France Schengen Visa
Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C) · For Lebanon citizens
Planning a trip to France as a Lebanese citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the Schengen Visa application: required documents, current fees of €90, processing times of 15 days, and strategies to improve your chances. The Schengen Visa grants access to all 29 Schengen states.
France Schengen Visa for Lebanese Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Lebanon citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen area
Complete and sign the Schengen visa application form
Two identical recent passport-sized photographs
Valid travel insurance covering the entire Schengen area
Round-trip flight booking showing travel dates
Evidence of where you will stay during your visit
Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in France
Documentation proving your professional status
Official family status document from Lebanese authorities
Fingerprints and photograph taken at TLScontact visa application centre
Application Process
Lebanese citizens must apply for a France Schengen Visa through TLScontact in Beirut.1 The Schengen Visa grants access to all 29 Schengen member states for tourism, business visits, or family visits.
1. Complete Online Application
Start your application on the France-Visas portal.1 Use the visa wizard to determine your specific requirements. Fill out all sections accurately and pay the €90 visa fee online.1
2. Gather Required Documents
Collect all supporting documents including passport, photos, travel insurance, financial evidence, and proof of accommodation.2 Ensure your family register extract is recent and translated into English or French.2
3. Book TLScontact Appointment
After completing your online application, book an appointment at the TLScontact centre in Beirut.3 Slots fill up quickly during summer months, so book well in advance.
4. Submit Documents and Biometrics
Attend your appointment with all original documents and copies.3 Your fingerprints and photograph will be taken. Ensure all documents are organized and easily accessible.
5. Wait for Decision
Processing takes approximately 15 calendar days.1 You will be notified when your passport is ready for collection. During peak season, processing may take up to 30 days.
Fees
| Service | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Visa (12+ years) | €90 | Standard processing |
| Child Visa (6-11 years) | €45 | Standard processing |
| Child Visa (under 6) | Free | No fee required |
| TLScontact Service Fee | Variable | Check current rates |
Additional fees may apply for optional services such as SMS notifications, courier delivery, and premium appointment slots.
What You Need to Prove
To obtain a France Schengen Visa, you must demonstrate:4
- Genuine travel purpose: Clear itinerary showing tourism, family visit, or business activities
- Sufficient funds: Financial means to cover accommodation, transport, and daily expenses (approximately €100 per day)
- Travel insurance: Minimum €30,000 coverage for medical emergencies across all Schengen states
- Intent to return: Strong ties to Lebanon such as employment, property, or family obligations
- Valid documentation: Passport valid for 3 months beyond planned departure with at least 2 blank pages
Processing Times
Standard processing for France Schengen Visa applications from Lebanon is 15 calendar days.1
Processing may take longer if:
- Application is submitted during peak season (May-August)
- Additional documents or information are required
- Your application requires further verification
- You need to attend an interview
Apply at least 3-4 weeks before your intended travel date. Applications can be submitted up to 6 months in advance but no later than 15 days before travel.1
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, your visa sticker will be placed in your passport. Check the validity dates and number of entries carefully. You can enter any Schengen country during the validity period.
At the French border, you may be asked to show:
- Return or onward travel ticket
- Proof of accommodation
- Evidence of sufficient funds
- Travel insurance certificate
- Details of your travel plans
If Your Visa is Refused
If your application is refused, you will receive a letter explaining the specific reasons. You can:
- Reapply with improved documentation addressing all issues raised
- Appeal the decision if you believe it was made in error
- Seek assistance from immigration consultants for complex cases
A refusal does not permanently prevent future applications, but you must demonstrate that circumstances have changed and previous concerns have been addressed.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Financial Evidence
Bank statements do not demonstrate adequate funds to cover travel costs, accommodation, and daily expenses throughout the stay.
How to avoid: Show 3-6 months of bank statements with consistent balance. Ensure funds cover approximately €100 per day plus accommodation and transport costs.
Weak Ties to Home Country
Unable to demonstrate compelling reasons to return to Lebanon after the visit, such as stable employment, property, or family obligations.
How to avoid: Include employment letter showing tenure, property documents, evidence of family dependents, or business commitments requiring your return.
Incomplete Documentation
Missing required documents or documents that do not meet specifications, such as outdated family register or insufficient travel insurance coverage.
How to avoid: Use the France-Visas checklist. Ensure all documents are current, properly translated, and meet Schengen requirements.
Previous Immigration Issues
History of visa refusals or overstays in Schengen countries or elsewhere raises concerns about compliance.
How to avoid: Be transparent about previous refusals. Provide evidence of changed circumstances and explain improvements since any past issues.
Unclear Travel Purpose
Vague or implausible travel plans that do not align with the applicant's profile or circumstances.
How to avoid: Provide a clear, detailed itinerary. If visiting family, include invitation letters with host's residence permit and ID copies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay in France with a Schengen Visa?
The Schengen Visa allows you to stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This applies to the entire Schengen area, not just France. You can travel freely between all 29 Schengen member states during this time.
Can I visit other European countries with a France Schengen Visa?
Yes, the Schengen Visa grants access to all 29 Schengen member states, including Germany, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, and others. France should be your main destination or first point of entry if visiting multiple countries equally.
How long does France visa processing take from Lebanon?
Standard processing takes approximately 15 calendar days. During peak season (May-August), it may take longer. Apply at least 3-4 weeks before your intended travel date to allow for any delays.
What is the France Schengen Visa fee for Lebanese citizens in 2025?
The visa fee is €90 for adults (aged 12 and over) and €45 for children aged 6-11. Children under 6 are exempt from fees. Additional service charges from TLScontact apply.
Do I need travel insurance for a France visa?
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory. It must cover at least €30,000 for medical emergencies and repatriation, and be valid for all Schengen countries for the entire duration of your stay.
Where do I apply for a France visa in Lebanon?
Applications are submitted through TLScontact visa application centre in Beirut. You must first complete the online application on the France-Visas portal, then book an appointment at TLScontact for biometrics and document submission.
Can I work in France on a tourist Schengen Visa?
No, the Schengen tourist visa does not permit any form of employment. You cannot work, whether paid or unpaid, during your stay. For work purposes, you need to apply for an appropriate work visa.
What happens if my France visa is refused?
You will receive a refusal letter explaining the reasons. You can reapply with improved documentation addressing the issues, or in some cases, appeal the decision. A refusal does not permanently bar you from future applications.