Student Visa (VLS-TS)
France
Last updated: December 24, 2025
1 year (renewable)
$99
2-3 weeks
High
About this Visa
This visa lets you study in France for programs longer than 3 months. You get a residence permit that also works as your visa. You can work part-time while studying and travel freely across Europe. The visa is designed for non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals who want to pursue higher education in France. You must be accepted to a recognized French institution and demonstrate financial support. The visa is renewable annually while you continue your studies. Key benefit: After graduation, you can work in France and potentially gain permanent residence in 2–7 years, then apply for French citizenship.
Key Benefits
- Work up to 20 hours per week
- Travel freely across 27 European countries (Schengen Area)
- Free healthcare after registering with French system
- Bring spouse and children after 18 months of residency
- Path to permanent residence in 2-7 years
- Eligible for French citizenship after 2-5 years
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Age 18 or older
- Accepted to French school for program longer than 3 months
- Prove €615/month ($720) income or savings
- Have valid health insurance
- Show you plan to return home after studying
- No serious criminal history
- Language: DELF B2 for French-taught programs; IELTS 6.0-6.5 for English-taught programs
- From 2026: A2 French level required to renew visa for 2+ year residence period
Financial Requirement
Minimum €615/month ($720 USD). Must show 6 months of bank statements or scholarship letter proving you can support yourself
Documents
- Valid PassportMust be valid for 6+ months
- University Acceptance LetterProof of enrollment at recognized French institution
- Bank Statements6 months of statements showing €615+ monthly funds
- Proof of HousingRental agreement, university housing confirmation, or accommodation letter
- Health InsuranceMinimum €30,000 ($35,000) coverage
- Campus France CertificateRequired if you're from ~40 designated countries (India, China, USA, Canada, Brazil, most African countries, etc.)
- Statement of PurposeLetter explaining why you want to study in France
- Flight BookingProof of travel plan to France
- Academic TranscriptsSchool records and degree certificates
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.