France Visa from Bangladesh (2026): Tourist/Visit Specialist, VFS Dhaka, Requirements, Fees, Processing Time

🇫🇷 Contact goFLY for France Visa Assistance

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WhatsApp +880 1713-289175
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Office 1 Shukrabad Road, Motiur Nibash, Beside New Model Degree College, Opposite Metro Shopping Mall, Dhaka 1207

Last updated: January 2026 | Author: Md Bangir Hossian (Bablu) • Senior Visa Consultant (10+ Years, 3,000+ Visas) | ✅ Verified against official France-Visas & VFS Global sources on January 22, 2026

Service Scope

goFLY Limited — a trusted visa processing agency in Bangladesh — provides comprehensive support for France Schengen visa applications via VFS Global Dhaka. Our experienced team assists with Tourist/Visit Visa (Schengen C), Business Visa, and provides advisory support for Student Visa (VLS-TS) and Family Reunion applications.

❌ We Do NOT Process

Any France work/job visas. French employers must secure work authorization (Autorisation de travail) before a visa can be issued. Any agency promising "guaranteed France work visa package" without legitimate employer sponsorship is running a scam. goFLY only provides information about work visa requirements — we do NOT process work visa applications.

⚠️ Our Honest Approach

We declined 55+ Schengen visa applications in 2025 during free consultations because those cases had weak documentation or unrealistic expectations. We would rather lose the sale than take your money for a likely rejection. This honest approach has earned us 90%+ success rate on cases we accept.

🛠 Free Smart Tools for France Visa Applicants

Use These Before You Apply

Save time and reduce mistakes by using our two free AI-assisted tools:

⚡ Quick Answers

Visa required?
✅ Yes — Bangladeshi passport holders must obtain Schengen visa before travel
Where to apply?
France-Visas online + VFS Global Dhaka (appointment mandatory)
Biometrics required?
Yes — unless recorded within last 59 months in VIS system
Processing time
Standard: up to 15 calendar days (can extend to 45 days)
Photo specifications
35×45 mm, white/light background, NO glasses
Passport validity
3+ months beyond intended exit with 2+ blank pages
Insurance required?
Yes — EUR 30,000 minimum coverage, all Schengen states
Stay duration
Up to 90 days in any 180-day period across all Schengen states
Need help now?

Where to Apply — France Visa from Bangladesh

❌ Direct Embassy Applications NOT Accepted

You MUST apply through VFS Global Dhaka with a prior appointment. The French Embassy does not accept direct visa applications from regular passport holders. All Schengen visa applications are processed through VFS Global.

Application Process Overview

France Schengen visa applications follow a two-step process: online application on France-Visas portal followed by in-person document submission and biometrics at VFS Global.

  • Step 1 - Online: Create account and complete application on France-Visas portal
  • Step 2 - Appointment: Book VFS Global appointment through France-Visas or VFS website
  • Step 3 - Submit: Visit VFS Dhaka with all documents; provide biometrics if required
  • Step 4 - Track & Collect: Track application status; collect passport from VFS or via courier

VFS Global France Visa Application Center — Dhaka

VFS Global is the official visa application center authorized by the French Embassy in Bangladesh. All document submission, biometrics collection, and passport return for regular applicants are handled here.

  • Appointment: Mandatory — book through France-Visas portal or VFS Global website
  • Services: Document verification, biometrics collection, application submission, passport collection
  • Fees: Embassy visa fee + VFS service fee (paid at center or online)
  • Optional Services: Premium lounge, courier delivery, SMS updates, photocopy/photo services
⚠️ Always Verify Before Visiting

VFS Global location, hours, and holiday closures may change. Always check the official VFS Global France website for current address, working hours, and appointment availability before your visit.

France Visa Types for Bangladeshi Citizens

Visa TypePurposeDurationKey Documents
Schengen C (Tourist/Visit)Tourism, visiting family/friends, sightseeingUp to 90 days in 180-day periodHotel bookings, flights, itinerary, bank statements, travel insurance
Schengen C (Business)Business meetings, conferences, trade fairsUp to 90 days in 180-day periodFrench company invitation, business registration, company letter
Schengen C (Medical)Medical treatment in FranceUp to 90 days in 180-day periodHospital appointment, medical reports, treatment cost estimate
VLS-TS (Student)Studies exceeding 90 days1 year (renewable)Campus France attestation, admission letter, funds proof
VLS-TS (Family Reunion)Joining spouse/family in FranceLong-termMarriage certificate, sponsor's documents, accommodation proof
Long-Stay WorkEmployment in FranceLong-termWork authorization, employment contract (NOT processed by goFLY)

Tourist/Visit Visa (Schengen C) — Step-by-Step Process

The Schengen C tourist visa is the most common visa type for Bangladeshi travelers visiting France for tourism, visiting family/friends, or sightseeing. Here's the complete application process:

1

Create Account on France-Visas Portal

Visit france-visas.gouv.fr, create an account, and use the visa wizard to determine your visa type. Complete the online application form carefully — ensure all details match your passport exactly. Print the completed form, appointment summary, and personalized checklist.
2

Book VFS Global Appointment

Book your appointment at VFS Global Dhaka through the France-Visas portal or VFS website. Select your preferred date and time. Peak seasons (summer holidays, December) fill up fast — book 4-6 weeks ahead. Save and print appointment confirmation.
3

Prepare All Documents

Gather: passport (3+ months validity beyond exit, 2+ blank pages), photos (35×45 mm, white background, NO glasses), signed application form, round-trip flight bookings, hotel confirmations, day-by-day itinerary, 6-month bank statements, Schengen travel insurance (EUR 30,000 minimum), employment proof. Organize as per France-Visas checklist.
4

Submit Documents & Provide Biometrics

Arrive at VFS Global Dhaka 15-30 minutes before your appointment. Submit all documents for verification. Provide biometrics (10-finger fingerprints + photo) if not recorded in VIS system within last 59 months. Pay visa fee + VFS service fee. Receive tracking receipt.
5

Track Application

Track your application status online using reference number on VFS website. Standard processing takes up to 15 calendar days (can extend to 45 days during peak seasons or for complex cases). Respond promptly if Embassy requests additional documents or interview.
6

Collect Passport

Collect passport from VFS when status shows ready (or receive via courier if purchased). Immediately verify visa details: name spelling, passport number, validity dates, number of entries, duration of stay. Report any errors to VFS before leaving.
💡 goFLY Expert Tip

French visa officers carefully evaluate genuine travel intent and strong ties to Bangladesh. Key success factors include: stable employment with NOC stating return date, consistent 6-month bank balance (no sudden large deposits), realistic day-by-day itinerary matching your budget, confirmed hotel bookings, and valid Schengen travel insurance. First-time Schengen applicants typically receive single-entry visa — build travel history for future multiple-entry applications.

Tourist/Visit Visa — Document Checklist

🪪 Identity & Application Documents

  • Passport: Original with 3+ months validity beyond intended exit date, minimum 2 blank pages
  • Old Passports: If available, especially with previous Schengen/travel history
  • Photos: Two recent photos, 35×45 mm, white/light background, NO glasses, face 70-80% of frame, within last 6 months
  • NID: Color photocopy of both sides
  • Application Form: Completed on France-Visas portal, printed, signed
  • Appointment Confirmation: VFS Global booking printout

✈️ Travel Plan Documents

  • Cover Letter: Explaining trip purpose, travel dates, cities to visit, accommodation details, funding source, and ties to Bangladesh
  • Round-trip Flight Booking: Confirmed reservations (use refundable bookings until visa approved)
  • Hotel Bookings: Confirmed reservations for ALL nights in France/Schengen area
  • Day-by-day Itinerary: Detailed plan with dates, cities, attractions, inter-city transport
  • Travel Insurance: Schengen-compliant policy with EUR 30,000 minimum coverage, valid for all Schengen states, covering entire trip duration

💰 Financial Evidence

  • Bank Statements: Last 6 months from personal account, stamped by bank, showing consistent balance and regular transactions
  • Solvency Certificate: From your bank (recent, within 7 days of application)
  • FDR/Savings Certificates: If available, as additional proof
  • Sponsor Funds: If someone else is funding, their bank statements + sponsorship letter + relationship proof

💼 Employment/Status Proof

  • Employed: NOC from employer stating position, salary, leave approval, and expected return date; recent salary slips (3 months); employee ID card; TIN certificate
  • Business Owners: Trade license (updated), TIN certificate, company bank statements (6 months), company profile
  • Students: Enrollment letter from institution, student ID card, leave approval, parent/guardian sponsorship documents
  • Retired: Pension documents, retirement letter, bank statements showing pension credits

👨‍👩‍👧 Visiting Family/Friends in France (Additional)

  • Invitation Letter (Attestation d'accueil): Official hosting certificate from French host, obtained from their local Mairie
  • Host's ID: Copy of French ID card or residence permit
  • Host's Proof of Address: Recent utility bill or rental agreement
  • Relationship Proof: Photos together, communication records, documents proving relationship
❌ Common Document Problems That Cause Rejection
  • Large sudden deposits right before application — looks like borrowed money
  • Bank balance inconsistent with stated income/occupation — credibility concern
  • Travel dates on application don't match flights/hotels — inconsistency
  • Insurance doesn't cover all Schengen states or full trip dates — incomplete coverage
  • Weak ties to Bangladesh — no property, unstable job, no family obligations

Business Visa (Schengen C) — Requirements

The Schengen C business visa is for commercial activities including business meetings, contract negotiations, trade fairs, conferences, and professional events in France.

Core Requirements

  • French Company Invitation Letter: On company letterhead with: company name, registration number, contact person, your full name and passport details, purpose of visit, meeting dates, who bears costs
  • Conference/Event Registration: If attending trade fair or conference, official registration/invitation
  • Your Company Letter: From your Bangladesh company explaining purpose, duration, cost bearer, confirming employment
  • Trade License: Valid Bangladesh trade license (updated)
  • TIN Certificate: Your company's Tax Identification Number
  • Bank Statements: Company and/or personal (6 months)
  • Previous Business Travel: Evidence of previous business travel history (if any)
💡 Business Visa Tip

Strong business visa applications show clear commercial purpose with supporting evidence: previous trade history with French company, import/export documents, meeting agenda, trade fair booth booking, etc. First-time business travelers should provide extra documentation proving genuine business relationship.

Student Visa (VLS-TS) — Requirements

The VLS-TS (Visa Long Séjour valant Titre de Séjour) student visa is for studies in France exceeding 90 days. This visa serves as your residence permit for the first year.

⚠️ Advisory Service Only

goFLY provides advisory support for student visa applications — checklists, document guidance, and process explanation. We do NOT provide full Campus France procedure processing. Students must complete the Campus France (Études en France) procedure themselves.

Key Requirements

  • Campus France Attestation: Complete the Études en France (EEF) procedure on Campus France Bangladesh and obtain attestation
  • Admission Letter: Unconditional admission from French educational institution
  • Financial Proof: Evidence of funds for tuition + living expenses (currently ~EUR 615/month minimum)
  • Accommodation Proof: Housing arrangement in France for at least first 3 months
  • Academic Documents: Previous degrees, transcripts, language certificates
  • Birth Certificate: Translated and apostilled
💡 VLS-TS Important Note

After arriving in France, you MUST validate your VLS-TS visa online within 3 months through the ANEF platform. This validation converts your visa into a residence permit. Do not forget this step — failure to validate can affect your legal status in France.

Family/Spouse Visa — Requirements

Family reunion visas allow joining your spouse or family member who is legally residing in France. Processing times are longer than tourist visas.

⚠️ Advisory Service Only

goFLY provides advisory support for family reunion visa applications — document checklists and process guidance. We do NOT provide full processing for family reunion cases due to their complexity and individual nature.

Spouse of French Citizen

  • Marriage Certificate: Translated and legalized/apostilled
  • Spouse's French ID/Passport: Copy of French spouse's identity documents
  • Proof of Genuine Relationship: Photos, communication records, marriage ceremony photos
  • Spouse's Proof of Address: Recent documents showing address in France
  • Accommodation Proof: Evidence of suitable housing in France

Family Reunion (Regroupement Familial)

  • OFII Approval: Sponsor in France must first obtain family reunion approval from OFII
  • Relationship Documents: Marriage/birth certificates, translated and legalized
  • Sponsor's Documents: Residence permit, income proof, housing proof
  • Processing Time: Several months — plan well in advance

Fees & Processing Times

Visa Fee Structure

Visa TypeEmbassy Fee (EUR)Notes
Schengen C (Adult)€80Standard short-stay visa
Schengen C (Child 6-12)€40Reduced fee for children
Schengen C (Child under 6)FreeNo visa fee
Long-Stay (VLS-TS)€99Student/family/other long-stay

Additional Costs

  • VFS Service Fee: Paid in BDT at VFS Global (check current rate)
  • Optional Services: Premium lounge, courier delivery, SMS updates, photo service
  • Travel Insurance: Third-party cost (required for application)
  • Document Translation: If required for non-English documents

Processing Times

Visa TypeStandard TimelinePeak Season
Schengen C (Tourist/Business)Up to 15 calendar daysUp to 45 calendar days
VLS-TS (Student)Several weeksApply 2-3 months early
Family ReunionSeveral monthsVaries by case
⚠️ Always Verify Current Fees

Fees change periodically. EUR amounts are converted to BDT at current exchange rates. Always verify current fees on the France-Visas portal or call goFLY at 01713-289170 for today's rates. All fees are non-refundable regardless of visa outcome.

Schengen Rules & Insurance Requirements

Schengen Stay Rules

  • 90/180 Rule: Maximum 90 days stay in any rolling 180-day period across ALL Schengen states combined
  • Main Destination Rule: Apply at embassy of country where you'll spend most time
  • First Entry Rule: If spending equal time in multiple countries, apply at country of first entry
  • Single vs Multiple Entry: First-time applicants typically receive single-entry; multiple-entry granted based on travel history
  • Schengen Calculator: Use online calculators to track your 90/180 day allowance

Schengen Travel Insurance Requirements

RequirementSpecification
Minimum CoverageEUR 30,000 (medical expenses + repatriation)
Geographic CoverageValid in ALL Schengen member states
DurationMust cover entire trip duration (entry to exit)
Insurance ProviderMust be recognized/accepted by Schengen consulates
Coverage TypeEmergency medical treatment + medical evacuation/repatriation
❌ Insurance Rejection Reasons
  • Coverage amount below EUR 30,000
  • Policy dates don't cover entire trip duration
  • Not valid for all Schengen countries
  • Unrecognized or non-EU insurance provider
  • Policy excludes COVID-19 or pandemic-related treatment

Photo & Biometrics Requirements

Photo Specifications (Schengen Standard)

France follows standard Schengen photo requirements. Wrong photos can cause delays or rejection at VFS.

SpecificationRequirement
Size35×45 mm (standard Schengen/passport size)
BackgroundWhite or light grey, plain, shadow-free
GlassesNOT allowed — remove all glasses including prescription
Face Coverage70-80% of photo height, centered
ExpressionNeutral, mouth closed, eyes open and visible
Head CoveringNot allowed unless for religious reasons (face must be fully visible)
RecencyTaken within last 6 months
QuantityTwo identical photos required
QualityClear, sharp, proper lighting, no red-eye, high resolution

Biometrics (VIS) Requirements

  • Who must provide: All applicants ages 12 and above
  • What: 10-finger fingerprint scan + digital photograph
  • Where: Collected at VFS Global Dhaka during document submission
  • Validity: Biometrics stored in VIS (Visa Information System) for 59 months (approximately 5 years)
  • Exemption: If you provided biometrics for a Schengen visa within last 59 months, fingerprints may be copied from VIS (photo still taken)
  • Children under 12: Exempt from fingerprint requirement

Tracking Your Application

How to Track

  • Reference Number: You receive a tracking reference when you submit at VFS Global
  • VFS Online Tracking: Visit VFS Global France website and use tracking function
  • France-Visas Portal: You can also check status through your France-Visas account
  • SMS Updates: If you purchased SMS service, you'll receive status notifications
  • Email Notifications: Embassy may contact you via email if additional documents needed

Application Status Meanings

  • Submitted: Application received by VFS
  • Under Process: Application sent to Embassy for decision
  • Ready for Collection: Decision made, passport ready for pickup
  • Collected/Delivered: Passport collected or delivered via courier

Collection Options

  • Self Collection: Visit VFS Global with your receipt during working hours
  • Authorized Person: Someone else can collect with authorization letter, their ID, and your receipt
  • Courier Service: If purchased, passport will be delivered to your address

After Receiving Your Visa

  • Verify immediately: Check name spelling, passport number, validity dates, entries, duration of stay
  • Report errors: If any detail is wrong, report to VFS Global immediately
  • Understand your visa: "Entries" = how many times you can enter; "Duration" = max days per entry; "Validity" = period during which entries are allowed
  • Keep documents: Carry your supporting documents during travel (insurance, hotel bookings, return ticket)

Common Mistakes That Cause Rejection

MistakeWhy It's a ProblemSolution
Insufficient fundsCannot support yourself during stayShow 6-month consistent bank balance; explain any large deposits
Weak ties to BangladeshNo compelling reason to returnShow property ownership, stable job, family obligations
Mismatched datesApplication dates don't match flights/hotelsCross-check all documents before submission
Invalid insuranceDoesn't meet Schengen requirementsUse approved insurer with EUR 30,000 coverage for all Schengen states
Incomplete applicationMissing documents or unsigned formsFollow France-Visas checklist exactly; sign all required places
Unrealistic itineraryToo ambitious for budget/time availableCreate practical, believable travel plan matching your finances
Previous overstayImmigration violation historyBe honest in application; explain circumstances if applicable
Wrong photo specsPhotos rejected at VFSUse professional studio familiar with Schengen requirements

Official Resources

ResourceLinkPurpose
France-Visas Portalfrance-visas.gouv.frOnline application, visa wizard, requirements, tracking
VFS Global France Bangladeshvisa.vfsglobal.com/bgd/en/fraAppointment booking, document submission, fees, tracking
French Embassy Bangladeshbd.ambafrance.orgPolicy updates, announcements, consular information
Campus France Bangladeshbanglades.campusfrance.orgStudent visa procedure, Études en France
goFLY France Visa Pagegoflybd.com/france-visa-from-bangladeshOur service details and assistance

Frequently Asked Questions

Create account on France-Visas portal, complete online application, book VFS Global appointment, prepare all documents (passport, photos, flights, hotels, insurance, bank statements, employment proof), submit at VFS Dhaka with biometrics, pay fees, track online, and collect passport when ready. goFLY can assist with the entire process — call 01713-289170.

Schengen short-stay visa (adult): EUR 80. Children 6-12: EUR 40. Under 6: Free. Long-stay (VLS-TS): EUR 99. VFS service fee additional (paid in BDT). Fees may change — always verify on France-Visas portal or call goFLY at 01713-289170. All fees non-refundable.

Standard Schengen C visa: up to 15 calendar days. During peak seasons (summer, December holidays), processing can extend to 45 calendar days. Student visa: several weeks. Family reunion: several months. Apply 3-6 weeks before travel for short-stay visa; earlier during peak seasons.

You can stay maximum 90 days within any rolling 180-day period across ALL Schengen countries combined. This is not 90 days per country. Use online Schengen calculators to track your allowance. Overstaying can result in fines, deportation, and future visa rejections.

Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for Schengen visa. Requirements: minimum EUR 30,000 coverage, valid in ALL Schengen states, covering entire trip duration, includes medical emergency and repatriation. Policy must be from recognized insurer. Invalid insurance is a common rejection reason.

Possible but not common for first-time applicants. French consulate typically grants single-entry for first Schengen visa. Multiple-entry is more likely if you: have previous Schengen travel history with no overstay, demonstrate genuine need for multiple trips, have strong financial profile. Build travel history first.

Attestation d'accueil is an official hosting certificate required when staying with family/friends in France instead of hotels. Your host in France must apply for it at their local Mairie (town hall). It proves you have accommodation arranged. Required for family/friend visits; not needed if staying in hotels.

First complete Campus France (Études en France) procedure on their Bangladesh website and obtain attestation. Then apply through France-Visas portal for VLS-TS student visa. Submit at VFS Global with admission letter, Campus France attestation, funds proof, accommodation proof. After arriving in France, validate VLS-TS online within 3 months.

Fees are non-refundable. You will receive a rejection letter stating reasons. You can: 1) Reapply after addressing the issues mentioned, or 2) File an appeal (recours gracieux) to the Embassy within 2 months. Contact goFLY at 01713-289175 for honest assessment before reapplying.

Yes. A Schengen visa issued by France allows travel to all 29 Schengen member states. However, you must: enter through France OR spend most time in France (main destination rule). Your itinerary should show France as primary destination. Immigration officers may question if you primarily visit other countries.

Ready to Apply for Your France Visa?

goFLY's experienced team maintains 90%+ success rate on accepted Schengen cases. We provide honest assessment, France-Visas form preparation, VFS appointment booking, document review, and step-by-step guidance for Tourist, Business, and advisory support for Student visa applications.

Free consultation available — we will honestly tell you your chances before you pay anything.

📍 1 Shukrabad Road, Motiur Nibash, Opposite Metro Shopping Mall, Dhaka 1207
🕐 Sun-Thu & Sat: 10 AM – 6 PM | Fri: Closed | Get Directions

Disclaimer

⚠️ Important Notice

This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. French visa policies, fees, forms, requirements, and processing times can change without notice. All visa decisions remain at the sole discretion of the French consular authorities.

goFLY Limited is NOT affiliated with the French government, French Embassy, or VFS Global. We are an independent visa assistance agency. We do NOT arrange employment or process work visa applications. Always verify information on official sources:

Last Verified: January 22, 2026 | Next Review: April 2026