🛂 Student visa — France
Who needs this visa?
Non-EU students usually need a long-stay student visa. France-Visas explains that students may receive a VLS-TS student visa, which must be validated after arrival, or a long-stay visa requiring a residence permit application depending on the length and type of mobility.
Main documents
The typical file includes admission, passport, visa form, proof of funds, accommodation, insurance or social security steps, academic documents, and Campus France documentation where applicable. Some countries require the student to complete the Campus France procedure before the visa appointment.
Application process
First, apply and receive admission. Second, complete the Campus France procedure if required in your country. Third, submit the France-Visas application and book the appointment. Fourth, attend the visa appointment with documents. Fifth, after arrival, validate the VLS-TS online within the required period if your visa type requires it.
Working while studying
France gives students a clear but limited work right. Service-Public states that non-European students may work up to 964 hours per year, equal to 60% of the legal annual working time, without a separate work authorisation. Exceeding this limit can risk withdrawal or refusal of renewal. Campus France also confirms the 964-hour annual limit.
After graduation
After completing an eligible French higher education diploma, students may apply for the job seeker / business creator residence permit. Campus France explains that this permit allows eligible graduates to look for a job or create a company in France after studies. Service-Public notes that the 964-hour student limit does not apply in the same way once the graduate has a qualifying job under this status, but the job must meet conditions such as being related to the studies and meeting a minimum salary threshold.
Best for
France is best for students interested in policy, business, science, international organisations, sustainability, and francophone career pathways. It is especially attractive outside Paris where living costs may be more manageable.
Frequently asked questions
Where should I confirm the latest rules and amounts?
This is general guidance compiled from official sources (Migri, UDI, France-Visas, Campus France, Study in Korea, Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Make it in Germany, Universitaly and national migration authorities). Rules and amounts change every year — always confirm on the official immigration website before applying.
This is starter guidance and changes often — always confirm on the official source before applying.
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