Lebanese nationals who wish to tour delectable locations in France must apply for a French Schengen visa from Lebanon. Encouraged to embark on an indelible expedition are Lebanese tourists by France, a country renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, cultural abundance, and profound history. France presents an extensive array of captivating experiences, spanning from the picturesque coastlines of Nice and the tranquil vineyards of Bordeaux to the vibrant cultural scenes of Marseille and the enticing avenues of Paris, all of which are framed by its iconic architecture.
Possession of a French Schengen visa is a prerequisite for Lebanese nationals and passport holders who wish to explore the diverse attractions of France. The process of applying for a visa can be intricate. A comprehensive comprehension of the fundamental prerequisites is critical in attaining visa authorization. The French consulate ensures that all requisite documentation is duly completed, thereby streamlining the application process for Lebanese nationals. Documentation and submission requirements for the application procedure for a French Schengen visa from Lebanon are detailed in this comprehensive guide, as our specialists have seen an overwhelming demand for information on how to apply for a French Schengen visa from Lebanon, after the publication of requirements for Italian and Spanish visas. Although this guide is designed predominantly for Lebanese citizens, non-nationals residing in Lebanon may also find it useful in the process of applying for French visas. Strictly adhering to these instructions will significantly enhance your prospects of securing a visa.
People come from all over the world to experience the beautiful country of France, such as Maldives, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Indonesia, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, Nepal, Belarus, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Morocco, China, and Vietnam. If you are a resident or national of one of these countries and need guidance to apply for a French Visa, you may do so by visiting the appended links.
Number of Applicants for a French Schengen Visa from Lebanon
The Schengen Visa Statistics report that the French Consulate in Lebanon receives a significant number of applications annually for French Schengen visas. In 2022, 46,072 applicants applied, of whom more than 90% were granted the Schengen Visa. Therefore, obtaining a French Schengen visa from Lebanon is more likely if your application satisfies the embassy’s specifications and is submitted in the correct sequence.
| Years | Schengen State | Country | Consulate | Number of Visa Applications | Visas Issued | Visas Denied | Not issued rate for uniform visas |
| 2018 | France | Lebanon | Beirut | 58,825 | 52,515 | 5,665 | 9.63% |
| 2019 | France | Lebanon | Beirut | 56,865 | 51,252 | 5,056 | 8.90% |
| 2020 | France | Lebanon | Beirut | 21,465 | 15,882 | 4,727 | 22.90% |
Obtaining a French Schengen Visa from Lebanon
Lebanese individuals intending to go to France for either business or recreational purposes must acquire a Schengen visa. The application procedure starts with the French Embassy Consulate, which serves as the representative of France, the Schengen country that is anticipated to be the primary destination. After receiving approval, individuals holding a Schengen visa are allowed to remain in the Schengen region for a maximum of 90 days throughout a 180-day timeframe, depending on the duration of their visa.
Lebanese citizens who possess a passport from Lebanon and wish to acquire a Schengen visa specifically for France can submit their application at the France Visa Application Centre situated in Beirut. The center, overseen by TLScontact, the authorized service provider for French visas, guarantees a smooth and efficient visa application process with extensive capabilities for submission. Throughout the visa application procedure, whether it be for business, pleasure, or educational reasons, applicants receive assistance from the center’s efficient and knowledgeable personnel.
Schengen Visa Categories Offered by the French Embassy in Lebanon
The visa requirements vary depending on the purpose of travel from Lebanon to France:
Business and Employment: Those visiting France on business-related visits, including but not limited to training, equipment inspections, purchases, sales, or engagement in industrial collaborations or negotiations, are granted a short-stay visa.
Family and Tourism: Those visiting family or relatives in France or for tourism purposes are eligible to apply for this visa.
Study Visa: Allocated for individuals visiting France temporarily for educational objectives.
Sports Visa: Tailored for individuals intending to visit France to engage in athletic competitions or events.
Transportation Visas: Granted to individuals who are traveling for professional purposes involving the air (including personnel of civil, charter, or private aircraft) or surface (including chauffeurs) transportation of products or people.
Guidelines for applying for a French Schengen Visa from Lebanon
The French Embassy Consulate in Beirut, Lebanon, has designated TLScontact for Lebanon as its exclusive provider of administrative support services for visa applicants.
The following steps must be taken to obtain a French visa:
- France-Visas Website Registration and Application Preparation
- Setup a TLScontact Account and Schedule an Appointment to the Visa Centre
- Preparation of Application
- Submission of Application
- Collection of Fingerprints and Processing of Application
- Tracking Visa Application
- Retrieval of Passport
Step 1 – France-Visas Website Registration and Application Preparation
For French Schengen Visa register on the France-Visas website by providing your personal information in the form of an email address and a password. Fill out the France-Visas online form with the type of visa desired to obtain a tailored list of the documents necessary in each instance. The France-Visas form and receipt must be printed. The documents will be requested upon submission of your visa application at the TLScontact center.
Step 2 – Setup a TLScontact Account and Schedule an Appointment to the Visa Centre
Begin by setting up a TLScontact website account, using your email address and a password of preference. Input any extra details required to tailor your application to your specific needs. Select a suitable date and time to present your visa application at the TLScontact center. Secure your appointment by paying the service fees at any OMT branch within 72 hours of booking your slot online. Failure to pay within this period will result in the cancellation of your appointment. Remember to print out your appointment confirmation, as you will need to present it at the center when you arrive.
Step 3 – Preparation of Application
For obtaining a French Schengen Visa from Lebanon carefully adhere to the guidelines provided on the France-Visas website, gather all necessary documents, and arrange them as specified. Ensure you print out your France Visas form and receipt; the form must be personally signed by the applicant. It is mandatory to have travel insurance that fully complies with Schengen regulations for your visa application.
Step 4 – Submission of Application
Be aware that you must submit your French Schengen visa application in person at the visa center unless you qualify for a biometric exemption. The following are exempt from biometric requirements:
- Children under 12 years old;
- Applicants who have previously been granted a Schengen Visa with the notation (VIS) from Beirut within the past five years.
Step 5 – Collection of Fingerprints and Processing of Application
When you submit your visa application at the TLScontact center, an agent will verify that your file contains all the required documents and provide you with a checklist. It is crucial to present all necessary documents on the day of your application. If your application is complete, it will be forwarded to the Consulate. If any documents are missing or do not meet the Consulate General of France’s criteria, you have several options:
- Provide the missing document the same day before noon, if it is listed on the France-Visas receipt. The TLScontact agent will provide an envelope for you to submit the document in the designated drop box. Ensure you adhere to the submission deadline.
- Proceed with the submission, accepting the risk of potential refusal by the French Consulate.
- Withdraw your application. You won’t be charged the visa fee, but the TLScontact service fee is non-refundable. To reapply, you must complete a new application and undergo the entire process again.
Following document submission, biometric data collection occurs at our center upon fee payment. The consular authority processes your visa application independently of TLScontact, which does not influence the decision-making. The consular authority may request additional documents or an interview to further evaluate your application. If required, you will be notified by email with specific instructions.
Step 6 – Tracking Visa Application
You can monitor the status of your application by accessing your account on the TLScontact website at any time. After the Consulate has processed your visa application, you will receive a notification via SMS and email that your passport is ready for pickup at the TLScontact center.
Step 7 – Retrieval of Passport
To pick up your passport, visit the TLScontact center with your checklist and a copy of your ID card. If you prefer a close relative to collect your passport on your behalf, they must present a signed authorization letter from you, your checklist, a copy of both your ID card and theirs, and proof of your family relationship. Alternatively, if you opted for the Express Courier Return service, your passport will be delivered to the address you specified during the application process.
French Schengen Visa Application Fee
To apply for a French visa from Lebanon, the following fees are required:
Visa Fee: This is charged in Euros and collected by the Consular Authority for processing the application.
Service Fee: Must be prepaid only in USD, within 72 hours of booking an appointment on our website.
Additional Services: These optional services are available at the TLScontact Visa Centre and may include Premium Lounge, Prime Time Appointment, Express Courier Return, Photocopy, Translation, and Travel Insurance. Fees for these services are also collected in USD only.
Short stay Schengen visa – 7,633,581 LBP
Children 6 to 12 years old – 3,816,790 LBP
Long stay visa – 9,446,557 LBP
Additional Service Charges
Documentation Requirements for Attaining a French Schengen Visa from Lebanon
The documents necessary for acquiring a French Schengen visa from Lebanon include:
French Schengen Visa Application Form
- The application form must be completed accurately and signed by the applicant. For minors, the form must be signed by at least one parent or legal guardian.
Travel Document
- A travel document that is your Passport issued within the last 10 years, featuring at least two blank pages. It should be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen Area or, for long stays, three months beyond the visa expiry date. Ensure you scan ALL PAGES of your travel document that contain visas, entry, and exit stamps, or any other markings.
Residency Proof (for non-Lebanese citizens)
- Provide proof of legal residency in Lebanon, such as a residence permit valid for at least one month after your planned return to Lebanon.
Official Travel Document
- If traveling on an official document, a note verbale is required.
Photograph
- One recent ID picture conforming to ISO/IECI standards, taken within the last three months, measuring 3.5 x 4.5 cm.
Purpose of Travel/Stay
- Documents indicating travel dates and intended place of stay, such as a pre-booked round-trip ticket.
- Confirmation of an organized trip reservation or any other document outlining the planned itinerary.
Socio-Professional Situation
- Proof of your professional status (employment contract, work certificate, school attendance certificate, proof of pension, syndicate card for liberal and independent professions, etc.), copy of a service certificate from CNSS + a translation, family record or birth certificate transcript for foreign documents, or any document showing personal ties in the country of residence.
- Personal bank statement named to the applicant covering the last three months. For students and minors, parents’ bank account details are required.
Accommodation
- Hotel reservation or proof of sufficient funds to cover hotel expenses (€120/day), tenancy agreement, or certificate of ownership. If staying with a private individual, provide proof of accommodation.
Travel Health Insurance
- For a short-stay visa in the Schengen area, your travel health insurance must cover medical expenses and repatriation costs, with a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros. The insurance must be valid throughout the entire duration of your stay. You are required to provide both the original insurance document and a copy when applying.
TLScontact Lebanon Contact Information
Feel free to reach TLScontact at the following number: +961 1 977 030.
TLScontact Beirut Visa Application Centre – Downtown, Martyr’s Square, Opera Building, ground floor, Beirut, Lebanon
Please ensure you have your TLScontact reference number or passport number handy before speaking with one of the representatives. You can find this information on your appointment booking confirmation. The call center operates from Monday to Friday, from 08:30 to 15:00.
