Types of Student Visas

1. Short-Stay Visa (Visa de court séjour pour études)

• Duration: Up to 3 months.
• Purpose: For short-term study programs, language courses, or entrance exams.
• Features: Allows you to stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

2. Long-Stay Visa (Visa de long séjour pour études)

• Duration: More than 3 months.
• Types:
  • Long-Stay Visa Valid as Residence Permit (VLS-TS): For students enrolled in Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD programs. This visa allows you to stay in France for the duration of your studies and requires validation upon arrival.
  • Temporary Long-Stay Visa: For courses lasting between 3 to 6 months. This visa does not require further formalities upon arrival.
  • Talent Passport (Passeport Talent): For students pursuing a doctorate or higher-level research. This visa is designed for highly skilled individuals.

Visa Application Process

Step 1: Acceptance by a French Institution

• Requirement: You must be accepted by a recognized French higher education institution.
• Documentation: Obtain an acceptance letter from the institution.

Step 2: Online Application

• Platform: Complete your visa application on the France-Visas website.
• Documents: Upload digital copies of required documents, including your acceptance letter, passport, proof of financial resources, and proof of accommodation.

Step 3: Campus France Registration

• Procedure: Register with Campus France, which is mandatory for students from certain countries. This involves creating an account, submitting your application, and paying the application fee.

Step 4: Visa Appointment

• Booking: Schedule an appointment at your nearest French consulate or visa application center.
• Submission: Submit your completed application form, biometric data, and original documents during the appointment.

Step 5: Visa Decision

• Processing Time: The processing time can vary, but it typically takes a few weeks.
• Notification: You will be notified once your visa is ready for collection.

Step 6: Arrival in France

• Validation: If you have a VLS-TS visa, you must validate it within three months of arrival. This can be done online on the OFII (French Office for Immigration and Integration) website.

Required Documents

• Passport: Valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay.
• Acceptance Letter: From a recognized French institution.
• Proof of Financial Resources: Evidence that you can support yourself financially during your stay.
• Proof of Accommodation: Details of where you will be staying in France.
• Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage.
• Visa Application Form: Completed and signed.

These are general guidelines, and specific requirements can vary case by case. It’s always a good idea to check the specific requirements with a visa expert.

Contact the Career Abroad Team for your profile assessment for admission at the French institutions and your visa process.

Working While Studying in France

International students in France have the right to work while pursuing their studies, regardless of their level of education or nationality. Here are the key points to consider:

Work Permit and Hours

• Work Permit: Non-European Union students must have a student resident permit to work in France.
• Maximum Working Hours: Students are allowed to work up to 964 hours per year, which is roughly equivalent to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during holiday.