VFS Global Registration and Technical Issues: how it works in France — first-hand
Short answer
The VFS Global France website is currently experiencing a technical outage preventing the delivery of OTP registration codes to all phone numbers. Avoid repeated attempts to prevent IP bans and monitor the portal periodically, as there is currently no functional workaround or official resolution timeline.
From real experience
As of May 2026, the VFS Global website for France is experiencing technical issues preventing one-time registration codes (OTPs) from being delivered to phone numbers, regardless of country (including Russian and e-SIMs from other countries like Armenia).
This issue has been ongoing for approximately 4 weeks, and there is no known resolution date. Appointment slots for July are being planned, but May dates are uncertain due to the ongoing technical problems.
✓ 1 report from chats
VFS Global France website account registration is currently experiencing a technical outage lasting approximately 3 weeks.
Users report inability to receive verification codes. No known workaround exists; customer support is unresponsive to emails and calls. Current advice is to monitor the official portal, as automated systems or third-party visa services are currently unable to bypass the lack of available appointment slots.
✓ 1 report from chats
VFS Global website frequently experiences systemic issues with OTP SMS delivery during account registration.
Verification codes fail to arrive on both Russian and international/French numbers, often resulting in temporary 2-hour IP bans for users who attempt multiple retries. Suggest users wait several hours or try during off-peak hours instead of repeatedly requesting codes.
✓ 1 report from chats
Up to 5 people can be registered on a single French visa application slot, regardless of kinship.
Available slot types include standard 'Short Stay All kind of other short stay visas' and 'Prime Time' at 65 euros.
✓ 1 report from chats
For guaranteed access or to ensure something, registration on the official website and payment of a fee are likely required.
Check for specific registration procedures and associated costs.