We understand that applying for a visa is probably a new experience for you and can add to the stress of going abroad. We'll go over all you need to know about the visa process during your Study Abroad Advising Session. If, after your advising session, you have any questions, concerns, or just want us to review your visa application prior to your appointment please stop by the Office of Global Studies.
Please read the information below carefuly! If you do not get a visa, for whatever reason, you cannot attend the program. If you are not a U.S. citizen, please see the section on visa requirements for non-U.S. citizens.
Visa Steps and Instructions
- Register with CampusFrance.
Applying for the French visa is a two-step process. First, you'll register with CampusFrance, then you will apply for the visa at the French Consulate. The CampusFrance processing fee is $70 (money order only) and the fee for the French visa is approximately $70 (varies based on the exchange rate).
- Make your appointment with the French Consulate.
After completing the CampusFrance application and mailing in your money order you should schedule your appointment with the French Consulate. Since it takes approximately 2 to 3 weeks to receive the CampusFrance Confirmation Email - a required document for the French visa - you'll want to make sure you've scheduled your appointment accordingly. However, appointment slots fill up quickly so don't wait until you receive your CampusFrance Confirmation Email to make the appointment. Also, be sure to schedule your appointment for a date on or after May 29, 2012 (90 days prior to the program start date). The total processing time for a French visa can take from 5 to 8 weeks so start the process as soon as possible!
- Begin collecting required documents for your visa application.
- Passport - if you haven't already, apply now!
- Visa letters from the Office of Global Studies (available for pick-up on May 1)
- Official Transcript (request through UIS or at the Office of the Registrar)
- Bank letter verifying sufficient funds ($4500 for the semester). The consulate will want a recent bank letter (no older than 30 days) so make sure you have sufficient funds available at the time of your appointment.
- Recent passport-style photo
- Please reference the application checklist below for a full list of all application requirements.
- Visa Instructions and Application
Follow the detailed instructions we have pulled together for the visa requirements and complete the application form and supporting materials. This includes making sure you can obtain a bank letter showing sufficient funds and request transcripts from the Registrar's office in advance. Use the checklist we provide as instructions to ensure that you have all your documents in order (and photocopies) well before your visa appointment.
- Pick up your visa.
After your visa appointment, you'll be given a date and time to pick up your visa which will be attached to your passport. Please note that the NYC French Consulate will not mail passports so you, or a designated representative, must pick up the passport in person.
- We have provided directions and tips for appearing at the consulate for your appointment.
Appearing at Your Appointment
- If you have any questions or would like us to review your visa documents before your appointment, please stop by the Office of Global Studies.
Registering with Campus France
Please use the link below for instructions on how to create an account and complete the CampusFrance registration process. Once you have registered with CampusFrance and paid the fee, you will receive a confirmation email (sent to your Campus France account) usually within two to three weeks. You will need this confirmation email to apply for the French visa.
CampusFrance Link
CampusFrance Instructions
How to Make Your Appointment
The French Consulate requires that you sign up for an appointment using their online appointment service. Appointments are available Monday - Friday from 9:00am to 12:00pm, but slots fill quickly, so don't wait until the last minute to make your appointment! You can make an appointment by accessing the online appointment system.
When to Make Your Appointment
You can only go to the the French Consulate after you have received your CampusFrance Confirmation Email. You will need to bring that confirmation email, as well as the appointment confirmation email to the French Consulate. Appointment slots fill up quickly, so try to make your appointment as soon as you complete the CampusFrance process.
If you wait until the last minute to schedule an appointment, you may get an appointment too late to receive your visa before you depart. Should this happen, please contact our office immediately; while we cannot guarantee a solution, we can certainly work with you to find one
Where to Make Your Appointment
The consulate at which you apply for your visa is determined by where you live or go to school. Residents of New York and Connecticut, as well as residents of northern New Jersey, will apply through the Italian consulate in New York City. All students attending a school within the NYC French Consulate's jurisdiction are considered residents for the Consulate's purposes and should use their student ID card to prove residency.
NYC French Consulate
Use the consulate information link below to get a listing of other French Consulates around the country and their contact information. Please note that applications and requirements can differ from consulate to consulate. You will need to check your jurisdiction's consulate website to ensure you have the appropriate documents to apply. If you have questions about where you should apply or the applicaiton requirements please contact the Office of Global Studies.
French Consulate Listing in the US
Visa Instructions and Application
In an effort to make the visa application process as easy as possible, we have compiled all the required forms and created a checklist of all the required items you need for a complete visa application packet. Please use the link below to download the visa packet.
Visa Checklist, Application and Forms
Appearing at Your Appointment
You cannot be late for your appointment. If you miss your appointment you must reschedule. Please have all documents in order and with the appropriate number of photocopies. The visa department will not accept incomplete visa applications. We can help make sure your application is in order by looking through your materials. The Office of Global Studies can help make sure your application is in order by looking through your materials.
Appearing at the New York Consulate
- Students will need to appear at the French Consulate at 10 E. 74th Street, New York, NY 10021. You will need to stand in line between 74th and 75th Ave. under the French flag, not at the 5th Ave. entrance.
- Remember to bring your confirmation email from Campus France as well as the appointment confirmation from the French Consulate with you to your appointment. The guards at the door will ask for your appointment confirmation.
- You will need to submit your passport and all other materials directly to the visa agent. They will notify you when you can come to pick up your passport and visa.
Consulate Etiquette
Remember that the consular official with whom you have your appointment has sole discretion as to whether or not you are approved for a visa. Take the following courtesies into consideration to avoid any complications or additional hassles:
- Turn OFF your cell phone.
- Make sure you have your application, supporting documents and photocopies ready to present to the consular official
- Keep your volume down - no music or loud conversations
- Dress appropriately - avoid wearing gym clothes
- Do not eat or drink anything in the consulate
- Be polite and courteous at all times
Public Transportation to the NYC French Consulate
The nearest subway line is the 6 line. You will need to take the 6 train to the 68th Street-Hunter College stop. Head west 3 blocks to 5th Ave. and 6 blocks north to 74th Street.
Driving Directions to the NYC Consulates
Please be aware that parking is limited around 5th Ave. and 74th. You must arrive early if you want to secure a spot near the consulate. Driving directions can be obtained through MapQuest or Google maps. The address is:
French Consulate
10 East 74th Street
New York, NY 10021