FAQs
The SAIEC provides to the international students and researchers a personalized guidance in the administrative procedures such as : residence permit, CAF, CPAM, accommodation...
Our multilingual team will answer any questions, advise and verify any applications relating to residence permits, CAF and CPAM.
The SAIEC also provides a computer area where you can apply for a residence permit on the digital administration for foreigners in France (ANEF).
Don't hesitate to make an appointment at our offices.
No.
The visa type "C" , as well as the "long-stay temporary" visa, with a residence permit exemption, does not authorise you to apply for a residence permit. It authorises you to stay in France until the last day of its validity.
The procedure is the same if you have entered in France without a visa as a tourist for a period of up to 90 days: more information on the website of the Ministry of the Interior and Overseas France.
If you wish to study in France and obtain a residence permit, you must apply for a "long-stay student visa" from the French consulate in your country of origin.
In order to change your status from "student" to "employee", you need to contact the Prefecture.
You need to re-submit your application via the ANEF platform or demarches simplifie.
NB: if the prefecture has requested a supplementary documents, you have 30 days to provide the documents.
You cannot download an justification letter with the online procedure. However, you can write an justification letter and a message to the prefecture at the end of the procedure. You will find a dedicated space for this under Step 5 'Summary'.
Once you have submitted your application and received your attestation of prolongation, you cannot change anything.
If you have obtained a student visa for "school-going minor", you must apply online for a "student" residence permit on the démarches simplifiées website as soon as you reach the age of majority (18 years).
- Put together your file with the following list of documents.
- Take an appointment at the SAIEC if you wish to be accompanied in submitting your application.
- Submit your application online on the démarches simplifiées website.
Yes. The most important thing is to get your application in on time. Depending on your situation, if you have not yet received your certificate of enrolment for the current year (for example, in September, or for PhD students who obtain their certificate later), you should nevertheless start the process. As soon as you receive it, you'll need to submit this document as an "additional document".
NB: the residence permit will only be issued once you have completed your file.
Multiple university enrolments may lead to refusal by the Prefecture.
Distance learning and continuing education do not entitle you to a "student" residence permit.
NB: your institution must be approved by the Rectorat (the French education authority). Please make sure you are informed about this before enrolling and paying any tuition fees!
Find out all about the procedures in our section dedicated to the renewal of a residence permit.
I've found a job. What should I do?
You should contact the Prefecture as soon as possible to request a modification of your status to "employee", "temporary worker" or "talent passport". In the meantime, the CRE/APS will authorize you to work full-time.
I haven't found a job, can I re-register?
No.
Once you've got the status of "Employment/entrepreneurship" (formerly APS), you are no longer eligible for "student" residence permit.