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How does the VISA process work?

A step-by-step guide to applying for your French student visa

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Once your admission is confirmed (and, if it applies to you, your Campus France file is validated), you can apply for your visa. Missing or inconsistent information is a common reason for refusal, so take this step carefully. Here is how it works.

Step 1 – Find out which visa you need

The right visa depends on your nationality, where you live, how long you will stay and where in France you are going (mainland France or an overseas territory). The France-Visas visa wizard tells you which visa you need and gives you a personalised list of documents. France-Visas also shows where to apply in your country.

Step 2 – Apply online

Create an account on France-Visas and fill in the long-stay application form. You will enter details about yourself, your studies and your stay, including your Études en France number if you have one, and your institution's contact details. Allow about 20 minutes.

Step 3 – Book your appointment

When your form is complete and your documents are ready, book an appointment with the consulate or the visa application centre in your country. Waiting times for appointments can be long in summer, so book as early as you can.

Step 4 – Attend your appointment

Bring your complete file: the printed and signed application form, the France-Visas receipt, your passport and all supporting documents. You will pay the visa fee and give your fingerprints. Your passport is kept while your application is processed.

Step 5 – Track your application

Follow your application on the France-Visas "Track your application" page. Depending on the centre, your passport is returned by post or you collect it.

For an official overview, see Campus France's page Student visa for France: log in to France-Visas.

Livinfrance no longer offers a paid visa application service. Our Help Center explains each step of the visa process, and our team can give you personalised guidance on accommodation requirements, proof of accommodation and our housing certificate. Just send us a request through our support form.