Embassy of the United States

Visas

About Non-Immigrant Visas

The following provides information on visa requirements for travelers to the United States who wish to visit, work or study for a temporary period. The type of visa required will depend on the purpose of your travel. If you are a French national and intend to visit the United States for less than 90 days, you may be able to travel without first obtaining a  visa if you have registered on-line through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). See the "Do I need a visa ?" page for more information.

Method of application

With limited exceptions, nonimmigrant visa applicants aged 14 to 79 are required to schedule an appointment for an interview with a US Consular officer. Interviews are by appointment only. The Embassy does not accept walk-in applications.

Appointment System

We have an online visa appointment service. This service is available 24 hours per day, seven days per week; a fee of $14.00 (in Euros) is charged, which permits up to five family members to schedule their visa appointment together. The on-line service is available at usvisa-france. We also have a Call Center that provides information and schedules appointments. Persons who wish to speak to a live operator may call 0810-26-46-26.  Please note that only the Call Center may grant an emergency appointment or change an appointment made through the on-line service. 

The Embassy strongly encourages intending travelers to apply for visas well in advance of their proposed journey, and to always refrain from making irrevocable travel plans until the visa has been issued and they are in receipt of their passport and visa.