Tanzania, a land of vast plains, untamed wilderness, and an ocean that kisses the sky. But for those whose hearts crave something beyond the familiar rhythm of the Swahili coast, beyond the towering majesty of Kilimanjaro, there is France. A nation of artists, philosophers, and revolutionaries. A country where history lingers in the air like perfume, and the past and present walk hand in hand along the Seine.
But France is not merely a destination; it is an idea, a feeling, a world unto itself. And for you, dear traveler, that world is but a visa away. A single document, deceptively simple in appearance, yet holding within it the promise of boulevards lined with gilded cafés, vineyards that stretch like green waves over rolling hills, and an experience that will mark you forever.
More Than a Stamp: A Gateway to Europe
What lies within France’s borders is extraordinary but what lies beyond is limitless. A French Schengen visa is not just a key to one nation; it is a passport to twenty-six. With it, the romance of Italy, the elegance of Austria, and the charm of the Netherlands become yours to discover. One moment, you are gazing at the rose-streaked façade of Notre-Dame; the next, you are standing in the shadow of Prague’s Gothic spires or savoring the scent of fresh tapas on a Barcelona evening.
Borders dissolve, and Europe becomes a tapestry woven with endless possibilities. France, the very heart of it, beckons you first but from there, your path is your own to carve.
The Weight of Preparation
Ah, but before you can sip Bordeaux in a Parisian bistro or lose yourself in the lavender-scented air of Provence, the gatekeepers of bureaucracy must be appeased. France, ever meticulous, demands precision. Documents must be assembled like the pieces of a delicate clockwork, each essential, each scrutinized.
A passport, pristine and valid beyond your return. A financial guarantee, proving that your sojourn will not be cut short by the cruel realities of insufficient funds. A carefully laid itinerary, every hotel booked, every detail accounted for, for France does not welcome wanderers without a plan. And of course, insurance for even in a land of poetry, pragmatism reigns.
There will be questions. There will be appointments, where officials study your intentions with the careful gaze of scholars dissecting a manuscript. And then, there will be waiting an agonizing interlude, where time slows to a crawl and the dream remains just out of reach. But if fate smiles upon you, if the pages of your passport are blessed with the sacred seal of approval, then the journey, your journey can truly begin.
France Awaits: A Tapestry of Wonder
And so, traveler from Tanzania, let your heart swell with anticipation. France is not simply a place; it is an emotion, an awakening. Feel the pulse of Paris, where every street is a story waiting to be read. Lose yourself in the windswept cliffs of Normandy, where history whispers through the tides. Let Lyon treat you with its culinary artistry, let the Riviera bathe you in sunlight, let the castles of the Loire remind you that fairytales, sometimes, are real.
And when you have roamed its avenues, climbed its hills, and stood in awe of its masterpieces, remember this: France was never just a journey. It was a calling. And now, it is yours to answer.
Whether you hail from Uzbekistan, Tunisia, Gambia, Cameroon, Jamaica, Belarus, Algeria, Zimbabwe, Lebanon, Vietnam, Thailand, Azerbaijan, or beyond, does the allure of France and the vast wonders of the Schengen Area call to you? Like all great journeys, yours begins with a crucial first step: securing a French Schengen visa. But let’s be clear—this is no mere formality. Each nation, France included, has its own intricate web of embassy protocols and document requirements, a maze that can seem daunting at first glance. Fear not, for we have carefully assembled a wealth of resources to illuminate your path and ensure your journey to France is as seamless as it is unforgettable.
Applicant Statistics of French Schengen Visa from Tanzania
Statistics on applications for a French Schengen Visa from Tanzania reveal a significant volume of submissions to the French Consulate in Dar Es Salaam. In 2023, nearly 1,316 individuals applied for French visas, and over 86% of these applications were approved.
| Years | Schengen State | Country | Consulate | Number of Visa Applications | Visas Issued | Visas Denied | Not issued rate for uniform visas |
| 2022 | France | Tanzania | Dar Es Salaam | 1,525 | 1,156 | 369 | 23.1% |
| 2021 | France | Tanzania | Dar Es Salaam | 569 | 392 | 151 | 27.81% |
| 2020 | France | Tanzania | Dar Es Salaam | 1,828 | 1,361 | 426 | 23.30% |
Journey to France: The French Schengen Visa Pathway for Tanzanian Travelers
For citizens of Tanzania enchanted by the irresistible allure of France—whether drawn by its iconic heritage, rich cultural fabric, or dynamic economic prospects—securing a French Schengen visa is the essential gateway to this extraordinary destination. This visa, a requisite for non-EU travelers, not only grants access to France but also unlocks seamless movement across the entire Schengen Zone, allowing unrestricted travel through 26 European nations. Approved applicants can enjoy the privilege of staying for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, subject to the visa’s validity and conditions.
For Tanzanian nationals, the path to obtaining this sought-after visa begins at the TLScontact Application Center in Dar es Salaam, the official partner for French visa services in the region. Designed to ensure efficiency and professionalism, the center meticulously oversees the application process, from document verification to submission. Whether your aspirations lie in leisurely discovery, academic endeavors, or professional ventures, the dedicated team at TLScontact is committed to guiding you through a smooth and structured visa application experience, setting the stage for the journey that awaits.
French Visa Categories Offered by the French Embassy for Tanzania
The French Embassy in Tanzania provides a comprehensive selection of visa categories, ensuring that travelers with varying objectives—be it a brief excursion, academic pursuit, business venture, or long-term relocation—receive the appropriate authorization. These visa classifications are meticulously structured to accommodate different travel purposes, each with specific requirements and conditions. Below is an overview of the available visa types:
Short-Term Visas
For those planning a temporary stay, the short-stay visa serves as the ideal travel document. Valid for up to 90 days, it is designed to accommodate various purposes, including:
- Tourism – Experience the enchanting beauty of France, from its historic cities to its picturesque countryside.
- Business – Participate in corporate meetings, professional conferences, or short-term training programs.
- Family Visits – Reconnect with loved ones and celebrate special occasions together.
- Transit – Pass through France en route to another destination, whether switching airports or briefly exiting the international zone.
This visa includes the Uniform Schengen Short-Stay Visa, which grants access to all 26 Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Travelers may apply for single or multiple entry options, providing flexibility to move freely across Europe.
Long-Stay:
For those intending to reside in France for more than 90 days, a long-stay visa is required. This visa serves as a temporary residence permit during the initial year of stay and is suitable for:
- Study – Enrollment in French universities, research institutions, or specialized training programs.
- Work – Employment opportunities, entrepreneurial ventures, or contractual professional assignments.
- Family Reunion – Joining a spouse, parent, or other family members legally residing in France.
- Extended Stays – Including long-term medical treatment, cultural exchanges, or personal projects requiring an extended presence.
Each visa category has specific documentation and eligibility requirements, which applicants must fulfill before submitting their application at the TLScontact Center in Dar es Salaam, the official partner for French visa services in Tanzania.
Whether planning a short getaway or a long-term transition to France, the right visa is the first step toward an enriching and transformative journey.
Comprehensive Guide to Securing Your French Schengen Visa
For those seeking to traverse the elegant boulevards of Paris or explore the picturesque landscapes of Provence, obtaining a French Schengen visa from Tanzania is the crucial first step. The process requires precision, adherence to protocol, and meticulous documentation. Here’s a structured breakdown to ensure a seamless application experience:
Step 1: Initiate Your Visa Application via the France-Visas Portal
Begin your journey by navigating to the France-Visas official website and creating an account. Carefully select the visa category that aligns with your travel purpose—be it tourism, business, or study—and proceed to complete the France-Visas online application form.
Upon completion, you will receive a personalized checklist detailing the required supporting documents for French Schengen visa from Tanzania. It is imperative that all information provided precisely matches the details on your passport. Any discrepancies may result in delays or rejection. Print both the France-Visas form and the receipt, as these will be mandatory when submitting your application. The receipt must be signed by you or, in the case of a minor applicant, by a legal guardian.
Step 2: Register on the TLScontact Platform
Once your France-Visas application is finalized, proceed to TLScontact, the official visa processing partner to obtain your French Schengen visa from Tanzania, and create an account. A one-time password (OTP) will be sent to verify your identity, ensuring the legitimacy of your application. After account activation, log in and accurately enter your personal details, ensuring consistency with the information provided in your France-Visas application.
For group applications, details for each accompanying traveler must be entered. Groups exceeding five applicants must contact the TLScontact call center to schedule an appointment.
Precision is paramount—any errors in personal data could result in complications during the submission process.
Step 3: Schedule an Appointment
Select a convenient date and time to submit your French Schengen visa from Tanzania application in person at the TLScontact center. To confirm your appointment, payment of the service fee must be made within one hour
of booking through TLScontact’s secure online payment platform. Upon successful payment, a confirmation email will be sent, securing your slot. Failure to complete the payment within the allotted timeframe will result in an automatic cancellation of the appointment.
The service fee collected by TLScontact apart from visa fee is approximately 117,800.00 TZS (39 EUR) and payable online. This is not refundable if you cancel your appointment.
Important: Print the appointment confirmation letter, it must be presented upon arrival at the visa center.
| Visa type | EUR | TZS |
| Airport transit visa | 90 | 272,000.00 |
| Schengen visa short stay (less than 90 days) | 90 | 272,000.00 |
| Long stay visa (more than 90 days) | 99 | 299,000.00 |
| Long stay student visa for more than 90 days without a Campus France certificate | 99 | 299,000.00 |
| Long stay student visa for more than 90 days with a Campus France certificate | 50 | 151,000.00 |
| Short stay visa for overseas departments and regions (DROM) from 1 to 90 days, child between 6 and 12 years old | 35 | 106,000.00 |
| Short stay visa for overseas departments and regions (DROM) from 1 to 90 days | 60 | 181,000.00 |
| Short stay visa for overseas collectivities and territories (CTOM) | 9 | 27,000.00 |
| Children aged between 6 and under 12 years old | 45 | 136,000.00 |
| Long stay minor adopted | 15 | 45,000.00 |
Step 4: Submission at the TLScontact Visa Center
Arrive at the TLScontact center no more than 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment. Early arrivals will not be accommodated, and waiting outside the premises is not permitted. Additionally, be mindful that the center does not provide parking, so factor in extra time for your commute. Late arrivals risk forfeiting their appointment, requiring rescheduling for another available date.
You must submit your French Schengen Visa from Tanzania application in person, unless exempt from biometric data collection. Bring along:
- Appointment confirmation letter
- Complete set of required documents
- Valid passport
If you are exempt from biometric submission and opt to have a representative submit your file, they must provide a power of attorney signed by you.
Children under 12 are not permitted inside the center, except in designated child-friendly areas available via the Premium Salon service.
Once your biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) have been collected, the TLScontact center will forward your application to the French consular authority for processing.
Note: TLScontact does not influence the visa decision; the consular office reserves the right to request additional documents or summon applicants for an interview if necessary. If this occurs, you will receive official instructions via email.
Applicants can track the status of their visa request in real time by logging into their TLScontact account.
Step 5: Passport Collection
Upon completion of the French Schengen visa review process, the consular authority will return passports to TLScontact. Applicants will receive a notification via email and SMS once their passport is ready for collection.
You have three retrieval options:
Collecting Your Passport in Person
Present the following at the TLScontact center:
Tracking receipt (issued during submission)
- Original identity document
Collection via an Authorized Representative
A designated individual may retrieve the passport on your behalf by presenting:
Original tracking receipt
Copy of your identity document
Original identity document of the representative
- Power of attorney letter, signed by you (or by a parent/legal guardian if the applicant is a minor)
- Express Mail Return Service
For added convenience, applicants may opt to receive their passport via secure courier to their designated address. This service must be pre-selected during the visa application submission process.
Essential Documentation for a French Schengen Visa from Tanzania
Below is a comprehensive checklist designed to streamline your submission process and enhance your chances of success.
Completed Visa Application Form
Fill out the official Schengen visa application form with utmost accuracy and ensure all details match your travel documents to avoid inconsistencies. Sign the form where required before submission.
Valid Passport
Your passport is the key to the Schengen Area, and it must adhere to the following conditions:
- Issued within the last 10 years to meet validity requirements.
- Contains at least two blank pages for visa stamps.
- Remains valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Zone.
- If applicable, attach previous passports (both valid and expired), including work or residence permits.
Previous Schengen Visas
Submit photocopies of all previously granted Schengen visas and include copies of entry and exit stamps as proof of travel history.
Recent Biometric Passport Photographs
Provide two recent passport-sized photos (not older than six months) meeting the following Schengen biometric standards:
- Size: 35mm x 45mm.
- Background: Plain white or light-colored.
- Expression: Neutral, with no accessories obstructing facial features.
Travel Health Insurance
The policy must be valid across all Schengen countries and coverage must include a minimum of €30,000 for:
-
- Medical emergencies.
- Hospitalization.
- Medical repatriation.
A confirmation letter from the insurer verifying coverage is mandatory.
Proof of Employment or Business Engagement
For Employees:
A signed employment verification letter stating:
- Job title and salary details.
- Date of employment.
- Approved leave dates or the purpose of travel.
- Employer’s contact details for verification.
For Self-Employed Individuals:
Certified business registration documents, such as:
- Certificate of Incorporation.
- Articles of Association (if applicable).
Recent tax returns or financial statements proving business stability.
For Students:
A confirmation letter from your educational institution stating:
- Enrollment status.
- Approved travel dates, especially if outside regular academic breaks.
Proof of Financial Means
Bank Statements:
- Submit an official bank statement covering the last three months.
- Must display recent transactions and a sufficient balance to sustain your trip.
Sponsorship (if applicable):
- If expenses are covered by a third party, provide a sponsorship letter along with the sponsor’s bank statements and ID copy.
- Flight Itinerary
- A round-trip flight reservation or a tentative itinerary instead of a paid ticket.
- This precaution prevents financial loss should the visa be denied.
Accommodation Arrangements
Hotel Booking Confirmation:
- A reservation covering the entire duration of your stay in France.
Financial Proof for Accommodation Costs:
- Evidence of financial means to support lodging, calculated at €120 per day.
Property Ownership or Rental Agreement:
- If staying in your own or rented accommodation, submit supporting documents.
Additional Supporting Documents
If Invited by a Host in France:
- A formal, signed invitation from your host.
Proof of Host’s Legal Residency:
- If your host is not a French citizen, provide a copy of their valid residence permit or proof of legal status in France.
Every document must be clear, accurate, and up to date. Discrepancies or missing paperwork may result in processing delays or rejection. Ensure all details provided align precisely with your travel plans for a hassle-free application experience.
TLScontact Contact Information
Dar Es Salaam French Visa Application Centre
Address:
Ali Hassan Mwinyi Road, Viva Towers, Ground floor Shop G6
Telephone:
+255746986930 From Monday to Friday 08:00 – 17:00
Final Thoughts
The French Schengen visa application process demands diligence, accuracy, and preparation. By adhering to these structured guidelines and ensuring that all requirements are met, you enhance your chances of securing approval without unnecessary delays.
France awaits—immerse yourself in its unparalleled grandeur, history, and charm. Bon voyage!
