France – Student Visa & Work Rights
By France is known for its world-class education, especially in fields like art, engineering, fashion, and business. The country’s public universities offer affordable tuition, and students benefit from a high quality of life and extensive cultural exposure.
To begin studying in France, international students must secure admission to a recognized institution. After receiving the acceptance letter, students must apply for a long-stay student visa (VLS-TS) if their program exceeds 90 days. Applications are submitted online via the Campus France platform or through the French consulate in the applicant’s home country.
Required documents typically include a valid passport, proof of enrollment, evidence of financial resources (approximately €615 per month), proof of accommodation, and health insurance. Some applicants may also be required to submit a language proficiency certificate, especially if the program is taught in French.
Once in France, students must validate their VLS-TS visa within three months of arrival. This visa acts as a residence permit and allows the holder to live in France for the duration of their studies.
International students in France can work up to 964 hours per year, roughly 20 hours per week during term time. They are also eligible for public transportation discounts, housing subsidies, and student healthcare.
After completing their studies, non-EU students may apply for a temporary residence permit known as the “Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour” (APS), which allows them to remain in France for up to one year to search for employment or start a business. If they secure a job contract aligned with their field of study and meet income requirements, they can transition to a work permit or talent passport.
France’s emphasis on cultural diversity, combined with state support for students, makes it a popular destination. Although language can be a barrier, many programs are now offered in English, particularly at the graduate level. Understanding visa processes and financial requirements is essential for a smooth transition to studying in France.
France – Student Visa & Work Rights
France remains a popular destination for international students due to its strong academic institutions, cultural appeal, and pathways for work and residence. However, it’s important to understand how the French student visa system works and what rights it grants, especially in terms of employment during and after your studies.
1. Visa Types for Students
There are two main visa options for non-EU/EEA students:
- Short-stay visa (étudiant-concours): For students entering France to sit for entrance exams. If the student passes, they can apply for a long-stay permit without leaving the country.
- Long-stay visa (VLS-TS étudiant): This is the standard visa for students pursuing programs longer than 90 days. It serves as both a visa and residence permit once validated online within the first three months of arrival in France.
The long-stay visa is typically valid for one year and can be renewed annually or replaced with a multi-year residence permit based on academic progress.
2. Application Requirements
To apply for a French student visa, you must provide:
- Proof of admission to a recognized educational institution
- Evidence of sufficient financial means to support yourself
- Health insurance coverage valid in France
- Details of accommodation during your stay
- A valid passport and completed visa forms
Some countries participate in a centralized platform (e.g., the “Etudes en France” process) which streamlines application procedures.
3. Work Rights While Studying
International students in France with a valid student residence permit are legally allowed to work:
- Up to 964 hours per year, which is approximately 20 hours per week during the academic year. This corresponds to about 60% of the legal full-time workload.
- Internships required by your academic program do not count toward this limit. However, internships longer than two months must be paid a legally mandated stipend.
- On-campus jobs are allowed and often offer flexible schedules that accommodate studies. There are seasonal caps depending on the period: typically more hours are allowed during summer breaks.
For most students, no separate work authorization is needed. However, employers are required to notify the local prefecture before the employment begins.
4. Restrictions and Compliance
Students must keep careful track of their work hours. Exceeding the annual limit of 964 hours can result in penalties, including denial of visa renewal or even revocation of the residence permit.
Special rules apply to certain nationalities. For example, students from Algeria are subject to different work limitations and may need a separate work authorization.
5. Post-Graduation Work Options
Students who complete a degree at the Master’s level or higher may apply for a temporary residence permit (usually valid for 12 months) that allows them to stay in France to seek employment or start a business. During this time, the same student work limits apply until a job offer is secured.
If the graduate secures a job with a salary that meets the minimum threshold (often at least 1.5 times the French minimum wage), they can apply for a transition to an employee residence permit.
Summary
France offers international students a structured and supportive visa regime with the flexibility to work part-time during studies and pursue employment afterward. Key steps include validating the visa promptly, respecting the annual work hour cap, and staying aware of renewal requirements. By planning carefully, students can take full advantage of both academic and professional opportunities in France.