Immigrationboards.com

Hi
A big thank you for the information that is made available on this forum. Only wish the UKba was as informed.

I am a South African and have a family member of a eea national residence card that was issued to me on a A4 paper. My passport expired during the application process.

I am now aware that I can travel visa free with my german partner to schengen countries( thanks to his forum) with my eea rc.

What I am not so sure about is the traveling alone bit. Our leave days dont always allow for us to have off at the same time.

Do I need to apply for a schengen visa to go to France on my own, or can a go through with my eea rc that is on a A4 paper?
I do know that neither the French nor the German embassy issue schengen visa if you have what they call a"loose leaflet" permit.

Apologies in advance for any errors as this was done on my phone.

If travel alone, a visa is required.

Spoke to tls today. They are the French visa services. They confirmed it also.
They also said that I would not be allowed into France with my loose A4 eea residence card even if I am travelling with my german partner. Can they do this?
They also mentioned that I will be asked for a marriage certificate. As far as I am aware under the directive 2004 I do not need to provide any evidence except passport and eea rc.

Any advice would be much appreciated.

Yes, the TLS advises to carry the marriage certificate. I think this is based on French immigrations law which mentions that it is a document establishing the family relationship which exempts from holding an additional visa. The UK issued RC does not establish a link between the holder and the EEA national the document is derived from. But that's just my interpretation. Generally, it is a good idea to take the marriage certificate on travels through Europe.

There are reports on this forum from people who entered France successfully without the marriage certificate. The RC on lose A4 should be accepted too as there is no prescription in law in what format the RC must be issued. I do not know why TLS (or embassy) believes that this format would not be accepted. Again, check the forum for more information.