The Independent Means Visa in France (also known as the Visitor Visa or "Carte de séjour visiteur") offers temporary residency to qualified individuals who can demonstrate sufficient financial resources from foreign sources.
MOBILITY ASSSET SNAPSHOT
The Independent Means Visa program in France provides a pathway to temporary residency for individuals with stable foreign-sourced income. This program is designed to attract retirees, investors, and other individuals looking to establish residency in one of Europe's most culturally rich countries.
Overview
A route to temporary residency for qualified individuals with sufficient income in France
Eligibility Requirements
Individuals with passive income from a foreign source
Anchor Ancestor restrictions
Months to citizenship
Length of Visa
1 year, renewable
Months to Visa
1-2 months
Physical Presence Requirement
183 days per year t qualify for permanent residency
Availability
Moderate
Family Allowance
Spouse and children
Overview
Submit application at the French consulate in your country of residence or through an approved visa application center
Overview
Our experienced team will guide you through each stage of the application process, offering personalized assistance tailored to your needs.
We'll help you gather and organize the documents you need for applying.
Once your documents are ready, we'll let you know where and how to submit your application to the relevant authorities.
Questions?
Find answers to common questions about GlobalPassport™ and our services.
How long does it take to process an Independent Means Visa application?
The processing time is typically 1-2 months from the point of submission.
Can I include my family members in my Independent Means Visa application?
Yes, you can include your spouse and dependent children in your application, with additional income requirements.
What types of income qualify for the Independent Means Visa?
Any stable income from foreign sources, including pensions, rental income, investments, and savings.
How often do I need to renew my residency permit?
The initial visa is valid for one year and can be renewed annually.
Can Independent Means Visa holders apply for French citizenship?
Yes, visa holders can apply for French citizenship after holding legal residency for at least 5 years, subject to meeting other requirements such as French language proficiency.
DOCUMENTS
Passport+State Issued ID+Biometrics
Marriage certificate and birth certificates of dependents (if applicable)
Not applicable
Not applicable
Applicants must provide documentation proving they have sufficient financial means to support themselves in France
DOCUMENTS
Birth certificates from government archives; Marriage certificates for family dependencies; Police clearance records from current and past residences
Certified translations into official language(s); Apostille certification; Government-issued document legalization
Diploma and transcript verification; Professional certification authentication; Credential evaluation services
Initial application submission fee; Processing and handling charges; Administrative review fees
Fingerprint collection fee; Digital photograph requirements; Biometric data processing
Required medical examinations; Vaccination verification; Health certificate processing
Document verification fees; Background check processing; Application status updates
Consulate visit expenses; Interview travel costs; Temporary accommodation (if required)
Language proficiency testing; Skills assessment fees; Additional document requests
Immigration lawyer consultation; Document review services; Legal representation fees
Tax planning consultation; Asset transfer advisory; Investment planning services
Relocation services; Property search assistance; Settlement support services
Residency card processing; Passport issuance fees; Registration certificates
Oath ceremony fees; Registration charges; Local authority fees
Renewal fees; Status maintenance costs; Annual reporting fees
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