Visas, what are the exemptions?
Thursday, 31 May 2007
“An Australian orchestra is going to perform in a festival in France. Do the Australian musicians need a visa in addition to the temporary work permit issued by Direccte?”
All foreigners entering and staying on French territory must be in possession of a valid entry and temporary stay visa, barring exemption.
Visa exemptions for foreign artists performing in France mainly depend on their nationality and their length of stay. This is unrelated to the temporary work permit.
Nb > Other criteria may also apply, such as the possession of a residence permit for France or another state that is party to the Schengen agreement.
For short stays1, European regulations list the countries whose nationals are exempted from a visa to enter the Schengen area. These countries include Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, South Korea, etc.
The Australian artists you are going to invite do not therefore need a visa.
You can check this point at www.diplomatie.gouv.fr, “Coming to France”, then “Entering France”, “Do you need a visa”, or enquire at the French consular authorities (contact details available at www.mfe.org, “Directories”, then “French embassies and consulates abroad”).
1 Less than 90 days in the Schengen area
