Certainly, a Long-Stay Visa (Visa de Long Séjour) allows you to stay in France for more than 90 days and up to a year. Depending on your purpose of stay, there are various categories of long-stay visas available. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand the process and requirements:
Long-Stay Visas
A Long-Stay Visa permits foreign nationals to reside in France for extended periods for purposes such as:
- Study
- Work
- Family Reunification
- Research
- Retirement
- Medical Treatment
Depending on the duration and purpose, some long-stay visas also serve as residence permits, while others require you to apply for a residence permit upon arrival in France.
Types of Long-Stay Visas
Student Visa (Visa de Long Séjour Étudiant)
For individuals intending to pursue higher education in France.
Eligibility:
- Admission letter from a recognized French educational institution.
- Proof of sufficient financial means.
- Health insurance coverage.
Work Visa
For individuals employed or intending to work in France.
Subcategories include:
- Salaried Employees: For standard employment contracts.
- Skills and Talents Visa: For individuals contributing significantly to France’s economy, culture, or science.
- EU Blue Card: For highly qualified workers.
- Intra-Company Transfer: For employees transferred within the same company.
Eligibility:
- Valid work contract approved by the French authorities.
- Authorization from the French Ministry of Labor (in most cases).
Family Visa
For family members of French citizens or foreign nationals residing in France.
Eligibility:
- Spouses, children, or dependent relatives of French citizens or legal residents.
- Proof of family relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.).
- Adequate accommodation and financial means.
Researcher Visa
For academics and researchers engaging in scientific work or teaching.
Eligibility:
- Hosting agreement with a recognized research institution or university in France.
- Proof of sufficient financial resources.
2.5. Visitor Visa
For individuals planning to stay in France without engaging in work or study (e.g., retirees).
Eligibility:
- Proof of sufficient financial means to support yourself during the stay.
- Commitment not to engage in professional activities.
- Proof of accommodation.
Medical Treatment Visa
For individuals seeking long-term medical care in France.
Eligibility:
- Proof of medical appointment or treatment plan in France.
- Proof of sufficient financial means or health insurance covering medical expenses.
General Requirements
While specific documents vary based on the visa type, common requirements include:
- Completed Visa Application Form: Filled and signed appropriately.
- Valid Passport: Valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended stay, with at least two blank pages.
- Passport-Sized Photographs: Recent and meeting the Schengen photo requirements.
- Proof of Purpose of Stay: Admission letter, work contract, family documents, etc.
- Proof of Accommodation: Rental agreement, hotel reservation, or invitation letter.
- Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements, scholarship letters, employment contracts, etc.
- Travel Insurance: Covering medical emergencies and repatriation, valid for the entire Schengen area.
- Criminal Record Certificate: May be required for certain visa types.
- Medical Certificate: Confirming good health status, required for some categories.
Determine the Appropriate Visa Type
Identify the visa category that matches your purpose of stay.
Prepare Required Documents
Gather all necessary documents as per your visa category. Ensure all documents are in English or French; if not, provide certified translations.
Complete the Online Application
- Visit the official France-Visas website.
- Create an account and fill out the application form accurately.
- Print and sign the completed application form.
Step 4: Schedule an Appointment
- Book an appointment at the French consulate, embassy, or authorized visa application center in your country.
- Some countries use external service providers like VFS Global for handling applications.
Attend the Appointment
- Submit your application and biometric data (fingerprints and photograph).
- Pay the applicable visa fees (varies depending on visa type and nationality).
Wait for Processing
- Processing times vary but typically range from 15 to 60 days.
- You may track your application status online through the France-Visas portal or the service provider’s website.
Receive Your Visa
- If approved, your visa will be affixed to your passport.
- Check all details on the visa sticker for accuracy.
After Arrival in France
Validation of Visa
- Visa Equivalent to Residence Permit (VLS-TS):
- Must be validated within three months of arrival.
- Validation is done online at ANEF.
- A tax (around €200) is payable upon validation.
Applying for a Residence Permit
- For visas not equivalent to a residence permit, apply at the local prefecture within two months of arrival.
- Provide required documents and attend an interview if necessary.
Medical Examination
- Some visa holders may be required to undergo a medical examination by the French Office of Immigration and Integration (OFII).
Renewal of Residence Permit
- Apply for renewal two months before expiry at the local prefecture.
- Provide updated documents proving continued eligibility.
Visa Fees
- Student Visa: Approximately €50
- Work Visa: Approximately €99
- Family Visa: Approximately €99
- Visitor Visa: Approximately €99
Note: Fees are subject to change and may vary based on nationality and specific circumstances. Additional service fees may apply if using a visa application center.