Essential information for international students
The student visa allows non-European citizens to live and study in France. Obtaining it involves an official process with various French state agencies. This section summarizes key information to prepare your application.
Get to know the key institutions in your student visa process
Evaluates your academic project. Validation is mandatory in many Latin American countries before applying for the visa.
Visit official siteOfficial portal of the French government for visa applications and scheduling consular appointments.
Visit official siteAnalyzes the complete dossier and makes the final decision on the visa. This is where you present your application.
Defines official rules, required financial resources, and the rights and obligations of students.
Visit official siteThe simplified step-by-step to get your visa.
Obtain the acceptance or pre-registration letter from your school or university.
Complete the 'Etudes en France' process, payment, and academic interview.
Fill out the form on France-Visas and gather your consular dossier.
Submit your biometric documents and wait for the decision (7-15 days).
In some cases, it is possible to change status once in France, usually after finishing your studies. This change is not automatic and depends on the diploma obtained and the consistency of your academic and professional project. Each situation is evaluated case-by-case by the French administration.
Examples of possible changes: transitioning from a student visa to a work visa (Salarié) if you find a job corresponding to your profile and studies, or to an entrepreneur visa if you decide to create your own company.
The student visa is an academic project, not just an administrative procedure. The consistency of your dossier is key to avoiding delays or rejections.
Informing yourself in advance allows you to make better decisions and prepare all necessary documents with sufficient time.
Plan ahead: The complete process, from the program search to obtaining the visa, can take 6 to 9 months. Start your search early enough.
Complete documentation: Make sure to have all documents translated and legalized when applicable. An incomplete dossier can generate significant delays.
We answer your questions about requirements, financial solvency, Campus France, and part-time work.
We accompany you throughout the process: Campus France, academic registration, dossier preparation, and financial resource strategy.