Introduction
If you’re excited about studying in France, there’s a step you need to tackle first – getting a long stay visa. It might sound a bit tricky, but don’t worry! This guide will walk you through the checklist in simple terms so you can be well-prepared for your study adventure in France.
The First Step: Application Form
1. Long Stay Visa Form:
Start by going to the France visas website. Fill in your info, and the website will give you a form with your details. Be careful to pick the right form for long stays – there are different ones for short stays.
2. Passport and Photos:
Make sure your passport is good to go.
- Photos: Get three recent passport-sized photos with a white background. No face coverings!
- Passport: It should be valid for at least 15 months from when your study starts. Include a copy of the front page and pages with previous visas from the last 5 years.
School Stuff
3. Academic Documents:
Show your school journey and acceptance into a French university.
- Diploma: Include the original and a copy of your last completed degree.
- Acceptance Letter: This is a letter saying the French university wants you!
- Deposit Receipt Copy: If you paid a deposit, include a copy of the receipt.
Money Matters
4. Financial Proof:
Show you’ve got enough money to cover your stay. How you prove it depends on your situation.
- If You’re Paying Yourself: Include a salary certificate and your bank statement for the last 3 months.
- If Someone’s Sponsoring You: Include a copy of their passport, a letter saying they’ll cover your costs, and their bank statement and salary certificate for the last 3 months.
- If You Have a Scholarship: Include the scholarship letter. Make sure there’s enough money in your or your sponsor’s bank account for at least the first year.
Where You’ll Stay
5. Proof of Accommodation:
Having a place to stay is important.
- Booking Confirmation: Show you have a place booked for at least 3 months after you arrive.
If Someone’s Hosting You: Include a copy of their ID.
Staying Healthy
6. Health Insurance:
Make sure you’re covered for medical stuff for at least 3 months.
- Insurance: Get one that covers all medical expenses.
Extra Stuff for Younger Students
7. For Those Under 18:
If you’re younger than 18, there are more things you need to show.
- Birth Certificate: Translated into French or English.
- Permission from Parents: Include a letter from your parents saying it’s okay for you to go. Also, add a digital invitation, rental contract, title deed, and utility bills for the last 3 months.
- School Stuff: If you’re in school, show a certificate. If you’re staying with someone, include their ID and the extra permission from your parents.
Wrapping It Up
Studying in France is super exciting, but paperwork can be a bit of a puzzle. Following this easy checklist makes it simpler. From the right form to showing you can pay for your stay and proving where you’ll stay – every piece is crucial. Use this guide, and your journey to studying in France will be smooth and awesome. Ready for this adventure? Bon voyage!
