Recently, Algerian travelers have increasingly shown interest in visiting various European destinations, with particular attention given to Italy and Spain. However, a growing number of inquiries have been directed towards obtaining a French Schengen visa from Algeria. Given France’s allure with its picturesque cities, historical monuments, and cultural richness, it’s no surprise that many Algerians are keen to explore this beautiful country.
Why Choose France?
France offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, culinary excellence, and scenic beauty. From the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris to the serene countryside of Provence, France promises a memorable experience for every type of traveler. Moreover, holding a French Schengen visa not only allows entry into France but also grants access to other countries within the Schengen Area, making it a highly sought-after travel document.
Understanding the French Schengen Visa
A French Schengen visa is required for Algerian citizens planning to visit France for short stays, up to 90 days within 180 days. This visa applies to tourism, business, visiting family or friends, and other short-term purposes.
France extends a warm welcome to travelers from across the globe, including those hailing from Malaysia, Nepal, Vietnam, Ecuador, Oman, Qatar, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Morocco, Lebanon, Bahrain, Zimbabwe, Belarus, and Thailand. For those seeking guidance on acquiring a French Schengen visa from these countries, please refer to the provided links for assistance.
Applicant Statistics of French Schengen Visa from Algeria
Statistics on French Schengen Visa applications from Algeria indicate a substantial number of submissions to the French Consulate. In 2023, the number of individuals who applied from Algeria for French Schengen visas was 152,414 in Algiers, 53,379 in Annaba, and 73,215 in Oran, with over 67% of these applications receiving approval.
| Years | Schengen State | Country | Consulate | Number of Visa Applications | Visas Issued | Visas Denied | Not issued rate for uniform visas |
| 2022 | Italy | Algeria | Algiers | 134,764 | 20,290 | 66,111 | 52.20% |
| 2021 | Italy | Algeria | Algiers | 51,821 | 25,664 | 17,871 | 41.05% |
| 2020 | Italy | Algeria | Algiers | 48,225 | 39,792 | 14,179 | 26.22% |
Obtaining a French Schengen Visa from Algeria
Algerian citizens looking to apply for a French Schengen visa can do so at the VFS Global Visa Application Centre in Algiers, the official partner of the French Embassy in Algeria. This center offers a streamlined and efficient application process with state-of-the-art facilities. The professional and helpful staff at VFS Global are available to assist applicants throughout the entire process, whether the visit is for business, tourism, or educational purposes.
Categories of French Schengen Visas offered by The French Embassy in Algeria
Visa requirements differ based on the purpose of your journey from Algeria to France:
- Short Stay French Schengen Visa: Ideal for those traveling for tourism, visiting family or friends, or engaging in short-term educational activities. This visa allows a stay of up to 90 days.
- Long Stay French Schengen Visa: Suitable for extended stays beyond 90 days, covering purposes such as employment, business, education, or family reunification.
- Airport Transit Visa: Required for passengers transiting through a French airport en route to another destination.
Each category has specific requirements and documentation, ensuring that applicants are granted the appropriate visa for their intended stay in France.
Application Protocol for Obtaining a French Schengen Visa from Algeria
Applying for a French Schengen Visa from Algeria involves several steps, each requiring careful attention to detail. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the application protocol:
- Identification of Visa Type
- Start your Application
- Appointment Booking
- Payment of Required Charges
- Visit Visa Application Center
- Tracking Application
- Passport Collection
Identification of Visa Type
Determine the specific type of visa you need based on your travel purpose, such as tourism, business, or visiting family. Each category has unique requirements and conditions. Ensuring you select the correct type from the official website France-Visas will streamline your application process.
Start Your Application
Complete the online visa application form on the official website France-Visas to apply for French Schengen Visa from Algeria, making sure to provide accurate and thorough information. Gather all necessary documents, such as your passport, photos, and proof of travel insurance. Double-check the form for any errors before submission
Appointment Booking
Schedule an appointment to submit an application and documents for applying for French Schengen from Algeria at the nearest Visa Application Centre by creating an account on the VFS Global website. Ensure you choose a date that allows ample time for processing before your intended travel date.
Pay of Required Charges
Pay the required visa application fee, which is generally non-refundable. Payment methods may vary, so check the accepted options in advance. Keep the receipt as proof of payment for your records. The visa fee charges can be noted when selecting the type of visa from the official website of France-Visas.
Fee Charges for above 12 years = 90 euros (€), or about 12,950 Algerian dinars.
Fee charges for 5 years and below = 0 euros (€), or about 0 Algerian dinars.
Fee charges for 6 to 12 years = 45 euros (€), or about 6,500 Algerian dinars.
In addition to French Schengen Visa fee charges the service charges of VFS Global can be noted from the website.
Visit a Visa Application Centre
Go to the Visa Application Centre on your scheduled date to submit your application and supporting documents. Make sure to bring originals and copies of all required documents. The center’s staff will verify your application and documents. Attend the appointment where you might need to provide biometric data, such as fingerprints and a photograph. Be prepared for a brief interview about your travel plans and reasons for visiting France. Answer all questions truthfully and confidently. To check all the prerequisites before the meeting visit the VFS Global website to note what to bring along with you.
Tracking Application
Monitor the status of your French Schengen visa application online on the VFS Global website using the tracking number provided. Regular updates will inform you of any progress or additional requirements. Stay informed to promptly address any issues that might arise.
French Schengen Visa from Algeria can be tracked by several methods mentioned on the VFS Global website.
Passport Collection
Once your application is processed, collect your passport and visa from the Visa Application Centre. Verify that all details on the visa are correct. Make sure to collect any additional documents that were submitted.
Essential Documents for Obtaining a French Schengen Visa from Algeria
To successfully apply for a French Schengen visa from Algeria, you’ll need to gather the following key documents:
French Schengen Visa Application Form
Complete the application form with accurate information and ensure it’s signed by the applicant. If the applicant is a minor, at least one parent or legal guardian must sign the form.
Travel Document
A valid passport issued within the last 10 years, with at least two blank pages. It must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area, or three months beyond the visa’s expiry date for longer stays. Be sure to scan all pages containing visas, entry, and exit stamps, or any other relevant markings.
Proof of Residency
Non-Algerian applicants must provide proof of legal residency in Algeria, such as a residence permit that is valid for at least one month after their expected return.
Official Travel Document
If traveling on an official document, you must include a note verbale as part of your application.
Photograph
Submit one recent passport-sized photo (3.5 x 4.5 cm) taken within the last three months, meeting ISO/IEC standards.
Purpose of Travel/Stay
Provide documentation that indicates your travel dates and intended place of stay. This could be a pre-booked round-trip ticket, confirmation of an organized trip, or other documents detailing your planned itinerary.
Socio-Professional Status
Include proof of your professional status, such as an employment contract, work certificate, school attendance certificate, or proof of pension. Additional documents might include a service certificate from CNSS (plus translation), family record, birth certificate transcript for foreign documents, or anything demonstrating personal ties to your country of residence.
Financial Means
A personal bank statement in your name for the past three months is required. For students and minors, parents’ bank account statements are necessary.
Accommodation
Provide a hotel reservation or evidence of sufficient funds to cover hotel expenses (€120/day). Alternatively, submit a tenancy agreement, certificate of ownership, or proof of accommodation if staying with a private individual.
Travel Health Insurance
Your travel health insurance must cover medical expenses and repatriation costs, with a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros. The insurance must be valid for the entire duration of your stay. Be sure to provide both the original insurance certificate and a copy when submitting your application.
VFS Global Visa Application Center Contact Information
Contact by phone: +213 21998801 (Sunday to Thursday between 08:00 am and 4:00 pm)
Contact by email: info.francealg@vfshelpline.com
