France Schengen Visa from UK 2026: VFS Application, Documents & Fees
France is the most popular Schengen destination for UK residents. Apply via VFS Global at one of three UK centres London, Manchester, or Edinburgh. This guide covers fees, documents, processing times, and how to book your appointment.
France remains one of the busiest Schengen lanes from Britain because of weekend breaks and multi-city tours. Bring your BRP or digital immigration proof plus UK bank statements that match the employment and trip dates on your form.
In this guide
Cities & Official VFS Links
| City | Local Guide | Book Appointment | Attend-Centre Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edinburgh | Edinburgh VFS Guide | Login | Attend Centre |
| London | London VFS Guide | Login | Attend Centre |
| Manchester | Manchester VFS Guide | Login | Attend Centre |
Documents & Planning Resources
What to Expect
France processes most UK applications in 15 calendar days. During peak season (June-September), expect 4-6 weeks. Financial proof: €65/day (~£55/day) over 3 months of statements. Cover letter strongly recommended. BRP cards expired December 2024 bring your eVisa Share Code printout as proof of UK residence.
Documents Checklist
- Passport valid 3+ months after exit, 2 blank pages
- UK residence proof eVisa Share Code / UKVI status (BRP expired Dec 2024)
- Schengen application form completed and signed
- 2 passport photos white background, Schengen spec
- Travel insurance £26,000+ minimum, full trip dates
- Flight reservation round-trip with PNR (not purchased tickets)
- Hotel bookings refundable, all nights
- Bank statements 3 months, £55+/day for trip duration
- employer letter + 3 months payslips
- Cover letter purpose, itinerary, return intent
Tips for UK Applicants
- London VFS fills fastest try Manchester or Edinburgh for earlier slots
- Slots released daily around 8-9 AM UK time refresh the portal
- France approves ~86% of UK applications a complete, consistent file is usually enough
- Apply to France only if France is your main destination (most nights)
- Apply 6-8 weeks before summer travel
Complete your visa file
Before your appointment, complete the three bookings every visa officer checks: a refundable hotel proof, flight reservation, and £26,000+ travel insurance.
🔥 Most Asked by Applicants
- What documents do I need?
- How do I write a cover letter?
- How much bank balance to show?
- What travel insurance do I need?
- How do I book a visa appointment?
- How long does processing take?
- Which country approves easiest?
- Why do visas get rejected?
- How to get a flight reservation?
- Which insurance plan is best?
- How much does a Schengen visa cost?
- Where do I start as a first timer?
Common Questions
How do I book a France Schengen visa appointment from the UK?
Log in at visa.vfsglobal.com/gbr/en/fra/login. Choose London, Manchester, or Edinburgh and select a slot. Have your documents ready before booking.
How much is the France Schengen visa fee from the UK?
£77 (€90) embassy fee + VFS service fee approximately £25-35. Total typically £1–10-120. All fees non-refundable.
How long does France visa processing take from the UK?
Standard 15 calendar days. June-September peak can be 30-4–5 days. Apply at least 6 weeks before summer travel.
My BRP expired what do I bring as UK residence proof?
BRP cards expired 31 December 2024. From 2025 you use your eVisa (UKVI account). Bring a Share Code printout or screenshot of your online immigration status to your VFS appointment.
Should I buy flight tickets before visa approval?
No embassies accept a flight reservation with a real PNR. Only buy final tickets after visa approval.