France

The student visa process for France and the living expenses for Indian students are crucial to understand when planning to study there. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown:

1. Choose a Program and Institution:

Before applying for a visa, you need to secure admission to a French educational institution. The institution should issue you an acceptance letter confirming your enrollment in a full-time course.

2. Register on Campus France Portal:

Campus France is the official French government agency for higher education and student mobility. Indian students must complete their registration on the Campus France website, part of the visa process.

Steps:

• Create an Account: Register on Campus France India and create an account.
• Submit Application: Upload your documents and submit your academic details, including your acceptance letter.
• Interview with Campus France: After submission, you’ll be invited for an interview to verify your documents. This step is mandatory and usually happens at the nearest Campus France office in India.

3. Gather Required Documents:

The following documents are required for your student visa application:

• Passport: Valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay.
• Acceptance Letter: From your French institution.
• Proof of Financial Capability: You must show proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses (approx. €615/month).
• Proof of Accommodation: Either a student dormitory reservation or a rental agreement.
• Flight Itinerary: Showing your travel plans to France.
• Health Insurance: Proof of medical insurance valid in France.
• Visa Application Form: Completed long-stay visa form.
• Campus France NOC: “No Objection Certificate” issued by Campus France after your interview.

4. Visa Application Submission:

You will apply for a long-term student visa (visa de long séjour pour études) through VFS Global, which handles visa applications for France in India.

Steps:

1. Register on the France-Visas Website: Start your application on France-Visas.
2. Complete the Application Form: Fill in all required fields and download the completed form.
3. Book an Appointment with VFS Global: After submitting the form online, book an appointment at your nearest VFS center.
4. Submit Biometric Data: Attend the VFS appointment, where you’ll submit your visa application, required documents, and biometric data (fingerprints and photograph).
5. Pay Visa Fees: The student visa fee is approximately €99.

5. Proof of Financial Resources:

To demonstrate that you can support yourself financially, you must provide one of the following:

• Bank Statements: Showing that you have access to at least €7,380 per year (approx. ₹6.5 lakh).
• Sponsorship Letter: If someone is sponsoring you, they need to provide a financial guarantee and proof of their own funds.
• Scholarship: If applicable, proof of a scholarship covering your expenses.
• Student Loan Sanction Letter: If you have taken a loan, provide the bank’s sanction letter.

6. Proof of Accommodation:

You need to show proof of accommodation for at least the first three months in France:

• University Housing Confirmation: If staying in university-provided accommodation.
• Private Accommodation: A rental agreement or a certificate from a host (if living with friends or family).

7. Medical Insurance:

You must have valid health insurance for your stay in France. The minimum coverage required is €30,000. Many institutions offer insurance options to international students, or you can purchase insurance before arriving in France.

8. After Submitting the Visa Application:

• Processing Time: The student visa usually takes 2-3 weeks for processing.
• Visa Interview: While not always required, you may be asked to attend an interview at the consulate.

9. Working While Studying:

As a student in France, you’re allowed to work up to 964 hours per year (about 20 hours per week) during the academic year and full-time during vacations.

10. Financial Requirements (Living Expenses):

France’s cost of living varies by city. Here’s a general breakdown:

Living Expenses:

• Accommodation:
  • Paris: €800 – €1,200 per month (shared or private)
  • Other cities: €400 – €700 per month
• Food and Groceries: €200 – €300 per month
• Transportation: €30 – €70 per month (depending on city)
• Utilities (electricity, internet, phone): €60 – €100 per month
• Miscellaneous: €100 – €150 per month

Total Estimated Monthly Expenses:

• Paris: €1,000 – €1,500 per month
• Other Cities: €600 – €1,000 per month

Conclusion:

• Visa Fees: €99
• Proof of Funds: €7,380 per year (€615 per month)
• Health Insurance: Required (min. €30,000 coverage)
• Working Rights: Up to 964 hours/year

Ensure all documents are complete and apply well in advance of your intended start date to avoid any delays.