France Schengen Visa
Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C) · For Albania citizens
Planning a trip to France as an Albanian citizen? This guide covers everything you need for your Schengen Visa application: required documents, current fee of €90, processing time of 15 days, and strategies to improve your chances. Your France visa grants access to all 29 Schengen states.
France Schengen Visa for Albanian Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Albania citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your passport must meet Schengen validity requirements
Complete the visa application through the official France-Visas portal
Two recent photographs meeting French visa specifications
Valid travel insurance covering medical emergencies in all Schengen states
Evidence demonstrating sufficient funds for your stay in France
Evidence of where you will stay during your visit to France
Round-trip flight itinerary showing entry to France and exit from Schengen area
Documentation proving your current employment and income in Albania
Fingerprints and digital photograph collected at visa appointment
Recommended (Optional)
Personal letter explaining your travel plans and purpose
Application Process
Albanian citizens apply for a France Schengen visa through VFS Global in Tirana or directly at the French Embassy.1 Follow these steps:
1. Use France-Visas Portal
Start at france-visas.gouv.fr and use the visa wizard.1 Enter your nationality, destination, and travel purpose to receive a personalized document checklist and requirements.
2. Gather Required Documents
Collect all documents per your personalized checklist: passport, photos, completed application form, travel insurance, bank statements, accommodation proof, flight reservation, and employment evidence.1
3. Book Appointment
Schedule your visa appointment through VFS Global Albania or the French Embassy in Tirana.2 During summer peak season, book 4-6 weeks in advance.
4. Submit Application
Attend your appointment with all original documents and photocopies. Pay the €90 visa fee plus any service charges. Provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) if not previously recorded.1
5. Track and Collect
Monitor your application status through the France-Visas portal. Standard processing takes 15 calendar days.1 Collect your passport once notified or arrange courier delivery.
Fees
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| Adult (12+ years) | €90 |
| Child (6-11 years) | €45 |
| Child (under 6) | Free |
| VFS Service Charge | ~€25-35 |
Fees are payable in EUR and are non-refundable regardless of the visa outcome.1 Additional optional services available at VFS Global.
What You Need to Prove
For a successful France Schengen visa application, you must demonstrate:1
Clear Purpose: Genuine, credible reason for visiting France supported by a detailed itinerary and relevant bookings.
Financial Means: Sufficient funds to cover your stay. France recommends approximately €65 per day for accommodation, food, and activities.
Return Intention: Strong ties to Albania ensuring your return, such as employment, property, family, or studies.
Adequate Insurance: Schengen-compliant travel medical insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage across all member states.
Processing Times
| Scenario | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Standard Processing | 15 calendar days |
| Peak Season (June-August) | Up to 30-45 days |
| Complex Cases | Up to 60 days |
Apply at least 15 days before travel, but applications accepted up to 6 months in advance.1 Summer applications should be submitted 6-8 weeks early.
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, your Schengen visa sticker will be placed in your passport. Verify carefully:
- Validity dates: Must cover your travel period
- Entry type: Single, double, or multiple entries
- Duration: Maximum days allowed (up to 90)
At French border control, you may need to present:
- Return ticket confirmation
- Accommodation proof (hotel booking or attestation d’accueil)
- Valid travel insurance
- Evidence of sufficient funds
If Your Visa is Refused
If your application is refused, you will receive a written decision with specific reasons. You can:
- Reapply: Submit a new application directly addressing the issues cited. No waiting period required.
- Appeal: File a recours gracieux with the French Embassy within 2 months.
- Administrative Review: In certain cases, request review by the Commission de recours contre les décisions de refus de visa.
Always disclose previous refusals honestly in future applications. Address the specific concerns raised before reapplying.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Financial Proof
Bank statements do not demonstrate adequate funds or show suspicious activity such as recent large deposits.
How to avoid: Show 3-6 months of bank statements with stable balance and regular income. France expects approximately €65 per day. Avoid sudden large deposits before applying.
Weak Ties to Albania
Unable to convincingly demonstrate reasons to return to Albania after the visit.
How to avoid: Provide employment letter showing stable position, property documents, family certificates showing dependents, or proof of ongoing education in Albania.
Incomplete Documentation
Missing required documents or documents not meeting French specifications.
How to avoid: Use the France-Visas wizard for your personalized checklist. Ensure all documents are current and properly formatted. Translate non-French/English documents.
Inadequate Travel Insurance
Insurance policy does not meet Schengen minimum requirements or coverage area.
How to avoid: Purchase Schengen-specific insurance with minimum €30,000 medical coverage valid in all 29 member states for your entire trip.
Inconsistent Information
Information in application contradicts supporting documents or previous applications.
How to avoid: Ensure all dates, addresses, and employment details are consistent across documents. Be honest about travel and visa history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Albanian citizens need a visa to visit France?
Yes, Albanian citizens require a Schengen visa to visit France for tourism, business, or family visits. The visa allows stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
How long does it take to get a France visa from Albania?
Standard processing takes 15 calendar days from application submission. During peak summer season (June-August), processing may take up to 30-45 days. Apply at least 3-4 weeks before travel.
What is the France Schengen visa fee for Albanians in 2025?
The standard visa fee is €90 for adults. Children aged 6-11 pay €45, and children under 6 are exempt. VFS Global service charges apply additionally.
Can I visit other European countries with a France Schengen visa?
Yes, your France Schengen visa permits travel to all 29 Schengen member states including Germany, Italy, Spain, and others. France must be your main destination or first entry point.
What is an attestation d'accueil and when do I need it?
The attestation d'accueil (hosting certificate) is required when staying with friends or family in France. Your French host must obtain this document from their local town hall (mairie) and send you the original.
What is the approval rate for France visas from Albania?
France approves approximately 82% of Schengen visa applications from Albanian citizens. Complete documentation and strong ties to Albania significantly improve your chances of approval.