Family reunification visa requirements

To join a spouse in France holding a "talent" visa/residence permit, apply for a simplified family reunification visa. Required documents include: Apostilled marriage certificate with notarized translation, copies of the spouse's passport, residence permit (VLS/VLS-TS/carte de séjour), and employment contract.

For a spouse of a VLS-TS (stagiaire salariée) holder in France: The main applicant's internship is not a direct basis for the spouse to obtain a D visa. The spouse can apply for a C visa (tourist) based on an invitation from the main applicant after they have obtained their visa and moved to France. For a D visa (visiteur), the spouse must have their own independent motivation, and 'because my spouse is going to France' is generally not considered a sufficient primary motivation.

A spouse may be able to join the primary visa holder in France on a visitor visa after the primary visa holder has established their status under the 'Profession Liberale' (PL) visa and opened a micro-enterprise. The primary visa holder's income (savings exceeding 5x SMIC) can serve as financial sponsorship. While the PL visa itself may not have a direct fast-track family reunification process, the visitor visa route for the spouse is a potential option. It is recommended to gather a comprehensive dossier and consult relevant forums, such as 'infrance su forum', for detailed guidance on visitor visa applications and requirements.

Obtaining a long-term (Type D) visa for parents to France can be challenging, even with family sponsorship. Typically, short-term (Type C) visas for up to 90 days are issued, even with an invitation. Long-term visas require substantial proof of financial means, accommodation, and specific grounds like financial support or 'visiteur' status. Applying for a short-term visa is often a more straightforward option.

After OFII approval, family reunification applications are sent to the prefecture for review, which officially takes 6+ months but often longer. To avoid 'un refus implicite' (implied refusal), if no response is received after 6 months from the OFII notification date, it is advisable to send a 'recours gracieux' (informal appeal/request for reconsideration) to the prefecture to inquire about the application status.

For a spouse of a French citizen and her non-biological minor child from a previous marriage intending to visit France, specific visa types and documents are required. The spouse should apply for a short-stay C visa, category 'visite familiale' (family visit), due to her marital status. The minor child, not biologically related to the French citizen, should apply for a standard 'tourisme/visite privée' (tourism/private visit) short-stay C visa. Application for both can be submitted jointly using a special form for relatives. Required documents include: a recent 'copie intégrale de l'acte de mariage' (full copy of marriage certificate) or 'livret de famille' for appointment, the child's birth certificate, a letter of invitation ('lettre d'invitation') from the French spouse detailing the trip, proof of accommodation, and round-trip tickets (or itinerary if not yet purchased) for all travelers. The French spouse's CNI/passport copy should also be included.

When applying for a French 'Visiteur' visa, do not frame the application around family reunification. Instead, focus on a standard guest motivation that meets all requirements. If the authorities perceive the application as a way to circumvent family reunification procedures, it will be denied. In such cases, a short-term visa may be an option, with long-term relocation possible later.

For a 20-year-old child of a non-EU resident in France (whose parent's D visa due to marriage has expired), a "visiteur" visa might be suggested for family visits. However, it's crucial to understand that a "visiteur" visa is not a default solution; it prohibits working in France and can lead to complications during renewal at the prefecture. At this age, it's generally more advisable for the adult child to pursue a student or work visa if applicable, providing more independence. Always consult the prefecture for specific guidance based on the individual's situation.

For visa purposes, a 'family member of an EU citizen' is strictly defined by Directive 2004/38/EC. This includes: spouses, registered partners (where recognized), dependent children under 21, and dependent parents. Being a relative of an EU citizen does not automatically qualify one for simplified visa procedures. Proof of financial dependence or cohabitation may be required. Consult specific country regulations for precise details.