France family visa

Family members of European single market citizens can qualify for visa-free entry with a suitable residence card. The rules depend on the card and whether they accompany or join their family member.

Ways to get a France family visa

Visa-free entry with a family residence card
No visa needed
Family members of any nationality who hold a qualifying residence card and accompany or join their European single market family member.
Stay
Up to three months.
Family visa at the border
Visa on arrival
In theory, a family member of a European single market citizen who does not meet the residence-card exemption conditions can obtain a visa at the border by proving the family relationship.
1. Present evidence of the family relationship at the border checkpoint.
2. Request a visa under the family-member rules.

Who needs it

Family members who do not qualify for an exemption may need a visa. Detailed French family settlement visa rules are not specified.

Who doesn't

Family members of any nationality with a qualifying residence card are exempt when accompanying or joining their European single market family member. A qualifying card issued by a Schengen state also allows independent travel to another Schengen state.

What to bring

Valid travel document.
Residence card showing status as a family member of a European single market citizen.

Good to know

Accompany or join the qualifying family member unless your Schengen-issued family residence card permits independent travel.
These short-visit exemptions do not explain the full process for settling in France.

Questions

Do I need a family visa for France?

Family members who do not qualify for an exemption may need a visa. Detailed French family settlement visa rules are not specified. Family members of any nationality with a qualifying residence card are exempt when accompanying or joining their European single market family member. A qualifying card issued by a Schengen state also allows independent travel to another Schengen state.

What are the ways to get a family visa for France?

There are 2 options: Visa-free entry with a family residence card (no visa at all); Family visa at the border (a visa at the border).

Who can go to France without a family visa?

Family members of any nationality who hold a qualifying residence card and accompany or join their European single market family member.

How long can I stay on a France family visa?

Up to three months for the described visa-free family visit.

What documents do I need for a France family visa?

Valid travel document.; Residence card showing status as a family member of a European single market citizen..

What rules do I have to follow on a France family visa?

Accompany or join the qualifying family member unless your Schengen-issued family residence card permits independent travel.

Does my passport change whether I need a family visa for France?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the France visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a family visa for France be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest France family visa rules?

On France's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my family visa once I am in France?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

Reviewed by @snuck