France Schengen Visa
Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C) · For Thailand citizens
Planning a trip to France as a Thai citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the Schengen Visa application: required documents, current fees of €90, processing times of 15 calendar days, and strategies to improve your chances. The visa grants access to all 29 Schengen states for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
France Schengen Visa for Thai Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Thailand citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your passport must meet specific validity requirements for Schengen visa applications
Complete the official Schengen visa application form through France-Visas portal
Recent biometric photographs meeting Schengen specifications
Comprehensive travel insurance valid throughout the Schengen area
Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in France and the Schengen area
Documentation proving your current employment and income in Thailand
Evidence of where you will stay during your visit to France
Round-trip flight reservation showing entry and exit from Schengen area
Personal letter explaining the purpose and details of your trip
Fingerprints and photograph collected at TLScontact visa application centre
Application Process
All applications must be submitted through the France-Visas portal and TLScontact visa application centre in Bangkok.1 Follow these steps:
1. Complete Online Application
Register and fill out your application at france-visas.gouv.fr.1 The system will guide you through the required information and generate your application form. Print and sign the completed form.
2. Book TLScontact Appointment
Schedule an appointment at the TLScontact centre in Bangkok.2 Appointments can be booked online up to 6 months before your planned travel date. Apply at least 3 weeks before your intended departure.
3. Attend Appointment
Visit TLScontact with your passport and all supporting documents.2 Your biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) will be collected. Pay the visa fee and service charges at the centre.
4. Wait for Decision
Standard processing takes 15 calendar days.1 You will receive SMS and email notifications about your application status. Collect your passport from TLScontact or arrange courier delivery.
Fees
| Category | Visa Fee |
|---|---|
| Adults (12 years and older) | €90 |
| Children (6-11 years) | €45 |
| Children (under 6 years) | Free |
TLScontact charges an additional service fee for processing your application.2 Optional premium services like SMS updates, courier delivery, and lounge access cost extra.
What You Need to Prove
To be granted a Schengen visa for France, you must demonstrate:1
- Genuine purpose for visiting France for tourism, family visit, or business
- Sufficient funds to cover accommodation, travel, and daily expenses (minimum €65/day)
- Valid travel insurance covering €30,000 for medical emergencies across all Schengen states
- Clear itinerary with confirmed accommodation and travel plans
- Strong ties to Thailand proving you will return after your visit
Processing Times
Current processing time for Schengen visa applications at the French Embassy in Bangkok is 15 calendar days.1 Processing may take longer if:
- Additional documents are requested
- Your application requires further verification
- You apply during peak travel season (June-August, December)
- Security or background checks are required
Apply at least 3-4 weeks before your planned travel date. Applications can be submitted up to 6 months in advance.1
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, the Schengen visa sticker will be placed in your passport. Check the following details carefully:
- Validity dates: When you can enter and must exit the Schengen area
- Duration of stay: Maximum days permitted (up to 90)
- Number of entries: Single, double, or multiple entry
- Territory: Should state “ETATS SCHENGEN” for all Schengen countries
At the French border, you may be asked to show your return ticket, accommodation proof, travel insurance, and evidence of funds.
If Your Visa is Refused
If your application is refused, you will receive written notification explaining the reasons.1 Your options include:
- Reapply with improved documentation addressing the specific issues raised
- Appeal the decision to the Commission de Recours contre les Refus de Visa within 2 months
- Seek legal advice for complex cases
The refusal letter will specify which grounds applied to your case. A refusal does not permanently bar you from future applications.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Financial Evidence
Bank statements do not demonstrate enough funds to cover the trip, or show suspicious patterns like large unexplained deposits.
How to avoid: Show 3 months of statements with consistent balance. Demonstrate at least €65 per day of stay. Avoid deposits just before applying.
Weak Ties to Thailand
Unable to convince that you have strong reasons to return to Thailand after the visit.
How to avoid: Provide employment letter with tenure, property documents, family certificates, or business ownership evidence.
Incomplete Travel Insurance
Insurance does not meet minimum requirements of €30,000 coverage or does not cover all Schengen states.
How to avoid: Purchase comprehensive Schengen travel insurance from a recognized provider. Ensure dates cover your entire trip.
Unclear Purpose of Visit
Application does not clearly explain why you want to visit France or the itinerary seems implausible.
How to avoid: Write a clear cover letter. Provide detailed day-by-day itinerary. Show hotel bookings and planned activities.
Previous Immigration Issues
History of visa refusals, overstays, or violations in the Schengen area or other countries.
How to avoid: Be honest about past issues. Explain circumstances and show how your situation has changed.
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 your total time in all Schengen countries combined, not just France.
Can I visit other European countries with a France Schengen visa?
Yes, a Schengen visa issued by France grants you access to all 29 Schengen member states. You can travel freely within the Schengen area during your visa validity period.
How long does France visa processing take for Thai citizens?
Standard processing takes 15 calendar days from your application submission. During peak periods (summer and holidays), processing may extend to 30-45 days.
What is the France Schengen visa fee for Thai citizens in 2025?
The visa fee is €90 for adults (12 years and older) and €45 for children aged 6-11. Children under 6 are exempt from the fee. TLScontact service charges apply separately.
Do I need to book flights before applying?
You need to show a flight itinerary, but it does not need to be a confirmed booking. Refundable reservations are accepted and recommended until your visa is approved.
Can I extend my Schengen visa while in France?
Schengen visas are generally not extendable except in exceptional circumstances such as force majeure or humanitarian reasons. Plan your trip within the 90-day limit.
What if France is not my main destination?
Apply at the embassy of the country where you will spend the most time. If equal time in multiple countries, apply at the embassy of your first entry point into Schengen.
What happens if my visa is refused?
You will receive a letter explaining the reasons. You can reapply with improved documentation or appeal the decision within the timeframe specified in the refusal letter.