Skip to content
English
Contact us
  • There are no suggestions because the search field is empty.

How do I renew my student residence permit?

Want to keep studying in France after your first year? You must apply for a student residence permit online, between 4 and 2 months before your VLS-TS or current permit expires.

Which permit will I get?

  • After your first year on a VLS-TS: a 1-year student residence permit, or a multi-year permit covering the rest of your current degree cycle. For example, after the first year of a bachelor's degree you would get a permit valid for 2 years.
  • If you already hold a multi-year permit: you can renew it in the same way. If you move on to a new cycle (for example from a bachelor's to a master's), the new permit covers that cycle.

Conditions

  • Be enrolled (or pre-enrolled) in a French higher-education institution.
  • Have resources of at least €877.50 per month (applications filed since 1 August 2026).
  • Show that your studies are real and serious: attendance, exam results, diplomas, and explanations if you changed course. Repeating one year per cycle does not, on its own, count against you.

Documents

  • Your VLS-TS or current residence permit
  • Proof of address less than 6 months old
  • An e-photo code (from an approved photo booth or photographer)
  • Your enrolment or pre-enrolment certificate
  • Your transcripts for the past year, your latest diploma obtained in France, and your certificate of success
  • The signed commitment to respect the principles of the French Republic
  • Proof of resources, for example: a scholarship certificate, your last 3 payslips, a sponsor's ID plus proof of regular transfers, or a bank statement showing a sufficient balance

Cost

  • 1-year student permit: €100 in tax stamps
  • Multi-year student permit: €150 (€100 tax + €50 stamp duty)
  • If you apply late, you must also pay €180 (unless there is a case of force majeure).

How to apply

Apply on the ANEF platform. You get a filing certificate immediately and can follow your file online. You may be called to the prefecture to give fingerprints.

If your file is still being processed when your current permit expires, you will receive an extension certificate (attestation de prolongation d'instruction) on ANEF. It proves your stay is legal while you wait.

Many universities have an international welcome desk that can help with the process. Make the most of it!