For Americans applying for a French visa, a major change is set to take place in 2025. Starting April 18th, 2025, TLScontact will officially replace VFS Global as the new visa processing service for all French visa applications from the US. This transition marks a significant shift for applicants, affecting where and how they submit their applications.
If you’re planning a trip to France that requires a French long-stay visa, or if you’re an expat looking to relocate, this change is crucial to understand. Here’s everything you need to know about the French visa application process in the US, how the transition will affect applicants, and what steps you need to take when applying for your visa.
What’s changing with French Visa applications in the US?
For years, VFS Global has been the go-to service provider for French visa processing in the US. However, on April 18th, 2025, TLScontact will officially take over.
Key details about the transition:
- New Visa Processing Provider: TLScontact will handle all French visa applications from the US.
- Effective Date: April 18th, 2025.
- Visa Application Centers: TLScontact will operate 10 visa application centers across the United States.
- Application Process: Visa applicants will now book appointments through TLScontact’s website instead of VFS Global.
Why is TLScontact replacing VFS Global?
The French government has decided to shift its visa processing services in the US to TLScontact, a company specialising in consular and visa services headquartered in Paris, France. While VFS Global has processed thousands of French visas for American travellers, the move to TLScontact may indicate France’s preference for a France-based service provider with direct ties to its visa and consular network.
What does this mean for applicants?
For those applying for a French visa in the US, this change means:
- A new booking system for appointments.
- Different processing centres under TLScontact.
- Potential changes in service fees and processing times.
- New customer service channels for visa inquiries.
The fundamental requirements for French visa applications will remain the same, and the final decision on visa approvals will still be made by French consulates and embassies. TLScontact, like VFS Global, will not have any authority over visa decisions.
Where to apply: TLScontact Visa Centres in the US
Starting April 18th, 2025, applicants must schedule their French visa appointments through TLScontact at one of its 10 visa application centres in the US:
- Atlanta
- Boston
- Chicago
- Houston
- Los Angeles
- Miami
- New York
- San Francisco
- Seattle
- Washington, DC
These locations match the current VFS Global offices that previously handled French visa applications.
How to apply for a French Visa through TLScontact
The French visa application process will remain largely unchanged. However, instead of going through VFS Global, applicants will now use TLScontact’s system.
Step 1: Start your application on France-Visas
All applicants must first visit France-Visas, the official French visa website, to determine:
- The type of visa required (short-stay, long-stay, work, student, etc.).
- The necessary documents for the application.
Step 2: Register on TLScontact’s website
Once the visa application is completed on France-Visas, applicants will need to:
- Create an account on the TLScontact website.
- Book an appointment at one of the 10 available visa application centres.
- Pay the visa application fees online.
Step 3: Attend your appointment & submit biometrics
At the in-person visa appointment, applicants must:
- Submit all required documents.
- Provide biometric data (fingerprints and photos).
- Pay any remaining service fees.
Step 4: Wait for visa processing & receive passport by mail
Once the visa application is processed, applicants will:
- Receive updates via TLScontact.
- Have their passport returned by post once the visa decision is made.
What does this mean for US expats moving to France?
For Americans applying for a French long-stay visa, this transition is crucial. With over 50,000 visa applications from US residents processed in 2023 alone, France remains the top Schengen destination for Americans. If you’re applying for residency, a work permit, or a student visa, ensure you:
- Understand the new process under TLScontact.
- Book appointments well in advance, as delays may occur during the transition.
- Follow updates from the French consulate to stay informed about changes.
How does this compare to other Schengen Visas?
Unlike France, many other Schengen countries, such as Austria and Portugal, will still use VFS Global for visa processing in the US. This means that applicants applying for multiple visas may need to use different visa service providers depending on their destination.
Additionally, upcoming changes like ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) in 2026 will further impact American travellers visiting Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Why is France switching from VFS Global to TLScontact?
France is shifting its visa application services in the US to TLScontact, a France-based provider, likely to improve efficiency and service integration.
Will visa requirements change because of this transition?
No, visa eligibility, required documents, and processing times will remain the same. The primary change is the service provider handling visa submissions.
How do I book a visa appointment with TLScontact?
After completing your application on France-Visas, you must register on TLScontact’s website, select a visa application center, and schedule an appointment.
Will I still get my passport by mail after my visa is processed?
Yes. Just like with VFS Global, TLScontact will return your passport with the visa decision via post.
Will TLScontact decide whether my visa is approved?
No. Visa decisions are only made by French consulates or embassies. TLScontact’s role is limited to collecting applications, processing documents, and submitting biometric data.
Will there be delays during the transition?
There may be temporary delays in visa appointments and processing times during the handover from VFS Global to TLScontact. It’s recommended to apply as early as possible for travel or relocation plans.
What should I do if I already applied through VFS Global before April 18th?
Details about ongoing applications during the transition haven’t been confirmed yet. Applicants should monitor official consulate updates to avoid complications.
Is VFS Global completely shutting down in the US?
No, VFS Global will continue processing visas for countries like Austria, Portugal, and the UK, but not for France.
Conclusion: What you need to know about this visa change
For Americans applying for a French visa, the switch from VFS Global to TLScontact is a significant change. Whether you're applying for a French long-stay visa, a work permit, or simply visiting France for an extended period, understanding the new application process is essential. By staying informed, applying early, and following official guidelines, travellers and expats can avoid delays and ensure a smooth visa process under the new TLScontact system.
Looking ahead, additional changes like ETIAS and new EU visa rules will further impact travel to France. As the transition unfolds, it’s crucial to stay updated with the latest developments to avoid travel disruptions.