A family and friend visit visa covers short stays with someone who lives abroad. Unlike a tourist visa, the file includes your host’s invitation and legal status instead of a hotel booking.
The invitation raises the most questions, so below we explain how it is prepared, who can act as sponsor and what the consulate checks.
What is a family and friend visit visa?
It is a short-stay visa for visiting a relative or friend who lives lawfully abroad. In Schengen countries it is a type C visa allowing up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
It does not give a right to settle with your host; moving permanently requires a family reunification visa.
How is the invitation prepared?
The host writes a letter stating your identity, your relationship, the dates of the visit and where you will stay, and attaches a copy of their ID or passport, residence permit and address registration.
Some countries require an official document, such as Germany’s formal obligation (Verpflichtungserklärung) or France’s accommodation certificate (attestation d’accueil). Check which one applies on the official page.
Who pays, and who can be a sponsor?
You can pay yourself or your host can sponsor you. If you pay, submit your own income documents and bank statements; if sponsored, add the sponsor’s income and employment documents.
A sponsor does not remove the need to show your own ties at home, such as work, study, family or property.
Which documents are required?
The application form, photo, passport, travel medical insurance, flight booking, the invitation with the host’s documents, proof of income and employment, and bank statements.
Add civil registry records if you are related. Minors need consent from both parents.
What should you watch out for?
Consulates assess three things: that the visit is genuine, that costs are covered and that you will return. Dates in the invitation, flight booking and insurance must match.
Longer requested stays raise more questions about return, so leave letters or pension documents become more important. Describe your relationship with the host as it is.