Can I work on a student visa?

Yes. Students may work part-time within an annual limit (broadly 60% of full-time hours) alongside their studies.

Do I have to go through Campus France?

If your country of residence is covered by the Études en France procedure, admission and the visa step are handled through Campus France; otherwise you apply directly through France-Visas.

What happens after I graduate?

Graduates can apply for a temporary residence permit to look for a job or start a business in France, which can lead to a work or Talent permit.

Long-stay visas (Type D)

French Student Long-Stay Visa (VLS-TS étudiant)

The long-stay visa that doubles as a residence permit for international students enrolled at a French higher-education institution, allowing full-time study alongside limited part-time work.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced

Book a consultation

Under review — check current rules

The minimum monthly resources figure (~€615) and the annual work-hour limit are reference values that can change — confirm the current amounts on service-public.gouv.fr / Campus France.

Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official France government website before you apply.

On this page

Who it's for
Requirements
What you can do
How to apply
Documents
Frequently asked questions

Issued by: French consulate, usually via the Campus France / Études en France procedure
Route type: VLS-TS 'étudiant' (long-stay visa valid as residence permit)
Duration: From 4 months up to 1 year, renewable in France
Minimum resources: Around €615 per month; Guideline figure aligned to the student grant reference; verify current amount
Work rights: Part-time work permitted up to an annual limit (about 60% of full-time hours)

Who it's for

Non-EU students admitted to a French university or higher-education institution
Applicants following the Études en France / Campus France procedure where it applies
Students planning stays longer than 90 days

Requirements

Letter of admission or pre-enrolment from a recognised French institution
Proof of sufficient monthly financial resources
Proof of accommodation in France
Health insurance covering the stay
Valid passport and France-Visas application

What you can do

Study full-time at the enrolling institution
Work part-time within the annual legal limit
Renew the permit for continued studies
Apply after graduation for a job-search / business-creation permit

How to apply

Secure admission and, where applicable, complete the Études en France procedure via Campus France, then apply for the long-stay student visa through France-Visas and the consulate.

On arrival in France, validate the VLS-TS online within three months and pay the applicable fee. Renew before expiry at the prefecture (ANEF) for each further year of study.

Documents

Valid passport and France-Visas application form
Admission or pre-enrolment letter
Proof of monthly resources
Proof of accommodation
Health insurance certificate

Frequently asked questions

Yes. Students may work part-time within an annual limit (broadly 60% of full-time hours) alongside their studies.

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

Related French visas

Book a consultation