France Visa RequirementsFor Vietnam passport holders
Vietnamese citizens require a Schengen visa to visit France, costing approximately USD 87 for up to 90 days. France is one of the most significant destinations for Vietnamese travelers given the deep historical ties.
Vietnam passport holders require a visa to enter France.
Apply at the French Embassy in Hanoi or the Consulate in Ho Chi Minh City. Documents include travel insurance (EUR 30,000 minimum), bank statements, employment proof, flight reservations, hotel bookings, and a letter of invitation for family visits. Processing takes up to 15 calendar days.
France is part of the Schengen Area. Your stay counts toward the 90-day limit within any 180-day period for the entire Schengen zone. Learn more about Schengen rules →
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
3 months beyond departure from Schengen
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Vietnam to France: What You Need to Know
France and Vietnam share a colonial history; Vietnam was part of French Indochina until 1954. This has resulted in a large Vietnamese diaspora in France, estimated at 300,000 to 400,000, particularly in Paris. Family visits, tourism, and cultural connections make France one of the most important European destinations for Vietnamese passport holders.
Practical Tips
Paris is the most visited destination. The 13th arrondissement has the largest Vietnamese community in Europe. Marseille, Lyon, and Nice are also worth visiting. France is generous with 90-day Schengen stays. For Viet Kieu visiting family, a sponsorship letter from French-resident relatives is valuable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Vietnamese citizens need a visa for France?
Yes. A Schengen visa is required for France. The fee is approximately USD 87 and the visa allows stays of up to 90 days within the Schengen Area.
Why is France a particularly significant destination for Vietnamese travelers?
France governed Vietnam as part of French Indochina from the late 19th century until 1954. This colonial history created deep cultural links and a large Vietnamese diaspora in France, estimated at 300,000 to 400,000 people, mostly concentrated in Paris. Family visits are a primary reason Vietnamese citizens travel to France.
Where do Vietnamese citizens apply for a French Schengen visa?
Apply at the French Embassy in Hanoi or the French Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City. The France-Visas portal (france-visas.gouv.fr) guides you through the application process online before your in-person appointment.
What documents are especially important for Vietnamese citizens applying for a French visa?
Beyond standard Schengen documents, a letter of invitation (attestation d accueil) from French-resident relatives significantly helps. Strong financial documentation is critical. Prior travel history to other countries (especially with valid visas) and a stable employment record improve approval chances.