France Business Visa Guide for Indian Corporate Travelers
Everything You Need To Know - Indian Passport Holders
France, Europe’s third-largest economy, is one of India’s strongest trade and investment partners in the European Union. Known for its advanced technology, aerospace, fashion, and renewable energy sectors, France offers a wealth of opportunities for Indian professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors. From attending trade fairs in Paris to partnership meetings in Lyon, thousands of Indian business travelers visit France every year.
Indian citizens traveling for short-term business engagements are required to apply for a France Business Visa, categorized under the Schengen short-stay visa (Type C). This visa allows travel to France and other Schengen countries within a 90-day stay period.
BTW Visa Services assists Indian corporate travelers with document preparation, Schengen-compliant formatting, appointment booking through VFS Global, and real-time tracking — ensuring a smooth and professional visa experience.
Why France for Indian Corporate Travelers
France is among India’s top EU trading partners, with bilateral trade exceeding USD 12 billion.
Opportunities abound in defense, renewable energy, luxury goods, aviation, and digital technologies.
A France Business Visa permits business mobility across all 26 Schengen countries.
2nd
Global Passport Index Rank
85M+
Tourist Arrivals (2025)
92%
Visa Approval Rate
1,500+
Types of Cheese
Who Needs a Business Visa?
All Indian citizens traveling to France for short-term professional activities — including business meetings, conferences, exhibitions, or commercial negotiations — must apply for a France Business Visa (Type C).
This visa allows entry for up to 90 days within a 180-day period and covers business travel across all Schengen states. However, it does not permit employment or paid work.
Exemptions: Indian citizens are not visa-exempt for Schengen travel and must apply before departure.
BTW Visa Tip: Applicants holding valid multiple-entry Schengen visas (issued by another Schengen state) can use it for France, provided France is not the first point of entry restriction country on that visa.
What Is a France Business Visa?
The France Business Visa is a Schengen short-stay visa (Type C) that allows Indian nationals to enter France and other Schengen countries for short-term business activities such as attending conferences, meetings, trade fairs, or negotiations. It is not valid for employment or long-term assignments.
Applications can be filed through VFS Global France centres across India or directly with the French Embassy or Consulate. Once granted, this visa permits multiple entries to Schengen states within its validity period.
Visa Type:
Schengen Business Visa (Short Stay – Type C)
Purpose:
Business meetings, professional events, and trade visits
Stay Duration:
Up to 90 days per visit
Validity:
Up to 90 days within 180 days
Who Can Apply from India?
Indian citizens are eligible to apply for a France Business Visa if they meet the following conditions:
Hold a valid Indian passport with at least 6 months’ validity from the intended return date.
Possess an official invitation letter from a registered French company, organization, or event.
Are employed by or represent a registered business in India.
Can demonstrate adequate financial capacity to cover travel and stay expenses.
Have confirmed return flight tickets and accommodation proof.
Hold valid Schengen travel insurance covering the entire stay.
Have no prior Schengen visa violations or overstays.
France, Europe’s third-largest economy, is one of India’s strongest trade and investment partners in the European Union. Known for its advanced technology, aerospace, fashion, and renewable energy sectors, France offers a wealth of opportunities for Indian professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors. From attending trade fairs in Paris to partnership meetings in Lyon, thousands of Indian business travelers visit France every year.
Indian citizens traveling for short-term business engagements are required to apply for a France Business Visa, categorized under the Schengen short-stay visa (Type C). This visa allows travel to France and other Schengen countries within a 90-day stay period.
BTW Visa Services assists Indian corporate travelers with document preparation, Schengen-compliant formatting, appointment booking through VFS Global, and real-time tracking — ensuring a smooth and professional visa experience.
Types of France Business Visas
Visa Type | Purpose | Validity & Stay |
Single Entry Business Visa | For one-time short business trips such as meetings or trade fairs. | Valid up to 90 days; single entry. |
Multiple Entry Business Visa | For regular travelers attending multiple events or meetings in France or the Schengen region. | Valid 6 months to 2 years; 90 days per 180-day period. |
Schengen Short-Stay Visa | Covers business visits to all 26 Schengen countries. | Validity varies by case; up to 90 days stay allowed. |
Download Visa Requirements PDF - Get a printable checklist for easy reference.
Note: The type of visa granted depends on the applicant's travel frequency, invitation letter, and business purpose.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Determine Your Visa Type & Fill the application
Choose the Business Visa (Type C) for short-term commercial activities. Fill the Schengen Visa Application Form online through VFS Global and print a copy for submission.
Step 2: Prepare All Required Documents
Attach all supporting documents (passport, photos, cover letter, invitation, etc.) as per the checklist.
Step 3: Schedule an Appointment
Book a biometric and submission appointment through the VFS Global portal. Early booking is recommended during peak travel months (April–September).
Step 4: Visit the VFS Centre
Submit your documents, provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo), and pay the visa fee. Retain the receipt for tracking.
Step 5: Receive Your e-Visa Approval
Once approved, your Albania Business e-Visa will be sent to your registered email address in PDF format.
Print a copy and carry it with you when traveling — this acts as your valid entry authorization.
Step 6: Collect Passport or Track Online
You can track your application online or opt for courier delivery once processed.
BTW Visa Tips: BTW Visa Services ensures document pre-verification, appointment booking, and form accuracy to minimize rejections or delays — especially critical for first-time Schengen applicants.
Visa Fees, Validity & Processing Time
Entry Type | Processing time | Stay Duration | Validity | Fees (INR) |
Single Entry – Normal | 15-21 days | Up to 90 days | 180 days | ₹7,200 |
Multiple Entry – Normal | 15-21 days | Up to 90 days | 180 days | ₹7,200 |
Embassy & Consulate Contact Details
Embassy of France – New Delhi (Main Embassy)
Embassy Of France, 2/50-E, Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, Delhi 110021, India
+91-11-4319 6100
Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tips for Smooth Visa Approval
Apply early: Submit 3–4 weeks before your travel date to avoid seasonal delays.
Check document consistency: The business purpose and duration must match across your cover letter, invitation, and application form.
Verify host details: Ensure the French company’s official SIRET number, full address, and signatory name appear on the invitation.
Proof of finances: Maintain at least ₹1.5–2 lakh in your bank account to demonstrate financial stability.
Avoid vague itineraries: Specify your business schedule clearly — city, date, and meeting location.
Use corporate domain emails: Official communication from Gmail or Yahoo addresses is often flagged during verification.
Comply with biometric rules: Biometrics are valid for 59 months; however, first-time applicants must appear in person.
Print all confirmations: Carry hard copies of your flight, hotel, and insurance details for the appointment.
Legal Disclaimer: BTW Visa Services is a non-government organisation and we solely act as a service provider. All the information on the website is general information based on the available information on the internet and authorities. We shouldn't be held responsible if any changes or any guidelines at actual get altered.
Business-Related Visa Categories
Albania issues short-term Type C visas for professional or business purposes. Depending on the traveler’s profile, Indian applicants may apply under either of the following categories:
01. Corporate Visa (Company-Sponsored Travel)
Designed for professionals representing their company in Albania for official business activities.
Intra-Company Transfer Visa
For transferring to a company's foreign branch
Corporate Meeting / Training Visa
For attending internal meetings or seminars
Delegation Visa
For high-level visits or project supervision
Technical Support Visa
For on-site technical or operational tasks
Corporate Partnership Visa
For collaborative business programs between companies
02. Business Visa
For individuals traveling for external business purposes
Conference / Event Visa
For attending trade shows, expos, or conventions
Investor Visa
For exploring or setting up investments abroad
Entrepreneur Visa
For business expansion or startup meetings
Client Meeting Visa
For contract discussions or partnership negotiations
Trade Mission Visa
For cross-border trade promotion visits
Both permit a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period, and can be single, double, or multiple entry, as approved by the Albanian Consulate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently asked questions
Need Help With Your France Visa Application?
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Verified Accuracy
Document verification before submission
Embassy Coordination
Coordination via approved consulates
Transparent Updates
Real-time tracking and updates
With our proven experience, on-time visa processing record, and dedicated corporate desk, we help your organization focus on growth — while we handle compliance.