France remains one of the most attractive countries for international students due to its high level of education and rich culture. Find out how to get a French student visa in 2025, what documents and financial requirements are needed, a step-by-step application process, features of living and studying in France and much more important information

France has long been one of the most attractive countries for international students. Its world-class universities, rich culture, gastronomy and the opportunity to live in the heart of Europe make the country a magnet for young people from all over the world. But before you pack your bags and book a flight, there is one important issue that needs to be addressed: obtaining a student visa.

A French student visa allows citizens of countries outside the EU, EEA or Switzerland to legally reside and study in France. Whether you are planning a short language course, a semester-long exchange or a full-time study program, having the right visa is a must. While the process may seem complicated at first glance due to the numerous forms and documents, it actually becomes quite transparent and understandable when broken down into steps.

In this guide, we will take a detailed look at all aspects of a student visa to France in 2025: from the requirements and types of visas to the step-by-step application process and the peculiarities of life in the country.

Read here about the features and benefits of studying in 2025: admission requirements, costs, deadlines, scholarships and opportunities for international students.

This article discusses the available ways of legal migration to France in 2025.

What is a French student visa?

A French student visa is a long-term visa (VLS-TS), which combines a residence permit and a visa in one document. It is intended for students who plan to stay in France for more than three months. This visa gives the right to study at French universities, grandes écoles, language schools or other accredited educational institutions.

Since the introduction of the VLS-TS in 2009, the process has become much simpler: students immediately receive a document that is recognized as a residence permit, which greatly simplifies further procedures. For short courses lasting less than three months, a separate short-term student visa is provided.

Who can apply for a French student visa?

The following can apply for a French student visa:

- Citizens of non-EU/EEA/Switzerland countries.

- Students enrolled in a French university, language school or other accredited institution.

- Individuals planning to study for more than three months (a short-term visa is required for short-term programs).

With a visa, you will not only be able to legally reside in France, but also work part-time for up to 964 hours per year, travel freely within the Schengen area, and, if necessary, continue or change your residence status after graduation.

Requirements for a student visa in France

To apply, a student must confirm three key aspects: enrollment in an educational institution, financial capacity, and availability of a place of residence in France.

A package of documents for a French student visa

- A completed visa application form.

- A valid passport with at least three months of validity after the planned end of studies.

- Letter of admission to a French university or school.

- Proof of residence (university housing, rental agreement or declaration from the host).

- Proof of financial self-sufficiency: as of 2025, the minimum amount is around 615 euros per month. This can be confirmed by a bank statement, a guarantor or a scholarship.

- Health insurance: for students under 28 years of age, there is the possibility of joining the French social security system; older students must provide private insurance that covers medical expenses in France.

- Proof of language proficiency (French or English) depending on the study program.

Important! In some countries, students are required to register on the Campus France platform, which includes creating a profile, submitting academic documents and, if necessary, an interview.

France is opening its doors to financially independent foreigners thanks to the Visiteur visa. Read here who can get it, what conditions and documents are required, and lots of other useful information about the permit.

How much money do you need to have to get a student visa to France?

Students must demonstrate that they can financially support themselves while studying in France. As of 2025, the minimum required amount is around 615 euros per month, which can be proven with:

- A recent bank statement in your name.

- A financial statement from the guarantor (family, sponsor or scholarship holder).

- Proof of scholarship or funding from an official organization.

Step-by-step process for applying for a French student visa

The visa process can be divided into six stages:

Stage 1 - Registration with Campus France (if required)

Campus France is mandatory in some countries (such as India, Nigeria and the USA), so check the regulations of your local French consulate.

Step 2 – Complete the online application through France-Visas

Select the option “long-term student visa (VLS-TS)”, upload documents and create a ready-made application form for further submission.

Step 3 – Meeting at the consulate or visa center

During the meeting, documents are submitted, biometric data is provided and the visa fee is paid.

Step 4 – Waiting for the application to be processed

Usually from 2 to 8 weeks. The consulate may request additional documents.

Step 5 – Obtaining the visa

Once approved, your passport is returned with a student visa sticker. Check all the details before traveling.

Step 6 – Confirming the visa upon arrival through OFII

Upon arrival in France, you will need to confirm your long-term visa online through the OFII platform within the first three months. This step is important; without confirmation, your visa is not considered fully active.

Accommodation and Life in France

A French student visa gives you access to a full life in the country. You can rent an apartment or live in a dormitory, open a bank account, use public transport and participate in the social security program.

It is important to consider the cost of living in different cities:

- Paris is a center of culture and education, with a high cost of living, but unlimited opportunities for study and leisure.

- Lyon is a lower cost of living, the gastronomic capital of France, universities with strong student communities.

- Toulouse is a southwest, a center of aerospace research, a youthful atmosphere and affordable housing.

How much does a student spend in France?

On average, a student spends between 850 and 1,500 US dollars per month on housing, depending on the city, plus the cost of food, transport and utilities.

Work and taxes for students in France

Students can work up to 964 hours per year (approximately 20 hours per week). Income is taxable, but many earn less than the tax threshold. Paid internships may also be taxable, depending on the amount. Education grants are usually tax-free.

Students under 28 years of age pay contributions to the French student social security system, which covers healthcare.

How much does a French student visa cost?

Obtaining a student visa to France involves paying several mandatory fees. The cost is set by the French government and may vary slightly depending on the country where you apply.

- Visa fee: around €99 for long-term student visas (VLS-TS). This is paid when you submit your documents at a consulate or visa application center.

- Registration through Campus France (if required): in some countries, registration is mandatory, costing between €50 and €100, depending on your nationality.

- OFII verification upon arrival: a small fee of around €50 for online confirmation of your long-term visa via the OFII platform.

- Additional costs: these include document translations, photocopies, certified copies or courier services to send the documents to the consulate.

On average, the total cost of obtaining a student visa to France does not exceed €250.

When and how to extend a French student visa?

The length of stay on a French student visa depends on its type:

- Short-term student visa (less than 3 months): usually for language courses or short-term programs.

- Long-term student visa (VLS-TS, 3-12 months or renewable): most study programs fall into this category.

If your program lasts longer than the visa, you must apply for an extension or residence permit before the visa expires. To stay legally in France, you must:

- Remain enrolled in your study program.

- Attend classes and make satisfactory academic progress.

- Have sufficient financial resources to support yourself.

- Renew or extend your visa before its expiration date if you are continuing your studies.

France remains one of the most attractive countries for students from all over the world due to its high level of education, rich culture and the opportunity to live in the heart of Europe. The right student visa is the key to legal residence and study in the country, as well as opening up numerous opportunities for career and personal development.

To make the process even easier and avoid mistakes, you can contact professional migration lawyers. They will help you correctly draw up documents, prepare an application and answer all questions about your stay in France. Thanks to their support, you can focus on preparing for studies and enjoying student life without unnecessary stress.

Qualified specialists of Visit World - Your reliable support during migration abroad!