Planning to study in France? The student visa is your gateway to living, learning, and thriving in one of Europe’s most dynamic countries.
Here are the key reasons why it’s the best option for long-term studies in France:
1-year initial length
For training or a course lasting more than 6 months, you will be issued a long-stay student visa called VLS-TS “étudiant”, which is equivalent to a residence permit.
This visa allows you to reside in France for up to 1 year.
Easy visa renewal
What happens after that first year? If you plan to continue your studies in France, you can easily renew your student visa.
The renewal conditions are the same as for your initial application. As long as you are enrolled in an accredited program at a French institution of higher education and can provide proof of sufficient financial resources, you remain eligible.
As a reminder, the minimum financial requirement is €615 per month.
Read more about the financial requirements for a student visa in our guide here: https://gogofrance.com/en/blog/financial-requirements-studying-in-france/
Part-time work allowed
One of the standout benefits of the French student visa is that it automatically grants you the right to work part-time—up to 964 hours per year (approximately 20 hours per week).
This not only helps you supplement your finances but also gives you the opportunity to practice your French, build your local network, and potentially open doors to future professional opportunities after graduation.
As of January 2025, the minimum wage in France is €9.40 (net/hour). A student working 10 hours a week at minimum wage would earn approximately €94 net.
Free healthcare access
France offers one of the most comprehensive healthcare systems in the world. As a student visa holder, you’ll have free access to public healthcare, funded by contributions from employers and employees across France.
Most of your medical expenses will be covered, giving you peace of mind during your studies.
Housing allowance access
In addition to healthcare, you may also be eligible for housing assistance through CAF (Caisse d’Allocations Familiales).
The amount varies depending on your income, the size and location of your accommodation, and other personal factors. On average, the housing allowance ranges from €100 to €300 per month.
Travel freely within the Schengen Area
While academic success is important, so is exploring Europe during your stay. With a French student visa, you can travel visa-free throughout the Schengen Area, which includes 26 European countries.
Weekend getaways to Italy, Spain, Germany, and beyond are easily accessible—and thanks to low-cost airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet, round-trip tickets can be found for under €50.
The student visa truly makes France your gateway to Europe.
Student discounts everywhere
Your official student status unlocks a wide range of discounts. From reduced prices on public transport, to cheaper entry fees at museums, cinemas, and cultural sites, your student card helps you experience more while spending less.
Apps like UNiDAYS also offer exclusive discounts from brands like Apple, Nike, Samsung, Disney+, and more.
Apply now with Go! Go! France
At Go! Go! France, we help international students like you with everything from choosing the right school to preparing for life in France.
Need help with your student visa application? Contact us today to see how we can guide you through every step of the process from school enrollment to visa procedures and arrival in France.
