France's student visa is elegantly simple once you understand it: one document that is both your visa and your first residence permit. But there is a mandatory online step after you land that, if missed, makes you illegal. Here is how it works.
What the VLS-TS is
For stays over 90 days, non-EU students get the VLS-TS (Visa de Long Séjour valant Titre de Séjour). It is issued via your Études en France file after admission, and it functions as both your entry visa and your residence permit for the first year, so you do not need to chase a separate carte de séjour immediately.
How to get it
Get admitted via EEF
Your visa application flows from the same Campus France platform once a university admits you.
Prepare documents
Admission letter, proof of funds (one year tuition + ~€615/month), accommodation proof, insurance, passport, photos, see costs.
Biometrics appointment
At the visa centre (VFS) in India; submit documents and give biometrics.
The step everyone forgets: OFII validation
Renewing later
For subsequent years you apply for a carte de séjour étudiant (multi-year student residence permit) at your local prefecture, usually a couple of months before your current permit expires. After graduation you switch to the job-search permit.
FAQ
Is the VLS-TS a visa or a residence permit?
Both, for the first year. It serves as your residence permit once validated online.
What is OFII validation?
A mandatory online step within 3 months of arriving where you validate the visa and pay the residence tax. Do not skip it.
Can I work on a student visa in France?
Yes, up to 964 hours per year, see part-time work.
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