France Schengen Visa
Uniform Schengen Visa (Type C) · For Tunisia citizens
Planning a trip to France from Tunisia? This guide covers everything you need for the Schengen Visa application: required documents, current fees of €90, processing times of 2-3 weeks, and strategies to improve your approval chances. France is one of the most popular destinations for Tunisian travelers, with access to all 29 Schengen states.
France Schengen Visa for Tunisian Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Tunisia citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen area
Complete the online application form on the France-Visas website
Two recent passport-sized photographs meeting Schengen specifications
Health insurance covering medical emergencies and repatriation throughout the Schengen area
Bank statements demonstrating sufficient funds to cover your stay in France
Documentation proving your employment status and income in Tunisia
Evidence of where you will stay during your visit to France
Round-trip flight reservation showing entry and exit from Schengen area
Fingerprints and photograph taken at TLScontact visa application centre in Tunis
Recommended (Optional)
A letter explaining the purpose of your visit and travel plans
Application Process
All Schengen visa applications for France must be submitted through the France-Visas portal and processed at the TLScontact centre in Tunis.1 The process involves four main steps:
1. Complete Online Application
Create an account on France-Visas and fill out the visa application form.1 Answer all questions about your travel plans, accommodation, finances, and employment. Download and print the completed form.
2. Gather Required Documents
Prepare all supporting documents according to the official checklist.2 Ensure your travel insurance meets the €30,000 minimum coverage requirement and your bank statements show sufficient funds.
3. Book and Attend TLScontact Appointment
Schedule an appointment at the TLScontact visa application centre in Tunis.3 At your appointment, submit your application, provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo), and pay the visa fee.
4. Wait for Decision
Processing typically takes 15 calendar days but can extend to 45 days in complex cases.1 Track your application status online through TLScontact. Once approved, your passport will be available for collection.
Fees
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Schengen Visa (Adult) | €90 | Standard fee |
| Schengen Visa (Children 6-11) | €45 | Reduced fee |
| Children under 6 | Free | Exempt from fee |
| TLScontact Service Fee | ~€35 | Additional processing charge |
Fees are payable at your TLScontact appointment.3 Additional optional services such as SMS tracking and courier delivery cost extra.
What You Need to Prove
To obtain a France Schengen visa, you must demonstrate:2
- Genuine travel purpose: Clear reason for visiting France, supported by itinerary and accommodation bookings
- Financial means: Sufficient funds to cover accommodation, daily expenses, and return travel (minimum €65-100 per day)
- Travel insurance: Health coverage of at least €30,000 valid in all Schengen states
- Intention to return: Strong ties to Tunisia such as employment, property, or family obligations
- Valid travel documents: Passport valid for at least 3 months beyond planned departure from Schengen area
Processing Times
Standard processing time is 15 calendar days from your application submission.1 However, processing may take longer if:
- Your application requires additional verification
- You need to submit supplementary documents
- Peak travel season (summer, Christmas) causes backlogs
- Complex travel history requires further review
Apply at least 4 weeks before your intended travel date. You can submit your application up to 6 months in advance.1
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, your Schengen visa will be affixed to your passport. Check the following details carefully:
- Validity dates (when you can enter/exit)
- Number of entries (single, double, or multiple)
- Duration of stay (maximum days allowed)
At the French border, you may be asked to show:
- Return flight tickets
- Hotel reservations or host invitation
- Proof of travel insurance
- Evidence of sufficient funds
If Your Visa is Refused
If your application is refused, you will receive a letter explaining the specific reasons.1 Common next steps:
- Review the refusal reasons: Understand exactly what was lacking
- Gather stronger documentation: Address each concern raised
- Reapply immediately: There is no mandatory waiting period
- Consider appeal: In some cases, you can challenge the decision
A refusal does not permanently bar you from future applications. Many applicants succeed on their second attempt with improved documentation.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Financial Evidence
Bank statements do not show enough funds or display suspicious patterns such as large unexplained deposits.
How to avoid: Show 3-6 months of statements with consistent balance. Demonstrate regular salary deposits. Avoid sudden large deposits.
Weak Ties to Tunisia
Unable to demonstrate compelling reasons to return to Tunisia after the visit, such as employment, property, or family.
How to avoid: Include employment letter with tenure details, property documents, evidence of family dependents, or business commitments.
Incomplete Documentation
Missing documents or information that does not match across different submissions.
How to avoid: Use the official checklist from France-Visas. Ensure all dates and details are consistent across documents.
Inadequate Travel Insurance
Insurance policy does not meet minimum €30,000 coverage or does not cover all Schengen states.
How to avoid: Purchase insurance from a recognized provider. Ensure coverage starts from departure and ends after return.
Unconvincing Travel Purpose
The stated purpose of visit seems implausible or the itinerary does not match the applicant's profile.
How to avoid: Provide a clear, realistic itinerary. If visiting family, include invitation letter with their French residence permit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay in France with 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. If you spend time in other Schengen countries, those days count toward your 90-day limit.
Can I visit other European countries with a France Schengen visa?
Yes, a Schengen visa issued by France allows you to travel freely within all 29 Schengen member states, including Germany, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, and others. However, France should be your main destination or first point of entry.
What is the visa fee for Tunisian citizens?
The standard Schengen visa fee is €90 for adults. Children aged 6-11 pay €45, and children under 6 are exempt. There is also a TLScontact service fee for processing your application.
How early should I apply for a France visa?
You can apply up to 6 months before travel and should apply at least 4 weeks before your intended departure. During peak summer season, apply even earlier as processing times may extend.
Do I need travel insurance for a Schengen visa?
Yes, travel medical insurance is mandatory. It must provide minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical emergencies and repatriation, and be valid in all Schengen states for the duration of your stay.
What happens if my visa is refused?
You will receive a refusal letter explaining the reasons. You can reapply immediately with improved documentation addressing the issues raised, or in some cases request an appeal. There is no waiting period for reapplication.
Can I work in France on a Schengen tourist visa?
No, the Schengen visa is strictly for tourism, visiting family or friends, business meetings, or short courses. Any form of paid employment is prohibited. If you need to work, you must apply for a work visa.
What is the approval rate for France visas from Tunisia?
The approval rate for Schengen visas from Tunisia to France is approximately 62%. The most common rejection reasons are insufficient financial evidence and weak ties to home country. Thorough preparation significantly improves your chances.