Student Long-Stay Visa (VLS-TS Étudiant)
International students enrolled in a recognised French higher-education programme.
The Student Long-Stay Visa (VLS-TS Étudiant) is a French study & graduate visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€99 visa + €75 OFII validation tax (Campus France fee may apply)) and processing time (~2-4 weeks (after Campus France 'Études en France')), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Student Long-Stay Visa (VLS-TS Étudiant) is for
International students enrolled in a recognised French higher-education programme.
Switch to a job-search/work permit after graduation; study years count partly toward residence.
Student Long-Stay Visa (VLS-TS Étudiant) - eligibility criteria
- Acceptance letter from a recognised institution
- Completed Campus France 'Études en France' procedure (where applicable)
- Proof of resources (~€615/month)
- Accommodation in France
- Health insurance cover
Student Long-Stay Visa (VLS-TS Étudiant) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Student Long-Stay Visa (VLS-TS Étudiant) (France) is ~€99 visa + €75 OFII validation tax (Campus France fee may apply), with an indicative processing time of ~2-4 weeks (after Campus France 'Études en France'). Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at France-Visas.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | At a French consulate / Campus France, then validate online with OFII |
| Length of stay | Duration of the academic year, renewable (multi-year possible) |
| Work rights | Up to 60% of full-time (~964 hours/year) |
| Study rights | Full-time enrolment in the named programme |
| Government fee | ~€99 visa + €75 OFII validation tax (Campus France fee may apply) |
| Processing time | ~2-4 weeks (after Campus France 'Études en France') |
| Route to PR | Switch to a job-search/work permit after graduation; study years count partly toward residence. |
Pathway & next steps
Switch to a job-search/work permit after graduation; study years count partly toward residence.
Many applicants also compare RECE / APS · Job-Search or Business-Creation Permit (Recherche d'Emploi / Création d'Entreprise), Talent (Chercheur) · Passeport Talent - Researcher (Chercheur), Stagiaire · Trainee / Intern Permit (Stagiaire). 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 Student Long-Stay Visa (VLS-TS Étudiant) pitfalls we fix
Student Long-Stay Visa (VLS-TS Étudiant) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Student Long-Stay Visa (VLS-TS Étudiant) cost?
The Student Long-Stay Visa (VLS-TS Étudiant) government fee is ~€99 visa + €75 OFII validation tax (Campus France fee may apply). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at France-Visas before applying.
How long does the Student Long-Stay Visa (VLS-TS Étudiant) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~2-4 weeks (after Campus France 'Études en France'). Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Student Long-Stay Visa (VLS-TS Étudiant) lead to permanent residence?
Switch to a job-search/work permit after graduation; study years count partly toward residence.
Can I work on the Student Long-Stay Visa (VLS-TS Étudiant)?
Work rights: Up to 60% of full-time (~964 hours/year).
Who can apply for the Student Long-Stay Visa (VLS-TS Étudiant)?
International students enrolled in a recognised French higher-education programme.
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