How to Get a Student Visa for France: 2027 Process & What to Prepare

Planning to study in France in 2027? Your university acceptance letter marks the beginning of two important tasks: applying for your student visa for France and arranging accommodation.

Both take preparation, especially if you plan to study in Paris. While visa applications follow an official procedure, finding suitable accommodation can take longer than expected.

Several changes introduced in 2026 also affect your plans. The minimum financial requirement for long-stay student visas increased to €877.50 per month. New restrictions also affect housing assistance for certain non-EU students.

This guide explains French student visa types, required documents, application steps, and essential preparations before arriving. It also covers the challenges of finding accommodation in Paris and how to approach your search from abroad.

The right student visa for France depends on your nationality, programme duration, and reason for studying.

Citizens of the EU, EEA, and Switzerland generally do not need a visa to study in France. Most other international students must check their entry and residence requirements before travelling.

1. Short-Stay Student Visa (Up to 90 Days)

A short-stay visa may suit students attending language courses, summer schools, or academic programmes lasting no more than 90 days.

This visa allows eligible visitors to stay in France and the wider Schengen Area for a limited period. It does not provide a long-term student residence status.

Some nationalities can enter France without a short-stay visa. However, visa-free travel does not automatically permit a stay beyond the applicable 90-day limit.

Students planning a longer programme should apply for an appropriate long-stay visa instead.

2. Temporary Long-Stay Student Visa (VLS-T)

The visa de long séjour temporaire (VLS-T) may be issued for certain study programmes lasting between three and six months.

It can suit exchange semesters, language courses, or other temporary academic programmes.

Unlike the VLS-TS, a VLS-T does not require online residence validation after arrival. It is also generally non-renewable and does not provide the same student employment rights.

Check the conditions printed on your visa before making work or travel arrangements.

3. Long-Stay Student Visa (VLS-TS Étudiant)

The visa de long séjour valant titre de séjour (VLS-TS étudiant) is the standard route for many non-EU students pursuing longer academic programmes in France.

It is commonly issued for four to twelve months and acts as a residence permit once validated.

Students holding this status can generally work up to 964 hours per year, subject to the applicable employment rules and exceptions.

You must validate your VLS-TS online within three months of entering France. If your studies continue beyond its validity, you must apply for the appropriate residence permit or renewal before it expires.

4. Special Student Visas for Entrance Exams and Mobility Programmes

France also offers specific arrangements for certain academic situations.

The étudiant-concours visa is designed for applicants travelling to France to take qualifying entrance examinations. Successful candidates may be able to apply for a residence permit in France without returning to their home country.

Students participating in eligible European or multilateral mobility programmes may receive a visa marked étudiant-programme de mobilité. This status can provide specific mobility rights between participating European countries.

The France-Visas student visa information explains the main categories and their conditions.

Preparing complete documents is one of the most important parts of applying for a student visa for France.

The official France-Visas application portal generates a personalized checklist based on your nationality, programme, and country of application.

Requirements can vary. However, most long-stay student applications involve the following documents.

1. Valid Passport and Visa Application Form

Your passport must meet the validity requirements for your intended stay. Check that it has sufficient blank pages and is in acceptable condition.

You must also complete the relevant visa application form and provide compliant identity photographs.

Make sure your personal details match across all documents. Differences in names, dates, or passport numbers can cause additional checks.

Keep digital copies of your passport, application confirmation, and supporting documents.

2. University Acceptance Letter and Campus France Confirmation

You normally need proof of admission or enrolment from a recognized educational institution in France. Your acceptance letter should identify the institution, programme, and study dates.

Applicants living in countries covered by the Études en France procedure must also follow the relevant Campus France requirements.

Depending on your situation, you may need confirmation that you have completed the required academic review before attending your visa appointment.

The Campus France Études en France procedure provides information about applications and participating countries.

3. Proof of Financial Resources

Applicants must demonstrate that they can support themselves during their studies.

From August 1, 2026, the minimum financial requirement increased from €615 to €877.50 per month for relevant long-stay student visa applications. This represents €10,530 for twelve months. Check the applicable threshold for 2027 before applying.

Accepted financial evidence may include:

• Personal bank statements: Show sufficient available funds and a clear financial history.
• Scholarship confirmation: Provide an official letter showing the scholarship amount and duration.
• Financial sponsorship: Include a sponsor's signed commitment, financial evidence, and identification where required.

Your documents should clearly explain where your funds come from and how you can access them. A large recent deposit without supporting information may raise additional questions.

Remember that the minimum visa requirement may not cover your actual living expenses in Paris.

4. Proof of Accommodation in France

Accommodation evidence is another important part of your French student visa application.

According to France-Visas, you must provide an address for your first three months in France or a permanent address if you have already secured accommodation.

Depending on your consulate's requirements, acceptable documents may include:

• Student residence confirmation: An official booking or accommodation confirmation.
• Rental agreement: A signed contract identifying the property and relevant rental dates.
• Temporary accommodation reservation: A qualifying confirmed booking covering the required initial period.
• Host accommodation certificate: An attestation d'hébergement with supporting documents where required.

A signed long-term lease is not universally mandatory. However, your accommodation evidence should be accurate and consistent with your arrival plans.

If you intend to study in Paris, beginning your housing search before your visa appointment gives you more time to compare suitable options.

5. Health Insurance and Other Supporting Documents

Insurance requirements depend on the visa category and individual circumstances.

Some applicants may need evidence of medical insurance covering their initial stay. Others will be able to register for French social security after completing the relevant enrolment steps.

Follow the insurance requirements in your personalized visa checklist.

You should also prepare any translations or additional documents requested by your consulate.

For student visas, France-Visas currently lists indicative fees of €50 for qualifying applicants under the Études en France procedure and €99 for other applicants. Additional application-centre service fees may apply.

These visa fees are separate from any Campus France administrative charges.

The application process generally follows five main steps.

Start early, especially if your programme begins in September. Appointment availability and processing times vary between countries.

Step 1: Get Accepted and Check Your Visa Requirements

First, secure admission to your chosen university or educational institution.

Review your programme's duration and confirm whether you need a short-stay visa, VLS-T, or VLS-TS.

Next, use the France-Visas visa wizard to identify the procedure applicable to your nationality and country of residence.

Also check whether your country participates in Études en France.

Do not assume that every non-EU student follows an identical process.

Step 2: Complete Campus France, If Required

If your application falls under the Études en France procedure, create an account on the designated platform.

Depending on your country and application route, you may need to:

Create an applicant profile and provide your personal information.

Upload academic transcripts, qualifications, and admission documents.

Pay the applicable local Campus France processing fee.

Attend an interview if requested.

Obtain the necessary confirmation before proceeding to the consular stage.

Campus France deadlines vary by country and programme. Check the applicable schedule early, as some procedures begin several months before the academic year.

Step 3: Complete Your France-Visas Application

Create your application through France-Visas. Then, you enter your personal information, programme details, intended travel dates, and accommodation information.

The system will provide instructions and a supporting document checklist. You have to upload documents when requested, then arrange your appointment through the designated provider or consulate.

Before submitting, check that your financial evidence meets the applicable requirements and that your accommodation documentation is ready.

Step 4: Attend Your Visa Appointment

Attend your appointment at the designated French consulate or authorized application centre, such as TLScontact or VFS Global, where applicable.

Before attending, make sure you:

• Prepare your documents: Bring the required application form, passport, and supporting evidence.
• Check original-document requirements: Carry originals and copies where requested.
• Complete biometrics: Provide fingerprints and a photograph unless exempt.
• Pay the required fees: Settle the applicable visa and service charges.
• Keep your receipt: Retain the confirmation and tracking details.

If a document is missing, the authorities may request additional information. This can delay the decision, so check your application carefully before attending.

Step 5: Track Your Application and Receive Your Visa

After your appointment, follow the tracking instructions provided by the visa centre. Processing times depend on your country, the season, and the complexity of your application.

Once you receive your passport, review the visa category, validity dates, and any conditions.

Do not assume approval until the visa has been issued.

For a September 2027 intake, the following timeline can help you organize your preparations. Note that this example is not an official calendar. Always follow your institution's deadlines and local consular guidance.

Getting your student visa for France is a major step. However, several practical arrangements deserve attention before your departure.

Preparing these essentials will make your first weeks in France easier.

1. Arrange Accommodation and Budget for Move-In Costs

Finding accommodation should be one of your first priorities after receiving admission confirmation.

Paris offers university residences, private student housing, shared apartments, and furnished studios. Each option has different costs and rental conditions.

When planning your initial housing budget, consider:

• First month's rent: Usually required when the tenancy begins.
• Security deposit: Depends on the lease type and whether the property is furnished.
• Agency fees: May apply when renting through a property agency, subject to legal limits.
• Home insurance: Generally mandatory for residential tenants.
• Initial household expenses: Bedding, kitchen essentials, and other basic items.

Do not assume you will receive French housing assistance. Since July 1, 2026, stricter eligibility rules have affected certain non-EU students, although exceptions apply.

The eligibility conditions are explained in housing assistance for international students in France.

2. Prepare Your Banking and Financial Arrangements

Consider how you will access your money during your first months in France.

You may need funds for accommodation, transport, groceries, university expenses, and other essential purchases.

A French bank account can simplify rent payments and daily transactions. However, many students initially use an existing international account or another payment solution.

Check whether your current bank supports SEPA transfers and payments in euros.

Also review international transaction charges and exchange rates.

If your parents will send money from abroad, plan the transfer method before departure.

Keep enough accessible funds for your initial expenses. Do not depend on opening a French bank account immediately after arriving.

3. Complete University Enrolment and Health Insurance Preparations

Before travelling, review your university's enrolment requirements and prepare the documents you will need after arrival.

Important preparations include:

• CVEC payment: Pay the student-life contribution if applicable. The amount for 2026–2027 is €105.
• University registration: Confirm which documents your institution requires to complete enrolment.
• Health insurance: Check whether you need temporary coverage before registering for French social security.
• Social security documents: Prepare identification, enrolment confirmation, and any required civil-status documents.

Eligible international students can register through French student health insurance registration.

Check the updated CVEC amount and insurance requirements for the 2027–2028 academic year.

4. Plan Transport, Phone Access, and Post-Arrival Formalities

Paris has an extensive public transport network. Students can use the metro, RER, buses, and trams to travel across the city and surrounding areas.

Eligible students under 26 may benefit from the Imagine R student pass.

For 2026–2027, the annual pass costs €401.30. Check the 2027–2028 price before budgeting.

A French SIM or suitable international phone plan will also help with university communications, banking, and housing appointments.

Finally, remember that VLS-TS holders must validate their visa online through the French immigration administration portal (ANEF) within three months of arrival.

The process involves providing your visa and personal details, confirming your French address, and paying the applicable tax.

Validation is essential to maintain lawful residence under this visa status.

France continues to attract international students seeking university degrees, exchange programmes, and postgraduate education.

According to Campus France international student enrolment statistics, 443,500 international students attended French higher education institutions in 2024–2025.

That represented a 3% annual increase and a 17% rise over five years.

These figures demonstrate France's continued popularity as a study destination. They also highlight the importance of planning accommodation in major university cities.

Paris and the wider Île-de-France region attract students because of their universities, business schools, research institutions, and international programmes.

However, affordable accommodation is limited.

Public university residences operated by CROUS offer relatively affordable rooms, but demand exceeds available places in many areas. International students may face different application routes depending on their status.

Private residences and apartments provide alternatives, although their prices and booking conditions vary.

The 2026 changes to financial requirements and housing assistance may also influence how international students budget for 2027. For students planning to live in Paris, searching early and preparing a realistic rental budget can make a significant difference.

Finding accommodation in Paris can be challenging, especially if you are applying from another country.

The difficulty comes from a combination of rental demand, limited affordable housing, and documentation requirements.

High Demand and Limited Affordable Student Housing

Paris has a large student population and attracts applicants from around the world.

Affordable furnished apartments and well-located student residences receive considerable interest.

CROUS accommodation can be cheaper than private rentals, but places are limited.

The application process also varies. For example, international students without a formal exchange or scholarship arrangement may need to apply directly through the CROUS accommodation booking platform.

Campus France advises students to begin searching early and contact their university about housing arrangements.

Private residences can offer more options, but availability depends on location, price, and booking dates.

Starting several months before arrival gives you more time to compare suitable properties.

Rental Applications and Guarantor Requirements

French landlords often request a dossier locatif, a rental application file containing identification, financial documents, and supporting evidence.

International students may find this challenging, particularly when they rely on overseas income or financial support from their parents.

A typical rental application may require:

• Identification: A valid passport or another accepted identity document.
• Student status: University admission or enrolment confirmation.
• Financial evidence: Documents showing available income or financial support.
• Guarantor documentation: Evidence that an eligible person or organization can guarantee the rent.
• Supporting documents: Additional information permitted under French rental regulations.

For students without a personal guarantor in France, two alternatives may be available:

• Visale: A free rental guarantee for eligible applicants, subject to coverage and rent limits.
• GarantMe: A paid guarantee service that may help applicants who cannot use Visale or need another accepted solution.

The available options depend on your circumstances and the landlord's acceptance criteria.

Understanding guarantor options for renting in Paris can help you prepare a stronger application.

Securing Accommodation from Abroad

Searching for an apartment before arriving in France creates additional challenges.

You may be unable to attend viewings, meet landlords, or submit requested documents quickly.

Language differences and unfamiliar rental procedures can also slow the process.

Some landlords accept remote applications, video viewings, and electronic signatures. Others prefer meeting applicants in person.

Preparing your documents in advance can help you respond faster.

It is also important to distinguish between accommodation evidence for your visa and a permanent rental agreement. France-Visas permits an initial three-month address, subject to the applicant's local requirements.

Finding an apartment from abroad can take time, especially when you are also preparing a student visa for France.

Relocation in Paris helps international students and their parents manage the rental search before arrival.

Apartment Search and Rental Application Support

The team helps identify apartments that match your budget, university location, and preferred living arrangements.

Its Paris accommodation search service includes personalized property searches, viewing coordination, and rental application support.

The team can also help prepare a rental dossier that presents foreign income and supporting documents clearly.

Where appropriate, it can assist with suitable guarantor solutions and communication with property owners.

The objective is to make the search more organized and help students submit complete, competitive applications.

Remote Relocation Services Before Arrival

Students who cannot visit Paris before their programme starts may need additional support.

Relocation in Paris offers two service levels:

• Guided Plan, from €1,190: Property search, viewing arrangements, and rental application optimization for clients who remain involved in the process.
• Entrusted Plan, from €2,190: More comprehensive assistance, including agent-led viewings, video reports, application coordination, and move-in support.

Students and parents can compare the available services through Relocation in Paris pricing and packages.

The appropriate option depends on your arrival date, housing budget, and ability to attend viewings.