French Student Visa Application: Requirements & Process 2025

International students planning to study in France must often secure a French student visa before traveling. This guide covers what a French student visa is and who needs one, outlines the different visa types available, and highlights the visa application process as a key topic. We also detail the requirements, step-by-step application process, and offer tips for a successful application. Finally, we discuss next steps after visa approval and how Hiliv can assist you in your French study journey.

What Is a French Student Visa and Who Needs It?

A French student visa is an official authorization that allows international students to study in France. The most common long-stay student visa is the VLS-TS (Visa Long Séjour valant Titre de Séjour – étudiant), which acts as a residence permit for studies up to one year. Shorter programs may use a Schengen short-stay student visa for stays up to 3 months. It demonstrates to French authorities that you meet entry requirements and allows you to stay in France for your studies. Students must typically apply for their visa from their home country before traveling to France.

Overview of French Student Visa (VLS-TS Étudiant)

The VLS-TS (student) is a long-stay visa valid for up to one year and serves as a temporary residence permit. It is issued to students enrolled in undergraduate or graduate programs. After arriving in France, you must validate this visa online through the French Ministry of Interior website (ANEF portal) within 3 months of your arrival; completing these necessary formalities upon arrival in France is essential for lawful stay. The VLS-TS allows you to live and study in France for the length of the visa, with the option to renew each year if your program continues. Holders of a VLS-TS can also work part-time (up to 964 hours per year) while studying. To validate your VLS-TS, you will need to pay a validation fee of €50 online.

Do You Need a Student Visa? (EU vs. Non-EU, Short Stay vs. Long Stay)

• EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens: Citizens of the European Union, European Economic Area, and Switzerland do not need a visa to study in France, regardless of program length. They may enter freely with a valid ID or passport but should still have health insurance and sufficient funds.
• Non-EU Citizens (short stay): If you are from a non-EU country and your course is 90 days or shorter, you may need a short-stay student visa (Schengen visa) unless your nationality is exempt. This applies to short language courses, summer school, or exam visits. Some countries (like the USA, Canada, Australia, etc.) are visa-exempt for stays under 90 days. Requirements for a short-stay visa may differ for students from non European countries, depending on your nationality.
• Non-EU Citizens (long stay): Non-EU students enrolling in programs longer than 3 months must apply for a long-stay student visa (VLS-TS). This visa will allow you to study for up to one year in France, after which you can renew or extend it if necessary.

Please note that enrolment conditions differ depending on your nationality, so always check the specific requirements for your country.

Types of French Student Visas

France offers several main categories of student visas:

• Short-Stay Student Visa: For studies or programs lasting up to 3 months (e.g. language courses, exchange visits, exams). This is a standard Schengen C visa marked for study purposes and is also suitable for those attending a training course or short-term educational program. The short stay visa is commonly used for students enrolling in brief courses or diploma preparations.
• Long-Stay Student Visa (VLS-TS): For academic programs longer than 3 months (typically 4 months to 1 year, and renewable). The VLS-TS "étudiant" visa must be validated within 3 months of arrival and functions as a residence permit. Students in degree programs (Bachelor’s/Master’s) generally receive this visa.
• Special Short-Stay "Étudiant-Concours" Visa: This visa is for attending entrance exams or interviews in France (valid up to 90 days). Note: This visa is specifically designed to allow successful candidates to regularize their situation directly at the prefecture without returning to their home country to apply for a long-stay visa.
• Temporary Long-Stay Visa (VLS-T): This visa allows you to stay in France for 4 to 12 months to obtain a higher education diploma. Unlike the VLS-TS, it does not need to be validated upon arrival. However, it cannot be renewed and does not grant the same rights as VLS-TS (such as the ability to work part-time).

Choose the visa type based on your program length and goals. The VLS-TS gives broader rights (e.g. ability to work part-time, renewability) compared to a short-stay Schengen visa. When applying, students should carefully consider the nature of their training course, as well as their courses and diploma preparations, to ensure they select the correct visa category.

French Student Visa Requirements

To apply for a French student visa, gather these essential documents, including all the required documents and supporting documents needed for your application. The documents required may vary depending on your program and nationality.

• Completed visa application form
• Valid passport
• Recent passport-sized photographs
• Proof of acceptance into a French institution
• Proof of accommodation in France
• Proof of sufficient financial resources to meet visa requirements
• Proof of medical insurance
• Other supporting documents such as utility bills, accommodation proof, and verification papers

Make sure to bring all the documents required, including the CERFA form, receipts, and any additional supporting paperwork, to your appointment at the visa centre or embassy. Prepare all the documents in advance to avoid delays in your application process.

Acceptance Letter from a French Institution

You must have an official acceptance letter from a recognized French university or school. This document should confirm your program admission, start date, and duration of studies. Visa officers use this letter to verify that you are enrolled in a legitimate course.

Financial Means Proof (bank statements, scholarship)

France requires proof that you can financially support yourself. Generally, you need about €615 per month for living expenses. You can demonstrate this through:

• Recent bank statements in your name or a sponsor’s name
• A blocked account showing sufficient funds
• A scholarship award letter
• An official letter from a sponsor or family member.

Make sure your proof clearly covers the full duration of your stay.

Health Insurance Coverage

Valid health insurance is mandatory. If you are under 28 or an EU citizen, you can usually register for French student social security (CPAM) after arrival. Otherwise, purchase private international student insurance covering at least one year of medical expenses in France. EU students should present a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Attach proof of your insurance policy or EHIC to your visa application.

Valid Passport and Passport Photos

Provide a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay and has blank visa pages. Include two recent passport-size photos that meet French visa standards (35x45mm, white background, no shadows). Ensure photos are printed on quality photo paper and match the consulate’s guidelines.

Application Process Step-by-Step

Follow these steps to apply for the French student visa:

1. Check if you need to follow the Campus France "Études en France" procedure: For students from certain countries (listed on the France-Visas website), you must follow the compulsory "Study in France" (Études en France) procedure through Campus France before applying for your visa. This is a separate process managed by the Campus France office in your country and includes creating an account, uploading documents, paying fees, and potentially attending an interview. Without completing this procedure, the French Consulate will refuse your visa application.
2. Complete the online application form: You must complete the online application form on the official France-Visas website. For long-stay student visas, you now have the option to submit digital copies of your supporting documents directly when filling out your online application. This optional feature can speed up the process at the visa application center. Note: You must still print your final application form (CERFA) without the word "DRAFT" and bring all original documents to your appointment.
3. Schedule and attend your in-person visa appointment: After submitting your online visa application, visa applicants are required to schedule and attend an in-person visa appointment at the visa center or French consulate. Processing times vary by country and season, but you should allow at least 15 days for visa processing. Applications can be submitted no earlier than 3 months before your departure date for long-stay visas. At the visa center, you will submit your application, provide biometric data, and hand in your paperwork. Pay the visa fee at this stage. A service fee may also be charged at the visa center, depending on your location.

Schedule and Attend Visa Appointment

After submitting your online application, schedule an appointment at the French consulate or visa center (TLS/VFS) in your country. At your in person visa appointment, you will:

• Present all the required documents, including your printed application form, original documents, and copies.
• Provide biometric data (fingerprints and a digital photo).
• Pay the visa fee (typically €50-100, depending on the type of visa and your country).
• Attend a brief interview if required. Be prepared to explain your study plans, choice of school, and how you will finance your stay. Stay honest and concise.

Pay Visa Fees and Await Processing

Visa fees vary by country and visa type (typically 50-100 EUR). Processing times also vary but generally take a minimum of 2-3 weeks. Pay this at your appointment (some centers require payment in advance). The process can begin no sooner than 90 days (3 months) and no later than two weeks before the departure date for long-stay visas.

Check with the consulate for local timelines. During this period the consulate may request additional paperwork, so respond quickly if contacted.

Tips for a Successful Application

Next Steps After Visa Approval

• Traveling to France: Once your visa is granted and approved, double-check the dates and spelling on the visa sticker. Check the exact wording in the remarks section of your visa, as different visa types require different steps upon arrival in France. Book your travel and arrive in France before your course start date. Keep all visa documents handy for border control.
• Validating the Visa as a Residency Permit: If you have a VLS-TS, you must validate it within 3 months of arrival. This involves completing an online validation through the French Ministry of Interior website (ANEF portal) and paying a validation fee of €50. You will need: a valid email address, your VLS-TS visa, your date of entry into France, your address in France, and a credit card to pay the fee.

Sometimes a health check is required. After validation, you will receive a confirmation by email of the registration of your visa, and your residence permit will be the visa on your passport along with the online validation PDF.

• Registering at University and Opening Bank Account/CPAM: Enroll at your French school or university as soon as possible to activate your student status. To obtain a student status in France, you must complete university registration and any required formalities. Open a French bank account to manage finances (many banks offer student accounts). Register for French health insurance (CPAM) through the government website. Campus France and your university will typically provide guidance on these steps.

Conclusion – Beginning Your Studies in France

Obtaining a French student visa is a detailed process, but with careful preparation and reliable information, you can make it smooth. Keep organized records, follow official guidelines, and meet all deadlines. Before you know it, you’ll have your visa and be on your way to an exciting academic adventure in France.

Encouragement and How Hiliv Can Assist

Studying in France is a rewarding experience, and Hiliv is here to help make it easier. From guidance on visa requirements to finding housing and settling in, our expert team can assist you at every stage. With the right support and preparation, you'll be ready to start your French education journey with confidence!