France Settlement Visa Requirements 2025: Complete Guide

Relocating to France in 2025 requires navigating updated visa and residency regulations. This comprehensive guide outlines the specific requirements for various long-stay visas, including financial, language, and procedural criteria.

Visa de Long Séjour (VLS): For non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals intending to stay in France for over 90 days.

VLS-TS (Visa de Long Séjour valant Titre de Séjour): A long-stay visa that serves as a residence permit for stays up to 12 months.

Temporary Long-Stay Visa (VLS-T): For stays between 3 to 6 months without the possibility of extension or conversion to residency.

1. Visitor Visa (VLS-TS Visiteur)

Purpose: For individuals intending to reside in France without engaging in employment.

Requirements:

• Financial Means: Proof of stable income exceeding €1,430 net per month.
• Accommodation: Evidence of housing arrangements in France.
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive private health coverage valid in France.
• Non-Employment Declaration: Signed statement confirming no intention to work in France.

Application Process:

• Submit an online application via the official France-Visas portal.
• Schedule and attend an appointment at the French consulate or visa application center.
• Provide biometric data and required documentation.
• Pay the visa fee (approximately €99).
• Upon arrival in France, validate the visa within three months through the French Immigration and Citizenship Office (OFII).

2. Work Visas

Purpose: For individuals with employment opportunities in France.

Requirements:

• Job Offer: A formal employment contract from a French employer.
• Work Authorization: Employer must obtain authorization from the French authorities.
• Qualifications: Relevant educational and professional credentials.

Application Process:

• Employer initiates the process by obtaining work authorization.
• Applicant submits a visa application with supporting documents.
• Attend an interview and provide biometric data.
• Pay applicable visa fees.

3. Family Reunification Visa

Purpose: For family members of individuals residing in France.

Requirements:

• Proof of Relationship: Marriage certificate, birth certificate, or other legal documents.
• Accommodation: Evidence that the sponsor in France has adequate housing.
• Financial Means: Sponsor must demonstrate sufficient income to support the family member.

Application Process:

• Submit an application with all required documentation.
• Attend an interview at the French consulate.
• Provide biometric data and pay visa fees.

4. Student Visa

Purpose: For individuals accepted into French educational institutions.

Requirements:

• Enrollment Proof: Acceptance letter from a recognized French institution.
• Financial Means: Proof of funds to cover tuition and living expenses.
• Accommodation: Evidence of housing arrangements.
• Health Insurance: Coverage valid in France.

Application Process:

• Apply through the France-Visas portal.
• Attend an appointment at the French consulate.
• Provide necessary documentation and biometric data.
• Pay the visa fee.

As of 2025, France has implemented stricter language requirements for residency and citizenship applications:

• Multi-Year Residency Cards: Applicants must demonstrate A2 level proficiency in French.
• Ten-Year Residency Permits: B1 level proficiency required.
• Citizenship Applications: B2 level proficiency necessary.

Applicants are required to pass standardized French language tests to prove their proficiency.

Applicants must demonstrate financial stability to support themselves during their stay in France:

• Minimum Income: Approximately €1,430 net per month.
• Proof of Funds: Bank statements, pension statements, or other financial documents.
• Additional Funds: Some visa categories may require proof of additional savings or assets.

All long-stay visa applicants must have comprehensive health insurance:

• Coverage: Must cover medical expenses and hospitalization in France.
• Validity: Insurance must be valid for the entire duration of the stay.
• Proof: Insurance certificate or policy document.

• Preparation: Gather all required documents and information.
• Online Application: Complete the application on the France-Visas portal.
• Appointment: Schedule and attend an appointment at the French consulate or visa application center.
• Biometric Data: Provide fingerprints and a photograph.
• Visa Fee: Pay the applicable fee (approximately €99).
• Processing: Wait for the visa application to be processed (processing times vary).
• Visa Validation: Upon arrival in France, validate the visa with OFII within three months.

• OFII Registration: Complete the required medical examination and attend any necessary appointments.
• Residence Permit Renewal: Apply for a residence permit (Carte de Séjour) before the visa expires if planning to stay longer.
• Integration: Participate in any required integration programs or language courses.

Conclusion

Navigating France's settlement visa requirements in 2025 involves understanding specific criteria related to visa types, financial stability, language proficiency, and health insurance. Proper preparation and adherence to the outlined processes are essential for a successful application and integration into French society.