France Student Visa 2027 – Documents & Process for Indian Applicants

Which Visa Do You Actually Need

Most Indian students applying for a full-time program longer than 90 days need the VLS-TS.

• VLS-TS (Visa de Long Séjour valant Titre de Séjour) functions as both a visa and your first-year residence permit.
• It's mandatory for most Bachelor's, Master's, and MBA programs.
• Shorter exchange programs or summer schools may only need a short-stay visa instead.

Step by Step: The France Student Visa Process

Here's the sequence consulates expect Indian applicants to follow.

1. Get your admission offer from a recognised French institution.
2. Complete the Études en France procedure through Campus France India, including document upload and an academic interview.
3. Apply through France-Visas, filling the online CERFA form and uploading supporting documents.
4. Book your biometric appointment at your nearest VFS Global centre and submit your passport.
5. Collect your visa after consulate review, then travel to France.
6. Validate your VLS-TS online through ANEF within 3 months of arrival.

Skipping the Campus France step before applying for the visa is one of the most common reasons applications stall.

Documents You'll Need

Keep this checklist handy while preparing your file.

• Valid passport, valid for at least 6 months beyond your course completion.
• University admission or acceptance letter.
• Académic transcripts, SOP, and letters of recommendation.
• Language proficiency proof, either IELTS/TOEFL or DELF/DALF/TCF depending on your program.
• Proof of funds covering tuition plus €877.50 per month for living expenses.
• Valid international health insurance for your full stay.
• Accommodation proof in France.

France Student Visa Fees for 2027

• The Campus France India procedure fee is ₹20,000, effective from 1 August 2026.
• The VLS-TS visa itself costs €99, separate from the Campus France fee.
• Late residence permit renewal after your first year attracts an additional €180 fee.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting for a Campus France "NOC" that doesn't exist. You only need the automated confirmation email after your academic interview.
• Submitting unclear or inconsistent documents, which consulates flag quickly.
• Applying too close to your intake date. Start at least 8 weeks before your course start date.

Choosing the right university and program upfront makes this entire process smoother. If you're still shortlisting, our guide on Best France Universities for Engineering & Business (2027 Intake) can help you narrow it down before you begin your Campus France file.

Final Thoughts

The France student visa process rewards preparation. Get your Campus France file right, keep your documents organised, and apply early enough to absorb any delays.

FAQs

Do Indian students need Campus France before applying for a France visa?

Yes. Indian applicants must complete the Études en France procedure through Campus France before the French consulate accepts a visa application.

How much bank balance is required for a France student visa?

You need proof of funds covering tuition costs plus €877.50 per month for living expenses, effective from August 2026.

How long does France visa approval take after the interview?

Visa approval and arrival preparation typically take 2 to 3 weeks after your in-person Campus France interview.

Resources

• France-Visas: Official Visa Application Portal
• Campus France: Études en France Procedure