France Schengen Visa
Short-Stay Visa (Type C) · For Ghana citizens
Planning a trip to France as a Ghanaian citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the Schengen Visa application: required documents, current fees of €90, processing times of 15-30 days, and strategies to improve your chances. A France Schengen Visa grants access to all 29 Schengen states across Europe.
France Schengen Visa for Ghanaian Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Ghana citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your passport must meet Schengen validity requirements
Complete the Schengen visa application form online
Two recent passport-sized photographs
Schengen-compliant travel insurance is mandatory
Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay
Detailed plan of your trip to France and the Schengen area
Proof of where you will stay during your visit
Documentation proving your professional situation
Recommended (Optional)
Personal letter explaining your trip purpose
Official invitation from your host in France
Application Process
Applications must be submitted through VFS Global in Accra.3 Start by completing your application online at France-Visas.1 The process involves these steps:
1. Complete Online Application
Visit france-visas.gouv.fr to complete your visa application form. This portal guides you through the requirements and generates your application form.1
2. Book VFS Appointment
After completing your online application, book an appointment at the VFS Global Visa Application Centre at One Airport Square, Accra. Note that appointment wait times can be lengthy, so book early.2
3. Gather Required Documents
Collect all necessary documents including passport, photos, travel insurance, flight reservations, hotel bookings, financial evidence, and employment proof.1
4. Attend Appointment
Visit VFS Global on your appointment date with all original documents and copies. Submit your application and pay the required fees.3
5. Wait for Decision
Processing takes 15-30 days. Track your application status through the VFS Global website. You will be notified when your passport is ready for collection.1
Fees
| Applicant Type | Visa Fee |
|---|---|
| Adults | €90 |
| Children (6-11 years) | €45 |
| Children (under 6) | Free |
VFS Global charges an additional service fee for processing. Optional services like SMS updates and courier delivery are available at extra cost.3
What You Need to Prove
According to Schengen visa requirements, you must demonstrate:1
- Genuine travel purpose with clear itinerary and accommodation arrangements
- Sufficient funds to cover all expenses (approximately €65-120 per day)
- Valid travel insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage for all Schengen states
- Strong ties to Ghana that ensure your return
- Valid passport meeting Schengen requirements
Processing Times
Current processing times for France Schengen visa from Ghana:12
| Timeline | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum application time | 15 days before travel |
| Maximum application time | 6 months before travel |
| Typical processing | 15-30 days |
Apply well in advance during peak travel seasons. Summer months and school holidays often have longer processing times and appointment wait times.
Schengen Area Access
A France Schengen Visa grants access to all 29 Schengen member states:1
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
You can travel freely between these countries during your visa validity period.
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, your visa will be placed in your passport. Before traveling, verify:
- Entry dates match your travel plans
- Number of entries (single, double, or multiple)
- Validity period of the visa
- Duration of stay permitted
At the French border, you may need to show:
- Return flight ticket
- Hotel reservations
- Travel insurance certificate
- Proof of sufficient funds
If Your Visa is Refused
If refused, you will receive a letter explaining the specific reasons. You can:
- Reapply with improved documentation addressing the issues raised
- Appeal the decision within 2 months of the refusal
- Seek immigration advice for complex cases
A refusal does not permanently prevent future applications, but you must address the concerns raised. Previous refusals must be disclosed in new applications.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Financial Evidence
Bank statements do not show enough funds or demonstrate irregular patterns such as sudden large deposits.
How to avoid: Show 3-6 months of statements with consistent income. Budget approximately €65-120 per day for your stay.
Weak Ties to Home Country
Unable to demonstrate compelling reasons to return to Ghana, such as stable employment, property, or family obligations.
How to avoid: Include employment letter showing tenure, property documents, family certificates, and evidence of ongoing commitments.
Incomplete or Inconsistent Documentation
Missing documents, information that does not match across documents, or unsigned forms.
How to avoid: Use the official checklist and verify all documents are complete. Ensure dates and details are consistent.
Inadequate Travel Insurance
Insurance does not meet Schengen requirements: minimum €30,000 coverage, all Schengen states, entire trip duration.
How to avoid: Purchase comprehensive Schengen-compliant insurance covering medical, hospitalization, and repatriation.
Unconvincing Travel Purpose
The stated purpose of visit is unclear or the itinerary does not make sense for the visa duration requested.
How to avoid: Provide a detailed, realistic itinerary. Include a cover letter explaining your trip purpose and plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay in France on a Schengen visa?
The Schengen Visa allows you to stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This applies to the entire Schengen area, not just France.
Can I visit other European countries with a France Schengen Visa?
Yes, a France Schengen Visa grants access to all 29 Schengen member states. You can travel freely between these countries during your visa validity period.
Can I work on a Schengen tourist visa?
No, the Schengen Visa does not permit any form of paid employment. If you need to work, you must apply for the appropriate work visa.
How long does France Schengen visa processing take from Ghana?
Processing typically takes 15-30 days. You should apply at least 15 days before your intended departure. Applications can be submitted up to 6 months in advance.
What is the France Schengen visa fee for Ghanaians in 2025?
The standard visa fee is €90 for adults. Children aged 6-11 pay €45, and children under 6 are free. VFS Global service fees apply separately.
Do I need to book flights before applying?
You need to show a flight reservation, but it does not need to be a confirmed ticket. Use refundable bookings until your visa is approved.
Where do I apply for a France Schengen visa in Ghana?
Applications are submitted at the VFS Global Visa Application Centre at One Airport Square in Accra. Book an appointment online through the VFS Global website.
What happens if my visa is refused?
You will receive a refusal letter with the reasons. You can reapply with improved documentation or appeal the decision within the specified timeframe.
How early can I apply for a Schengen visa?
You can apply up to 6 months before your intended travel date. It is recommended to apply at least 3-4 weeks in advance.