Visa Application Flow
1. Get Admission + Scholarship Letter
University acceptance and/or scholarship award letter.
2. Complete Études en France Procedure
If your country uses the EEF portal, validate your dossier there first.
3. Book TLS Contact / VFS Appointment
Biometrics + document submission. Book 4–6 weeks before travel. Slots fill fast in summer.
4. Submit Visa Application
VLS-TS (long-stay student visa = residence permit). Processing: 2–4 weeks.
5. Arrive in France
You have 3 months to validate your VLS-TS online at validated.ofii.fr.
6. OFII Validation
Online process + pay €50 tax stamp. Your VLS-TS becomes your residence permit for year 1.
Visa Document Checklist
Visa Readiness
Processing Times
2–4 weeks
Standard processing
Jun–Aug
Peak season (book early)
3 months
OFII validation window