In the year ending September 2022, a total of 177 French applied for family settlement visa UK. 103 applications resolved, 93 family settlement visas granted to French, and 10 applications rejected. Therefore, the UK family (spouse) settlement visa success and refusal rate from France are 90.29% and 9.71%, respectively.
Spouse or Partner Visa UK for French Citizens
- Eligibility: French applicants need to meet the criteria in Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules, including verifying a genuine relationship, financial stability, secure housing, and English language proficiency.
- Validity & Extensions: Spouse visa is initially valid for 33 months and can be extended after 30 months, leading to ILR eligibility after 5 years.
- Cost: The standard application fee is €2,218, plus €601 for an optional expedited service.
Other Family Visas
| Visa Category | UK Visa from France Cost 2023 |
|---|---|
| Fiancé(e) Visa For French citizens intending to marry or form a civil partnership in the UK. Valid for 6 months. | €2,218 |
| Parent of a British Child Visa For French citizens who are the sole caregivers of a British child. | €2,218 |
| Adult Dependent Relative Visa For French citizens requiring long-term care from a UK-based relative. | €3,906 |
| Returning Residents Visa For French citizens who have previously been settled in the UK and wish to return. | €766 |
5. Work Visa UK for French Citizens 2024
Do French Citizens Need a Visa to Work in the UK?
After Brexit, French citizens need work permit for working and doing business in the UK. French often choose the Skilled Worker visa when seeking employment in the UK. Other options include visas such as the Innovator, Startup, Global Business Mobility, and Health and Care Worker.
In the year ending September 2022, a total of 5,847 French applied for work visa UK. 5,840 applications resolved, 5,696 work visas granted to French nationals, and 54 applications rejected. Therefore, the UK work visa success and refusal rate from France are 97.53% and 0.92%, respectively.
Skilled Worker & Health Care Visa
French citizens looking to work in the UK in skilled occupations have specific visa options available to them. The Skilled Worker Visa and the Health and Care Worker Visa are designed for French citizens and residents sponsored by a licensed Home Office sponsor and offer a pathway to permanent settlement in the UK.
| Visa Type and Details | UK Visa Fees France 2023 |
|---|---|
| Skilled Worker Visa For French citizens and residents in skilled roles with a licensed Home Office sponsor. Offers a route to permanent UK settlement. | €864 (up to 3 years), €1,707 (over 3 years) |
| Skilled Worker (Shortage Occupation) Visa For French citizens in specific shortage occupations. | €662 (up to 3 years), €1,303 (over 3 years) |
| Health And Care Work Visa For French health professionals like doctors, nurses, or allied health professionals, sponsored by a licensed Home Office sponsor. Leads to permanent UK settlement. | €341 (up to 3 years), €662 (over 3 years) |
Global Business Mobility Visa UK
An overview of the UK work visas under the Global Business Mobility category for French citizens, including their fees for 2023.
| Visa Category | UK Visa Fees France 2023 |
|---|---|
| Senior or Specialist Worker Visa Ideal for senior managers or specialists from France transferring to a UK branch. | – Up to three years €864 – Longer than three years €1,707 |
| Graduate Trainee Visa For French individuals in graduate training programs leading to specialist roles in the UK. | €358 |
| UK Expansion Worker Visa For French specialists or senior personnel looking to expand a business into the UK. | €358 |
| Service Supplier Visa For French professionals providing services under UK trade agreements. | €358 |
| Secondment Worker Visa Specifically for French citizens and residents seconded to the UK for significant contracts or investments. | €358 |
Quick Guide to Other Work and Business Visas
Below is a brief overview of various UK visa categories along with their associated fees for French looking to work or do business in the UK.
| Visa Category | UK Visa Fees France 2023 |
|---|---|
| Start-Up Visa For Franch citizens and residents starting an innovative business in the UK. | €523 |
| Innovator Visa For French citizens with innovative, viable, and scalable businesses. Requirements include an endorsement, £50,000 investment, and B2 IELTS level. | €1,431 |
| Innovator Founder Visa (Introduced 2023) Ideal for French entrepreneurs. Simplified process with endorsement approval, could lead to UK family residency. | – Endorsement €1,202 – Application €1,431 |
| Investor Visa For high-value French citizens and residents investing in the UK. | €2,264 |
| High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa For French graduates from top-50 global universities seeking employment in the UK. | €988 |
| Scale-Up Visa For French with a job offer from an authorised UK scale-up company. Leads to potential UK settlement after 5 years. | €988 |
| Global Talent Visa For French citizens and residents who are leaders or potential leaders in academia, research, arts, or digital technology. | – Approval Letter for initial application from France: €630 – French Main Applicant with Approval Letter: €231 – Main Applicant without Approval Letter and for Dependants: €860 |
| T2 Minister of Religion Visa For French intending to undertake preaching and pastoral work. | €864 |
| International Sportsperson Visa For elite French sportspersons or coaches contributing to UK sports. Fee varies based on Certificate of Sponsorship duration. | – Up to 12 months CoS €358 – More than 12 months CoS €864 |
| T5 (Temporary Worker) Visa For French citizens and residents in various sectors, such as seasonal, religious, or creative workers. | €358 |
6. How to Apply for UK Visa from France?
A comprehensive guide tailored for French citizens and residents in France detailing the steps for applying for a UK visa. Note: The estimated cost provided is for a UK visitor visa. Residents in France opting for priority service may complete the process within 15 working days instead of 30.
Total Time: 30 days
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Determine the Visa Type
Identify the specific category of visa that aligns with your purpose for traveling from France to the UK.
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Create an Account
Enter the official visas and immigration site of the UK government. Ensure you register and create an account on the UK Visas and Immigration platform.
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Complete the Application Form
Document Matching: As you fill in the online application form, it’s crucial that all details match those in your supporting documents.
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Pay the Visa Fee
Finalizing Application with Payment: After form submission, the system will facilitate your move to the online payment gateway to cover the application fee.
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Gather Your Supporting Documents
Based on the visa type, gather essential documents like your French passport or residence permit, proof of finances, and UK accommodation details.
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Book an Appointment at the Visa Application Centre (VAC) in France
If you’re not using the Immigration App for identity verification, it’s essential to schedule an appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre (UKVAC) in France.
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Attend Your Appointment
Go to the VAC with all your supporting documents and complete the biometric procedures as outlined in your appointment details.
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Wait for a Decision
Post-Submission Process: After your application has been submitted, it enters the processing phase. You will be informed once the decision is finalized.
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Collection or Delivery of Passport
Collect your passport with the visa attached from the VAC, or opt for courier delivery.
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Prepare for UK Arrival
UK Travel Readiness: Having secured your visa, the next step is planning your travel to the UK. Be sure to familiarize yourself with and follow the conditions of your visa.
Estimated Cost: 138 €
Supply:
- Application form
- Valid French Passport or Residence Permit
- Recent passport-sized photos
- Invitation letter (if applicable)
- Payment for visa fee in EURO
- Proof of accommodation in the UK
Tools:
- Internet access
- French Passport or Residence Permit
- Financial documents
Materials: Printed online UK visa form. Financial Details: Bank Statements, last 6 months. Original Document Copies: Conveyance Deeds, Lease Contracts, Family Documentation.
7. UK Visa for French Citizens 2024: Supporting Documents
Documents Required for UK Visa from France
- Passport or Travel Document Validity: French nationals must ensure their passport is valid for the entire period of their stay in the UK, including a page for the visa sticker.
- Completing the Application Form: It’s crucial for French applicants to accurately fill out and authenticate their application on the UK Visas and Immigration portal.
- Accommodation Details in the UK: French residents are required to provide information about their intended accommodation during their UK visit.
- Financial Resources Proof: Applicants from France need to demonstrate that they have adequate financial means for their UK stay.
- Travel Itinerary for UK: A detailed plan of travel and activities within the UK should be included in the application.
- Connection to France: Evidence such as employment, educational, or family ties in France, indicating the intention to return, is necessary.
- English Language Competency: If required, usually proven through an accredited English language test.
Visa Type-Specific Documentation:
- Work Visas: Necessary documents include a job offer, Certificate of Sponsorship, and relevant qualifications.
- Study Visas: A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) is required.
- Family Visas: Proof of familial relationships, such as marriage or birth certificates, is needed.
- Tourist Visas: Additional information about your trip might be requested.
For French Applicants with UK-based Sponsors:
French citizens or residents with a sponsor in the UK should include their sponsor’s supporting documents, particularly important for visas that typically require sponsorship, like employment or family visas.
Necessary Documents from UK Sponsors:
- An Invitation Letter from the sponsor in the UK.
- Verification of the Sponsor’s Immigration Status.
- The Sponsor’s Financial Documentation.
- Accommodation Proof from the Sponsor.
- Evidence of Relationship with the Sponsor, if applicable.
Remember: While sponsor documents can strengthen your application, meeting the primary visa criteria is crucial for French applicants seeking to obtain a UK visa.
8. FAQs: UK Visa for French Citizens 2024
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How long can French Citizens stay in the UK?
French citizens can stay up to 180 days on a visitor visa. For other visa types like spouse, student, and work visas, the duration is defined by the visa validity. French can extend their stay by meeting Leave to Remain (LTR) requirements. Certain visa routes also allow for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and eventual British citizenship.
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How Many French citizens Live in the UK?
As of 2020, around 136,000 France-born residents lived in the UK, according to Office for National Statistics (ONS). This figure may have changed and doesn’t include French descendants or naturalized citizens.
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Do UK Citizens need a visa for France?
Commencing in February 2023, travelers staying for less than 90 days won’t require a visa, however, they will need ETIAS authorization.
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What French can do if UK Visit Visa is Refused?
French citizens can reapply or seek Judicial Review. No appeal rights exist for visitor visa refusals. Appeals are possible on human rights grounds.
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Can French Work on Visiting Visa in the UK?
Work is not permitted. Violations may lead to visa cancellation and re-entry bans.