How do I apply for a student visa to legally teach English in France?
To legally teach English in France as a non-EU citizen, one effective route is applying for a student visa. This visa allows you to work for a limited number of hours per week while studying in France. The application process involves enrolling in a recognized French educational institution and then applying for the student visa through the French consulate or embassy in your home country. While the student visa restricts the number of teaching hours, it is still possible to supplement your income by taking private students in your spare time. It is a popular alternative for those facing challenges in obtaining a work permit, especially for non-EU residents.
Table of Contents
What is the application process for a student visa in France?
How can I check that I have the right documents?
What should I do on arrival in France?
How easy is it to get a student visa for France?
What is the application process for a student visa in France?
The application process for a French student visa involves several key steps. Begin by applying at least four weeks before your planned departure. Firstly, register with Campus France and pay a $70 registration fee to obtain an 'attestation'. Then, visit a French Consulate in your country to submit your application in person. Essential documents include:
- Completed application form
- Valid passport
- Additional passport photo
- Photocopy of passport ID page
- Documentation regarding your study course in France
- Proof of available finances (bank statement showing funds of $1,000 for every month of your stay, or notarized document from parent or similar declaring they will guarantee the funds)
- An 'attestation' from Campus France
- Completed French immigration form
- Airline reservations showing date of departure
- $70 processing fee
How can I check that I have the right documents?
As with all visa issues, we recommend that you visit a French embassy website before submitting your application to ensure you have all the necessary paperwork.
What should I do on arrival in France?
If your planned stay in France exceeds six months, you will need to register with l'office français de l'immigration et de l'intégration (OFII) within three months of your arrival in the country. To complete the registration process you will need the following:
- Valid passport, plus copy of ID pages
- A passport size photo
- Proof of residence in France (utility bill etc)
- $70 tax fee
How easy is it to get a student visa for France?
Securing a student visa for France is a structured process, and while approval is not guaranteed, it is generally attainable with proper preparation. The key to a successful application is providing all the required documents timely. If you adhere to the application guidelines and submit complete and accurate documentation, the process is straightforward. Typically, applicants who follow these steps can expect to receive their student visa within a few weeks, facilitating their journey to France for educational purposes.
