I am trying to get a visa to stay in France for more than 90 days at a time. The requirements are daunting to say the least. Has anyone out there done this via the Chicago consulate, and if so, any suggestions? I'm retired and have been staying in Brittany for 10 week segments, but would like to stay for 4 or 5 months at a time.
If you are retired, it shouldn't be difficult to get a longer stay visa. It will take time and money, though, as some documents need to be translated into French, and you'll need to prove you have health insurance and a place to stay in France. There's a fee to be paid, too. You have to follow the guidelines and have all your papers ready, your i's dotted and your t's crossed, but it's not all that difficult.
One of my daughters spent a semester in France. We got her visa at the French consulate in Chicago and it was a piece of cake. She did have to go there in person.