Get Your Réunion Visa Online
Fast, secure visa processing for hiking adventures, volcanic exploration, and unforgettable island experiences
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Réunion Visa
Simple 4-step process — most applications approved within 5-15 business days
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our streamlined application form with your personal details, travel dates, and accommodation plans. Since Réunion is a French overseas department, you'll be applying for a French Schengen visa. Our system guides you through each requirement and validates your information against French consulate standards.
2
Upload your documents
Submit your passport scan (bio page clearly visible), recent passport-sized photographs, proof of accommodation, travel insurance, flight itinerary, and financial documents. Our specialists review every document to ensure compliance with French visa requirements before submission.
3
Attend biometric appointment
For Schengen visa applications, you'll need to provide biometrics at a French consulate or visa application center. We help schedule your appointment and prepare you with a checklist of documents to bring. This step is essential for first-time applicants.
4
Receive your visa
Once approved, your Schengen visa sticker is placed in your passport. Collect it from the visa center and you're ready to explore Réunion's spectacular volcanic landscapes, UNESCO-listed cirques, and pristine natural beauty!
Réunion Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Short-Stay Schengen Visa
Up to 90 days
For tourism, hiking, and leisure travel
Business Visa
Up to 90 days
For meetings and commercial activities
Visa Exemption
Up to 90 days
EU/EEA citizens and Schengen-free nationalities
Long-Stay Visa
Over 90 days
For extended stays and family visits
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid 3+ months beyond return with 2 blank pages
- Travel insurance with €30,000 minimum medical coverage
- Return or onward flight ticket required
- Confirmed hotel booking or accommodation proof
- Proof of sufficient funds (€65/day minimum)
- Passport photos 35x45mm, white background, recent
Tourism & Visa-Free Entry
Réunion is a French overseas department located in the Indian Ocean, making it part of the European Union with French Schengen visa rules applying. This volcanic island paradise offers some of the most spectacular hiking and natural scenery in the world.
Visa-Free Entry — EU/EEA Citizens
Citizens of European Union member states, the European Economic Area (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway), and Switzerland can enter Réunion freely with just a valid passport or national ID card. There's no time limit on stays for EU citizens, who enjoy full freedom of movement.
Schengen Visa-Free Nationalities
Citizens from countries with Schengen visa exemption agreements — including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and many others — can visit Réunion for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa. Simply present your valid passport at Roland Garros Airport in Saint-Denis.
Entry Requirements for Visa-Exempt Travelers
Even without a visa requirement, you must present: a passport valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended departure date with minimum 2 blank pages, return or onward travel tickets, proof of accommodation, and evidence of sufficient funds (approximately €65 per day recommended).
Business & Long-Stay Visas
Business Visa
The Schengen business visa for Réunion caters to professionals conducting commercial activities. This includes attending business meetings, trade conferences, and economic forums; exploring investment opportunities; establishing trade contacts with local businesses; conducting market research; and negotiating contracts. Business visas allow stays up to 90 days and require documentation including an invitation letter from a Réunion or French company, your employer's letter, and a detailed business itinerary.
Long-Stay Visa (Visa de Long Séjour)
For stays exceeding 90 days, you'll need a French long-stay visa. This applies to those planning extended family visits, research projects, internships, or studying at Réunion's university. Long-stay visa holders must register with local authorities upon arrival and may need to apply for a residence permit depending on stay duration.
Work & Residence
Working in Réunion requires appropriate work authorization. As an EU overseas territory, non-EU citizens need a work visa obtained before arrival. The process involves employer sponsorship and approval from French labor authorities. EU citizens can work freely but should register with local authorities for stays exceeding 3 months.
Requirements & Documentation
Essential Requirements for All Visa Applicants
All Schengen visa applicants for Réunion must provide:
• Passport validity: Minimum 3 months beyond intended departure with at least 2 blank pages for stamps
• Travel insurance: Mandatory coverage of at least €30,000 for medical emergencies and repatriation, valid in all Schengen territories including French overseas departments
• Proof of accommodation: Hotel reservation, rental agreement, or invitation letter (attestation d'accueil) from a host in Réunion with their proof of residence
• Return transportation: Confirmed round-trip flight reservation showing entry and exit from Réunion
• Financial means: Bank statements (last 3-6 months), employment letter, or proof of sufficient funds — approximately €65 per day minimum
• Photographs: Two recent passport photos (35x45mm, white background, taken within last 6 months)
Biometric Requirements
First-time Schengen visa applicants must provide fingerprints at a French consulate or visa application center. Biometrics are stored for 5 years and simplify future applications.
Entry Points & Practical Information
Entry Points & Immigration
Réunion has one main entry point for international travelers:
• Roland Garros Airport (RUN): Located near Saint-Denis, this is the island's international airport serving flights from Paris, Mauritius, Madagascar, South Africa, and other regional destinations. Modern facilities with efficient immigration processing.
• Port de la Pointe des Galets: The main seaport primarily handles cargo and inter-island ferries, with limited passenger cruise arrivals.
Immigration Process
Upon arrival, proceed to immigration where officers verify your passport, visa (if required), and entry conditions. For visa-exempt travelers, this typically takes 5-10 minutes. You'll receive an entry stamp. Keep your boarding pass and accommodation proof accessible.
Currency & Practical Matters
Réunion uses the Euro (EUR) as its currency. ATMs are widely available in Saint-Denis, Saint-Pierre, and other towns. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops. French is the official language, though Réunion Creole is widely spoken.
Best Time to Visit
The dry season (May to November) offers ideal conditions for hiking the cirques and climbing Piton de la Fournaise. The wet season (December to April) brings tropical showers but lush vegetation and fewer tourists.
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 |
1,000+Visas processed
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"The Schengen visa process for Réunion seemed daunting, but DoVisa made it simple. The hiking in Cirque de Mafate was absolutely worth it!"
"Excellent service! They helped me prepare all documents for my biometric appointment. Réunion's volcanoes are incredible. Highly recommend!"
"Good support team that answered all my questions about the French visa requirements. Processing took a bit longer than expected but got approved."
"As a Canadian, I was able to enter visa-free. DoVisa confirmed this and saved me unnecessary hassle. The cirques are UNESCO treasures!"
"Business trip to Saint-Denis went smoothly. The invitation letter guidance was very helpful. French island efficiency at its finest!"
"The document checklist was comprehensive. Had everything ready for my appointment. Piton de la Fournaise eruption was the highlight of my trip!"
"Third time using DoVisa for French territory visas. Always reliable and professional. Réunion exceeded all expectations!"
"Trekking the GR R2 was a dream come true. DoVisa's team was helpful with all the Schengen requirements. Will definitely return!"
Réunion Visa FAQs
What types of visas are available for Réunion?
Since Réunion is a French overseas department, French Schengen visa rules apply. Short-stay Schengen visa allows stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period for tourism, business, or family visits. Long-stay visa (Visa de Long Séjour) is required for stays exceeding 90 days, including work, study, or extended family visits. Visa exemption applies to EU/EEA citizens who can stay indefinitely, and citizens of Schengen visa-free countries (US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, etc.) who can visit for up to 90 days without a visa. The appropriate visa type depends on your nationality, purpose of visit, and intended length of stay in Réunion.
Do I need a visa to visit Réunion?
EU/EEA citizens: No visa required — enter freely with passport or national ID card, no time limit on stays. Schengen visa-exempt nationalities: Citizens of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and approximately 60 other countries can visit visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Visa required: Citizens of countries not in the Schengen visa-free list must obtain a French Schengen visa before travel. This includes most African, Asian, and Middle Eastern nationalities. Check the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or contact us to verify your specific nationality's requirements for Réunion entry.
What documents are required for a Réunion Schengen visa?
Essential documents: Completed visa application form; passport valid at least 3 months beyond planned departure with 2+ blank pages; two recent passport photos (35x45mm, white background); travel medical insurance covering minimum €30,000 including repatriation; proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter with host's attestation d'accueil); round-trip flight reservation; proof of sufficient funds (bank statements showing approximately €65/day, employment letter, or sponsor letter); travel itinerary. Business applicants: Add invitation letter from Réunion company, employer letter, and business itinerary. Biometrics: First-time Schengen applicants must provide fingerprints at a French consulate or visa application center.
How long can I stay in Réunion?
EU/EEA citizens: No limit — freedom of movement applies as Réunion is French/EU territory. Schengen visa-exempt travelers: Up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This is calculated across all Schengen territories combined, so previous time in mainland France or other Schengen countries counts against your allowance. Short-stay Schengen visa holders: As specified on your visa, maximum 90 days within 180 days. Long-stay visa holders: Duration as approved, typically 3-12 months initially, with possibility of residence permit application. Important: Overstaying is a serious offense resulting in fines, deportation, and potential Schengen-wide entry bans. Track your days carefully using the Schengen calculator.
Can I extend my stay in Réunion?
Extensions are generally difficult for short-stay visitors. EU citizens: No extension needed as there's no time limit. Visa-exempt visitors: The 90/180-day rule is strictly enforced; extensions are only granted in exceptional circumstances (medical emergencies, force majeure) by applying at the Préfecture in Saint-Denis. You cannot extend simply to continue your holiday. Schengen visa holders: Similarly limited to exceptional circumstances. Alternative: If you wish to stay longer, you must leave the Schengen area for at least 90 days before returning, or apply for a long-stay visa from your home country before traveling. Long-stay visa holders: Can apply for residence permit renewal at the Préfecture before current authorization expires.
What is the Schengen visa and how does it apply to Réunion?
The Schengen visa is a short-stay visa for the Schengen Area, a zone of 27 European countries that have abolished passport controls at mutual borders. As a French overseas department, Réunion is not part of the Schengen Area geographically but follows French visa rules. Key distinction: A Schengen visa issued specifically for Réunion (French overseas territories) may have limited territorial validity — it might allow travel only to Réunion and not mainland France or other Schengen countries. Conversely, a standard Schengen visa for mainland France may not automatically include French overseas territories. When applying: Specify Réunion as your destination and confirm the visa's territorial validity covers French overseas departments (DOM-TOM).
Can I work in Réunion with a tourist visa?
No, tourist visas and visa-free entry do not permit employment in Réunion. EU/EEA citizens: Can work freely in Réunion as it's EU territory, though should register with authorities for stays over 3 months. Non-EU citizens: Require a work visa obtained before arrival. The employer must demonstrate the position cannot be filled by an EU citizen, obtain labor authority approval, and sponsor your application. Remote work: Working remotely for a non-French employer while on tourist entry is a legal gray area. Technically, you're not employed in France, but extended remote work may require appropriate visa status. Penalties: Working illegally risks fines, deportation, and future visa denials for France and the entire Schengen zone.
How long does Réunion visa processing take?
Processing times vary based on visa type and your nationality. Visa-free entry: No advance processing — simply arrive with required documents and receive entry stamp at immigration (typically 5-10 minutes). Short-stay Schengen visa: Standard processing is 15 calendar days from biometric appointment, though French consulates recommend applying 3-6 weeks before travel. During peak season (summer, holidays), processing may take up to 30-45 days. Long-stay visa: 2-3 months processing time typical due to additional background checks. Factors affecting speed: Application completeness, supporting document quality, applicant's travel history, consulate workload, and need for additional verification. Tip: Apply as early as possible (up to 6 months before travel) and ensure all documents are complete.
What happens if my Réunion visa is rejected?
French Schengen visa rejections, while uncommon for well-prepared applications, can occur. Common reasons: Insufficient proof of funds; incomplete documentation; inadequate travel insurance; doubts about purpose of travel; previous immigration violations; weak ties to home country. Notification: You'll receive written rejection with general reason codes (based on EU Visa Code categories). Appeal process: You can file a formal appeal (recours gracieux) with the consulate within 2 months, providing additional documentation addressing the rejection reasons. If unsuccessful, administrative court appeal is possible. Reapplication: You can submit a new application immediately with improved documentation. Previous rejection doesn't automatically disqualify future applications. DoVisa guarantee: If rejection results from our preparation error, we provide refund and free reapplication assistance.
Do I need vaccinations for Réunion?
Réunion has no mandatory vaccinations for most travelers. Yellow fever: Certificate required only if arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic country. Recommended vaccinations: Ensure routine vaccinations are current (tetanus, diphtheria, hepatitis A/B). Dengue fever: Present in Réunion — use mosquito repellent, especially during rainy season (December-April). No vaccine widely available. Chikungunya: Also mosquito-borne; same prevention measures apply. COVID-19: Requirements have largely been lifted; verify current rules before travel. Healthcare: French healthcare system applies — excellent medical facilities in Saint-Denis and Saint-Pierre. EU citizens should bring European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). All visitors should have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, as treatment costs can be high for non-EU visitors.
When is the best time to visit Réunion?
Réunion has two distinct seasons, both offering unique experiences. Dry season (May-November): Ideal for hiking and outdoor activities. Cooler temperatures (15-25°C), clear skies, and minimal rainfall make this perfect for trekking the cirques, climbing Piton de la Fournaise, and exploring the highlands. Peak tourist season is July-August and October school holidays. Wet season (December-April): Warmer and humid (25-35°C) with afternoon tropical showers. Lush vegetation, waterfalls at full flow, and fewer tourists. Cyclone season (January-March) may bring weather disruptions — monitor forecasts. Best for activities: Hiking: May-November; Whale watching: June-October (humpback whales); Volcano: Year-round but clearest views May-November; Beaches: Year-round at western coast lagoons.
What are the main attractions in Réunion?
Réunion offers extraordinary natural diversity. UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Pitons, cirques and remparts covering 40% of the island — dramatic volcanic landscapes including three cirques (Mafate, Cilaos, Salazie), towering peaks, and pristine forests. Piton de la Fournaise: One of the world's most active volcanoes with regular eruptions; hike to the crater for unforgettable views. Piton des Neiges: The island's highest peak (3,070m) and the highest point in the Indian Ocean — challenging but rewarding summit trek. Cirque de Mafate: Accessible only by foot or helicopter, offering remote villages and pristine hiking. Waterfalls: Trou de Fer (300m), Cascade du Voile de la Mariée in Salazie. Beaches: Lagoon beaches at Saint-Gilles, L'Hermitage, and Boucan Canot. Culture: Saint-Denis colonial architecture, Hindu temples, Creole cuisine, and vanilla plantations.
Is Réunion safe for tourists?
Réunion is considered very safe for tourists, with French infrastructure, law enforcement, and emergency services. General safety: Low crime rates, though exercise normal precautions with valuables, especially in busy areas. Natural hazards: The main risks are natural — volcanic activity (follow official guidance during eruptions), sudden weather changes in mountains (pack appropriate gear, inform someone of hiking plans), strong currents at unprotected beaches, and shark risk on east coast (swim only in protected lagoons or netted areas). Road safety: Mountain roads are winding and can be challenging; drive cautiously. Health: Excellent French healthcare; mosquito-borne diseases present — use repellent. Emergency numbers: Police 17, Medical emergency 15, Fire 18, European emergency 112 (all work in Réunion).
Do children need their own visa for Réunion?
Yes, every traveler including infants requires their own valid travel documents. Requirements for children: Valid passport in child's own name with 3+ months validity beyond departure; if visa required, separate application for each child with same documentation requirements as adults; passport-sized photographs. Unaccompanied minors: France requires specific documentation — parental consent forms (autorisation de sortie du territoire), birth certificate, and receiving party details in Réunion. Children with one parent: Carry consent letter from absent parent (ideally notarized), birth certificate, and custody documents if applicable. French authorities are particularly vigilant about child trafficking. Biometrics: Children under 12 are exempt from fingerprinting requirements for Schengen visas, but must still attend appointment for photograph.
What is the currency in Réunion?
Réunion uses the Euro (EUR) as its official currency, being a French department. ATMs: Widely available in Saint-Denis, Saint-Pierre, Saint-Gilles, and other towns. International cards (Visa, Mastercard) work well; inform your bank of travel to avoid blocks. Credit cards: Accepted at hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, and most businesses. Some smaller vendors, market stalls, and rural gîtes (mountain lodges) may prefer cash. Currency exchange: Not necessary if arriving with Euros; otherwise, exchange at airport or banks in Saint-Denis. Costs: Réunion is more expensive than neighboring islands due to French standards — budget €80-150/day for mid-range travel. Tipping: Not obligatory (service included in French restaurants) but rounding up or small tips are appreciated for good service.
Do I need to print my visa?
For Réunion (French Schengen visa), your visa is a physical sticker placed in your passport — you don't need to print anything separately. Schengen visa format: Unlike some electronic visas, Schengen visas are sticker visas affixed to a passport page by the consulate. Collect your passport with the visa sticker from the visa application center after approval. At immigration: Officers will check the visa sticker in your passport, verify validity dates and territorial scope, and stamp your entry. Visa-free travelers: No visa document needed — simply present your passport and supporting documents (accommodation proof, return ticket, sufficient funds) at immigration. Keep safe: Your passport with visa sticker is essential — report loss immediately to police and nearest French consulate.
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