France Settlement Visa Requirements 2025: Full Guide for Long-Term Stay

France continues to be one of the most attractive destinations for individuals and families seeking a long-term relocation in 2025. Whether you are planning to join family, retire, or settle as a financially independent resident, France offers structured visa pathways. However, the settlement visa process is not always straightforward—especially with policy updates that have rolled out recently. This article dives deep into the specific visa categories, eligibility criteria, income and documentation requirements, and the correct application procedures tailored for 2025.

What is a settlement visa?
In France, a settlement visa typically refers to long-stay visas (visa de long séjour) that allow individuals to live in the country for over 90 days with the intent to establish residency. These visas may lead to permanent residency or citizenship if the applicant meets long-term stay conditions.

Who needs it?
Any non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss national who wishes to reside in France for more than 90 days must apply for a settlement visa—regardless of the purpose (family, retirement, non-lucrative stay, etc.).

Long-Stay Visa Equivalent to Residence Permit (VLS-TS)

Purpose: For stays longer than 3 months where the applicant intends to live in France and possibly transition to permanent residency.
Validity: 4 to 12 months.
Key Features:

• Acts as both visa and residence permit
• Must be validated online within 3 months of arrival
• Renewable and convertible to long-term residency

Long-Stay Temporary Visa (VLS-T)

Purpose: For temporary long-term stays without intention to settle permanently.
Validity: Up to 6 months.
Key Features:

• Cannot be extended or renewed in France
• Does not lead to residence permit
• No OFII (French immigration office) registration required

Who Can Apply:

• A non-EU sponsor legally residing in France for at least 18 months
• Must hold a residence permit valid for a minimum of 1 year
• Can apply for spouse and minor children (under 18)

Eligibility Criteria:

• Stable and sufficient income based on family size (e.g., €1,400–€2,500/month)
• Adequate accommodation meeting French health and safety standards
• Proof of family ties: marriage certificate, birth certificates, etc.

Process Overview:

• Submit application to OFII (Office Français de l’Immigration et de l’Intégration)
• Await approval before family members apply at consulate
• Visa granted as VLS-TS (must be validated after arrival)
• Family must reside in France with the sponsor within 3 months

Timeline:

• 6 to 18 months from submission to visa issuance

Ideal For:

• Retirees
• Passive income earners
• Remote workers not employed in France

Key Requirements:

• Monthly passive income of at least €3,000 for an individual (€4,500 for a couple, plus €750 per dependent)
• Proof of accommodation (lease agreement or property ownership)
• Comprehensive private health insurance (covering €30,000 minimum)
• Clean criminal record
• Statement of non-employment in France

Documents to Prepare:

• Bank statements (last 6–12 months)
• Income proof (rental income, pension slips, dividend reports, etc.)
• Birth/marriage certificates (translated into French)
• Health insurance certificate
• Proof of accommodation (e.g., utility bill or rental contract)

Application Process:

• Start online at the official French visa portal
• Submit documents and biometrics at your local French consulate
• Wait for approval (usually 2–3 months)
• Upon arrival, validate VLS-TS visa within 3 months

Mandatory Long-Stay Visas

All non-EU nationals must now apply for a VLS or VLS-TS if staying longer than 90 days, regardless of nationality. Previous exceptions for certain countries have been removed.

Updated Income Thresholds

Minimum income for non-working residents has increased. Now linked to SMIC (French minimum wage), the requirement is approx. €1,400 net/month for individuals and adjusted for family units.

French Language Requirements

Applicants for long-term residency or naturalization in 2025 must demonstrate A2-level proficiency (elementary French). Tests are often required for permanent residence and citizenship applications.

Digital Validation

OFII registration for visa validation has become fully digital. Applicants must validate their long-stay visa through the official OFII platform within 90 days of entry.

After holding a VLS-TS visa for one year, individuals can apply for a Carte de Séjour (residence permit), typically valid for 1 to 4 years.

Conditions for Residency Card:

• Continuity of residence (no more than 6 months abroad per year)
• Proof of income and accommodation
• Integration into French society (language, social ties)
• Health insurance coverage
• Compliance with French laws (no criminal offenses)

• Submitting incomplete documents—missing income proofs or untranslated papers can delay or reject the application
• Ignoring OFII validation—failure to register the visa within 3 months may invalidate your stay
• Insufficient income—passive income must be traceable and consistent
• Overstaying a short-term visa—can jeopardize future applications

• Begin preparations at least 3–6 months before your intended move
• Get all foreign documents translated into French by a certified translator
• Keep all proofs of accommodation and income updated
• Ensure you purchase health insurance that meets French visa standards
• Use certified mail or digital proof for all official correspondences

Conclusion

Settling in France is a structured but documentation-heavy process in 2025. Whether you're joining family, retiring, or simply starting a new chapter in life, understanding the exact visa type, income requirements, and procedures will smooth your transition. With new digital systems and rising thresholds, careful planning is key to success. Be prepared, stay informed, and you'll find your path to living in France entirely within reach.