France

French Student Visa Requirements

Foreign nationals intending to study in France for more than three months are categorized based on their age and educational pursuits. Those planning to stay less than three months should apply for a France Study Schengen visa instead.

France Student Visa for Students over 18: 

This visa is for individuals over 18 seeking to enroll in public or private educational institutions in France. The chosen course of study should align with the applicant’s previous academic qualifications or professional background.

To qualify for this long-stay study visa, applicants must secure admission to a higher education institution in France. If you’re in the process of admission exams or interviews, you’ll need to apply for a short-stay study visa instead.

Countries under the CEF-procedure list may apply online via the Etudes en France portal.

Algeria, Argentina Benin, Brazil, Burkina, Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Chile, China, Colombia, Comoros, Republic of the Congo, South Korea, Ivory Coast, Egypt, United States, Gabon, Guinea, India, Indonesia, Iran, Japan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Madagascar, Mali, Morocco, Mauritius, Mauritania, Mexico, Peru, Senegal, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Russia, Senegal, Singapore, Taiwan, Togo, Tunisia, Turkey, Vietnam.

France Study Visa for Students under 18 (Mineur Scolarisé):

Students under 18 seeking to pursue education in public or private primary, secondary, or higher education institutions in France are required to apply for this specific French student visa. The visa’s maximum validity is 11 months and is designed for foreign children whose parents do not reside in France.

France Au Pair Visa:

Individuals aged 17-30 aiming to reside temporarily with a French family to study French for more than three months can obtain a long-stay study visa. This visa also grants them work protection in France and access to the National Health Insurance.

Applicants and host families are required to provide an au pair placement agreement to the DIRECCTE. This agreement outlines the services the applicant will provide, working hours (up to five hours per day), board and lodging details, weekly rest days (including one compulsory Sunday per month), and the agreed amount of pocket money.

France Student Trainee or Intern Visa:

This visa category is for students seeking to undertake professional work placements in France. Applicants must be part of a training program organized in their country of residence, an EU cooperation program, or an intergovernmental scheme in education, youth, or culture.

France Visa for Language Assistants:

This visa is exclusively for single individuals due to the living costs in France and the monthly allowance, which may not fully support a family’s financial needs. Family members wishing to join must apply for a visitor long-stay visa instead.

France Student Visa Application Process

The application for a long-stay study visa for France is to be submitted at the French consulate or embassy in your country of residence. It’s recommended to apply at least 3 weeks and up to 3 months prior to your intended travel date.

Steps to Complete the Application:

Determine if you need a France Student Visa:

Whether you require a long-stay Study visa depends on your nationality and destination in France. Certain individuals visiting for work purposes for over three months may not need this visa.

For a long-stay study visa, assembling the correct documents is crucial. These include:

1. Completed French Student Visa Application Form.
2. Two recent photographs adhering to specified guidelines.
3. Valid passport meeting issuance and validity criteria.
4. Copies of previous visas, if applicable.
5. Proof of purchased health insurance.
6. Evidence of financial means.
7. Proof of accommodation.
8. Certificate of criminal record.
9. Proof of paid visa fee.

Additional Documents for Students over 18:

1. Proof of registration or pre-registration at a French educational institution.
2. Academic credentials.
3. Cover letter detailing your study project.
4. Diplomas or certificates.

Additional Documents for Students under 18:

If applying for a minor, parents must provide:

1. Proof of the child’s enrollment at a French school.
2. Previous school reports.
3. Proof of accommodation.
4. Financial evidence.
5. Birth certificate, translated into French.
6. Passports of both biological parents.
7. Proof of Guardianship.
8. Travel authorization form.

Additional Requirements for Specific Visa Types:

Au Pair Visa: Invitation letter from the host family, diplomas, medical certificate, etc.

Student Intern Visa: Training agreement, proof of financial support, activity proof, internship agreement, etc.

Schedule a Visa Interview:

Book a French student visa interview either online or in person at the embassy or consulate.

Pay the Visa Fee:

The fee varies by country, with exemptions for certain individuals like family members of French nationals or EU citizens.

Attend the Interview:

This is a crucial step where the consular officer evaluates your application and interview performance to decide on the visa issuance.

Completing these steps diligently enhances your chances of securing a France Student Visa.