Planning to study in France for more than 90 days? You will need a long-stay student visa (VLS-TS étudiant). This guide explains how to apply for a long-stay student visa for France, from acceptance into a French institution to receiving your visa. Follow each step carefully to avoid delays or rejection.
Table des matières:
What Is a Long-Stay Student Visa for France?
The long-stay student visa (visa de long séjour pour études) allows non-EU/EEA nationals to study in France for more than three months. It serves as both a visa and a residence permit (VLS-TS) for the first year. After arrival, you must validate it with the French Office for Immigration and Integration (OFII).
Who Needs This Visa?
You need a long-stay student visa if you are a citizen of a non-EU/EEA country and plan to enroll in a French higher education program lasting more than 90 days. This includes bachelor’s, master’s, PhD, language courses, or exchange programs. Citizens of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland do not need this visa.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Long-Stay Student Visa for France
1. Obtain Acceptance from a French Higher Education Institution
Before applying for a visa, you must be accepted into a recognized French institution. You need an acceptance letter or a pre-registration certificate. Many students apply through the Campus France procedure, especially if you are from a country that requires the Études en France process.
- Check if your country is part of the Études en France system. If so, you must create an account, submit documents, and attend an interview with Campus France.
- If your country does not use Campus France, you can apply directly to the institution and then proceed to the visa application.
2. Complete the Campus France Process (If Required)
For many countries, the Campus France interview is mandatory. You will need to provide academic transcripts, language test scores (e.g., DELF/DALF for French, IELTS/TOEFL for English programs), and a study plan. After the interview, you receive a certificate that you must attach to your visa application.
3. Prepare Your Visa Application Documents
Gather the following required documents for the long-stay student visa application:
- Valid passport (with at least two blank pages, issued within the last 10 years)
- Long-stay visa application form (filled online via France-Visas)
- Recent passport-sized photos (meeting French visa photo requirements)
- Proof of acceptance from a French institution (attestation de préinscription or acceptance letter)
- Proof of financial means: at least €615 per month (€7,380 per year) – bank statements, scholarship letter, or sponsor letter
- Proof of accommodation in France (dormitory reservation, rental agreement, or host letter)
- Health insurance: must cover the entire stay (minimum €30,000 coverage)
- Return flight reservation (optional but recommended)
- Campus France certificate (if applicable)
- Academic transcripts and diplomas
- Language proficiency certificates (if required by the institution)
4. Fill Out the France-Visas Application Form
Go to the official France-Visas website and create an account. Complete the online application form with accurate personal, travel, and study details. After submission, you will receive a list of required documents and an appointment link for the visa application center.
5. Schedule and Attend the Visa Appointment
Book an appointment at the French consulate or authorized visa application center (such as VFS Global, TLScontact, or Capago) in your home country. Bring all original documents plus copies. At the appointment:
- Submit your application form and documents
- Provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo)
- Pay the visa fee (currently €99 for a long-stay student visa, subject to change)
- Attend a brief interview (questions about your study plans, financial means, and intention to return)
6. Wait for Processing
Processing times vary from 2 weeks to 2 months. Apply at least 3 months before your program start date. You can track your application online via France-Visas.
7. Collect Your Visa and Validate It in France
Once approved, you will receive a visa sticker in your passport. Upon arrival in France, you must validate your long-stay visa within 3 months by visiting the OFII website (or the dedicated online portal). You will need to pay a validation fee (€60 for students) and upload your visa and passport details. After validation, you receive a residence permit equivalent (VLS-TS) valid for one year.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a Long-Stay Student Visa for France
- Submitting incomplete or incorrect documents – double-check the checklist on France-Visas
- Waiting until the last minute – start the process 6 months in advance
- Providing insufficient financial proof – show consistent bank statements or a clear sponsor letter
- Not having a clear study plan – be ready to explain your choice of program and future goals
- Ignoring the Campus France requirement – if you skip it, your visa may be refused
Visa Fee and Financial Requirements
As of 2025, the long-stay student visa fee is €99. Some nationalities may be exempt or pay reduced fees. For financial proof, you must show at least €615 per month for the academic year. Acceptable documents include:
- Personal bank statements (last 3-6 months)
- Scholarship award letter
- Sponsorship letter from parents with their bank statements
- Proof of a student loan
What Happens After You Get the Visa?
Upon arrival, you must:
- Validate your visa online at administration-etrangers-en-france.interieur.gouv.fr within 3 months.
- Pay the validation fee (€60 for students).
- Keep the validation certificate as proof of legal stay.
- If you plan to work, note that student visa holders can work up to 964 hours per year (about 20 hours per week).
- Apply for a residence permit renewal before your VLS-TS expires if your studies continue.
Renewal and Long-Term Stay
The long-stay student visa is valid for one year. For subsequent years, you must apply for a renewed residence permit (carte de séjour étudiant) at the local préfecture. Requirements include proof of enrollment, financial means, and attendance. After several years of study, you may be eligible for a temporary resident card or even permanent residence.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to get a long-stay student visa for France?
Processing typically takes 2 to 8 weeks. Apply at least 3 months before your program starts to allow for delays.
2. Can I work on a long-stay student visa in France?
Yes, you can work up to 964 hours per year (about 20 hours per week) without needing a separate work permit.
3. What if my visa application is rejected?
You can appeal the decision within 30 days of refusal. Alternatively, reapply with corrected documents. Common reasons for refusal include insufficient funds or unclear study plans.
4. Do I need a French bank account to apply for the visa?
No, you do not need a French bank account at the application stage. However, you may need one after arrival for daily expenses and rent.
5. Is health insurance mandatory for the visa?
Yes, you must have health insurance covering the entire stay with a minimum coverage of €30,000. After validation, you can register for French social security (Sécurité Sociale) if you are enrolled in a recognized institution.
6. Can I travel within the Schengen Area with this visa?
Yes, the long-stay student visa allows you to travel freely within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
Final Checklist Before You Apply
- ☐ Acceptance letter from a French institution
- ☐ Campus France certificate (if required)
- ☐ Valid passport
- ☐ Completed France-Visas application
- ☐ Passport photos
- ☐ Proof of financial means (€615/month)
- ☐ Proof of accommodation
- ☐ Health insurance
- ☐ Language test scores (if needed)
- ☐ Visa fee payment
Applying for a long-stay student visa for France requires careful preparation. By following this guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can increase your chances of approval. Start early, stay organized, and refer to official sources like Campus France and France-Visas for updates. Good luck with your studies in France!
