Which visa?
To study in France for more than 3 months you need a long-stay student visa, called VLS-TS. During your first year it also works as your residence permit, once you validate it online after arriving.
Before the visa
You need two things first: your admission to a French school and your completed Campus France procedure. See our Campus France guide.
The steps
- Fill in the online application on the official France-Visas website.
- Book your appointment at the visa centre in Beirut, where your documents and fingerprints are taken.
- Bring a complete file (see the list below) and pay the visa fee.
- Wait for the decision: usually a few weeks. Apply as soon as you have your admission, ideally in June or July for a September start.
The usual documents
- Valid passport and recent ID photos.
- France-Visas application form and appointment confirmation.
- Admission letter from your French school.
- Proof of your Campus France procedure.
- Proof of financial resources: at least about €615 per month for your stay (bank statements, scholarship, or a parent’s guarantee with their documents).
- Proof of accommodation for your first months in France, when requested.
The consulate can ask for other documents: always follow the official list for your situation.
After you arrive in France
- Validate your visa online within 3 months of arriving, on the official French administration website, and pay the residence tax.
- Register with French social security, which is free for students.
- Before your visa ends, apply online to renew your residence permit for the next year.
What if a visa is refused?
A refusal is not the end. The most common reasons are an unclear project, insufficient or badly documented funds, or inconsistencies in the file. We study the reasons with you and rebuild a stronger file. No agency can honestly guarantee a visa; we make sure your file is as strong as possible.
How Study Bridge Europe helps
We prepare every document, check your financial proof, book your appointments and train you with mock interviews. Book a free call or start your application.
Amounts and rules change every year. We give approximate figures to help you plan; always check the official amount when you apply.
Quick answers
How much money do I need to show for a French student visa?
The French authorities ask for proof of at least about €615 per month for your stay. Bank statements, a scholarship or a parent’s guarantee can be used.
When should I apply for the student visa?
As soon as you have your admission and your Campus France procedure, ideally in June or July for a September start.
Can my parents be my financial guarantor?
Yes. A parent can guarantee your living costs with a signed guarantee and their own financial documents.