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Visit the France-Visas Portal
- Begin by visiting the France-Visas website.
- Create an account.
- Complete the visa application form and indicate that you are applying for a student visa.
France Student Visa
Learn How to Get Your Long-Stay Visa for France
Last updated: January 2026
Embarking on a journey to study at Schiller International University opens the door to an unparalleled global education experience. With campuses in four of the most exciting cities across the world—Tampa, Heidelberg, Madrid, and Paris—we provide you with the unique opportunity to study across multiple countries.
Understanding the visa process can be overwhelming. Each of our campus locations has its own set of visa requirements, processes, and timelines for international students. Whether you're planning to begin your journey in one city or explore multiple campuses through our intercampus mobility program, it’s important to know the visa process step by step.
Visa Requirements for Non-European Students
If you’re a non-European student planning to study at Schiller International University’s Paris campus, obtaining the right visa is an essential step in your journey. France welcomes international students, but it is crucial to ensure all visa requirements are met before your arrival.
*The process is not the same for every country, we ask you to look at this list of countries and go directly to your embassy page to get to know the steps you need to follow for applying a visa. If you don´t see your country, talk to your recruitment advisor and request for help.
Key Requirements for Studying in France
University Acceptance
You must first secure admission to Schiller International University (or another recognized educational institution in France). An official letter of acceptance or an enrollment certificate is necessary to initiate the visa application.
Long-Stay Visa (Visa de Long Séjour)
If your program exceeds six months, you will need to apply for a long-stay student visa. This visa acts as a residence permit and may require additional formalities upon your arrival in France, such as validation through the OFII (French Office of Immigration and Integration).
How to Apply for a French Student Visa
Applying for a French student visa is a structured process for international students. France offers a digital-friendly visa application system that simplifies submission and accelerates processing. https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/web/france-visas/visa-wizard
Upload Supporting Documents
- The France-Visas portal allows you to submit digital copies of your supporting documents.
- Digitizing your documents speeds up the process and grants you access to a dedicated counter when visiting the external service provider.
Schedule an Appointment
- Once your application is submitted, schedule an appointment at the nearest French consulate or visa center.
- At this appointment, you’ll provide biometric data (fingerprints and a photograph) and submit any additional documents.
Attend Your Appointment
- Bring your original documents and copies for verification.
- The visa center staff will review your application, and you may need to answer questions about your study plans and financial means.
Receive Your Visa
- After processing, your visa will be affixed to your passport.
- For short-stay “student examination” visas, you may need to regularize your status at the local prefecture upon passing entrance exams.
Fees
The cost of a French long-stay student visa depends on whether the country of application follows the Études en France (EEF) procedure. The EEF procedure streamlines the process for students from specific countries, offering reduced fees for applicants from these regions.
Required Documents for a French Student Visa
To ensure a successful application, gather the following documents:
Visa Application Form
Complete the form available on the France-Visas portal on your local French Consulate´s website.
Letter of Admission
Submit the official acceptance letter or enrollment certificate from Schiller International University.
Passport
Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in France and contain at least two blank pages.
Passport-Sized Photos
Provide two recent passport-sized photos that meet French visa specifications.
Health Insurance
Provide proof of health insurance that covers medical expenses in France. Students under the age of 28 may qualify for coverage under the French Sécurité Sociale.
Proof of Financial Means
Demostrate that you have at least €12,000 for 1 year. This can be shown through bank statements, a guarantor´s letter, or proof of scholarship funding.
Academic Records
Include transcripts, diplomas, or certificates from your previous studies as evidence of your educational background.
Proof of Accomodation
Submit evidence of your housing arrangements, such as a rental agreement, dormitory confirmation, or an invitation from a host.
Working while Studying
Foreign students are permitted to work up to 964 hours per year, which equates to 60% of the standard full-time hours in France. For context, this translates to approximately 19 hours per week during the academic year and up to full-time hours during school holidays.
However, Algerian nationals are subject to slightly stricter regulations, with their work limit set at 50% of the standard working hours in France, or approximately 822 hours per year.
Work in France After Graduation
For international students, Paris provides a wealth of opportunities to transition from studying to working. The country’s vibrant economy, global business hubs, and focus on innovation make it an attractive destination for launching a career. However, the process of obtaining the right to work after graduation involves navigating specific visa regulations and employment requirements.
Temporary Residence Permit ("APS – Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour")
Non-European Union students who have completed a degree equivalent to a Master’s (or higher) are eligible to apply for a temporary residence permit. The APS is valid for 12 months (renewable once) and allows graduates to stay in France while seeking employment or starting a business.
During this period, you are permitted to work without a work contract, provided your income does not exceed 60% of the legal working hours. Once you secure a job related to your degree with a salary equal to or above 1.5 times the French minimum wage, you can transition to a full work visa.
Entrepreneurship Opportunities
For graduates who aspire to start their own businesses, France encourages entrepreneurship. You can apply for a residence permit as an entrepreneur if your business plan meets the country’s regulatory and economic criteria.
Permanent Work Visas
Once you secure employment, your employer can sponsor you for a work permit, such as the “Talent Passport” visa, which is aimed at skilled workers and professionals in areas like engineering, IT, and management.
Alternatively, if you have skills that are in demand in France (e.g., technology or finance sectors), you may qualify for other long-term residence permits.
European Union and Schengen Area Access
Graduates from EU, EEA, and Swiss countries have unrestricted access to France's job market and do not require a visa to work after graduation.
Disclaimer: The visa requirements and processes for international students studying in France are subject to change. We recommend visiting the official French government website or consulting with the French embassy or consulate in your country for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Schiller International University is not responsible for any discrepancies or updates not reflected here.
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