My trip to the consulate to get my visa was pretty painless. After repeatedly checking the requirements on the consulate website, I organized all my files into a folder and marked them with colored tabs. I also brought supplementary documents just in case they needed more information. I wore business attire with a tie just to be sure I would make a good impression because I wasn’t exactly sure what was going to happen inside.
The security in the Boston consulate was pretty tight. I had to show my passport and get a name tag stating which floor I would be visiting. As I arrived at the floor, even the bathroom doors were locked. The French consulate door was also locked and a security person was letting people in whose names were on a list of appointments. Inside, there was a waiting room with 4 other people and counter window, behind which sat the consulate employee. Another applicant was currently being processed. I heard some other applicants talking in the waiting room about how they would be studying in France. My appointment was for a specific time, but they did not adhere to the schedule strictly. The applicants in the waiting room self-queued and approached the counter as the previous person finished.
When it was my turn, I handed the man my files. He peeled off my sticky notes and put the documents in his own order. I then supplied the self-addressed stamped envelope so that they could mail my passport back to me. After that, he just asked how I would pay, I paid, said thank you, and left. I think there is a note on the website, but the person ahead of my had trouble paying for his application. I paid with a debit card. They did not accept credit cards, but I’m not sure what else was accepted.
On the website, it stated that processing time may take up to one month. My girlfriend’s time was closer to that, but I received my passport back within the week. I was pleasantly surprised. So, that was it. All I had left to do was buy my plane ticket and pack!
Living in Paris 