Determine Visa Type: Identify the specific type of long-term visa you need based on your business activities in France. This could include a long-stay visa (Visa de long séjour) for business purposes or a work visa if you will be employed by a French company.
Review Requirements: Visit the official website of the French Embassy or Consulate in Nigeria to understand the specific requirements for the long-term business visa. Requirements typically include:
Completed long-stay visa application form.
Valid passport with at least six months validity beyond your intended stay.
Passport-sized photographs meeting specific criteria.
Proof of travel insurance covering your entire stay in France.
Detailed business plan or invitation letter from a French company explaining the purpose and duration of your stay.
Proof of sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay.
Medical certificate (if required).
Criminal record certificate (if required).
Additional documents may include business registration documents, tax certificates, and financial statements.
Schedule an Appointment: Depending on the procedures of the visa application center, schedule an appointment online for submitting your visa application and biometric data (fingerprints and photograph).
Prepare Documents: Gather all required documents as per the checklist provided by the French Embassy or Consulate. Ensure all documents are in the required format and meet the specified criteria.
Complete Visa Application Form: Fill out the long-stay visa application form accurately and completely. Double-check for any errors before submission.
Submit Application: Attend your appointment at the visa application center or embassy/consulate to submit your application form and supporting documents. Pay the visa fee, which varies depending on the type of visa and exchange rates.
Provide Biometric Data: Provide biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) at the visa application center, if required.
Track Application: Monitor the status of your visa application through the visa application center's website or the embassy/consulate where you applied.
Attend Interview (if required): Prepare for an interview if requested by the embassy/consulate. Be ready to discuss the details of your business activities, your ties to Nigeria, and your plans while in France.
Collect Visa: Once your visa application is processed and approved, collect your passport with the issued visa from the visa application center or embassy/consulate.