Every year, millions of expats and professionals choose France, especially Paris, to live, work, and explore new opportunities. In 2024, France saw a significant surge in visa applications, totaling 3,486,275—a remarkable 17.0% increase from 2023. Of these applications, 2,858,083 visas were successfully issued, marking a 16.8% increase compared to the previous year. Understanding visa requirements and smoothly navigating the application process are crucial. Here’s a comprehensive guide to obtaining a French visa, tailored specifically for expats, international students, professionals, and diplomats.
Understanding Long-Stay Visas for France
France allows citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and the UK, to visit visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, if you plan to stay longer than 90 days, you must apply for a long-stay visa (type D) before arriving in France—regardless of your nationality.
Your long-stay visa will be valid for three months to one year, depending on your plans. If you want to stay longer than the visa allows, you’ll have to apply for a residence permit (titre de séjour) at a local prefecture in France.
While your long-stay visa is valid, it also acts like a Schengen visa, meaning you can travel to other countries in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period—just like you would with a regular Schengen visa.
Types of Long-Stay Visas in France
If you're an expat planning to stay in Paris or anywhere in France long-term, you'll need a long-stay visa. France offers two main types of long-stay visas:
1. Temporary Long-Stay Visa (VLS-TS):
The VLS-TS (Visa de Long Séjour valant Titre de Séjour) is perfect for expats and professionals planning to stay in France for up to one year, with a 4 to 12-month validity period. This visa is granted in specific cases, including:
- Students enrolled at French universities
- Employees with a permanent work contract (CDI)
- Spouses of French citizens
- Holders of a Talent Residence Card (Carte de Séjour "Talents")
If you are married to a French citizen, you are automatically eligible for a VLS-TS, which serves as a residence permit in France.
2. Long-Stay Visa Requiring a Residence Permit within 2 Months of Arrival
This visa is for those planning to stay in France for more than a year. Unlike the VLS-TS, you must apply for a residence permit (titre de séjour) within two months of arrival. It allows you to apply for a residence card, which can be valid for one year, multiple years, or up to 10 years, depending on your situation. Eligible applicants include family members of French citizens, self-employed professionals, workers (including EU Blue Card and Talent Passport holders), retirees and their spouses, and artists.
How to Apply for a French Long-Stay Visa?
Step 1: Gather Your Documents and Information
Begin by ensuring your documents meet the requirements. Here are the required documents for a Long-Stay Visa for France:
- A valid passport issued within the past 10 years, with at least two blank pages, valid for at least three months beyond your intended visa expiration date.
- Proof of accommodation (e.g., a rental agreement, utility bills, or host attestation).
- Evidence of financial means (bank statements, salary slips).
- Documents specific to your visa type (employment contract, college admission letters, or invitations).
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
Depending on your nationality, complete the visa application online via the France-Visas platform. You will need to create an account with your email address, complete the form, and print your application.
Be prepared to pay your visa fees (€99, plus additional service charges up to €40).
Step 3: Schedule an Appointment
You must apply for your visa within three months before your planned departure at the French consulate in your home country. Schedule an appointment with your local visa application center or consulate. Appointments typically need to be booked three months to two weeks before your intended departure. Check appointment availability well in advance to avoid delays.
Step 4: Attend Your Visa Appointment
Arrive at your appointment on time with all required documents, your printed application form (CERFA), and proof of payment. During your visit, your biometric data (photo and fingerprints) will be collected.
Visa application processing usually takes about 15 days but may extend up to 45 days in complex cases.
Step 5: Receive Your Visa
You'll be notified when your passport is ready to be collected. Processing typically takes around 15 days but allows for potential delays, especially during busy periods. Track your application status online via the visa application center.
Post-Arrival Administrative Steps in France
After arriving in Paris, there are mandatory steps depending on your visa type.
Validate Your VLS-TS in France: VLS-TS Holders
For VLS-TS holders, you must validate your visa online within 3 months of your arrival in France. Failure to do so will result in losing your legal status in the country, and you will not be allowed to re-enter the Schengen Area if you leave. The validation process is entirely online and can be done in just a few steps:
1. Visit the official website:
🔗 Validate Your VLS-TS Here
2. Provide the required details:
- Your visa information
- The date you entered France
- Your residential address in France
- A credit card to pay the issuance fee (or an electronic tax stamp, available at newsagents)
3. Possible OFII Appointment
In some cases, the French Office for Immigration and Integration (OFII) may require you to:
- Attend a medical check-up
- Sign an integration contract
- Complete additional formalities
✅ Pro Tip: If you wish to stay in France beyond your VLS-TS validity, you must apply for a residence permit (titre de séjour) 2 months before it expires.
🔗 Apply for a Residence Permit
Apply for Your Residence Permit in France: Standard Long-Stay Visa Holders
For standard long-stay visa holders, you're required to apply for a residence permit (titre de séjour) at the local prefecture within 2 months of your arrival.
Your application process depends on where you live:
- In Paris → Visit the Préfecture de Police
- Outside Paris → Go to the prefecture or sub-prefecture in your department
📢 Before Your Appointment: Check your local prefecture's website for required documents and appointment availability. Some prefectures allow you to book online such as Paris.
📢 At Your Appointment: You must go in person with original copies of all required documents. You also need to purchase a tax stamp (timbre fiscal) to pay your visitor's tax. These are available at tobacconist shops (tabacs) and online.
✅ Here are all the essential things you need to do upon arrival in Paris to get settled smoothly.
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Disclaimer: This information is accurate as of March 2025. Always verify details through official channels, as visa policies can evolve.
Editor: Siyi CHEN
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