France long stay visa

France long stay visa

France VLS-TS Visa (Long-stay visas) enables non‑EU nationals to reside in France for up to one year without requiring a job offer or a French‑language certificate, provided that they meet the following criteria:

• Financial Self‑Sufficiency: Demonstrate sufficient funds to cover living expenses for themselves and any accompanying family members throughout their stay in France.
• Proof of Accommodation: Show evidence of having purchased or leased a residence in France.
• No Employment Intent: Confirm they will not engage in salaried work or professional activity in France.

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Renewal & Long‑Term Residence

The VLS‑TS can be renewed annually.

After residing in France for at least 183 days per calendar year for five consecutive years, holders become eligible to apply for a Carte de séjour (permanent residence permit).

After ten years of continuous residence, they may apply for French citizenship.

Family Reunification

The visa also extends to close family members, including:

• Spouse
• Children under 18 years old
• Dependent parents

If you’re considering the Long‑Stay “Self‑Sufficient” Visa as your GalaPath to France, read on for a detailed overview of eligibility requirements, application procedures, required documentation, associated fees, and renewal guidelines.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the France VLS‑TS Visa

Like all other residency GalaPaths, migrating via financial self‑sufficiency has its pros and cons, which are listed below:

Advantages of the France VLS‑TS Visa:

• You can bring your family (spouse and dependent children under 18) with you.
• No French language certificate or higher academic degree is required.
• No strict residence requirement—just two entries into France per year suffice.
• Free education is available even for family members and children.
• You may invest in France and start your own business.
• You can obtain a Schengen visa and travel freely within the Schengen Area.
• You benefit from free health insurance and healthcare services in France.
• After five years, you may apply for permanent residency; after ten years, you may apply for French citizenship.

Disadvantages of the France VLS‑TS Visa:

• You must purchase or rent a home in France to qualify for residency.
• You are not permitted to work in France until you obtain permanent residency.
• You must prove your financial means every year until you receive your permanent residence permit.

Eligibility Conditions for the France VLS‑TS Visa

Age and Personal Background

• Applicant must be over 18 years old.
• A clean criminal record certificate is required.

Accommodation in France

• You must have purchased or leased a dwelling in France.
• The minimum legal area is 9 m² per person (e.g., a family of four needs at least 36 m²).
• Average property prices are around €100,000, but there is no upper limit.
• You must present the lease or ownership document in your name.
• Until you obtain permanent residence, you may not sublet the property.

Sufficient Financial Means

• You must demonstrate that you do not need to work to support yourself in France.
• Required funds equal the French net annual minimum wage (SMIC after tax), currently about €1,300 per month or €15,632 per year per person.
• You must add the same amount for your spouse and for each dependent child under 18.

International Health Insurance

• You must obtain comprehensive medical insurance covering treatment, hospitalization, and emergencies throughout your stay.

Commitment Not to Work

• You must formally commit that you will not undertake employment in France; you are residing as a private individual.
• Note: Investing in or founding a business in France is allowed under the VLS‑TS visa.

Important Note: Only verifiable, regular income sources (pensions, rental income, bank interest, dividends) are accepted. Inheritance or non‑income‑generating assets alone do not qualify. You must renew your residence permit each year with proof of your property rights and monthly income deposits.

Required Documents for the France VLS‑TS Visa

To apply for the Long‑Stay “Self‑Sufficient” Visa (VLS‑TS) at your French embassy or consulate, submit the following:

• Completed VLS‑TS Application Form
• Identification
  • Valid passport (minimum 13 months’ remaining validity)
  • National identity card
  • Family register (if applicable)
• Criminal Record Certificate
  • Issued by your home‑country judiciary
• Proof of Financial Means
  • Recent payslips, bank statements, dividend notices, or equivalent documents demonstrating sufficient funds for yourself and any dependents
• Proof of Accommodation in France
  • Signed lease agreement or property title deed in your name
• Health Insurance
  • Comprehensive coverage valid in France for the entire duration of your stay
• Family Documents (if applying with dependents)
  • Passports or IDs for spouse and children
  • Marriage certificate
  • Birth certificates for children under 18
• Visa‑Fee Receipt
  • Approx. €241 per applicant
• School Enrollment Certificate (if children will attend a French school)

Note: All documents must be translated into French or English, officially certified, and, when required, apostilled or legalized.

Fees Overview

• Visa‑Processing Fee: €100 per person
• Visa Fee (VLS‑TS): Approx. €241 per person
• Health Insurance: €850–950 per year
• Residence Permit Issuance: €180 in year 1; €266 in each subsequent year

Application Steps of France VLS‑TS Visa

1. Secure Accommodation
   • Purchase or lease a dwelling (minimum 9 m² per person).
   • Provide the signed lease or recent utility bills as proof.
2. Compile & Certify Documents
   • Gather all required paperwork.
   • Translate and have each document officially certified.
3. Submit Your Dossier
   • File the complete application and supporting documents at the French embassy or consulate.
   • Attend any requested interview (in person or by phone).
4. Receive Your VLS‑TS Visa
   • Once approved, you’ll obtain a one‑year D‑type visa (no separate carte de séjour application upon arrival).
5. Validate Your Stay
   • Within three months of arrival, register with OFII to validate your VLS‑TS.

Validity & Renewal of France VLS‑TS Visa

• Primary Applicant & Spouse: Valid 1 year, renewable annually.
• Dependent Children: Valid up to 5 years (or until age 18), renewable as needed.
• Renewal Requirement: Reconfirm financial means at least two months before expiry.

After five years of continuous legal residence (≥183 days/year), you may apply for a carte de résident (permanent residence). After ten years, you may apply for French citizenship.

GalaPath to Citizenship

1. Enter France on your one‑year VLS‑TS.
2. Validate with OFII within 3 months.
3. Renew annually for five consecutive years.
4. Apply for Permanent Residency (carte de résident) in Year 5.
5. Apply for French Nationality in Year 10.

By following these steps—and ensuring full compliance with all financial, accommodation, and administrative requirements—you and your family can transition from temporary stay to permanent residency and, ultimately, French citizenship.