Long-Stay Visa Equivalent to Residence Permit (VLS-TS)
People moving to France for 4-12 months who validate the visa online to obtain residence-permit status.
The Long-Stay Visa Equivalent to Residence Permit (VLS-TS) is a French visitor & short stay visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€99 visa fee + OFII validation tax (~€200 + €25 stamp for most categories)) and processing time (~2-4 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Long-Stay Visa Equivalent to Residence Permit (VLS-TS) is for
People moving to France for 4-12 months who validate the visa online to obtain residence-permit status.
Renew as a residence permit; counts toward the 5 years for a 10-year resident card.
Long-Stay Visa Equivalent to Residence Permit (VLS-TS) - eligibility criteria
- Approved purpose: work, study, visitor, family or spouse
- Proof of sufficient resources for the stay
- Accommodation in France
- Health insurance cover
- Validate the visa within 3 months of arrival via the OFII portal
Long-Stay Visa Equivalent to Residence Permit (VLS-TS) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Long-Stay Visa Equivalent to Residence Permit (VLS-TS) (France) is ~€99 visa fee + OFII validation tax (~€200 + €25 stamp for most categories), with an indicative processing time of ~2-4 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at France-Visas.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | At a French consulate abroad, then validate online with OFII after arrival |
| Length of stay | 4 to 12 months |
| Work rights | Depends on category endorsed on the visa |
| Study rights | Depends on category endorsed on the visa |
| Government fee | ~€99 visa fee + OFII validation tax (~€200 + €25 stamp for most categories) |
| Processing time | ~2-4 weeks |
| Route to PR | Renew as a residence permit; counts toward the 5 years for a 10-year resident card. |
Pathway & next steps
Renew as a residence permit; counts toward the 5 years for a 10-year resident card.
Many applicants also compare Visiteur · Visitor Long-Stay Visa/Permit (Visiteur), Étudiant · Student Long-Stay Visa (VLS-TS Étudiant), Salarié · Employee Residence Permit (Carte de Séjour Salarié). Run a free VisaChief check to see which French route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Long-Stay Visa Equivalent to Residence Permit (VLS-TS) pitfalls we fix
Long-Stay Visa Equivalent to Residence Permit (VLS-TS) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Long-Stay Visa Equivalent to Residence Permit (VLS-TS) cost?
The Long-Stay Visa Equivalent to Residence Permit (VLS-TS) government fee is ~€99 visa fee + OFII validation tax (~€200 + €25 stamp for most categories). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at France-Visas before applying.
How long does the Long-Stay Visa Equivalent to Residence Permit (VLS-TS) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~2-4 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Long-Stay Visa Equivalent to Residence Permit (VLS-TS) lead to permanent residence?
Renew as a residence permit; counts toward the 5 years for a 10-year resident card.
Can I work on the Long-Stay Visa Equivalent to Residence Permit (VLS-TS)?
Work rights: Depends on category endorsed on the visa.
Who can apply for the Long-Stay Visa Equivalent to Residence Permit (VLS-TS)?
People moving to France for 4-12 months who validate the visa online to obtain residence-permit status.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official France government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- France-Visas - official France immigration authority