France is one of the most popular Schengen destinations from Saudi Arabia, and both Saudi citizens and residents of the Kingdom need a Schengen visa to visit. The advantage with France is that the process is clear: you start your application on the official France-Visas website, then submit your file at a VFS Global centre in Riyadh, Jeddah or Khobar, and applications are processed by the French Embassy in Riyadh or the Consulate General in Jeddah. This guide covers the steps, documents, fees and the visa length you can receive.
When should you apply to the French embassy?
Apply to France if it is your only Schengen destination, the country where you will spend the longest time, or your first point of entry if the stays are equal. All residents of Saudi Arabia, whatever their nationality, can apply at any of the three VFS centres regardless of their city, which helps a lot in busy seasons.
How to apply for a France visa
- Create an application on France-Visas: fill in the form on france-visas.gouv.fr with details exactly as in your passport, then download and print the application form and France-Visas receipt.
- Book a VFS appointment: at the unified centre in Riyadh, Jeddah or Khobar. The steps are in our guide to booking a unified visa centre appointment.
- Prepare your documents listed in the next section.
- Attend your appointment for biometrics, handing in your file and paying the fees.
- Track your application until you collect your passport, and check the visa sticker immediately.
France-Visas states that anyone who does not wish to use VFS services can apply directly at the visa section of the embassy or consulate, but appointments there are usually fewer.
Documents required for a France visa
Personal documents
A passport valid for 3 months after your return and issued within the last 10 years, the application form and France-Visas receipt, a recent photo, the national ID for Saudis or a valid iqama for residents, and the family register for family trips.
Financial means and employment status
A recent, stamped bank statement and a salary certificate from your employer stating your title, salary and leave approval, or the commercial register for business owners.
Accommodation and travel
A hotel booking for every night or proof of hosting, a return flight reservation, and an itinerary if your trip covers more than one city. Use our day-by-day France itinerary.
Travel insurance
Medical insurance with at least €30,000 cover, valid in all Schengen countries for the whole stay.
French visa fees and processing time
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Adults | €90, paid in riyals at the approved exchange rate |
| Children aged 6 to under 12 | €45 |
| Children under 6 | Free |
| VFS centre fee | Extra, depending on the centre |
| Processing time | Usually 15 days |
The embassy recommends applying early before summer, as appointments fill up quickly. Details are in our guide to Schengen visa fees.
France visa validity for Saudis
Saudi citizens residing in the Kingdom are eligible for a 5-year multiple-entry Schengen visa from their first application, provided their passport validity allows it. Residents follow the general cascade rules. Details are in our guide to the 5-year Schengen visa.
Long-stay and student visas for France
For stays longer than 90 days you need a national type D visa, applied for at least a month before travel. Students start through the “Études en France” platform with Campus France before applying for the visa. These visas have different requirements from the tourist visa.
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Frequently asked questions
Do Saudis need a visa for France?
Yes, a short-stay Schengen visa, and they are eligible for a multiple-entry visa of up to 5 years.
Can a French Schengen visa be extended after arrival?
Only in exceptional cases such as illness or force majeure, not for tourism.
Is a flight reservation enough?
Yes in most cases, if it can be verified, and it is best not to buy a ticket before the visa is issued.
What are the most common refusal reasons?
Insurance that doesn’t meet the requirements, mismatched dates between bookings, insufficient financial means, and applying to France when most of the trip is in another country.
Sources
- France-Visas – the official French visa website
- The French Embassy in Riyadh and Campus France Saudi Arabia
