Introduction: France student visa
Indian students can live and study in France for more than 90 days using a France student visa (VLS-TS). The visa is a study visa and a residence permit that provides an easy way for Indian students to start their academic life in the Campus France process.
France has emerged as one of the best destinations amongst the Indian students who aspire to study in Europe. It offers internationally acclaimed Universities, cultural exposure, post-study work experience, and lower tuition fees than in other nations such as the US or UK. On this blog, we will discuss all aspects of the France student visa, including their requirements, the Campus France process, documents, timeframes and the work of Gateway International with you at every stage.
The Importance of the Topic in the Global and Indian Perspective
Global Trends
France has become increasingly attractive as a study destination over the last ten years. UNESCO data shows that France has consistently ranked among the top five countries for international students. More than 400,000 international students attend French institutions, and this figure continues to increase. The French government has recently introduced the Bienvenue en France (Welcome to France) program, designed to make the country more appealing to international students by reducing visa requirements, offering English courses, and improving postgraduate employment prospects.
The quality of research, innovation, and student welfare in France is very high, making it an automatic choice for individuals seeking a high-quality education at an affordable cost in Europe. The France student visa is among the most valuable for international learners due to the country’s reputation in engineering, business, the arts, fashion, and culinary studies.
Indian Context
The increase in the number of Indian students studying in France is impressive. The population of Indian students in France has grown by over 60 per cent since 2018. The availability of English-medium courses, scholarships, and proper immigration channels has facilitated this shift. In addition, the bilateral accords between France and India facilitate the visa and degree recognition process in a manner never seen before.
Personal Impact
Applying for a France student visa is not a simple process like applying for a student visa in India, but rather the start of a beautiful journey into education and exploration. France offers an ideal mix of high-quality education and a high standard of living, with low living costs outside Paris and institutions regarded as world-renowned.
What Is the France VLS-TS Long-Stay Visa?
The France student visa (VLS-TS) – Visa de Long Sejour valant Titre de Sejour – is a long-term visa for studying in France. This visa is also a residence permit, making you no longer require a separate card when you arrive in the country. It works well in classes that last over 90 days, making it ideal at the undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate levels.
France Has Student Visas of various types
- Short-Stay Student Visa: Under 3 months’ course.
- VLS-TS Long-Stay Student Visa: Students who have courses with a duration of more than 3 months (most common).
- Internship or Trainee Visa: To conduct professional training.
- Research Visa: For PhD scholars and academic researchers.
A France student visa allows you to live, study, and work part-time in France, and later to seek renewal of your residence permit or explore post-study work opportunities.
Step-by-Step Process for Applying for a France student visa with Campus France.
The application for a France student visa would require the use of the official Campus France procedure, a system operated by the French government to ensure the proper authentication of international student applications.
Step 1: Account creation, Campus France.
Begin by going to the Campus France India portal. Create a profile by registering under Etudes en France. Send your academic documents, transcripts, your copy of the passport, and your motivation letter.
Step 2: Turn in Application Dossier and receive Validation.
Send your dossier via the web for review. The Campus France team will review your documents, and after approval, you will receive an email with instructions to book your interview. This phase guarantees that you are eligible to pursue your studies in France in a reputable institution.
Step 3: Take part in the Campus France Interview.
In this brief interview, you will talk about your academic objectives, coursework, and future ambitions. After that, Campus France issues the NOC (No Objection Certificate), which you will need to apply for a visa.
Step 4: Submit a Visa Application through VFS Global.
Make a booking with the closest VFS France visa centre. Bring along your NOC, passport, photos, and any other necessary documents. Send the biometrics and pay the visa fee.
Step 5: Visa Approval and Post-Arrival Validation.
After stamping your France student visa, book your flight, and get ready to arrive. Once in France, register your VLS-TS online on the official immigration site within 90 days.
The Campus France process is transparent, making it easier to monitor applications and avoid student mistakes.
France Visa Requirements as a student.
In order to be eligible to apply for a France student visa, you should be able to satisfy some conditions and provide the relevant documentation.
Eligibility Criteria
- Adequate finances (around EUR615 per month)
- Evidence of a certificate of study in a reputable French university.
- Educational credentials and records.
- Legal passport and travel insurance.
Documents Checklist
- Admission/offer letter
- Campus France NOC
- Medical insurance
- 2 passport-size photographs
- Proof of accommodation
- Visa application form
- Copy of previous visas (if any)
Language Proficiency
For English-taught programs, one will provide an IELTS or TOEFL score; for French-taught programs, DELF/DALF certification must be provided.
How Much, How Long and How to Renew a France student visa.
It would be wise to understand the structure of the France student visa so you can plan your study trip more efficiently—first-time costs, visa duration, and renewal. This is a complete list of what each Indian student must know before processing their application through the Campus France system to study in France.
Cost of France Student Visa
The application fee for a France student visa (VLS-TS) is about EUR99 (approximately ₹9,000).
Other expenses could be:
- Processing fee Campus France ₹18,000 non-refundable.
- Travel insurance: ₹4,000-₹6,000
- Medical check & biometrics: ₹2,000-₹3,000
- Dining out and airfare: City and duration variable.
These are the initial costs of the one-time investment you need to embark on your international education venture.
| Cost Component | Estimated Amount (INR) |
| Campus France Fee | ₹18,000 |
| Visa Application Fee | ₹9,000 |
| Medical + Biometrics | ₹2,500 |
| Health Insurance | ₹5,000 |
| Average Total | ₹34,500 |
Duration of the France student visa.
A France student visa (VLS-TS) is typically valid for 6 months or the duration of your academic course. It is a long-stay visa and a temporary residence permit, so you do not have to carry an extra card during the first year.
Students are also allowed to work part-time during their stay, up to 964 hours per year (about 20 working hours per week), to gain experience and cover living costs while studying in France.
Renewal Process of the France student visa.
When you are finishing a course lasting more than a year, you need to apply to renew your visa or residence permit (Titre de Sejour) before your present visa expires.
Renewal Steps:
- Collect new enrollment documents and financial records of the university.
- Renewal must be submitted in your local prefecture in France.
- Renewal fee of approximately EUR60 and undergo biometrics when necessary.
- Confirm the longer visa or authorisation by automating the official portal of the OFII.
Students who have completed their degree can apply for a post-study work visa (APS), which permits them to spend 12-24 months in France to become more acquainted with the job market.
Under the guidance of the professional team at the Gateway International, renewing your France student visa or submitting post-study options becomes a hassle-free and easy process, and you can remain focused on accomplishing your academic objectives.
A Study in France: The best Universities and Courses.
France is among the top choices for Indian students with a strong academic background, innovation, and a most hospitable environment. A France student visa provides you with access to the best of the world’s universities, cheaper education, and a multi-cultural learning process. The Campus France process streamlines your admission and visa process, making it systematic, transparent, and student-friendly.
Top Universities in France
- HEC Paris: One of the leading business schools in the world that provides MBA and management programs.
- Sorbonne University (Paris): A world-renowned higher institution in humanities and sciences as well as research.
- ESSEC Business School: It has a reputation for being the best in finance and global business.
- INSA Lyon: Engineering and applied sciences.
- Sciences Po: The best place to study law, political science, and world affairs.
Interesting Courses among the Indian students.
- Business, Management, and Finance.
- Information Technology, Engineering, and Computer Science.
- Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence.
- Fashion, Design and Luxury Brand Management.
- Hospitality, Tourism and Culinary Arts.
Scholarships in France
- Eiffel Excellence Scholarship – for high-performing international students.
- Carpak Scholarship (Government of France) – bachelor’s and master’s students.
- Make Our Planet Great Again Grant – environmental and sustainability coursework.
- Erasmus + Grants – joint European master’s courses.
- Campus France India Scholarships – assistance to Indian students studying higher education.
Now, your dream of studying in France will become affordable and achievable with these scholarships, allowing you to focus on your studies. At the same time, Gateway International guides you through every step of the application and visa process.
Difficulties/ Pros of studying in France.
Advantages of studying in France.
- International reputation: French universities have gained a good reputation in terms of academic excellence and global credibility, and thus your degree will be of great value in any part of the world.
- Low cost: Public institutions provide good education at affordable prices, and this is what Indian students looking to get a France student visa will be interested in.
- The full story: The graduates are allowed an extension to their stay by a post-study work permit, which gives them exposure in the international job market in France.
- Diversity in cultures and lifestyles: As a student in France, you will get access to high-quality art, fashion, food, and cultures as you learn in a rich, diverse environment.
- Gateway International assistance: Specialist consultants make the Campus France process, scholarship search, and visa application an effortless way to travel.
Problems of studying in France.
- Language barrier: A Low level of French can influence everyday communication, particularly beyond large cities.
- Documentation pressures: Visa paperwork and Process Campus France Visa management is often complicated when a person is taking the process for the first time.
- Higher standards of living in megalopolises: Paris and Lyon may be costly and, therefore, must be budgeted and part-time employment must be planned.
- Cultural adaptation: It might be time-consuming and patient to adapt to the French culture, academic and way of life.
- Homesickness: It may be overwhelming at first, being apart from family as well as adapting to the new environment.
Gateway’s Solutions
Gateway International simplifies the entire Campus France process; the visa documents are flawless, and pre-departure services are offered to individuals, making the move to France worry-free.
How Gateway International Can Help You to realize your dreams.
Gateway International, with a decade of experience in the field, has assisted thousands of Indian students in obtaining their France student visas and successfully beginning their study experience abroad.
Our Support Includes
- Profile Evaluation: Which university and course to choose?
- Campus France Process Assistance: Developing and certifying your online application.
- Visa Documentation: Making a flawless submission file to VFS.
- Scholarship Advice: Assistance in getting good scholarships.
- Pre-Departure & Arrival Services: Everything from accommodation to airport transfers.
Student Success Story
In the case of Aditi Sharma, a student from Delhi who sought an MBA at HEC Paris, she used the services of Gateway International, including preparing her interview for Campus France, filling her visa file, and making her France student visa valid within 25 days. She’s now thriving in Paris.
Accreditations & Reviews
Gateway International is an accredited Campus France partner with over 500 positive Google reviews and a variety of success stories from students who chose to study in France unafraid.
Quiz
Q1. How long can one hold a France student visa (VLS-TS)?
- 6 months
- 12 months ✅
- 24 months
Q2. Who checks your academic papers prior to getting the visa?
- French Embassy
- Campus France ✅
- University Admission Office.
Q3. What is the number of hours that an international student is allowed to work in France?
- 500 hours
- 964 hours ✅
- 1,200 hours
Student Queries & Direct Q&A
Q1. Would a France student visa be allowed without IELTS?
Yes, you can. French universities also accept a medium-of-instruction certificate from your former school in place of IELTS, particularly when the program is taught in English.
Q2. What is the length of time that the Campus France process takes?
The Campus France procedure typically takes 3-4 weeks from the submission of documents to the issuance of your NOC (No Objection Certificate).
Q3. Is it possible to do part-time work in France as a student?
Yes, learners with a France student visa can work up to 964 hours annually (approximately 20 hours per week).
Q4. What would happen if my visa were delayed?
In case your visa has not been processed on time, you can use the services of Gateway International to enquire with Campus France or VFS Global to keep an eye on your file and assist you in organising the schedule of your intake.
Conclusion
The process of obtaining a France student visa is not merely a matter of procedure, but the start of an incredible adventure in the sphere of high-class education and a wide variety of career opportunities at the global level. France offers a perfect combination of academic quality, low cost, and multiculturalism; hence, it is one of the most preferred destinations for Indian students seeking to study there. Nevertheless, it is not always easy to understand the Campus France process, prepare the required documents, and fulfil the visa requirements without the help of an expert. That is where Gateway International stands next to you at all stages. Our experts will make your visa process hassle-free by handling the selection of the appropriate university, interview preparation, post-arrival assistance, and more.
About the author
Shikha Vyas has worked as an SEO Content Expert for 8 years. She supports Indian students who want to Study Abroad by helping them secure admissions to leading foreign universities. She has helped more than 1,000 students gain admission to top universities. She discusses her learning journey, both in India and abroad, and guides her students through this US student visa process.
Frequently Asked Questions
It takes a minimum of EUR 7,380 (approximately 6.5 lakh) to cover one year of living costs in France.
It takes an average of 3-6 weeks upon Campus France validation and VFS submission.
Yes, a France student visa will allow you to work 964 hours per year (approximately 20 hours per week).
Not necessarily — not all universities accept IELTS, and a medium-of-instruction certificate may also be accepted.
Yes, to have work experience, you can apply for a post-study work visa (APS) for 12-24 months.
It is the proper application and interview system that authenticates your documents before you request a visa.
Absolutely! Gateway International supports the Campus France procedure, scholarship, visa file, and pre-departure orientation of the Indian students.
