Yes, a visa is required to travel from Democratic Republic of the Congo to France.
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Do I need a visa for France from Democratic Republic of the Congo?
Discover visa requirements for your trip
Nationals of the Democratic Republic of the Congo need a Schengen short-stay (Type C) visa to visit France for tourism. The adult fee is €90 and processing usually takes 15 to 45 days.
The DRC is not among the countries exempt from the Schengen visa, so a Congolese traveller must obtain a visa before travelling to France. The Type C visa allows a tourist stay of up to 90 days per 180-day period. France centralises the procedure through its France-Visas portal and its authorised partner on the ground.
Do you need a visa?
Yes. Holders of a Democratic Republic of the Congo passport have no Schengen exemption and must apply for a short-stay (Type C) visa before any tourist trip to France. The visa covers stays of no more than 90 days within any 180-day period. France must be your main destination or your first point of entry into the Schengen area.
How and where to apply
Start by creating and completing your file on the official France-Visas portal, then book an appointment with the authorised partner (usually TLScontact or VFS Global) responsible for the DRC, for example in Kinshasa. You then attend in person to submit your file and give biometric data (fingerprints and photo).
Documents and fees
Prepare a passport valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure and with at least two blank pages, the signed form, two recent photos, travel insurance covering a minimum of €30,000 in medical and repatriation costs, an accommodation certificate or hotel booking, a return ticket and proof of funds. The visa fee is €90 for an adult. Confirm the exact amount and payment methods on France-Visas before applying.
Processing and tips
Processing usually takes 15 to 45 days; file your application at least three weeks before departure and up to six months ahead. As the DRC is a yellow-fever endemic country, carry an up-to-date international vaccination card. A complete and consistent file, backed by strong ties to the DRC (employment, family, property), supports a favourable decision.
Common mistakes to avoid
Do not address your application to another Schengen country when France is your main destination, as a refusal is likely. Avoid insurance below €30,000, weak proof of return or unexplained funds. Do not book your appointment too late, as slots in Kinshasa are often saturated. Always check the current requirements on the official portal before finalising your file.
Official sources
- Portail officiel France-Visas
- Ministère de l'Europe et des Affaires étrangères (France Diplomatie)
- Commission européenne - Migration et affaires intérieures
Information verified on July 8, 2026.
Essential France information
France is a Western European nation and member of the European Union and NATO. It has a developed economy, rich cultural heritage, and plays a major role in international affairs. The country is renowned for its contributions to arts, sciences, and philosophy.
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Frequently asked questions
Do you need a visa to travel to France from Democratic Republic of the Congo?▾
Yes, a consular visa is required: applications are made at the embassy or consulate before departure (allowed stay: 5 years).
How long can you stay in France?▾
The tourist visa allows a stay of 5 years.
What other visa types exist for France?▾
Depending on the purpose of stay, France offers among others: Long-stay visitor visa, Talent Passport visa, Job seeker / business creation visa, Employee visa, Self-employed visa, Long-stay student visa.
Data verified on 23/07/2026
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