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Student Visas
by David Applefield
Since September 1989, non-EU students intending to study in France for only six months have been issued a six month or 180 day student visa which enables them to stay in France without having to complete carte de séjour procedures. The visa in itself is the temporary residence permit. However, it must say this ("le titulaire de ce visa est dispensé de solliciter une," or "le présent visa vaut autorisation de séjour"). If these magical words are not found somewhere on the visa, you have to follow the carte de séjour routine like everybody else. The type of visa you request depends on two factors: your nationality and the amount of time you plan to spend at a university in France.
If you will be attending a university program for just one semester, a "visa d´étudiant pour six mois avec plusieurs entrées" should be requested. This releases you from "carte de séjour" or temporary residence permit formalities as the visa is, in itself, your temporary permit.
PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS VISA IS NOT GRANTED TO ALL NATIONALITIES. CONSULT YOUR LOCAL FRENCH CONSULATE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.
If you are applying for at least one year, a "visa de long séjour pour études" should be requested.
The French consulate nearest you will require the following:
A certificate of admission from the university in Paris that has accepted you. Most consulates will not issue a visa without a certificate of admission or some proof of official contact. The visa is valid if you matriculate as a full-time student.
A financial guarantee as specified by your consulate. In most countries, this will be a letter from your parents or your bank, signed in the presence of a public notary. It will certify that you will have an income of at least 1,800 FF per month for the duration of your stay in France. This figure is subject to change.
A statement proving that your health insurance covers you in France. This is also required to apply for a residence permit and to register at the university you´ve selected (See Health).
Authorization by a parent or guardian if you are under 18 years of age.
Several photographs as specified by the consulate.
Your valid passport (should not expire before the visa does).
In order to avoid unnecessary delays, it is recommended that you write or telephone the consulate, requesting exact details concerning the documents required. Since different procedures are in effect for students seeking admission to French universities, if you´re attending an American program you must clearly request visa information for study in France outside the French university system. Since the time required to issue a visa will vary from consulate to consulate and from country to country, you are urged to apply for your student visa as far in advance of your departure date as possible.
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