I have a pressing problem for which I need some answers. I am a US citizen and have been in France for 2 months and 3 weeks. I have one week before my tourist status expires.

I have a girlfriend here and we have decided to get married and I want to stay in France (i.e. not leave in one week as scheduled). We have tried to get all the paperwork in time to complete the marriage and apply for the residence card but this is not possible.

If I stay past my legal return date and manage to get married while I am here illegal, what is the likely outcome? Am I to find major hassels when I apply for the residence card?

If I leave the schengen community NOW, with an exit stamp, while I wait for all the paperwork, post the announcement for marriage (have my fiance do it) for the 10 day period, return after and marry immediately and go straight to apply for residency, all within my 90 day legal period, will this work? Is it feasible? What is my best option.

Any ideas are really appreciated!

Thanks, gp