SchengenVisaSupport
France Schengen Visa from UK 2026: VFS Application, Documents & Fees
France is the most popular Schengen destination for UK residents. Apply via VFS Global at one of three UK centres — London, Manchester, or Edinburgh. This guide covers fees, documents, processing times, and how to book your appointment.
France remains one of the busiest Schengen lanes from Britain because of weekend breaks and multi-city tours. Bring your BRP or digital immigration proof plus UK bank statements that match the employment and trip dates on your form.
Cities & Official VFS Links
| City | Local Guide | Book Appointment | Attend-Centre Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edinburgh | Edinburgh VFS Guide | Login | Attend Centre |
| London | London VFS Guide | Login | Attend Centre |
| Manchester | Manchester VFS Guide | Login | Attend Centre |
Documents & Planning Resources
What to Expect
France processes most UK applications in 15 calendar days. During peak season (June-September), expect 4-6 weeks. Financial proof: €65/day (~£55/day) over 3 months of statements. Cover letter strongly recommended. BRP cards expired December 2024 — bring your eVisa Share Code printout as proof of UK residence.
Documents Checklist
- Passport — valid 3+ months after exit, 2 blank pages
- UK residence proof — eVisa Share Code / UKVI status (BRP expired Dec 2024)
- Schengen application form — completed and signed
- 2 passport photos — white background, Schengen spec
- Travel insurance — €30,000 minimum, full trip dates
- Flight reservation — round-trip with PNR (not purchased tickets)
- Hotel bookings — refundable, all nights
- Bank statements — 3 months, £55+/day for trip duration
- Employer letter + 3 months payslips
- Cover letter — purpose, itinerary, return intent
Tips for UK Applicants
- London VFS fills fastest — try Manchester or Edinburgh for earlier slots
- Slots released daily around 8-9 AM UK time — refresh the portal
- France approves ~86% of UK applications — a complete, consistent file is usually enough
- Apply to France only if France is your main destination (most nights)
- Apply 6-8 weeks before summer travel
Complete your visa file
Before your appointment, complete the three bookings every visa officer checks: a refundable hotel proof, flight reservation, and €30,000+ travel insurance.
Common Questions
How do I book a France Schengen visa appointment from the UK?
Log in at visa.vfsglobal.com/gbr/en/fra/login. Choose London, Manchester, or Edinburgh and select a slot. Have your documents ready before booking.
How much is the France Schengen visa fee from the UK?
€90 (~£77) embassy fee + VFS service fee approximately £25-35. Total typically £110-120. All fees non-refundable.
How long does France visa processing take from the UK?
Standard 15 calendar days. June-September peak can be 30-45 days. Apply at least 6 weeks before summer travel.
My BRP expired — what do I bring as UK residence proof?
BRP cards expired 31 December 2024. From 2025 you use your eVisa (UKVI account). Bring a Share Code printout or screenshot of your online immigration status to your VFS appointment.
Should I buy flight tickets before visa approval?
No — embassies accept a flight reservation with a real PNR. Only buy final tickets after visa approval.