Long Stay Visitor Visa – France Travel at Its Finest
As global travel has become more accessible and popular in the last couple of decades, France has seen an increased influx of tourists from all over the world. Visitors flock to France to experience the grandeur of its architecture, the gastronomic delights of its cuisine, and the beauty of its countryside. For longer stays, travelers from certain countries may qualify for a long stay visitor visa (LTVV). This article will discuss what an LTVV is, its advantages and disadvantages for visitors, and how to go about applying for one.
What is a Long Stay Visitor Visa?
An LTVV is a type of visa issued by the French government to foreign visitors who wish to stay in France for more than 90 days. Unlike a regular tourist visa, it does not require travelers to exit the country for a specified period in between visits. An LTVV does not provide visa holders with the right to work, however; they are still regarded as a foreign tourist.
Advantages for Visitors
The greatest advantage of an LTVV is that it allows travelers to enjoy extended visits to France for up to five years. This makes it much easier for travelers to take extended trips to explore the country, or to establish temporary residence and stay for extended periods. A longer stay visitor visa is also beneficial for those who wish to take advantage of France’s world-renowned educational opportunities, as it allows for study periods longer than 90 days.
Disadvantages for Visitors
The main disadvantage to an LTVV is that it is specific to certain countries of origin, and therefore unavailable to a wide portion of the global population. Furthermore, while a long stay visa allows travelers to stay in France for up to five years, it is still not a permanent residence visa; a visa holder can still be asked by local authorities to leave at any time. In addition, the long stay visa does not allow travelers to perform any form of employment in France without first obtaining the correct authorization from local authorities.
How to Obtain a Long Stay Visa
To obtain an LTVV, travelers will need to have a valid passport, a completed legal form, and adequate financial means (e.g. bank statement.) Once all of the necessary documents and information have been submitted, the visa may take several weeks to be approved. Travelers should be aware that a long stay visa is one of the most expensive types of visas available; they can cost up to two hundred and fifty euros.
Conclusion
For travelers from eligible countries, a long stay visitor visa can be a great way to explore France in depth and staying for an extended period of time. By providing holders access to activities and opportunities for up to five years, France’s LTVV scheme provides a unique chance for travelers to truly experience the culture and beauty of the country. However, travelers should be aware that the visa does have its limitations; some countries are excluded and the visa does not provide any form of employment or permanent residency. Before beginning the application process, travelers should also bear in mind the cost of the visa.
Overall, a long stay visitor visa is a great opportunity for certain travelers to explore and gain a greater understanding of France. With its advantages and disadvantages in mind, those interested in obtaining an LTVV should assess their personal circumstances and priorities to decide if the visa is right for them.
