What are the different types of student visas in France?

Long stay, short stay, "student", "trainee"… it can be confusing. The visa you need depends on your plans and how long you will stay.

Studying in France for 3 months or less

Short-stay student visa (type C). For a short course of up to 3 months. You cannot extend it in France.

**Short-stay "student-competition" visa (étudiant-concours).** For non-EU students who need to come to France to sit an entrance exam or attend an admission interview. If you are admitted, you can apply for a student residence permit at the prefecture without going home first. If you are not admitted, you must leave France before your visa expires.

Studying in France for more than 3 months

Long-stay visa equivalent to a residence permit (VLS-TS "étudiant"). The standard student visa, valid for 4 months to 1 year. You must validate it online within 3 months of arriving in France and pay a €100 tax. Read how to validate your VLS-TS.

Temporary long-stay visa (VLS-T). For shorter stays of up to 6 months. It does not need to be validated after you arrive, but it cannot be renewed in France.

Researcher residence permit ("talent – chercheur"). For doctoral candidates and researchers with a hosting agreement from a French research body. This used to be called the "talent passport".

Long-stay "trainee" visa (VLS-TS "stagiaire"). For an internship of more than 3 months under a signed internship agreement. It must also be validated within 3 months of arrival.