France Student Visa Guide (VLS-TS)

What the VLS-TS student visa is

Most international students who come to France for a study programme longer than a few months apply for a long-stay visa that also serves as a residence permit. In official French terms this is the VLS-TS (visa de long sejour valant titre de sejour) for studies. It lets you live and study in France for the duration of your course, subject to the conditions set by the French authorities.

This page explains the general shape of the process so you know what to expect. It is general information, not immigration advice — the exact requirements, fees, and steps are set by the French government and can change, so verify everything on the official France-Visas portal before you apply.

Step 1 — Etudes en France and Campus France

For many countries, including India, France runs a structured pre-application platform called Etudes en France, managed by Campus France. Students from these countries are normally expected to create an Etudes en France account, build their study project, and (where applicable) complete a Campus France interview before the visa stage.

Campus France guides you through choosing a programme, submitting your academic file, and securing your admission. Completing this step correctly is what later unlocks the visa appointment, so follow the official Campus France instructions for your country closely.

• Create your Etudes en France account and complete your study project
• Submit academic documents and follow the Campus France steps for your country
• Secure an admission / acceptance from a recognised French institution

Step 2 — Apply through France-Visas

The official visa application itself goes through France-Visas, the French government's visa portal. You fill in the online form, get your personalised list of supporting documents, and then book an appointment with the relevant visa centre or consulate for your region to submit biometrics and your file.

Typical supporting elements for a student file include proof of admission, evidence that you can cover your living costs, accommodation arrangements, and a valid passport — but the exact list is generated for your situation by France-Visas. Treat the portal's own document list as the authority and do not rely on unofficial checklists.

Step 3 — Validate your visa after you arrive

A key feature of the VLS-TS is that, after you arrive in France, you generally have to validate it online within a set period for it to function as your residence permit. This validation is done through the official French administration portal and usually involves confirming your arrival details and paying the relevant tax/fee.

Because this post-arrival validation is easy to overlook and is time-limited, note the deadline given to you and complete it on the official government site. Skipping it can affect the legal validity of your stay.

Working and renewing during your studies

France allows international students to work a limited number of hours alongside their studies, within the rules set by the authorities, and student status can usually be renewed as you progress through your programme. The specific work-hour limits, renewal conditions, and any post-study options are defined by French law and are revised from time to time.

Do not assume a fixed number from memory or from older guides. Confirm the current work allowance and renewal rules on the official French government sources, and remember this is general information rather than personalised immigration advice.