France is renowned as a top destination for international students, offering high-quality education at an affordable cost. As the global hub for fashion and business schools, France attracts students from around the world. With a France student visa, you can access the country’s exceptional educational system. In this definitive guide, we will cover the various aspects of obtaining a France student visa, including its types, application process, eligibility criteria, required documents, and more.

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What is France Student Visa? france student visa

The French student visa is a permit that allows you to enter France and engage in academic activities for a specified period. There are two main types of student visas:

1. France Schengen student visa: This falls under the C short-term category and is issued for studies lasting up to 90 days.

2. France National student visa: This type belongs to the D long-term category and is issued for study durations exceeding 90 days.

Both types of visas can be issued as single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry. If your course of study extends beyond one year, you must apply for a residence permit upon your arrival in France.

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How to Apply for Student Visa for France from India? To apply for a France student visa, the application process starts online, but the submission of documents is done offline at designated Visa Application Centers (VACs). The French embassies and consulates do not accept direct applications. Before beginning your application, it is crucial to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the student category. Here are the steps to apply for a France student visa:

1. Gather all the required documents for your student visa application.

2. Create an account on the French visa application portal known as French-Visas.

3. Fill out the online application form with the necessary details. Specify your purpose as ‘study’ and select the required type as ‘short term’ or ‘long term,’ depending on your study plans.

4. After completing the form, you will receive an email containing the completed application form. Print this email.

5. Book a visa appointment for document submission and biometric data collection at a VAC. You can schedule this appointment by calling the VAC or by visiting their website. Ensure that you choose a VAC within your jurisdiction (your state of residence for the past 6 months).

6. Attend the appointment in person with the appointment confirmation receipt, completed application form, required documents, and the visa fees.

Ensure that you submit genuine documents, as any misinformation or submission of fake documentation can lead to visa rejection.

Note: If you have submitted your biometric data in the Schengen Information System (SIS) within the past 5 years, you do not need to do so again. In such cases, you can have someone else submit the application on your behalf. In certain special circumstances, you may be required to attend an interview.

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Eligibility of France Student Visa To be eligible for any of the student permits, you must meet the following eligibility conditions:

• You must be physically present in India if you are applying from within the country. If you are an Indian resident in another country, you may apply for the visa in that country.

• You must possess an Indian passport valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended stay.

• Your primary purpose for visiting France must be to engage in academic activities such as studying, conducting research, internships, or training.

• You must have a registration letter from the educational institution in France that has admitted you.

• You must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in France.

• You can apply for a long-term permit only if France is your primary study destination.

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Documents Required for France Student Visa According to the France student visa requirements, you must submit the following documents at the VAC to complete your application:

• A valid passport:

  • With at least 2 blank pages.
  • Not older than 10 years.
  • Valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended travel date.
  • Include any old passports, if applicable.

• Two passport-size photographs.

• Confirmed flight tickets.

• Proof of accommodation, which can include hotel bookings or an invitation letter from your host.

• Travel medical insurance providing coverage of at least 30,000 Euros.

• Educational documents (required for long-term visas):

  • Bank statements.
  • Bank guarantees.
  • Scholarship documents.
  • Certificate of Registration or Pre-registration at a French institute, specifying the course duration.
  • Internship agreement, if applicable.

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Photo Specification for France Student Visa Ensure that your visa photo meets the following specifications:

• Dimensions: 35mm x 45mm.
• Colored photograph.
• The head must be centered.
• The photo must be taken within the last 3 months.
• Background: Solid, plain white, or grey.
• At least 80% face coverage.
• Neutral facial expression.
• Non-thick framed and prescription glasses are permitted.
• Headgear is allowed only for religious reasons.
• Facial hair is permitted.

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France Student Visa Processing Time The processing time for the France Schengen Student visa is approximately 15 working days. For the National French student visa, processing can take longer, up to 30 days. However, these processing times can vary based on factors such as visa validity, number of entries, application volume at the embassy/consulate, and your travel history. Therefore, it is advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.

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France Student Visa Fees The total fees for the visa process depend on various factors, including the type of French student permit, express delivery charges, biometric fees, and more. Since fees can fluctuate based on foreign exchange rates, it is strongly recommended to check the exact fees shortly before applying.

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After Submission Once you have submitted your application at a VAC, it will be forwarded to the relevant French diplomatic mission for processing, based on your jurisdiction. Depending on your location, this may be the Embassy of France in New Delhi or one of the Consulates of France in Bangalore, Kolkata, Puducherry, or Mumbai.

If your French Schengen student visa is approved, you can collect your passport from the VAC or have it delivered to you for an additional charge.

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How to Check Visa Status? After submitting your application, you can check the status through various methods. You can opt for SMS notification services offered by the VAC. Alternatively, you can enter your application number and name on the tracking portal to check your status. You may also contact your travel agency to assist you in tracking the status.

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When You Have This Visa Once you have obtained your France student visa, remember the following key points to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay:

• Take note of the visa’s expiry date, validity, and number of entries. Do not overstay your permitted duration in France.

• Travel to France within 6 months of visa issuance or as specified on the visa sticker.

• Always carry a copy of your passport or residence permit while traveling within France.

• While on a short-term student visa, refrain from engaging in paid work for a French establishment. On long-term student permits, you may be allowed to work part-time.

• You cannot extend a short-term permit except in extreme unforeseeable circumstances. National visas may be extended with valid reasons.

• Comply with French laws and respect the local culture.

• Your national visa also serves as a Schengen visa, allowing you to visit other Schengen countries. However, with the national permit, your stay in other Schengen countries is limited to a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period.

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