In France, a residence permit is called a "titre de séjour" or "carte de séjour". This is a document that allows citizens of non-European Union (EU) countries to legally reside in France for a certain period of time.
What is the purpose and validity of a temporary residence permit?
A temporary residence permit is issued for various purposes, such as work, study, family reunification or medical treatment. The validity of the residence permit depends on the specific situation and can range from several months to several years.
There are two main types of Carte de séjour - the Carte de séjour temporaire, which is valid for one year, or the Carte de séjour pluriannuelle, which is usually valid for four years.
What types of temporary residence permits are there?
There are different types of temporary residence permits in France, in particular:
- "Carte de Séjour Étudiant" (student residence permit): For students studying in higher education institutions in France.
- "Carte de Séjour Salarié" (temporary residence permit for employees): For foreign workers who have a job offer in France;
- "Carte de Séjour Vie Privée et Familiale" (Residence permit for private and family life): For family members of French citizens or foreigners residing in France.
- "Carte de Séjour Passeport Talent" (Temporary residence permit on the basis of a talent passport): For persons with exceptional skills or talents in certain fields, such as research, the arts or entrepreneurship.
Application process
To obtain a residence permit in France, non-EU nationals must:
1. Determine the appropriate category of residence permit based on the purpose of your stay in France. Each category has specific eligibility criteria, so make sure you meet the requirements before proceeding.
2. Gather all the necessary documents to support your application. This may include a valid passport, proof of residence, proof of financial means, employment contracts, letters of enrollment from educational institutions, proof of family ties, or any other relevant documents that relate to your situation.
3. Submit your application to the nearest French consulate or embassy in your country or through the French administration's online portal, depending on the specific requirements and instructions provided by the authorities. Pay the applicable fees and make sure that all the necessary documents are attached to the application.
4. Depending on your nationality and specific requirements, you may be required to provide biometric data, such as fingerprints and a photograph, at a designated visa application center or consulate.
5. Wait for the review: The processing time for a residence permit can vary depending on factors such as the workload of the authorities and the complexity of your case. It is important to be patient during this period and not to plan any trips until your permit is approved.
6. Attend the interview (if required): In some cases, you may be invited to an interview to further assess your eligibility for a residence permit. Prepare for the interview by reviewing your application and supporting documents and be prepared to answer any questions about your intentions, background or plans in France.
7. After your application has been processed, you will receive a decision on your residence permit. If the decision is favorable, you will receive a residence permit that will specify the duration and conditions of your stay in France.
The list of required documents for submitting an application
1. Application. Fill out and sign the application form provided by the French authorities. Make sure that all sections are filled in accurately.
2. A valid passport. The passport must have at least two blank pages and be valid for the duration of your planned stay in France.
3. Passport-size photos. Include recent passport-size photos that meet the requirements set by the French authorities. Two to four photos may be required.
4. Proof of residence. This can be a rental agreement, an invitation letter from the host country, or confirmation of accommodation in a student dormitory.
5. Proof of financial solvency. This can be a bank statement, a scholarship letter, or proof of financial support from a sponsor.
Medical insurance.
6. Documents for a specific purpose. Depending on the purpose of your stay, additional documents may be required. For example:
1) Employment: Provide employment contracts, letters from employers, or business registration documents.
2) Education: Provide letters of acceptance from educational institutions, confirmation of enrollment, or scholarship documents.
3) Family reunification: Attach proof of family ties, such as a marriage certificate or birth certificate, as well as documents from the family member who is sponsoring the applicant.
7. Proof of language proficiency (if applicable). For certain categories, such as work or study permits, you may need to demonstrate your level of French language proficiency. This may include language test results or certificates.
8. Any additional supporting documents. These can be certificates of no criminal record, medical certificates, or proof of ties to the home country.
Renewal and extension of a temporary residence permit
Residence permits in France are usually issued for a limited period of time. To extend their stay, individuals need to renew their permit before it expires. The renewal process requires the submission of updated documents and proof that you continue to be eligible for a permit.
Rights and benefits
Holding a valid residence permit in France provides certain rights and benefits, such as access to healthcare, education and social security, depending on the specific type of permit.
In France, a permanent residence permit is called a "carte de résident" or "carte de résident de longue durée" or "carte de résident de longue durée". It is a document that allows non-European Union (EU) citizens to live and work in France indefinitely.
Residents from the European Union (EU) or European Free Trade Association (EFTA - Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland) can apply for a resident card, but it is not mandatory.
Algerian citizens cannot obtain a permanent residence permit, instead they receive a residence permit for 10 years (certificate de résidence de 10s - personne de nationalité algérienne).
Eligibility
To be eligible for a permanent residence permit, you generally have to reside legally in France for a certain period, usually five years continuously. During this time, you must have a valid residence permit and comply with immigration laws and regulations.
Additional requirements for permanent residence in France
- Financial solvency. French authorities can assess your financial stability and resources to make sure that you can support yourself and your family members (if possible) without relying on public assistance. This can be proven by an income certificate, employment contract or other proof of financial stability.
- Integration. Integration into French society and respect for its values and customs is an important aspect of the right to a permanent residence permit. This can include demonstration of knowledge of the French language, participation in integration programs and demonstration of participation in the local community.
- No serious criminal offenses. Applicants for a permanent residence permit must not have a criminal record. Serious criminal offences or a criminal record can have a negative impact on your right to permanent residence in France.
The application process
The application for a permanent residence permit is submitted to the prefecture (local administrative authority) in France. You will need to submit the necessary application form, the supporting documents and the relevant fees.
1. Prepare the necessary documents:
- Valid passport and copies of all passport pages.
- Proof of continuous residence in France (e.g. rental contracts, utility bills, tax returns).
- Proof of financial stability, such as bank statements or employment contracts.
- Health insurance (private or through the French health care system).
- Marriage certificate or proof of kinship, if possible.
- Certificates of language proficiency, such as the French language test (if necessary).
2. Visit your local prefecture (Préfecture) or the subprefecture of your place of residence to submit your application. Make sure you bring all the necessary documents and photocopies, because you may have to submit them with your application.
3. Apply, pay the fee and wait for a decision. The processing time of an application for a permanent residence permit may vary. It may take several months to get a decision on your application. During this period, you can obtain a temporary residence permit, known as a "récépissé", which allows you to stay in France while waiting for a decision.
4. In some cases, applicants may be required to have an interview at the prefecture. The aim of the interview is to assess your integration in French society. You may also have to take a language and/or integration test to demonstrate your knowledge of the French language and culture.
5. Once your application has been approved, you will receive a decision on your permanent residence permit. If the decision is positive, you can collect your "residence card" from the prefecture. The permit is usually valid for 10 years, but it is important to check the exact period of validity indicated on your card.
Benefits and rights
Having a permanent residence permit in France provides a number of benefits and rights, including the ability to live and work in France indefinitely, access to public services and health care, as well as the ability to apply for French citizenship after a certain period of residence.
Eligibility for citizenship
Having a permanent residence permit can also be a step towards obtaining French citizenship. After obtaining a permanent residence permit for a certain period, usually five continuous years, you may be eligible to apply for French citizenship, provided that additional requirements are met, such as language skills and integration.
The "visitor" residence permit ("carte de séjour visiteur") is for persons wishing to stay in the country for more than 3 months for tourism, family visits, or other non-work-related purposes.
This permit allows you to reside legally in France for the period of validity specified on your card.
Eligibility
- A temporary residence permit is intended for persons who are not citizens of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland.
- EU/EEA/Swiss nationals and their family members can generally enter and stay in France without the need for a residence permit.
Validity period
A temporary residence permit can be issued for different periods of time, depending on the purpose of your stay. Depending on the circumstances, it can range from a few months to several years. Usually the permit is initially issued for a maximum of one year, but it can be extended if necessary.
Required Documents
- A valid passport and copies of all passport pages.
- Proof of residence in France, such as a hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from your host, if you are staying with family or friends.
- Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in France, such as a bank statement or letter from your sponsor.
- Travel insurance, which covers medical expenses and repatriation for the entire period of stay.
- Proof of ties to your home country, such as an employment contract, ownership of real estate, or family ties.
- Completed application form and fresh passport size photos.
- Any additional documents that may be required based on your particular circumstances or the purpose of your visit.
Submitting an application
1. The "visitor" status can be obtained by obtaining a long-term visa with the same name at the consulate or by changing your status while already in France.
2. The long-term visitor visa (VLS/TS), which is issued by the consulate, is valid as a residence permit. After entering France with this visa, the foreigner must register with the Office of Immigration and Integration (OFII) within 3 months and obtain a residence permit.
Cost
Currently, the cost of the residence permit "visitor" is 269 euros.
Continued
During the last two months of the "visitor's" residence permit, the foreigner must apply to the prefecture to have it renewed. The residence permit is renewed under the same conditions under which it was issued.
In France, the temporary residence permit for the purpose of family reunification, also known as the "carte de séjour vie privée et familiale", allows individuals to join their family members who are already legally residing in the country. This permit is specifically designed to facilitate family reunification and allows non-EU/EEA/Switzerland nationals to live and work in France with their family. Here is a brief overview of the process:
Eligibility
To be eligible for a residence permit for the purpose of family reunification in France, you generally have to meet certain criteria. These criteria may include marriage or partnership with a French national or a foreign national who has a valid residence permit in France.
Required Documents
Prepare the necessary documents for your application, which may vary depending on your relationship to a family member in France. Usually the necessary documents include:
- A valid passport and copies of all passport pages.
- Proof of kinship, such as a marriage certificate, birth certificate, or certificate of registered partnership.
- Proof of a family member's legal residence in France, such as a residence permit or a French identity card.
- Proof of accommodation in France, such as a rental agreement or proof of ownership of the home.
- Proof of financial stability, such as bank statements or employment contracts.
- Health insurance for yourself and family members who accompany you.
- Completed questionnaire and recent passport size photos.
- Any additional documents that may be needed depending on your particular circumstances.
Submitting an application
1. Visit the local prefecture (Préfecture) or sub-prefecture in the area where your family member lives in France to apply.
2. Make sure that you have all the necessary documents with you, as well as photocopies of them.
3. The prefecture will review your application and supporting documents before making a decision.
4. It can take from a few weeks to a few months to get a decision on your application. During this period, you can get a temporary residence permit called "récépissé", which allows you to stay legally in France while waiting for a decision.
5. In some cases, applicants may be required to have an interview at the prefecture. The purpose of the interview is to verify the authenticity of the relationship and to assess the intention to live together as a family in France.
6. Once your application has been approved, you will receive a decision on your temporary residence permit for the purpose of family reunification. If the decision is positive, you can take your "carte de séjour vie privée et familiale" to a specific office of the prefecture.
Continued
The permit is usually valid for one year and can be renewed if you continue to meet the requirements.
In France, refugees and asylum seekers can apply for a "carte de séjour" to live legally in the country. The special type of residence permit that refugees receive is the "Carte de Séjour pour Bénéficiaire de la Protection Internationale", which translates as "Residence Permit for the Beneficiary of International Protection". This permit recognizes their status and grants them certain rights and benefits.
Validity period
A temporary residence permit for beneficiaries of international protection is generally issued for a renewable period, depending on the length of your refugee status. It can be valid for one year, three years or ten years, depending on individual circumstances.
Rights and Benefits
Residence permits for international protection beneficiaries confer certain rights and benefits:
- Legal residence in France. The permit entitles refugees to reside in France for the period indicated on the card.
- Work permit. Refugees with this permit have the right to work in France without having to obtain an additional work permit.
- Access to health care. Beneficiaries of international protection are entitled to the French healthcare system and can use medical services.
- Social assistance. Refugees may be eligible for various social assistance programs, including financial support and social integration services.
- Education. Refugee children have the right of access to public education in France.
- Travel. With a residence permit for internationally protected persons, refugees can generally travel within the Schengen area without the need for additional visas for short-term trips. However, it is advisable to check the specific rules and travel requirements for each destination before traveling.
The process of applying for a residence permit
1. Searching for asylum. The first step for refugees is to seek asylum in France. To do this, you have to apply for asylum at the French Office for Refugees and Stateless Persons (OFPRA) or, if you are already in France, at the French Office of Immigration and Nationality (OFII).
2. Obtain refugee status. If your asylum application is approved, you will receive refugee status. This means that you are recognized as a refugee under international law and have the right to remain in France.
3. Collect the necessary documents. After obtaining refugee status, you can apply for a residence permit.
Required Documents
- A valid passport and copies of all passport pages.
- Letter with OFPRA or OFII decision to grant refugee status.
- Proof of address in France, such as a rental agreement or utility bill.
- Proof of financial means to support yourself, such as bank statements or letters of support from organizations.
- Completed questionnaire and recent passport size photos.
- Any additional documents determined by the authorities.
4. Visit your local prefecture (prefecture) or sub-prefecture to apply for a residence permit as a refugee. Take with you all the documents and photocopies of them. The prefecture will examine your application and supporting documents.
5. The processing time of an application for a residence permit as a refugee can vary. It may take several weeks or months to receive a decision. During this period, you may receive a temporary document or a certificate confirming your refugee status and allowing you to stay legally in France.
6. If your application is approved, you will be issued a residence permit, known as a "carte de séjour" for refugees. The permit is usually valid for a renewable period of time, usually one to ten years, depending on your circumstances and the length of your refugee status.
Continued
The temporary residence permit for beneficiaries of international protection must be renewed before it expires. The renewal process generally involves submitting updated documents and applications to the local prefecture or sub-prefecture.
In accordance with the provisions of French law, including the Civil Code, it is possible to obtain French citizenship and passport:
1. On the basis of origin, if one or both parents are French citizens.
2. On the basis of birth in France:
A minor child born in France of foreign parents can claim French nationality from the age of sixteen, provided that he or she has lived permanently in France for at least five years since the age of eleven.
3. On the basis of marriage to a French citizen:
Eligibility for citizenship is acquired after four years of marriage, provided that family life has not ended between the spouses at the date of application and that the French citizen spouse has retained his or her French nationality.
The period of cohabitation is extended to five years if the foreigner has not lived in France for less than three years from the time of the marriage at the time of application.
4. On the basis of service in the French Foreign Legion.
5. By naturalization - generally possible after 5 years of legal residence in France and proof of integration into French society.
Required Documents
Any way of acquiring French citizenship will require:
- Two copies of the questionnaire, dated and signed by the applicant.
- Two 35×45 mm photographs.
- Original passports and notarized and translated copies of passports of all family members.
- Birth certificate.
- A copy of the residence permit in France.
- Certificate of marriage or civil union (if necessary).
- Certificates of no criminal record for the last ten years in each country of residence and country of citizenship.
- A copy of the rental agreement or title to the home.
- Copies of the last three receipts for rental property.
- Proof of financial stability, such as tax returns or bank statements.
- Certificate of proficiency in French at B1 level only.
- Certificate of participation in integration programs.
- The stamp of state duty is 55€.
- A stamped envelope if the application is sent by mail.
1. Obtaining citizenship on the basis of origin
If one or both of your parents are French citizens, you may be entitled to French nationality by descent "acquisition de la nationalité française par filiation".
Eligibility for citizenship
- At least one parent must be a French citizen at the time of your birth.
- The French father/mother must be a French citizen by birth or must have acquired French citizenship before you were born.
- If you were born before September 1, 1998, your French father/mother must have been married to a father/mother who is not a French citizen at the time of your birth.
Required documents
- Birth certificate
- French parent's documents: You need to provide documents proving that your father is a French citizen. This can be a French passport, a French identity card or a French naturalization certificate.
Submitting an application
1. Contact the French consular service or the local prefecture in your country of residence to find out about the specific application process.
2. Submit the necessary documents, including your parents' birth certificate and proof of citizenship, to the appropriate authorities.
3. The authorities will review your application and supporting documents.
4. If your application is approved, you will receive a decision confirming your acquisition of French nationality;
2. Obtaining citizenship on the basis of birth
Acquisition of French nationality by birth in France "acquisition de la nationalité française par naissance";
Birth in France
If you were born in France, you may have the right to French nationality, regardless of the nationality of your parents.
In France, the principle of nationality by birthright, known as "jus soli," applies.
Continuous Living
- You must reside in France legally and continuously for a certain period of time in order to qualify for citizenship.
- Usually it is five years of continuous residence, starting at age 11. However, this requirement may vary depending on individual circumstances.
Required Documents
- Birth certificate. You will need a birth certificate stating that you were born in France.
- Proof of residence. Provide documents proving your continuous legal residence in France for the required period, such as a residence permit, utility bills or rental contracts.
- Identity Documents. Provide valid identification, such as a passport or national ID card.
Submitting an application
1. Contact your local prefecture or sub-prefecture to find out about the specific application process.
2. Submit the necessary documents, including proof of identity, proof of continued residence in France, and any other necessary documentation.
3. The authorities will review your application and supporting documents.
4. If your application is approved, you will receive a decision on your French citizenship.
3. Acquisition of citizenship on the basis of marriage to a French citizen
Acquisition of French nationality through marriage to a French citizen "acquisition de la nationalité française par mariage";
Eligibility for citizenship
- You must be married to a French citizen. The marriage must be legally recognized in France and last for a certain period of time.
- As a rule, you must have been married for at least four years if you live in France or at least five years if you live outside of France.
Continuous Living
- If you reside in France, you must have lived in France continuously for the period of your marriage prior to applying for citizenship.
- If you reside outside of France, you must have at least two years of uninterrupted marriage with a French citizen without a break.
Required Documents
- Marriage certificate. You must provide a valid marriage certificate issued by a competent authority.
- Proof of uninterrupted residence. Provide proof of your continuous legal residence in France during the marriage or, if applicable, your continuous marriage to a French national while living outside of France.
- Identity Documents. Provide valid identification, such as a passport or national ID card.
- Knowledge of the language. Provide proof of knowledge of the French language, such as results of a language test or diplomas.
- Other supporting documents. Additional documents may be required, such as proof of financial stability, integration into French society and high moral character.
Submitting an application
1. Contact your local prefecture or sub-prefecture in France, or the French consular service if you live outside of France, to inquire about the specific application process.
2. Submit the necessary documents and application forms according to the instructions provided by the authorities.
3. The authorities will review your application and supporting documents.
4. If your application is approved, you will receive a decision on your French citizenship.
4. Acquisition of citizenship on the basis of service in the French Foreign Legion
Obtaining citizenship through service in the French Foreign Legion is a unique path available to foreigners who are interested in joining the army and becoming French citizens. The French Foreign Legion is a unit of the French Army that recruits individuals from all over the world, regardless of their nationality or origin.
The Legion offers the opportunity to serve in the army while seeking a path to French citizenship.
The process of obtaining citizenship through service in the Foreign Legion
1. Enlistment. To begin this path, interested candidates must enroll in the French Foreign Legion. The Legion accepts recruits from various countries, and the enrollment process usually takes place at one of the recruitment centers in France or at French embassies abroad. Eligibility requirements may include age restrictions, physical fitness standards and background checks.
2. Basic training. After successful enlistment, recruits undergo rigorous basic training, which focuses on physical fitness, combat skills and discipline. Basic training is physically demanding and psychologically demanding, designed to test candidates' resilience and determination. It is during this period that recruits begin their journey toward integration into the French army and society.
3. Service in the Legion. After basic training, recruits are assigned to one of the Legion's operational units. The Legion carries out a wide range of missions, including peacekeeping, counterterrorism and military support operations around the world. Legionnaires serve alongside French soldiers and participate in various operations, gaining valuable military experience.
4. Length of service. The minimum period of service in the Legion required to qualify for citizenship is normally five years. During this period, Legionnaires are expected to demonstrate loyalty, devotion and willingness to serve. The Legion has a reputation as an organization with strict discipline and a demanding lifestyle that fosters a strong sense of camaraderie among its members.
5. Integration and language learning. While serving in the Legion, recruits are encouraged to learn the French language and become familiar with French culture and customs. Language skills are necessary for effective communication in the army and for integration into French society. The Legion organizes language courses to help recruits improve their French language skills.
6. Application for citizenship. After completing the required period of service and showing sufficient dedication, legionnaires can apply for French citizenship. The Legion supports the naturalization process by providing documentation and recommendations to the French authorities on behalf of applicants. The decision to grant citizenship ultimately rests with the French government, which evaluates the applicant's track record, conduct and overall integration into French society.
5. Obtaining citizenship by naturalization
French nationality by naturalization is a process of obtaining French nationality for persons who are not residents of France but have lived in France for a certain period of time. There are a number of eligibility criteria and certain requirements that applicants must meet in order to become valid candidates for French citizenship;
Requirements:
- You must be at least 18 years old
- Live in France for at least five years
- Have a valid residence permit
- Have an adequate knowledge of the French language (B1) and culture
- Not have a criminal record or be under investigation
Required Documents
- ID card (passport)
- Proof of residence in France (e.g., utility bills, rental agreement)
- Certificate of proficiency in French
- Certificate of absence of criminal record from the country of residence and France
- Proof of integration into French society (e.g., employment contract, volunteer work, community involvement)
- Tax returns and financial stability documents
- Marriage and birth certificates, if required.
Submitting an application
1. Go to the local prefecture or sub-prefecture of your place of residence in France to get a naturalization application form.
2. Fill out the form truthfully and completely.
3. Gather all necessary documents and submit them together with the application to the appropriate authorities. Be sure to keep copies of all documents for future reference.
4. The authorities will review your eligibility application and supporting documents (may include interviews, language tests, background checks, and integration and residency checks).
5. After the processing and investigation is complete, you will receive a decision on your naturalization application.
If your application is approved, you will receive an invitation to a citizenship ceremony.
6. Attend a citizenship ceremony (la cérémonie de remise de la nationalité) where you will take the oath of allegiance to France and officially become a French citizen.
7. After the ceremony, you will receive a certificate of nationality (certificat de nationalité française) confirming your French nationality.
If you are planning to immigrate to France, here are some tips and advice:
1. Understanding the categories of immigration. France offers different categories of immigration, each with its own set of requirements and procedures. Familiarize yourself with the different options, such as family reunification, work visas, student visas and asylum/refugee status. Determine which category fits your situation and gather all necessary information about the specific requirements and application process.
2. Study and plan. study carefully France's immigration policies, laws, and regulations. Understand the conditions for entry, residency, and any quotas or restrictions that may apply. Make sure you clearly understand all steps of the immigration process.
3. Language skills. French is the official language of France. A good command of French will greatly improve your integration into French society and increase your chances of employment. Consider enrolling in a French language course before you arrive, or take advantage of language learning opportunities once you are in France.
4. Employment Opportunities. If you are planning to immigrate for employment, research the labor market in your field of study. Become familiar with the qualifications, skills, and experience that are in demand. Networking and making professional connections in your industry can also be helpful in your job search.
5. Financial preparation. Moving to a new country requires financial stability. Make sure you have enough money to cover living, housing, medical and other expenses at the beginning of the immigration process. Some immigration categories may require proof of financial resources to support yourself or your family members.
6. Authentication and translation of documents. If you have to submit documents as part of your immigration application, make sure they are properly authenticated and translated into French, if necessary. French authorities may require official translations of documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, academic certificates and professional qualifications.
7. Integration and cultural adaptation. Familiarizing yourself with French culture, customs and lifestyle will make your integration into society easier. Learn about local customs, etiquette and social norms. Join community organizations or language exchange programs to meet locals and other expatriates.
8. Health care and insurance. Familiarize yourself with the French health care system and make sure that you have adequate health insurance. If you are self-employed, you will usually be insured by the French public health system. However, if you are self-employed or do not qualify for public insurance, you may want to consider private health insurance options.
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