1. Do I need a visa to study in France as a non-European citizen?

Yes, all non-European citizens will need a visa to study in France. You will need to apply for a long-stay student visa, also known as a “visa de long séjour pour études”, before entering the country.

2. How do I apply for a student visa in France?

The application process for a French student visa varies depending on your nationality and the duration of your studies. Generally, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Choose the correct type of visa: Determine if you will be studying in France for less than or more than 90 days. If your program is longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a long-stay student visa.

2. Find out where to apply: Depending on your home country, you may have to apply at either the French Embassy or Consulate nearest to your place of residence or through Campus France.

3. Gather required documents: The documents needed for the visa application may vary, but typically you will need your passport, acceptance letter or enrollment certificate from an approved French educational institution, proof of financial means and health insurance coverage.

4. Fill out the application form: The application form can be found online on the website of the French Embassy or Consulate in your country.

5. Pay the application fee: As of December 2020, the fee for a long-stay student visa is €50 (approximately $60 USD).

6. Schedule an appointment: Once you have all of your documents and completed application form, you can schedule an appointment at the designated embassy/consulate or with Campus France.

7. Attend an interview/submit documents: At your appointment, you will need to attend an interview and submit all required documents.

8. Await decision: After submitting all necessary documentation and attending your interview, you must wait for a decision on your visa application. This process can take up to several weeks.

9.Secure visa: If your visa is approved, you will need to collect it from the designated embassy/consulate or Campus France office.

3. Can I work while studying in France with a student visa?

Yes, international students holding a valid long-stay student visa are allowed to work for up to 964 hours per year, or approximately 20 hours per week. However, during semester breaks, students may be permitted to work full-time. It’s important to note that this allowance is subject to change and you should consult with the French Embassy or Consulate before accepting any employment.

4. How long does a student visa last in France?

A long-stay student visa (visa de long séjour pour études) can be granted for up to one year. After your first year of study, it may be possible to renew the visa for the duration of your studies.

5. Can I extend my student visa in France?

Yes, it is possible to extend your student visa in France. You must apply for an extension at least two months before your current visa expires and provide proof of enrollment in an approved educational institution and sufficient financial means to support yourself during your extended stay.

6. Can I travel within Europe with a French student visa?

Yes, you can travel within the Schengen Area (which includes most European countries) with a valid French long-stay student visa. You do not need a separate tourist or short-stay visa for travel within the Schengen Area as long as your student visa is still valid.

7.Can I bring my spouse and children with me on a French student visa?

Spouses and children of international students may be able to accompany them on their French student visas under certain conditions. They would need to apply for a “visa de court séjour” (short-stay visa) if their stay will be less than 90 days or a “visa de long séjour pour conjoint de français” (long-stay visa for spouse of a French citizen) if their stay will be longer than 90 days.

8. Is it possible to apply for permanent residence after studying in France?

Yes, international students who have completed their studies and have lived in France continuously for at least five years may be eligible to apply for permanent residence. However, this is subject to certain conditions and requirements set by the French government.

9. Are there any scholarships available for international students in France?

Yes, there are various scholarships available for international students to study in France. Some are offered by the French government, while others are provided by universities and other organizations. It’s best to research your options and check with the educational institution you’ll be attending for more information on available scholarships.

10. What is Campus France and do I need to register with them?

Campus France is a national agency that assists international students with the application process for higher education institutions in France. It is mandatory for non-European Union nationals applying to study in France for more than six months to go through Campus France before applying for a student visa.

However, if you are an exchange student or part of a specific program that has direct partnerships with French universities, you may not need to register with Campus France. It’s best to consult with your university or program coordinator for more information on the requirements for registration with Campus France.

2. What type of visa do I need for long stay study in France?

For long stay study in France, you will need to apply for a Long-Stay Student Visa (Visa de long séjour pour études).

3. How do I apply for a long stay study visa in France?

To apply for a Long-Stay Student Visa in France, follow these steps:

1. Determine where you will be studying: You must first choose the institution and program you will be attending in France.

2. Check the French embassy or consulate website: Each country may have slightly different requirements and processes for applying for a French student visa.

3. Gather your documents: These may include a valid passport, proof of enrollment in an accredited French institution, evidence of financial support, and medical insurance.

4. Schedule an appointment: Most countries require applicants to schedule an appointment with the French embassy or consulate to submit their application.

5. Submit your application: On the day of your appointment, bring all required documents and pay the visa application fee.

6. Wait for a decision: The processing time for student visas can vary, but it typically takes several weeks to receive a decision on your application.

7. Receive your passport with visa: If your application is approved, you will receive your passport with the long-stay student visa affixed inside.

4. What are the requirements for a long stay study visa in France?

The specific requirements for a Long-Stay Student Visa vary depending on the country from which you are applying, but generally include:

1. Valid passport
2. Proof of enrollment at an accredited French educational institution
3. Proof of financial means to cover living expenses while in France
4. Medical insurance that meets the requirements set by the French government
5. Recent passport-sized photos
6. Completed visa application form
7. Application fee payment
8. Any additional documents requested by the French embassy/consulate

5. Can I work while on a long stay study visa in France?

Yes, students with a Long-Stay Student Visa are allowed to work part-time (up to 964 hours per year) while studying in France.

6. Do I need to speak French to study in France?

If you are attending a French-taught program, you will need to have a certain level of proficiency in French. However, many higher education institutions in France also offer programs taught in English for international students. It is recommended that you check the language requirements for your specific program before applying.

7. How long can I stay in France on a long stay study visa?

The duration of your Long-Stay Student Visa will depend on the length of your academic program. Typically, it will be valid for the duration of your studies, up to one year. Upon completion of your studies, you may be eligible for a temporary residency permit that allows you to stay and work in France for an additional year.

3. How long does it take to obtain a student visa for France?

The length of time it takes to obtain a student visa for France depends on various factors, such as the applicant’s country of residence, the complexity of their application, and the current processing times at the French consulate. Generally, it can take anywhere from 3-8 weeks to obtain a student visa for France. It is recommended to apply at least 2-3 months before your intended date of travel to allow enough time for processing.

4. Can I work while studying with a student visa in France?

Yes, students on a student visa in France can work part-time (up to 964 hours per year) while studying. They are allowed to work on campus or off-campus, but they must have a valid residence permit and their employment must be related to their studies. Students from outside of the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to obtain a work permit in order to work while studying.

5. Are there any specific requirements for obtaining a student visa for France?

Yes, there are specific requirements for obtaining a student visa for France. These include:

1. Admission to a French educational institution: You must first receive an acceptance letter or enrollment certificate from a recognized French educational institution.

2. Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in France.

3. Proof of financial means: You must show proof that you have enough funds to cover your living expenses in France, including tuition fees and accommodation costs.

4. Health insurance: You will need to provide proof of health insurance coverage in France for the duration of your studies.

5. Language proficiency: If you are planning to study in French, you may be required to provide proof of proficiency in the language, such as a language test score or diploma.

6. Visa application form: You will need to fill out a visa application form and submit it along with all the required documents.

7. Photographs: You will need to provide recent passport-size photographs that meet specific requirements.

8. Biometric data: All applicants aged 12 and above must submit biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) as part of their visa application.

9. Proof of accommodation: You must provide proof of where you will be staying during your studies, such as a rental contract or accommodation confirmation from the educational institution.

10. Proof of ties to home country: You may be required to show strong ties to your home country, such as family, property or employment, to prove that you intend to return after completing your studies in France.

6. Do I need to show proof of financial means for my stay in France as a student?

Yes, you may be required to show proof of financial means for your stay in France as a student. This can include bank statements, scholarship or grant letters, or other documentation showing you have the necessary funds to support yourself during your studies. Each university and consulate may have different requirements, so it is best to check with them directly for specific guidelines.

7. Can I extend my student visa in France if my program is longer than the initial duration stated on the visa?

Yes, you can extend your student visa in France if your program is longer than the initial duration stated on the visa. In order to do so, you will need to apply for a “visa De Long Séjour temporaire” (VLS-T). This allows you to stay in France for more than 3 months and up to 1 year.

To apply for a VLS-T, you will need to contact the French embassy or consulate in your home country at least 2-3 months before your current student visa expires. You will need to provide documentation proving that you are enrolled in a study program in France and have sufficient financial means to support yourself during your extended stay.

If your current student visa is issued by another Schengen country, you will also need to obtain a new residence permit (titre de séjour) from the prefecture in the city where your school is located. This permit allows you to stay in France for the duration of your studies.

It is important to note that if you are applying for an extension of stay as an international exchange or scholarship student, you may be exempt from obtaining a VLS-T or residence permit. In this case, it is recommended that you check with your sponsoring institution for further information on how to obtain an extension of stay.

8. Can I travel within the Schengen Area with a French student visa?

No, a French student visa only allows you to enter France for the purpose of studying. If you wish to travel within the Schengen Area, you will need to apply for a Schengen visa from the embassy or consulate of the country you wish to visit. This visa will allow you to travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It is important to note that your time spent traveling within the Schengen Area will count towards the maximum duration of stay allowed by your French student visa.

9. Does the age limit apply when applying for a French student visa?

Yes, the age limit applies when applying for a French student visa. The maximum age limit for a student visa is 30 years old.

10. Are there any restrictions on what type of degree or program I can study with a French student visa?

There are no restrictions on the type of degree or program you can study with a French student visa. However, the program must be accredited by the French Ministry of Education and must lead to a recognized degree or certificate.

11. Are there any language proficiency requirements for obtaining a student visa in France?

Yes, there are language proficiency requirements for obtaining a student visa in France. Non-EU students must prove their proficiency in French or the language of instruction of their chosen program through various means, such as standardized tests (e.g. DELF, DALF), certificates from language schools, or an interview with the consular officer. The level of proficiency required may vary depending on the program and school. Students may also be required to take language courses upon arrival in France if their level is deemed insufficient.

12. What are the costs associated with obtaining a student visa for France?

The costs associated with obtaining a student visa for France may include:

1. Visa application fee: The visa application fee will depend on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for. As of 2021, the cost for a short-stay student visa is €50 (approximately $60) and a long-stay student visa is €99 (approximately $120).

2. Health insurance: All international students in France are required to have health insurance for the duration of their stay. The cost of health insurance can vary depending on the provider and coverage options, but it could range from €200-€500 (approximately $240-$600) per year.

3. Proof of financial means: As part of the visa application process, you will need to show proof that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your studies in France. The amount required may vary, but it is usually around €615 (approximately $740) per month.

4. Visa processing fees: If you are applying through a third-party service or an external agency, there may be additional processing fees involved.

5. Transportation costs: You will also need to consider transportation costs such as airfare or train tickets to travel to and from France.

6. Cost of translations and documents: If any of your documents are not in French, they will need to be translated by an accredited translator, which can incur an additional cost.

7. Cost of medical exams: Some students may be required to undergo a medical exam before their visa can be approved. The cost for this exam will depend on the requirements set by your country’s consulate.

It is important to note that these costs can vary and it is always best to check with your local French embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information regarding visa fees and requirements.

13. Will I be required to undergo medical exams before receiving my French student visa?

There is no specific requirement for medical exams before receiving a French student visa. However, depending on your country of origin and the length of your stay in France, you may be required to provide proof of health insurance coverage and/or undergo a medical exam to ensure that your health condition does not pose a threat to public health. It is recommended to check with the French embassy or consulate in your country for specific requirements.

14. Can my spouse and children accompany me to France on my student visa?

Yes, your spouse and children can accompany you to France on your student visa. They will need to apply for a long-stay dependent visa and provide documentation to show their relationship to you, such as marriage or birth certificates. They may also need to provide proof of financial means and French language proficiency, depending on their nationality.

15. Is health insurance mandatory for students studying in France on a long stay visa?

Yes, health insurance is mandatory for students studying in France on a long stay visa. Students are required to have full medical coverage that includes hospitalization and repatriation for the entire duration of their studies in France. This can be through either the French national health insurance system (Sécurité Sociale) or through a private insurance provider. Students are responsible for obtaining their own health insurance before arriving in France.

16. Do I need to have accommodation arranged before applying for a French student visa?

Yes, you will need to have proof of accommodation arranged before applying for a French student visa. This can be in the form of a rental contract, a letter from your university confirming your housing arrangements, or a statement from a sponsor if you will be staying with them. The French embassy or consulate in your home country will require this proof as part of your visa application.

17. Can I apply for permanent residency after completing my studies in France with a long stay study visa?

Yes, you can apply for permanent residency in France after completing your studies with a long stay study visa. However, there are certain conditions that need to be met in order to be eligible for permanent residency. These include having completed at least 5 years of continuous residence in France, having a valid residence permit during your stay, and being able to support yourself financially. You may also need to pass a French language test and demonstrate knowledge of French culture and society. It is best to consult with the French immigration authorities for specific requirements and procedures for applying for permanent residency after studies.

18. Will having a criminal record affect my chances of getting a French student visa?

It is possible that having a criminal record may affect your chances of getting a French student visa. The French consulate responsible for processing your application will consider your overall profile, including any criminal history, when making their decision. If they believe that you pose a risk to public safety or may engage in illegal activities while studying in France, they may deny your visa application. It is important to be truthful and open about your criminal history when applying for a visa, as providing false information can result in serious consequences and potentially affect your future travel plans.

19. What documents do I need to submit when applying for a French long stay study visa?

When applying for a French long stay study visa, you will generally need to submit the following documents:

1. Visa application form: You will need to complete and sign a visa application form, which can be found on the website of the French embassy or consulate in your country.

2. Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned stay in France, with at least two blank pages.

3. Photographs: You will need to provide two recent passport-sized photographs (3.5 cm x 4.5 cm) with a white background.

4. Proof of acceptance at a French educational institution: You will need to provide an official acceptance letter from a recognized French educational institution showing that you have been accepted onto a full-time course of study.

5. Proof of financial means: You must show that you have enough financial resources to support yourself during your stay in France. This can include bank statements, scholarship letters, or letters from parents or sponsors confirming their financial support.

6. Health insurance: You will need to provide proof of health insurance coverage for the entire duration of your stay in France.

7. Police clearance certificate: Some consulates may require you to provide a police clearance certificate from your home country as part of the visa application process.

8. Flight reservation: It is recommended to make a flight reservation before submitting your visa application, although it is not always required.

9. Accommodation confirmation: You may also be required to provide proof of accommodation in France, such as a rental contract or hotel reservation.

10. Visa fees: You will need to pay the visa application fee when submitting your application.

You may also be asked for additional documents depending on your specific situation and the requirements set by the consulate processing your application. It is important to check with the relevant consulate or embassy beforehand for any specific requirements or changes in the documentation process.

20.How can I renew or extend my French long stay study Visa?

To renew or extend your French long stay study visa, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Check your visa validity: Before applying for a renewal or extension, make sure that your current visa is still valid. You can find the expiration date on your visa stamp or on your OFII sticker.

2. Start the process at least two months before expiry: The renewal or extension process can take up to two months, so it’s important to start early to avoid any issues.

3. Gather the required documents: You will need to submit a new application form, passport photos, a valid passport, proof of enrollment in a French educational institution, proof of financial means, and proof of accommodation.

4. Schedule an appointment with the nearest OFII office: Once you have gathered all the required documents, you will need to schedule an appointment with the nearest OFII office in France.

5. Pay the fees: The renewal or extension process involves some administrative fees that you will need to pay at the time of your appointment.

6. Attend the OFII interview: During your appointment at the OFII office, you will be interviewed and asked about your studies and plans in France. This is also when you will receive a new post-study integration contract (called Contrat d’Accueil et Intégration) that you must sign and follow.

7. Wait for your new visa: If everything goes well during your OFII interview and they approve your application, you should receive a new residence permit within one month.

8. Extend Temporary Residence Permit (for students staying more than one year): If you are staying in France for more than one year, after getting your student residence permit renewed by OFII/Sous-Préfecture/Préfecture/CAS allowability confirmation – go online & apply for Extension of Temporary Residence Permit for more than 12 months but less than 4 years – to be done at least two months before the date stated on your current residence permit, as OFII will no longer process the renewal of a residence permit for stays under 4 years (with the exception of minors) for documents submitted after this date.

It’s important to note that the renewal or extension of your French long stay study visa is not guaranteed and is subject to approval by the immigration authorities. It’s best to consult with your school or local immigration office for further guidance and specific instructions.