Get Your French Guiana Visa Online
Fast visa processing for tourism, business, and space exploration — Europe's gateway to Amazonian adventure
TrustpilotHow to Get Your French Guiana Visa
Simple 4-step process — most applications processed within 15 business days
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our comprehensive Schengen visa form with your travel plans, personal details, and purpose of visit. Our intelligent system validates every field in real-time, catching errors before submission and ensuring your application meets all requirements set by France's visa authorities for its overseas territories.
2
Upload required documents
Submit your passport scan, recent photograph meeting Schengen specifications, travel insurance proof, and supporting documents. Our document specialists review every submission and offer guidance to ensure compliance with French visa photo requirements and Schengen document standards.
3
We submit to French authorities
Your verified application is transmitted to France's visa processing system. Our team monitors processing status around the clock and proactively handles any additional documentation requests from French consular authorities, keeping you informed at every stage via email and SMS notifications.
4
Receive your visa approval
Once approved, your Schengen visa is affixed to your passport. Collect your passport from the designated visa application centre and prepare for your journey to this unique French territory where European culture meets the Amazon rainforest and cutting-edge space technology!
French Guiana Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Schengen Tourist Visa
Up to 90 days
For leisure travel, ecotourism, and visiting family in French Guiana
Schengen Business Visa
Up to 90 days
For meetings, conferences, and space industry activities
Visa Exemption
Up to 90 days
For EU/EEA citizens and select nationalities with visa-free access
Long-Stay Visa
Over 90 days
For extended stays, work assignments, or joining family members
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid 3+ months beyond stay with 2 blank pages
- Photo: White background, 35x45mm, recent within 6 months
- Travel insurance with minimum EUR 30,000 medical coverage
- Hotel reservation or invitation letter from host
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
- Round-trip flight itinerary or travel confirmation
Visa Policy
French Guiana is a French overseas department (DOM) and integral part of France and the European Union. As such, Schengen visa rules apply, though with some unique considerations for this South American territory.
Visa-Free Entry
Citizens of the European Union, European Economic Area, and Switzerland can enter French Guiana freely with valid ID. Additionally, nationals from countries with Schengen visa exemption agreements (including United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, and others) can visit for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
Countries Requiring Schengen Visas
Citizens of China, India, Russia, most African nations, and many other countries must obtain a Schengen visa before traveling to French Guiana. Applications are processed through French embassies and consulates or their authorized visa application centres.
Visa Requirements
Document Requirements for Schengen Visa
French Guiana follows standard Schengen visa requirements with documentation specific to France:
Passport: Must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from French Guiana, with minimum two blank pages for stamps.
Photograph: Recent passport-style photo (taken within 6 months) measuring 35x45mm with white background, meeting strict Schengen biometric specifications.
Travel Insurance: Mandatory medical travel insurance with minimum coverage of EUR 30,000 covering emergency medical treatment and repatriation for the entire duration of your stay.
Financial Evidence: Bank statements from the past 3-6 months, employment letter with salary details, or proof of sponsorship demonstrating sufficient funds (approximately EUR 65-100 per day recommended).
Accommodation Proof: Hotel reservations, rental agreement, or an attestation d'accueil (certificate of accommodation) if staying with friends or family in French Guiana.
Application Process
Where to Apply
Schengen visa applications for French Guiana must be submitted through French embassies or consulates in your country of residence, or through authorized visa application centres (VFS Global or TLScontact). Appointments must typically be booked in advance.
Processing Time
Standard processing takes 15 calendar days from submission, though it can extend to 45 days during peak seasons or for applications requiring additional scrutiny. Apply at least 4-6 weeks before your intended travel date.
Biometric Data
First-time Schengen visa applicants must provide biometric data (fingerprints and digital photograph) in person at a visa application centre or consulate. Biometrics are valid for 59 months and stored in the Visa Information System.
Entry Points
French Guiana's main gateway is Cayenne-Felix Eboue International Airport (CAY), receiving flights from Paris, Fort-de-France (Martinique), Pointe-a-Pitre (Guadeloupe), and regional destinations. Land borders exist with Brazil (via the Oyapock River bridge) and Suriname (via ferry from Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni to Albina).
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
French Guiana has an equatorial climate with two main seasons. The dry season (July to December) offers the best conditions for travel and outdoor activities, with August to November being ideal. The wet season (January to June) brings heavy rainfall, though the lush landscape and fewer tourists have their own appeal.
Health Considerations
Yellow fever vaccination is strongly recommended and may be required if arriving from certain countries. Malaria prophylaxis is essential for trips into the interior rainforest. Ensure your travel insurance meets the Schengen minimum of EUR 30,000 medical coverage.
Currency and Payments
French Guiana uses the Euro (EUR) as its currency. Credit cards are widely accepted in Cayenne and Kourou. ATMs are available in urban areas but rare in remote regions — carry cash for interior excursions.
Language
French is the official language, though Creole is widely spoken locally. English is less common than in mainland France, so basic French phrases are helpful. Indigenous languages and Portuguese (due to Brazilian proximity) are also present.
Why Choose DoVisa?
See the difference between applying yourself vs using our expert service
| Feature | Applying Yourself |  With DoVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Application reviewExpert review before submission | ✗No expert check | ✓100% reviewed by experts |
| Document validationCheck documents meet requirements | ✗Risk of rejection | ✓Pre-checked for errors |
| Customer supportHelp when you have questions | ✗Government offices only | ✓24/7 dedicated support |
| Form guidanceAssistance filling out forms | ✗Complex forms alone | ✓Step-by-step guidance |
| Status trackingKnow where your application is | ✗Manual checking | ✓Real-time updates |
| Refund if deniedProtection if visa is rejected | ✗No refund possible | ✓Money-back guarantee |
500+Visas processed
24/7Expert support
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"Excellent service for my Schengen visa to French Guiana! The team guided me through every document requirement. Watching a rocket launch at Kourou was incredible!"
"DoVisa made the Schengen process straightforward. Got my visa in just 12 days. The Amazon rainforest tours from Cayenne were absolutely breathtaking!"
"Good experience overall. Processing took about 3 weeks but communication was excellent throughout. Very helpful checklist for first-time Schengen applicants."
"Applied for business visa to attend space industry conference in Kourou. Everything was handled professionally. The Guiana Space Centre exceeded expectations!"
"Reliable service. Had some questions about insurance requirements and the support team responded quickly. Visa arrived before my trip without issues."
"Outstanding experience! The team really knows French visa requirements for overseas territories. The Maroni River tour was a highlight of my trip."
"First time visiting French Guiana and DoVisa made the visa process completely stress-free. Cayenne's Creole culture and cuisine were wonderful discoveries!"
French Guiana Visa FAQs
Do I need a visa to visit French Guiana?
Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality. EU/EEA citizens and Swiss nationals can enter freely with valid identification. Citizens of visa-exempt countries including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, and over 60 other nations can visit for up to 90 days without a visa. Citizens of China, India, Russia, and most African nations require a Schengen visa. Check the current requirements for your specific nationality before booking.
Is French Guiana part of the Schengen Area?
French Guiana is an overseas department of France and integral part of the European Union, but it is not part of the Schengen Area. However, Schengen visa rules apply for entry requirements. This means you need a Schengen-type visa if your nationality requires one, but a Schengen visa issued for mainland Europe does not automatically grant entry to French Guiana — you must specifically request French Guiana be included in your visa or apply for a separate visa.
What types of visas are available for French Guiana?
French Guiana offers several visa categories following French visa regulations. Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C): For tourism, business, or family visits up to 90 days within 180 days. Long-Stay Visa (Type D): For stays exceeding 90 days, including work, study, or family reunification. Airport Transit Visa: For travelers changing flights at Cayenne airport without leaving the international zone. Specific Territorial Visa: For travel only to French overseas territories without access to mainland France.
How long does French Guiana visa processing take?
Standard processing for a Schengen visa takes 15 calendar days from submission. However, processing can extend to 30-45 days during peak seasons, for applications requiring additional verification, or when administrative consultations are necessary. Recommendation: Apply at least 4-6 weeks before your intended travel date. Applications can be submitted up to 6 months in advance of your planned trip.
What documents do I need for a French Guiana visa?
Standard requirements for a Schengen visa to French Guiana include: Valid passport (3+ months validity beyond departure, 2 blank pages); Completed application form; Recent passport photo (35x45mm, white background); Travel medical insurance (minimum EUR 30,000 coverage); Flight itinerary; Accommodation proof (hotel booking or attestation d'accueil); Financial evidence (bank statements, employment letter); Cover letter explaining your travel purpose. Business travelers need invitation letters from the French Guiana company.
Is travel insurance mandatory for French Guiana?
Yes, travel medical insurance is mandatory for all Schengen visa applicants. The policy must provide minimum coverage of EUR 30,000 for emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and repatriation. The insurance must be valid for the entire duration of your stay and cover all Schengen territories including French overseas departments. Important: Ensure your policy explicitly covers French Guiana, as some insurers exclude overseas territories. DoVisa can recommend approved insurance providers.
How long can I stay in French Guiana with a tourist visa?
A short-stay Schengen visa allows stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This rule is cumulative — any time spent in Schengen countries or French overseas territories sharing the same visa regime counts toward your 90 days. Important: Calculate your allowed days carefully if you've recently visited other Schengen destinations. For stays exceeding 90 days, you must apply for a long-stay visa before traveling.
Can I extend my visa while in French Guiana?
Visa extensions in French Guiana are possible only under exceptional circumstances such as force majeure, humanitarian reasons, or serious personal emergencies. Applications must be made at the Prefecture of French Guiana in Cayenne before your current visa expires. Standard tourism does not qualify for extension. If you need to stay longer, you should return to your home country and apply for a new visa or a long-stay visa appropriate to your purpose.
Can I work in French Guiana with a tourist visa?
No, short-stay Schengen visas do not permit employment in French Guiana. Working without authorization is illegal and can result in deportation, fines, and future visa bans. Legal employment requires a long-stay visa with work authorization, which must be sponsored by a French Guiana employer. The space industry in Kourou employs many international workers through proper work visa channels. Contact the French consulate for work visa requirements specific to your situation.
What is the Guiana Space Centre?
The Guiana Space Centre (Centre Spatial Guyanais) in Kourou is Europe's spaceport, operated by the French space agency CNES on behalf of the European Space Agency (ESA). Located 5 degrees north of the equator, its position provides optimal conditions for launching satellites into geostationary orbit. The facility launches Ariane, Soyuz, and Vega rockets. Visitors can tour the space centre and, with advance booking, witness live rocket launches — a unique attraction that draws science enthusiasts worldwide.
Is yellow fever vaccination required for French Guiana?
Yellow fever vaccination is highly recommended for all travelers to French Guiana due to its tropical location. It is mandatory if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. The vaccination must be administered at least 10 days before arrival and documented on an International Certificate of Vaccination. Additionally, if you plan to visit Brazil or other neighboring countries during your trip, you will need the vaccination certificate for re-entry.
What currency is used in French Guiana?
French Guiana uses the Euro (EUR) as its official currency, being an integral part of France and the Eurozone. Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in Cayenne, Kourou, and tourist establishments. ATMs are available in urban areas. Cash is essential for markets, smaller establishments, and especially for trips into the interior or to indigenous villages. US dollars and Brazilian reais are not generally accepted.
What is the best time to visit French Guiana?
The dry season from July to December offers the best weather for visiting French Guiana, with August to November being optimal. Rocket launches occur year-round at the Guiana Space Centre — check the Arianespace schedule for launch dates. The wet season (January-June) brings heavy rainfall but also lush vegetation and is good for wildlife observation. Carnival (January-March) is a major cultural event worth experiencing despite the rains.
Can I travel to Brazil or Suriname from French Guiana?
Yes, but you need appropriate documentation for each country. Brazil: Accessible via the Oyapock River bridge connecting Saint-Georges to Oiapoque. Check Brazilian visa requirements for your nationality. Suriname: Ferry crossing from Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni to Albina. Suriname has its own visa requirements — many nationalities need e-Tourist Cards or traditional visas. Important: Ensure your French Guiana visa allows multiple entries if you plan to return after visiting neighboring countries.
What are the main attractions in French Guiana?
French Guiana offers diverse attractions. Guiana Space Centre (Kourou): Europe's spaceport with tours and rocket launch viewing. Cayenne: Colonial architecture, markets, Fort Ceperou, and excellent Creole cuisine. Iles du Salut: Former penal colony islands including Devil's Island with historical ruins. Amazon Rainforest: Covering 90% of the territory with exceptional biodiversity. Maroni River: Traditional villages, indigenous cultures, and pristine nature. Carnival: Vibrant celebrations from January to Ash Wednesday.
What languages are spoken in French Guiana?
French is the official and primary language used in government, education, business, and daily life. French Guianese Creole is widely spoken in informal settings. Due to the diverse population, you may also encounter Portuguese (from the significant Brazilian community), Surinamese languages, and various indigenous languages (Wayana, Kali'na, and others). English is less commonly spoken than in mainland France, so basic French is very helpful for travelers.
Do children need their own visa for French Guiana?
Yes, every traveler including infants and children must have their own visa if one is required for their nationality. Children cannot be included on parents' visas. Requirements include: valid passport in the child's name, visa application with child's details, passport photograph meeting specifications, and proof of parental responsibility. Additional requirement: Minors traveling with only one parent or guardians should carry notarized authorization from absent parents and birth certificates.
What happens if my French Guiana visa is rejected?
Visa rejections occur but are manageable with proper preparation. Common reasons: Incomplete documentation, insufficient financial proof, inadequate travel insurance, unclear travel purpose, or previous immigration issues. If rejected: You receive a written notification stating the reason. You can appeal the decision to the relevant French authority within a specified timeframe or reapply with improved documentation addressing the stated concerns. DoVisa guarantee: If rejection is due to our error, we provide a full refund and assist with reapplication at no extra cost.
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