France Student Visa Guide for Indians 2025
- France’s long-stay student visa (VLS-TS) allows non-EU students to study for over 3 months, work part-time, and travel within the Schengen area.
- To qualify, students must show admission to a French institution, proof of financial resources, accommodation, health insurance, and language proficiency (if required).
- The process includes registering on Campus France India, submitting documents, attending an interview, and post-arrival validation in France. Visa rejections can be appealed or reapplied for with corrections.
- What is the Long Stay France Student Visa?
- What are the Eligibility Requirements to Obtain a Long Term France Student Visa?
- What are the France Student Visa Documents Requirements?
- Steps to Apply for the France Long Stay Student Visa
- Long Stay France Student Visa Processing Time & Fees
- Some Important Visa Interview Questions that Applicants Might Face
- Important Tips to Keep in Mind while Applying for a France Student Visa
- What to Do if Your France Student Visa is Rejected?
- VFS Centres in India
- Key Takeaways by AdmitX
- FAQs
Studying in France offers an exciting opportunity to experience a rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and world-renowned educational institutions. However, before you can start your academic journey in France, securing the right visa is an essential first step.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the France long-stay student visa, including the application process, documentation requirements, visa fees, and steps to take if your application is rejected.
What is the Long Stay France Student Visa?
The France long-stay student visa, also known as VLS-TS (Visa de Long Séjour – Temporaire), is designed for non-EU international students who plan to study in France for longer than 3 months. This visa allows students to live in France for up to 1 year and can be renewed if necessary. It’s important to understand that this visa is not only for study purposes but also grants you the opportunity to work part-time while pursuing your education.
As an international student, you are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week (about 964 hours annually), which is an excellent opportunity for those who need additional financial support during their studies. The visa is also useful if you’re looking to gain international experience or improve your career prospects after graduation.
In addition to work rights, the long-stay student visa also allows you to travel within the Schengen area (the 27 European countries in the Schengen Zone) for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This is perfect for students who wish to explore Europe while pursuing their studies in France.
What are the Eligibility Requirements to Obtain a Long Term France Student Visa?
The following are the detailed eligibility requirements to obtain a long-term France Student Visa.
Admission to a French Institution: To apply for the long-stay student visa, you must be accepted by a French college or university of higher education. The institute should be registered with the French Ministry of Higher Education to be recognised by the French government.
Proof of Sufficient Financial Resources: You must show that you have enough financial means to support yourself during your stay. Typically, this means having at least €615 or INR 59,800 per month for the duration of your studies in France. This can be proven through recent bank statements, sponsorship letters, or a scholarship award.
Health Insurance: You must either be covered by the French social security system or a private insurer for health care during your stay in France.
Accommodation Proof: You need to provide evidence of your housing arrangements in France, such as a rental contract or confirmation from a host family.
Language Proficiency: Depending on the program and the language of instruction, you may be asked to demonstrate proficiency in French or English.
What are the France Student Visa Documents Requirements?
To ensure that your application is processed smoothly, make sure you provide the following documents.
- Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay.
- Admission Letter: A formal letter from your French university or educational institution confirming your acceptance.
- Proof of Financial Resources: This includes your bank statements, scholarship award letters, or financial sponsorship letters to demonstrate that you can afford your stay in France.
- Health Insurance: You must provide proof of health insurance coverage for the entire duration of your stay in France.
- Accommodation Proof: A signed lease agreement, confirmation from a host family, or a university accommodation letter.
- Academic Documents: Transcripts, diplomas, and certificates from your previous education.
- Completed Visa Application Form: Submit the filled-out visa form from the France-Visas website.
- Passport-Sized Photographs: Ensure that they meet the French consulate’s specifications for size and quality.
Steps to Apply for the France Long Stay Student Visa
The application process for a France long-stay student visa is discussed below.
Register on the Campus France India Website
- Begin by creating your account on the Campus France India platform. Once your account is created, complete your academic profile thoroughly.
- This includes entering your educational background, language proficiency, curriculum vitae, and statement of purpose.
Complete the Visa Application Form
- After creating your account, you will need to fill out the visa application form.
- Ensure that all details are accurate and complete, as any inconsistencies or missing information can lead to delays or rejections.
- You will also need to select the visa type based on your study program’s duration (long-stay visa).
Pay the Visa Fee
- The visa application fee for a long-stay student visa varies between €50. The fee must be paid online when submitting your application.
- This fee is non-refundable, so it’s important to ensure your documents are in order before submission.
Submit Your Documents
- You will then be required to upload scanned copies of all essential academic documents.
- These typically include your higher secondary certificates, university degree certificates, mark sheets, CV, photograph, and letters of recommendation or experience (if applicable).
- All documents must meet the size and format requirements as specified.
Schedule and Attend a Visa Interview
- After verifying your application, the Campus France office will invite you for an academic interview.
- Depending on current health and safety guidelines, the interview may be conducted either online or at a local Campus France office.
- During the interview, you will be expected to discuss your academic and professional motivations, your reasons for choosing France, and how the programme aligns with your long-term goals.
- Be honest, focused, and clear about your objectives.
- Once the interview is complete, the Campus France officer will validate your application. This validation is essential for the next stages.
Wait for the Visa Decision
- Once your application is submitted, the French consulate will process it.
- The processing time can range from 15 to 60 days, depending on the volume of applications.
- It’s important to apply well in advance of your planned departure to allow enough time for processing.
Travel to France and Complete Post-Arrival Procedures
- Once your visa is issued, you may travel to France.
- After arriving, it is mandatory to validate your long-stay visa as a residence permit. This must be done within 3 months of arrival and is a legal requirement.
- You will need to complete this process through the French Immigration and Citizenship Office (OFII).
- The steps generally involve online registration, possible health check-ups, and formal approval of your stay.
- Failure to complete this validation could result in penalties or complications in renewing your visa or applying for future permits.
Long Stay France Student Visa Processing Time & Fees
The visa fee for the long-stay France student visa ranges between €50. The fee must be paid at the time of application submission and is non-refundable. Visa processing times vary but generally fall within the range of 15 to 60 days.
It’s highly recommended that you apply as early as possible to avoid any delays that could affect your travel plans. Applying too close to the start of your course may risk missing your academic deadlines.
Some Important Visa Interview Questions that Applicants Might Face
Below, we have provided some important visa interview questions that might help you explain your intent to go to France.
- Why are you going to study in France?
- Why do you want to study in France?
- Why not study in India?
- How will you sponsor your education?
- What are the job prospects after studying in France?
- What are you planning to do after completing your studies?
- Have you finalised your accommodation and education loan?
- Do you have any family living in France?
- Do you speak French?
- Have you travelled outside of India?
- Have you travelled to France?
- What do you know about French culture?
- Do you have any previous visa refusals?
- What will be your expected monthly expenses in France?
Important Tips to Keep in Mind while Applying for a France Student Visa
- Regularly check your email and the Campus France portal for updates on your file, interview scheduling, and university responses.
- Ensure all information is consistent across your documents, and be prepared to explain your motivations clearly during the interview.
- This entire process is designed to ensure transparency, standardisation, and support for international students seeking education in France.
- Following each step carefully will ease your transition to studying in France and enhance your overall experience.
What to Do if Your France Student Visa is Rejected?
Unfortunately, visa rejections can happen, but it’s not the end of the road. If your visa is rejected, you have several options.
Request a Refusal Letter: After your visa rejection, you are entitled to receive a letter explaining the reason for the refusal. This can help you address the issue when reapplying.
Reapply with Corrected Documents: If your visa was denied due to missing or incorrect documentation, you can reapply with the necessary corrections. Double-check everything to ensure that you have provided all required documents.
Appeal the Decision: In some cases, you may have the option to appeal the visa refusal. This involves submitting a formal appeal along with additional documents that could clarify the reasons for the initial rejection.
VFS Centres in India
The purpose of VFS France Visa Application Centres in India is to facilitate the submission and processing of visa applications for individuals who wish to travel to France, including for study, work, tourism, or family visits. Below is a list of VFS Global France Visa Application Centres across India, including their addresses and operating hours
Ahmedabad
Ground Floor, Shree Balaji Agora Mall, Between Tapovan & Bhat Circle, 200 Ft, Sardar Patel Ring Road, Motera, Ahmedabad – 382424
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 09:00 – 16:00 (by appointment only)
Chandigarh
Address: [Specific address not provided in the available information]
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 09:00 – 16:00 (by appointment only)
Chennai
Starting 6 May 2024, the France Visa Application Centre in Chennai has relocated to:
Ramee Mall, 2nd Floor, No. 365, Anna Salai, Teynampet, Chennai – 600018
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 08:00 – 15:00 (by appointment only)
Hyderabad
Unit 1, Lower Concourse, Punjagutta Metro Station, 8-2-340/1, Punjagutta Rd, Punjagutta Officers Colony, Punjagutta, Hyderabad, Telangana – 500082
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 09:00 – 16:00 (by appointment only)
New Delhi
Visa Application Centre, VFS Global Services Pvt. Ltd, Shivaji Stadium Metro Station, Mezzanine Level, Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Connaught Place, New Delhi – 110001
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 09:00 – 16:00 (by appointment only)
Key Takeaways by AdmitX
Studying in France offers a unique blend of world-class education, rich cultural experiences, and the opportunity to build a global network. The long-stay student visa application process, while detailed, is designed to ensure that students are well-prepared and legally supported throughout their academic journey.
Campus France provides a centralised and streamlined system that not only helps students apply to multiple institutions but also offers personalised support through every stage of the application.
FAQs
What is the Études en France procedure, and is it mandatory?
The Études en France procedure is a centralised application process managed by Campus France for Indian students who wish to study in France for more than 90 days. Yes, it is mandatory for students applying to French institutions, and it must be completed before applying for a student visa.
How much bank balance is required to apply for a France student visa?
Students must show proof of financial resources equivalent to at least EUR 615 or INR 59,000 per month for the entire duration of their stay. This can be shown through personal savings, a sponsorship letter, or a combination of funding sources.
Do I need to know French to study in France?
Not necessarily. Many universities in France offer programs taught entirely in English, especially at the postgraduate level. However, having basic French knowledge can help with daily life and integration in the local community.
Can I work while studying in France on a student visa?
Yes, international students on a long-stay visa in France are allowed to work part-time for up to 964 hours per year, which is approximately 20 hours per week. This can help cover living expenses and gain valuable experience.
What should I do after arriving in France on a student visa?
You must validate your long-stay student visa within three months of arrival. This is done through the French Immigration and Citizenship Office (OFII) and is mandatory to legally reside in France during your studies.
