A Long Stay Visa for France allows non-EU citizens to Come live in France for more than 90 days. Whether you want to study, work, retire, or live in France for an extended period, you will usually need a France long-stay visa (Visa de Long Séjour or Type D visa) before entering the country.
This guide explains the requirements, processing time, financial rules, insurance requirements, and application process for obtaining a long-stay visa for France.
What Is a Long-stay visa for France?
A French long-stay visa allows foreigners to stay in France for more than 90 days and up to 12 months.
Many long-stay visas are issued as VLS-TS (Visa de Long Séjour valant Titre de Séjour). This visa acts as both:
- an entry visa
- a temporary residence permit during the first year
Applications must be submitted through the official visa portal: France-Visas
How Long Can You Stay in France Without a Visa?
Citizens from visa-exempt countries such as the United States, Canada, and United Kingdom can travel to the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
If you plan to stay longer than 90 days, you must apply for a long-stay visa for France.
Types of Long Stay Visas for France
France offers several visa categories depending on the purpose of your stay.
Visitor Visa (Long Stay Visitor Visa France)
The French long-stay visitor visa allows foreigners to live in France without working for a French employer.
This visa is often used by:
- retirees
- remote workers with foreign income
- long-term travelers
- people taking a sabbatical
Important:
France does not currently offer an official digital nomad visa. Remote workers usually apply under the visitor visa category if their income comes from outside France.
Work Visa (Long Stay Work Visa France)
A long stay work visa France allows foreigners to work legally in France. Most work visas require prior authorization from the French Ministry of Labour.
The employer must usually submit a work authorization request before the visa application can proceed.
Student Visa (Long Stay Student Visa France)
International students admitted to French universities must apply for a long stay student visa France.
Applications often involve the Campus France platform, which manages student mobility procedures.
Talent Passport Visa
The Talent Passport is a special residence visa designed to attract highly skilled professionals.
It is available for:
- highly qualified workers
- researchers
- artists
- investors
- startup founders
Entrepreneur or Self-Employed Visa
Entrepreneurs and freelancers can apply for a self-employed or entrepreneur visa if they plan to create or operate a business in France.
Applicants must demonstrate:
- a viable business project
- sufficient financial resources
- relevant professional experience
France Long Stay Visa Requirements
To apply for a France long stay visa, you must prepare several documents.
Typical requirements include:
- valid passport
- completed visa application form
- passport photos
- proof of accommodation in France
- proof of financial resources
- health insurance coverage
- travel itinerary
- visa application fee payment
Some visa types require additional documents such as employment contracts, university acceptance letters, or business plans.
Financial Requirements for a Long Stay Visa for France
Applicants must demonstrate that they have enough funds to live in France.
In most cases, financial resources should be at least equivalent to the French minimum wage (SMIC).
Approximate requirement:
€1,400–€1,500 net per month, or sufficient savings to support your stay.
Examples of financial proof include:
- bank statements
- pension income (for retirees)
- employment income from abroad
- investment income
Health Insurance for France Long Stay Visa
Health insurance is mandatory for most long-stay visa applicants.
Your insurance policy must provide coverage of at least €30,000 and include:
- medical treatment
- hospitalization
- emergency healthcare
- medical repatriation
Many applicants purchase international private health insurance before arriving in France.
France Long Stay Visa Processing Time
Processing times vary depending on the visa type and country where you apply.
Typical estimated timelines:
| Visa Type | Processing Time |
| Visitor visa | 2–6 weeks |
| Student visa | 2–8 weeks |
| Work visa | 3–10 weeks |
| Family visa | 4–10 weeks |
Applicants should apply at least 2–3 months before their planned travel date.
France Long Stay Visa Cost
The standard French long-stay visa fee is usually:
€99 per application
Additional costs may include:
- visa center service fees
- document translation
- health insurance
- administrative fees
How to Apply for a Long Stay Visa for France
Follow these steps to apply.
Step 1 – Start the Application Online
Complete your application on France-Visas.
Step 2 – Prepare Your Documents
Gather all required documents, including financial proof, accommodation evidence, and insurance.
Step 3 – Schedule a Visa Appointment
Applicants must attend an appointment with an authorized visa service provider such as:
- VFS Global
- TLScontact
- Capago International
Step 4 – Attend Biometrics Appointment
At the appointment, you will submit:
- fingerprints
- documents
- passport
Step 5 – Wait for Visa Decision
The French consulate will review your application and make the final decision.
Validating Your Long Stay Visa After Arrival
If you receive a VLS-TS visa, you must validate it after arriving in France.
Validation is now completed online through the ANEF.
The process typically includes:
- online registration
- payment of a tax stamp
- confirmation of your French address
After validation, the OFII may contact you for:
- a medical examination
- administrative follow-up appointment
Duration of a French Long Stay Visa
A France long stay visa usually allows you to stay for 3 to 12 months.
After the first year, many residents apply for a Carte de Séjour (residence permit) if they want to remain in France longer.
France Long Stay Visa Checklist
Before submitting your application, prepare the following:
✔ Valid passport
✔ Completed visa application form
✔ Proof of accommodation
✔ Financial documents
✔ Health insurance coverage (€30,000 minimum)
✔ Passport photos
✔ Visa appointment confirmation
FAQs About Long Stay Visa France
What is a long-stay visa for France?
A long stay visa allows non-EU citizens to stay in France for more than 90 days, usually up to one year.
How much money do you need for a France long stay visa?
Applicants usually need financial resources equivalent to the French minimum wage, about €1,400–€1,500 per month, or sufficient savings.
How long does a France long stay visa take?
Processing typically takes 2–10 weeks, depending on the visa type and country where you apply.
Can you work in France with a long stay visa?
Yes, but only if your visa category allows employment. Visitor visas generally do not allow work in France.
Does France have a digital nomad visa?
No. France does not currently offer a specific digital nomad visa. Remote workers usually apply for the long stay visitor visa if they earn income outside France.
Can I apply for a long stay visa while in France?
No, Long-stay visas must generally be applied for from your country of residence before entering France