What is an irrevocable bank deposit?

An irrevocable transfer certificate, also known by its French abbreviation AVI, is a financial document confirming that payments have been arranged for you to fund your studies in France. It specifies the payment amount and the period covered.

Depending on the arrangement you choose, the funds are deposited and blocked in advance, then transferred each month to your account in France. A bank balance certificate alone is therefore not an AVI.

To obtain one, contact your bank or an institution offering this type of arrangement. Not all banks necessarily offer this service: check that the institution can issue a document that meets the requirements of the consulate handling your application.

An AVI is one possible form of financial evidence, but the documents accepted vary depending on the country where you apply and your situation. It does not automatically replace your financial sponsor’s supporting documents: some procedures require both. Check your personalised document checklist on France-Visas before starting the process.

To prepare the other documents for your application, read our article: Required documents for your visa application.

⚠️ Livinfrance does not provide an AVI issuing service. To obtain your certificate, you must contact a bank or an organisation offering this service directly.