Studying in France is somewhat of a dream for many international students from all around the globe. Whether it’s to pursue a full academic program, spend a year, or several semesters, there are many who wish to take this step.
It’s true that French universities and schools have an excellent reputation internationally. Culinary, architecture, or fashion schools; universities specializing in the humanities or medicine: the programs offered in both French and English are significant advantages in attracting foreign students.
To start or complete your studies, you might need to obtain a visa. If so, whether it’s for a short or long stay, you’ll have to apply for one because yes, a visa doesn’t just happen. No need to panic! Different types of visas, procedures to follow, documents required, costs, and processing times, possibilities for renewal: all the answers to your questions can be found in this article. Everything you need to head off to new adventures with peace of mind.
The different types of student visas for France
Depending on the length and purpose of your stay in France, you can choose from several types of visas:
- Short-Stay Visa
This type of visa is best suited for training courses and internships that last less than 3 months. It can also be useful for any other paid academic activity. However, it must be used within 90 days over a maximum period of 180 days.
- Long-Stay Visa Requiring a Residence Permit (VLS-T)
This visa must be applied for within 3 months prior to your arrival in France. If it suits what you are looking for and you wish to apply for it, you must do so at the French embassy or consulate in your country of residence. Once your visa is issued, the next step is to apply for your residence permit. This is essential and must be requested within 2 months of your arrival on French territory. To obtain it, you should contact the prefecture of your place of residence in France. If you reside in Paris, go directly to the police prefecture. If you reside elsewhere in France, you will only need to go to the prefecture or sub-prefecture closest to your city of residence. With this visa, you can also apply for a work permit for a maximum of 964 hours per year, or obtain a waiver if you start an apprenticeship program.
- Long-Stay Visa Valid as a Residence Permit (VLS-TS)
Finally, this last type of visa is probably the most used by foreign students coming to study in France. If you need to use this one, you should start your procedures 3 to 6 months before your arrival on French soil. The visa on your passport is equivalent to a residence permit. It must be validated within 3 months of your arrival. If you wish to extend your studies in France, you will need to apply for a residence permit 2 months before your visa expires.
The process is completely digital, but be careful, if you do not complete the procedures before the deadline, you may find yourself in an irregular situation. So pay close attention! To learn more, visit the government’s website directly.
Documents and prerequisites for the student visa application
To initiate one of the previously mentioned visa applications, you will, of course, need to provide several pieces of evidence regarding your personal and professional situation:
- The original and a copy of your passport (or travel document as you may find), which should be less than 10 years old
- 2 identity photographs
- The original and a copy of your proof of travel purpose. This can be a certificate of enrollment at a university, a school, or a work contract
- The means of payment you will use to make your request.
To be eligible for a visa, you also need to demonstrate the following:
- Being at least 18 years old
- Being accepted into a higher education institution (university, school, etc.)
- Having sufficient financial resources to live independently in France or the ability to “legally acquire” them through professional activity (work, apprenticeship, etc.)
- Not posing a threat to French territory and the Schengen area.
- Having accommodation: one month’s hotel reservation or another type of housing.
If it reassures you, you can also subscribe to an insurance that covers your potential medical and hospital expenses.
If your country of residence is eligible for the visa, you can then start the application process and begin the procedures online. If your country is not eligible, you will need to visit this designated page and follow the instructions adapted to your situation.
It is also possible that your visa application may be rejected for several reasons. One of the most common reasons could be a lack of financial means. Don’t worry, you can reapply one or more times, but make sure you have the minimum required to come to France.
Online student visa application process
The student visa application process can now begin! Of course, there will be several steps to follow:
1.Inform about your situation
Use the Visa Assistant to determine which visa will be most suitable for your situation. This entirely digitalalised step takes the shape of an online form where you will need to enter: your nationality, your age, your residence from where your visa application is made, the type of visa you wish to obtain, etc.
2. Fill out the visa application form
Once you have obtained an answer about the type of visa that will be most useful to you, you will need to complete your request by filling out the associated form. The required documents are those previously mentioned, namely:
- 2 passport-sized photos
- The original and a photocopy of your passport
- Proof of the reason for your trip to France (original and copy)
- The means of payment for your visa application
3. Make an appointment
After filling out your form, it’s time to schedule an appointment with one of the visa centers. You will need to go to the French embassy in your country of origin. You should plan well in advance because for a short-stay visa, you should make your appointment 6 months before your arrival in the Schengen area, and for a long-stay visa, between 15 days and 3 months before your arrival in France.
4. Submit your file
On the day of the appointment, do not forget to attend with a complete file (CERFA and receipt), as well as the required documents in original and copy. In most cases, the appointment lasts about half an hour. The agent will also collect your biometric data (10 fingerprints) and a passport photo. Your passport will also be requisitioned for the time to print your visa. Yes, if you’ve never had a visa before, it’s placed within your passport 😉
5. Follow your application
Your file is now being processed. You will have to wait between 15 and 45 days before receiving your visa and therefore, your passport. This service is provided by the visa centers. You must go there to collect it, or in some cases and countries, it can be delivered to you by post.
Where and when to apply for your student visa?
As we previously mentioned, your visa application should be carried out at a center such as the French Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
If you are studying at a French institution abroad, do not hesitate to consult the support unit within your French High School Abroad (AEFE). On the other hand, if you are completing your education at a standard high school in your country, be sure to follow Campus France to maximize your chances of successfully obtaining your visa in time.
In any case, as soon as you receive your initial baccalaureate results and make your choices on Parcoursup, begin your visa application process without delay.
Student visa fees and renewal
Unsurprisingly, obtaining a visa comes with a cost. However, there isn’t a fixed price as it can vary over time. According to the government website, countries and territories affiliated with EEF (Studies in France) might pay a fee of €50. Other countries may need to pay €99 to secure their visa. These rates are indicative and subject to specific exceptions. Bear in mind that if you need to renew your passport simultaneously with your visa, you should consider the combined cost of both documents.
The long-stay visa (VLS-TS) is initially valid for up to one year. If you’re continuing your studies and wish to stay longer, you can’t simply renew this visa; you will need to apply for a residency permit. To ensure you get it on time, you should begin the residency permit application at least three months before your visa expires.
It is much easier for your visa to be granted or your residence permit to be renewed when you have accommodation. If you live abroad, this is not the easiest task. That’s why, have you ever considered trying coliving? Halfway between a shared apartment and a hotel, coliving has already won over thousands of people in France. Colivys supports you in your visa application process, and even before that. Since having accommodation is a prerequisite for obtaining your visa, this could be of help to you. So don’t hesitate and book your coliving room now!
Frequently asked questions about student visas
You will need to submit a file containing two passport-sized photos, your passport, and proof of enrollment in a higher education program.
To obtain a student visa, you must be 18 or older and provide the previously mentioned documents. You will also need to complete an application form and demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support yourself.
A guarantor is not required to obtain a student visa. However, having a guarantor can be beneficial when securing housing in France.
The long-stay visa, which also serves as a residence permit, is generally the easiest to obtain and is the most frequently issued visa for students.
