Can I Travel to France with an Attestation Prolongation Instead of a Return Visa?

19/11/2024

Question that inspired this post(posted on 19/11/2024):

My wife is outside of France. She applied for a return visa two months ago but the visa is not ready yet. We received the attestation prolongation instruction for her resident permit application today. Can she travel to France with this document? We need to forget about the visa

Top Answer

"She can come back with the attestation de prolongation + the expired visa or recent expired carte de sejure." -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

AI Generator

Based on the information provided and the current situation, here's what you need to know about your wife's ability to travel to France:

1. Attestation de prolongation d'instruction:

This document is typically issued when the processing of a residence permit application is taking longer than expected. However, its validity for travel depends on several factors.

2. Travel restrictions:

If this is a first-time application for a residence permit, the attestation de prolongation d'instruction generally does not allow travel and entry into the Schengen area. --> For renewal applications, this document is usually valid only when accompanied by a previously held residence permit or long-stay visa, even if it has expired.

3. Visa de retour (return visa):

The fact that your wife has applied for a return visa suggests that she doesn't have a valid residence permit or visa to enter France. In this case, the attestation alone is unlikely to be sufficient for travel.

4. Risks of travel without proper documentation:

Attempting to enter France without the appropriate visa or residence permit can lead to serious complications, including being denied entry at the border.

5. The recommended course of action:

   1. Do not attempt to travel using only the attestation de prolongation d'instruction.

   2. Continue to wait for the return visa, as this is the safest and most legally sound option.

   3. Contact the French consulate or embassy where the return visa application was submitted to inquire about the status and potentially expedite the process.

6. Additional considerations:

   1. If your wife's situation has changed since applying for the return visa (e.g., receiving the attestation), inform the consulate as it might affect her application.

   2. Keep all documentation, including the attestation, ready for when the return visa is issued, as they may be required at border control.

   In conclusion, your wife shouldn't attempt to travel to France with only the attestation de prolongation d'instruction. The safest course of action is to wait for the return visa to be issued. If there are urgent circumstances necessitating her return, consider contacting the French consulate to explain the situation and see if they can expedite the visa process.