Why do I need an Irrevocable Transfer Certificate?

Are you preparing your student visa application for France and wondering what an irrevocable transfer certificate, also known by its French abbreviation AVI, is? This document confirms that you will have regular financial resources to support yourself in France during your studies.

Its purpose is to show the consulate that funding for your stay has been planned and arranged. However, an AVI is not mandatory for every student: the supporting documents you need depend on your situation and the requirements of the consulate handling your application.

Why is this document useful for my visa application?

To study in France, you must be able to explain how you will cover your everyday expenses, including accommodation, food, transport and other living costs.

An AVI demonstrates that funding has been arranged over a specific period. It provides a clear answer to two questions: how much money will you receive each month, and for how long?

A bank statement mainly shows your account balance at a particular point in time. An AVI documents a commitment to future payments.

💶 How much funding do I need to demonstrate?

For long-stay student visa applications submitted on or after 1 August 2026, France-Visas specifies a minimum of €877.50 in financial resources per month.

Over a twelve-month period, this amounts to: €877.50 × 12 = €10,530

This calculation gives you a reference point if your arrangement covers a full year. Check the required duration and supporting documents for your own application before depositing any funds.

Is an AVI mandatory if I already have a financial sponsor?

Not necessarily. Depending on the country where you apply and your situation, other supporting documents may be accepted, such as a scholarship certificate or a financial sponsorship letter accompanied by your sponsor’s supporting documents. France-Visas lists these alternatives in its guidance for Vietnam, for example.

However, having a financial sponsor does not automatically exempt you from providing an AVI if one is required for your application.

Before choosing an option, check your personalised supporting document checklist on France-Visas and the instructions issued by the relevant consulate.

How can I obtain an AVI?

Start by checking that the arrangement you are considering meets the requirements of your visa application. You can then contact a bank or an organisation offering this service to find out how to proceed.

For arrangements that require funds to be deposited in advance, the steps are generally as follows:

You provide the documents needed to open your file.
You deposit the amount intended to cover the agreed period.
The institution issues the certificate after completing its checks and receiving the funds.
You include the AVI in your visa application.
You activate the payments according to the terms of your contract.

Before committing, confirm the monthly payment amount, the period covered, the fees, the time needed to issue the certificate and the conditions for returning the funds.

⚠️ Livinfrance does not offer a service for obtaining an AVI. You will need to contact a bank or an organisation that provides this service to obtain your certificate.

Does an AVI guarantee that my visa will be approved?

No. An AVI provides evidence of funding for your stay, but it does not guarantee approval. The consulate assesses your entire application and has sole authority to make the decision.

It therefore does not replace your proof of admission, the required accommodation documents or any other necessary supporting documents.

How is it different from a housing certificate?

These documents serve two different purposes:

An AVI provides evidence of the financial resources arranged for your stay.
A housing certificate addresses the accommodation part of your application.

They can complement each other, but one does not replace the other.

When preparing your application, always follow the guidance on France-Visas. You can also explore Livinfrance’s services to help you prepare for your arrival in France.