Trainee / Intern Permit (Stagiaire)
People coming to France for a structured internship or vocational training placement.
The Trainee / Intern Permit (Stagiaire) is a French study & graduate visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€99 visa + OFII validation tax) and processing time (~2-4 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Trainee / Intern Permit (Stagiaire) is for
People coming to France for a structured internship or vocational training placement.
No direct PR path; switch to a work or student permit to remain.
Trainee / Intern Permit (Stagiaire) - eligibility criteria
- Signed training agreement (convention de stage) approved by the authorities
- Host organisation in France
- Sufficient resources for the stay
- Health insurance cover
- Valid passport and clean record
Trainee / Intern Permit (Stagiaire) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Trainee / Intern Permit (Stagiaire) (France) is ~€99 visa + OFII validation tax, 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 (VLS-TS) |
| Length of stay | Duration of the internship, up to 12 months |
| Work rights | Work limited to the approved internship |
| Study rights | Training as part of the placement |
| Government fee | ~€99 visa + OFII validation tax |
| Processing time | ~2-4 weeks |
| Route to PR | No direct PR path; switch to a work or student permit to remain. |
Pathway & next steps
No direct PR path; switch to a work or student permit to remain.
Many applicants also compare Étudiant · Student Long-Stay Visa (VLS-TS Étudiant), Salarié · Employee Residence Permit (Carte de Séjour Salarié), Au Pair · Au Pair Permit (Jeune au Pair). 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 Trainee / Intern Permit (Stagiaire) pitfalls we fix
Trainee / Intern Permit (Stagiaire) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Trainee / Intern Permit (Stagiaire) cost?
The Trainee / Intern Permit (Stagiaire) government fee is ~€99 visa + OFII validation tax. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at France-Visas before applying.
How long does the Trainee / Intern Permit (Stagiaire) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~2-4 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Trainee / Intern Permit (Stagiaire) lead to permanent residence?
No direct PR path; switch to a work or student permit to remain.
Can I work on the Trainee / Intern Permit (Stagiaire)?
Work rights: Work limited to the approved internship.
Who can apply for the Trainee / Intern Permit (Stagiaire)?
People coming to France for a structured internship or vocational training placement.
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