Do you want to study in France and are wondering which visa to choose?
This article clearly explains the different types of visas (short stay, VLS-T or VLS-TS), how to prepare your file step by step on France Visas and Campus France, and all the procedures to do once there: visa validation, insurance, student job and useful help during your studies.
Short-stay visa for studies or competitions
For stays up to 90 days : exams, competitions, summer schools, short courses.
Long-stay visa equivalent to residence permit (VLS-TS)
This is the most common visa for higher education lasting more than 3 months.
It acts as a residence permit for the first year, but you must validate it online or at the OFII within 3 months following your arrival (see on service-public.fr).
Temporary long stay visa (VLS-T)
Designed for certain long but not permanent stays (internships, specific programs).
It offers fewer rights than a VLS-TS.
In summary
Less than 90 days → Short-stay visa.
1.Create your account on France Visas
Complete the online form and generate the custom checklist.
2.Prepare essential documents
Acceptance letter/enrollment certificate
3.Pay the visa fees
Print and keep the payment receipt.
4.Make an appointment at the consulate or at the VAC/VFS
Come to the appointment for biometric enrollment (photo + fingerprints).
5.Anticipate the processing time
The deadlines vary according to the season and the country (often 2 to 6 weeks). Provide a margin for translations or additional documents requested by the administration.
6. Get your visa
Go to the consulate or the deposit center to pick up your passport and immediately check the duration and details of the visa before traveling.
At the end, pick up your visa at the consulate or via the deposit center. Check your passport and the length of time granted before you travel.
Practical option : to strengthen your file and speed up the process of obtaining your visa, chooseIrrevocable Payment Certificate (AVI) | Studely — a reliable and fast solution, recognized by French embassies. In a few clicks, you prove your solvency and put all the chances on your side to get your student visa.
The first weeks are decisive to get your stay off to a good start.
1. Validate your visa
If you have a VLS-TS, you must validate it within three months of your arrival by following the online procedure on the website of theOFII.
This step includes:
the payment of the tax,
For a extension of stay (new academic year, change of status, employment...), begin applying for a residence permit at the competent prefecture as soon as possible. Make an appointment online and prepare your file: previous residence permit, registration certificate, proof of resources and accommodation.
2. Work legally
As an international student, you can work up to 964 hours per year (approximately 20 hours per week). Always check that your contract respects this limit and keeps Your pay slips, they can be requested when renewing a title.
3. Manage your health and insurance
Quickly register for student social security (AMELI) or, depending on your situation, opt for private insurance. Students with low incomes can benefit from the Complementary health solidarity (CSS).
4. Simplify your daily life
Open a French bank account as soon as you arrive to obtain your RIB, pay your rent and facilitate administrative procedures.
Also think about:
enroll in your university,
And for the renewal of your residence permit, secure your proof of resources with Studely's pay certificate, recognized by the prefectures and accepted for all administrative procedures.
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