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How can a foreigner return to France after exiting the Schengen Area?
Verified 08 mars 2022 - Legal and Administrative Information Directorate (Prime Minister)
If you are a foreigner no European, that you reside in France and wish to travel in a country outside Schengen Area , you must make sure that you have the right documents to return to France.
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You have a residence permit
You can return to France with your valid passport and residence permit.
Warning : to return to the Schengen area, regardless of whether your nationality is subject to a visa or not, you will have to prove that you meet the entry requirements (e.g.: sufficient resources).
You have a temporary residence permit
The temporary residence permit with your valid passport allows you to return.
Warning : to return to the Schengen area, regardless of whether your nationality is subject to a visa or not, you will have to prove that you meet the entry requirements (e.g.: sufficient resources).
You have a residence card application receipt
You have a 1st request receipt
General case
Warning : it is not possible to do the paperwork in some sub-prefectures. Find out more on your prefecture's website.
In Paris
Who shall I contact
You have a renewal receipt
You can return with your residence permit renewal receipt, along with your expired residence permit and valid passport.
Warning : to return to the Schengen area, regardless of whether your nationality is subject to a visa or not, you will have to prove that you meet the entry requirements (example: sufficient resources).
You have a residence card application certificate
Application certificate
General case
Warning : it is not possible to do the paperwork in some sub-prefectures. Find out more on your prefecture's website.
In Paris
Who shall I contact
Statement of Extension
The certificate of extension of the instruction of a residence permit allows you to return. It must be accompanied by your residence permit or a long-stay visa (except visa "Temporary exemption of residence card") expired and your valid passport.
Warning : to return to the Schengen area, regardless of whether your nationality is subject to a visa or not, you will have to prove that you meet the entry requirements (example: sufficient resources).
Statement of favourable decision
The certificate of approval of a residence permit application allows you to return. It must be accompanied by your valid passport.
Warning : to return to the Schengen area, regardless of whether your nationality is subject to a visa or not, you will have to prove that you meet the entry requirements (example: sufficient resources).