Understanding the long stay visa France process

If you are planning to move to France for more than 90 days, you’ll likely need a long stay visa, also known as a visa de long séjour. Whether you are relocating for work, retirement, studies, or simply to enjoy the French lifestyle, understanding the application process is key to ensuring a smooth transition.

This guide will walk you through the long stay visa process in France, including requirements, documentation, fees, common mistakes, and the many benefits this visa offers.

Key requirements for applying

Before applying for a long stay visa (VLS-TS), it’s important to understand what the French government expects from applicants. This visa is intended for non-EU citizens who wish to reside in France for longer than 90 days but less than one year.

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Have a clear reason for staying (work, study, family reunion, etc.)

• Be financially self-sufficient or have a stable source of income

• Hold a valid passport

• Provide evidence of accommodation in France

• Have health insurance covering the duration of the stay

• Not pose a threat to public order

Eligibility criteria

France offers several categories of long stay visas. Each has its own eligibility requirements:

1. Visitor visa

• For those who wish to live in France without working.

• Proof of sufficient financial resources (at least €1,380/month per person recommended).

• Proof of accommodation in France.

2. Work visa

• Requires a pre-approved work contract by a French employer.

• The employer must obtain authorisation from the French immigration authorities (OFII or DREETS).

3. Student visa

• Proof of acceptance at a French educational institution.

• Proof of sufficient financial means (€615/month minimum).

• Health insurance coverage.

4. Family reunion visa

• For spouses or children of legal residents or French citizens.

• Requires proof of family relationship and accommodation.

5. Entrepreneur or freelance visa

• For self-employed individuals.

• A clear business plan, projected income, and sometimes professional qualifications are required.

Necessary documentation

While the exact documents depend on the visa type, most applications require the following:

• Completed long stay visa application form (Cerfa form)

• Valid passport (issued within 10 years, valid for at least 3 months beyond the visa end date)

• Passport photos meeting French specifications

• Proof of accommodation (rental contract, attestation d’hébergement, or property deed)

• Proof of income (bank statements, pension documents, employment contract, etc.)

• Health insurance covering the entire stay in France

• Visa fee payment

• For work visas: work authorisation and employment contract

• For students: acceptance letter from the French institution and proof of enrolment

All documents not in French or English must be translated by a certified translator.

Step-by-step application process

Applying for a French long stay visa involves several phases. It is essential to prepare thoroughly to avoid delays or rejections.

Initial application steps

1. Identify the visa type you need (visitor, work, student, family).

2. Apply online via the France-Visas website.

3. Create an account and fill in the application form.

4. Upload your supporting documents as required.

5. Schedule an appointment with the local French consulate or TLScontact/VFS centre.

6. Attend the visa interview in person with your full set of original documents.

7. Submit biometric data (photo + fingerprints).

8. Pay the visa fee during your appointment.

9. Wait for processing – this typically takes 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the type of visa and your country of residence.

Once approved, your passport will be returned with the visa sticker. Upon arrival in France, you must validate your visa within 3 months on the official website (administration-etrangers-en-france.interieur.gouv.fr).

Common mistakes to avoid

Visa applications can be rejected or delayed for a number of avoidable reasons. Here are the most common mistakes:

• Incomplete documentation: Missing financial proof, incorrect forms, or expired passport.

• Incorrect visa type: Applying for a visitor visa when you intend to work, for example.

• Inconsistent information: Discrepancies between forms and supporting documents.

• Insufficient funds: Not meeting the financial threshold required.

• No valid insurance: Submitting a policy that does not cover French regulations.

Always double-check your application and get translations if necessary. Consider consulting a visa expert or relocation service if you’re unsure.