Use our guide to learn how to apply for a French passport the easy way! Follow our step-by-step instructions and find out what administrative formalities you need to complete, what documents you need to provide and how long it will take. Simplify your formalities, save time and set off on an adventure in total peace of mind thanks to your passport. Whether you're traveling, expatriating or simply need to identify yourself, a passport is an essential document. Get started today!
Get your French passport and prepare to explore the world
A passport is an essential document for traveling abroad, proving your identity or even carrying out certain administrative formalities. As a French citizen, you can obtain a biometric passport by following a clear procedure accessible to all. Whether you're applying for the first time or renewing your passport, here's everything you need to know. steps to follow.
Step 1: Prepare the necessary documents
First of all, make sure you have all the necessary supporting documents. Documents may vary slightly depending on your situation (adult or minor, first application or renewal). Here are the documents generally required:
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A recent passport photo (in compliance with official standards)
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A proof of address (invoice, rent receipt, etc.).
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A identification valid or expired within the last 5 years (national identity card or old passport)
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Visit request form (completed online or on site)
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A tax stamp (86€ for an adult, 42€ for a minor aged 15 to 17, 17€ for a child under 15)
In the event of loss or theft of the previous passport, a declaration must also be attached to the file.
Step 2: Pre-apply online (optional but recommended)
To save time, you can perform a passport pre-application on the Agence Nationale des Titres Sécurisés (ANTS) website:
👉 https://passeport.ants.gouv.fr
Once you have completed the pre-application form, you will receive a file number to present at your appointment. This speeds up processing at the counter.
Step 3: Make an appointment at the town hall
Passport application must be filed in personat a town hall equipped with a biometric station. You can make an appointment at any town hallnot necessarily that of your home.
Tip: some town halls have shorter lead times than others - don't hesitate to compare availability in your area.
Step 4: Submitting your application
The day of the appointment :
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Submit all required documents
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Take your fingerprints (compulsory for 12-year-olds and over)
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Carefully check the information entered on the form
A deposit receipt which you should keep in a safe place until you collect your passport.
Step 5: Tracking passport production
Once you have submitted your application, you can track its progress on the ANTS website. Visit average time varies from period to period and from department to department, but it is generally 2 to 4 weeks.
You will receive an SMS or e-mail when your passport is available at the town hall.
Step 6: Collect your passport
Withdrawal is in personusually at the same town hall where the application was submitted. You must bring :
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Receipt of deposit
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A piece of identification
The passport must be collected within 3 months maximum otherwise it will be destroyed.
In conclusion
Applying for a French passport is accessible to everyone, as long as you're well prepared. Whether you're going on vacation, on a professional mission or on a world tour, this document will open the doors to many countries. Thanks to this guide, you'll be able to start the process with complete confidence. So don't waste any more time: prepare your documents, make an appointment... and bon voyage! ✈️🌍
