How does the VISA process work?

Get support from Livinfrance for your visa application

Did you know? In 100% of the requests for support received by our team , the candidate's visa application contained errors that could have led to a refusal of the visa application. 

Visa application process

Once you have passed the Campus France stage, you will be able to start your visa procedure. This step is crucial in your process to come and study in France and a lack of information can lead to a refusal of your visa.

Don't worry, we're here to guide you through this process, and detail step by step what you'll need to do ☀️

It is recommended to start it 2 months before the departure date, and takes between 10-20 days to be delivered.

1. Get information
2. Apply online
3. Make an appointment
4. Submit your application
5. Follow your application

Step 1 - Get informed

First, you must determine, according to your situation, what type of visa you need for your studies in France. This will depend on several criteria:

• Nationality
• Age
• Place of residence and application
• Length of stay
• Destination of the stay (France or DOM TOM)

To do this, France Visas has set up a simulator allowing you to know if you need a visa, and which one, but also to know the list of documents according to your situation.

You will also find the contact page associated with your country to know who and where to contact for your visa application.

Step 2 - Apply online

Once you are ready to apply for your visa, you will need to create an account on France Visas. You will then have access to the visa application form, which should take about 20 minutes to complete.

It will be divided into 3 parts;

Form
You will have to fill in information about your stay, your identity, your contact information, your project and your activity (student).

Your stay
In this part you will have to fill in your CEF number which is on your "Etudes en France" space, as well as the contact information of the school/university that is hosting you.

Appointment
I'll explain it all below 😉

Step 3 - Make an appointment

After creating your visa application file, and gathering all the requested documents, you must make an appointment with the consular services.

Find out how long it takes to make an appointment so that you will not be surprised, and above all, so that you have it in time before your departure to France!

You will find the information for making an appointment on the page associated with your country of application.

Step 4: Submitting your application

D-day, you have your file under your arm and you finally show up for your appointment! 📄

Your file must be complete with the CERFA form and the receipt, it will be checked and kept with your passport in order to transmit them to the consulate.

Be sure to bring a means of payment as well as hydroalcoholic gel since you will have to pay the application fee, and have your fingerprints collected.

Step 5: Follow up on your application

The visa application process can take some time but don't worry, you will be able to track it via the "Track your application status" page.

Your passport can be sent by mail, or you can pick it up at the center where you dropped it off.