Why Study in France?
France is an excellent choice for Pakistani students thanks to its diverse programs, low tuition costs (from €170 for EU and €2,770–3,770 for non‑EU public universities), and a welcoming atmosphere for international learners. Plus, once enrolled, students can work up to 964 hours per year (60% of full-time hours) legally.
Types of Student Visas
- Short‑Stay Student Visa (“étudiant-concours”)
- For courses under 90 days, such as entrance exams or language programs
- Once enrolled, holders can switch to a long-stay residence permit in France without returning home.
- Temporary Long‑Stay Student Visa (VLS‑TS, 4–12 months)
- Ideal for exchange semesters or vocational study
- Treated like a residence permit; no additional permit needed.
- Long‑Stay Student Visa (VLS‑TS for full degree)
- For full bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees over one year.
- Must be validated online within three months of arrival and allows work while studying
Required Documents
You’ll need:
- Valid passport (2 blank pages, 3 months post-return validity)
- Online application via France-Visas including Uploads of enrollment proof from your French institution
- Recent passport photos
- Admission letter orCampus France “Études en France” certificate (if applicable)
- Proof of finances: ≥ €615/month (~€7,380/year)
- Accommodation proof for at least three months
- Health/travel insurance covering ≥ €30,000 in the Schengen area
- Flight itinerary (return if study <1 year)
- Language test results (DELF/DALF for French; IELTS/TOEFL if in English)
- Proof of prior academic qualifications
Application Process
- Campus France / Études en France (if required)
- Register online, upload documents, possibly complete an interview/admission test
- France-Visas online
- Complete the visa wizard, upload scanned documents, print appointment/ticket
- Book appointment
- Schedule via VFS Global or local consulate in Pakistan (Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore)
- Attend appointment
- Submit documents and biometric data. Bring originals & printed copies
- Pay visa application fee
- €50 (via Études en France) or €99 for non-EEF applicants. Campus France fees range €50–180 depending on country
- Wait for a decision
- Typically 2–4 weeks
- Validate your visa
- Use OFII portal within 3 months or visit prefecture for first-year residence permit
Fees & Financial Requirements
- Application Fee: €50–99 for visa + Campus France fee (€50–180)
- Health Insurance: €300–600/year
- Tuition: Public universities charge €2,770/year (Licence) & €3,770/year (Master) for non-EU students; PhDs cost €380/year
Legal Work Rights
Once your VLS‑TS permit is validated, you’re allowed part-time work up to 964 hours annually (~20 hours/week) with at least SMIC (≈ €8.71/hour) wages
Graduates can stay up to 1 year post-study to find work and switch to a work visa upon receiving an offer larger than one-and-a-half times SMIC
Extra Tips & FAQs
- Processing time varies by nationality—apply at least 2–4 months before classes
- Use France-Visas’ built-in checklist & digital document upload to streamline submissions
- If visa is rejected, you can appeal through the French embassy’s appeals commission within two months
- Family reunification is permitted after 18 months, provided you prove income and accommodation capacity
Applying for a France student visa (VLS‑TS) can be complex but manageable with proper planning. Gather your acceptance letter, proof of funds, insurance documents, and submit via France-Visas/VFS. Once approved and validated, enjoy working part-time, successful academic life, and potential post-study opportunities in France.