Student Trainee Visa
France
Last updated: December 24, 2025
6 months
$99 or $50
3-4 months
Medium
About this Visa
This visa lets international students and recent graduates do professional internships in France. You must be doing training that's part of an official school program or diploma. The visa is for people who want hands-on work experience as part of their education. You can work as an intern while living in France legally. You get the same healthcare as French students. You can also travel freely around Europe. After your internship, you can apply to stay longer if you want to work or study more. This is different from a student visa because it focuses on work training, not classroom study. It's also different from a regular work visa because the job must be an official internship, not permanent employment.
Key Benefits
- Work as an intern without needing special permission
- Access French healthcare system
- Earn money from your internship
- Travel anywhere in the Schengen zone (26 European countries)
- Can bring spouse and dependent children
- Your salary is not taxed if under €20,815/year
- Opportunity to stay in France longer after internship ends
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Age 16 or older
- Enrolled in school abroad OR graduated within the last 4 years
- Have a signed internship agreement with a French company
- The internship must be required for your school diploma or degree
- No criminal convictions
- Not banned from Europe
- Pass basic health and background checks
- Know basic French (A2 level) if staying longer than 1 year
Financial Requirement
You need to show you have at least $725 USD per month saved (about €615). If your internship doesn't pay, you must prove this money is available. If it does pay, the income counts toward this amount.
Documents
- Valid passportMust be good for at least 3 more months
- Signed internship agreementFrom your school, employer, and you
- Bank statementsShowing you have €615/month
- Proof of accommodationWhere you will live in France
- Travel insuranceAt least €30,000 coverage
- Criminal record checkFrom your home country
- Passport-sized photos3 photos required
- School enrollment proofCurrent enrollment or graduation within 4 years
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.