From the Bureau of the Bureaucracy

Its visa time! And here's what I need to provide to the embassy when I go to my visa appointment:

6. Requirements

Original passport or travel document (+ ONE COPY of the identity pages) valid for at least six months. Make sure your passport has blank pages left to affix the visa.
One application form filled out completely and signed by the applicant (please
read carefully the explanation).
Two ID pictures : one glued/stapled onto the application form + one left loose. All
photographs must be recent, in color on a plain white background, of full front view, taken facing the camera. No side or angled view are acceptable. Chin to top of hair should measure about 1"

The work contract duly stamped by the French authorities :
For "assistants de langue vivante" : Your "Arrêté de nomination" stamped by the French Ministry of Labor (Direction Départementale du Travail, de l’Emploi et de la Formation Professionnelle - D.D.T.E.F.P.)
(original + 1 photocopy).
For "lecteurs de langue étrangère" :
either a work agreement from French Office of immigration and integration (OFII). For more information contact the University in France that will host you or the OFII. This document is usually sent directly by the OFII to the consulate. or a "protocole
d’accueil" for scientist, to be provided by the university (original + 1 photocopy).
In both cases, make sure you get these documents before coming to the Consulate.

A self-addressed prepaid EXPRESS MAIL envelope from the US POST OFFICE ONLY - NO FEDEX / UPS / AIRBORNE EXPRESS accepted.Please do NOT stick the mailing label on the envelope and fill out as follows :
FROM:
CONSULATE GENERAL OF FRANCE205N. Michigan Ave, Suite 3700CHICAGO,
IL 60601
TO:
Your full nameYour address

Its complicated, but i'll get there! I'm making my appointment for August 10th, and while in Chicago I'm sure my mom and I will be doing some shopping and lunching on the magnificent mile!