Depending on the length of your stay, you may need one of the following visas:
Holders of the VLS‑TS visa must register with the French Office of Immigration and Integration (OFII) and complete several administrative formalities after arrival in France. Once validated, this visa also serves as a residence permit for the duration of your studies.
Visa Application Guide for International Students
We recommend starting your visa application at least 3 months before your program begins to allow enough time for each step.
Step 1: Check Your Visa Requirements
Before starting any procedure, check whether you need a visa to study in France. The official France Visas website provides an interactive tool to help you determine the type of visa required, the documents to prepare, and the associated fees: France Visas Official Website
Step 2: Campus France Procedure (depending on your country)
In certain countries, non-EU students must first register on the Études en France (EEF) platform before submitting their visa application. This platform guides students through document submission, interview preparation if required, and provides the Campus France certificate needed for the visa application.
To find out if your country is concerned, visit Campus France Official Website and search for your country in the “Études en France” section.
Step 3: Submit Your Visa Application
Once your documents are ready, submit your application at the French consulate or visa center in your country of residence.
Required documents generally include your valid passport, ISMAC acceptance letter, proof of accommodation, proof of sufficient financial resources, health insurance, and your Campus France certificate if applicable.
Note that if your program lasts more than 12 months, such as a Bachelor’s or MBA, your visa will include a residence permit component that you will need to renew each year after arrival.
Step 4: After Arrival in France
Once you arrive in France, you must validate your visa online within 3 months through the official portal : Official Visa Validation Portal
You will need your visa number, your date of entry, and your French address. A €50 OFII fee will also be required. In some cases, you may also receive an appointment at an OFII office for a medical check, after which a sticker confirming your right to stay will be added to your passport.
As an international student, you are also entitled to work up to 964 hours per year, approximately 20 hours per week, without needing an additional work permit.
For multi-year programs, you can renew your residence status after the first year. You can choose between a one-year card or a multi-year card valid for 2 to 4 years.
Students from the European Union do not need a passport or visa to study in France, a valid national ID card is sufficient. For stays longer than 90 days, they may need to complete certain registration formalities with the French authorities, rather than applying for a visa.
Students from non-EU countries must hold a valid passport that meets the following conditions: it must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the end of your planned stay in France, issued within the last 10 years, and have at least 2 blank pages available for stamps.
You will also need two passport-size photos when submitting your visa application.
Visa application fees for a French long‑stay student visa are typically around €99, and additional costs such as Campus France, visa center service fees, and the visa validation tax after arrival may apply.
Requirements may vary depending on your nationality. Always check with the French Consulate in your home country for the most up-to-date information: France Visas Official Website
