About the service: D visa Visitor
The “Visiteur” status is for those who want a French residence permit without any obligation to work or live in France permanently. It allows you to stay in France legally, open a bank account, travel freely within the Schengen Area and use the French health insurance system. You can live in France all year round or spend most of your time abroad. The status does not automatically make you a French tax resident if the centre of your vital interests is in another country. After 5 years of residence, the holder can obtain a 10-year card and then French citizenship.
Benefits
The option to live in France with no minimum stay requirement.
Entitlement to health insurance in the French system.
Free movement within the Schengen Area.
Opening a bank account in France.
Annual renewal of the status without complex procedures.
After 5 years — a 10-year card (French language test at B1 level; foreign nationals over 65 are exempt), then the option of citizenship.
The option to change status if needed.
Who is it for
Financially independent individuals.
Property owners in France.
Parents of children attending French schools.
Parents of adult children who hold a French residence permit or French citizenship.
Retirees who choose to live in France.
Foreign nationals in a PACS with a French citizen or a French residence permit holder.
Important to know
The status does not give the right to work or carry out a professional activity in France.
It must be renewed every year until you obtain the 10-year card.
What is included
Support in preparing the file and help gathering documents.
Preparation and completion of the full set of documents.
Booking a filing appointment at the French consulate in the applicant’s country of legal residence.
Support with filing and validation at the OFII.
Support fees
- €9,900
Per adult.
- €3,900
Per child.
Special rates apply to families.
Articles on this topic
Knowledge base for this procedure: requirements, documents and common mistakes.
Opening a Company in France with Visitor Status
Learn how to open a company in France with Visitor status and what restrictions this status imposes.
Changing Status from Visiteur in France: Requirements
Learn about the requirements for changing the Visiteur status and obtaining a resident card in France.
Obtaining Visiteur Status for Refugees’ Parents
Obtaining Visiteur status for refugees’ parents in France may be easier than obtaining a tourist visa. Learn about the requirements and procedures.
Residence Permit «Visiteur» in France
Residence Permit «Visiteur» in France: process of obtaining and renewing, long-term support.
What you need to know about the D Visiteur visa for France
Learn about the D Visiteur visa for France and how to handle unexpected situations when submitting documents.
Frequently asked questions
Who is the French visitor visa for?
The D “Visiteur” visa is designed for financially independent people: retirees, property owners, parents of children at French schools, and partners in a PACS with a French resident. The main condition is proven income and no need to work in the country.
What income must be shown for a “Visiteur” visa?
You need to show stable income or savings sufficient to live in France without working. The benchmark is at least the French minimum wage (SMIC) for the full term of the visa; we determine the exact amount for your situation during the consultation.
Can I work in France on a “Visiteur” visa?
No. The “Visiteur” status does not give the right to take employment or carry out a professional activity in France. If you need to work or run a business, other routes apply — for example a work visa or a “Talent” residence permit.
How does a “Visiteur” visa lead to a residence permit and a 10-year card?
The visa leads to a residence permit renewed every year. After 5 years of legal residence you can obtain a 10-year resident card (with a French test at B1 level; applicants over 65 are exempt) and then apply for citizenship.
What documents are needed for the French visitor visa?
Basically, the application form, a cover letter, proof of income and accommodation in France, health insurance and an undertaking not to work in the country. The exact set depends on your situation — we prepare it in full.
Is the “Visiteur” visa suitable for retirees?
Yes, it is one of the most common scenarios: retirees with proven income use the D “Visiteur” visa to live in France legally without working. Applicants over 65 do not need to take a French test for the 10-year card.