France remains one of Europe's most popular study destinations for Pakistani students, combining low public-university tuition with the long-stay student visa (VLS-TS “étudiant”) that doubles as a residence permit. This guide covers the official procedure via France-Visas and Campus France, including the higher financial-resources threshold in force since August 2026.

Visa Requirements

  • The VLS-TS “étudiant” allows you to study in France for 4 months to 1 year. It entitles the holder to travel freely in the Schengen Area, work 964 hours per year (about 20 hours per week), use the VISALE free housing-guarantee service, and extend the stay beyond the visa's validity.
  • Officially required: a valid passport, the completed long-stay visa application form, recent passport photos, an enrolment or pre-enrolment certificate from the French institution, proof of accommodation in France, proof of financial resources, and health insurance.
  • Financial resources: since 1 August 2026 the minimum proof of financial resources for a French student visa is €877.50 per month (replacing the previous €615 threshold).
  • Students from countries covered by the “Études en France” procedure, including Pakistan, must complete the Campus France pre-consular procedure first; the visa application is then transmitted to the French consular authorities through the platform.

Application Process

  • Complete the Études en France procedure on the Campus France platform, including the academic interview where required.
  • Create your account on the official France-Visas portal, complete the long-stay student visa application, and print the form.
  • Book and attend your appointment at the French consulate or visa application centre with all documents (originals and copies).
  • Apply as early as possible and at least two months before classes begin.
  • Within 3 months of arriving in France, validate your VLS-TS online at administration-etrangers-en-france.interieur.gouv.fr to maintain legal status.

Fees & Processing Time

  • Visa fees are set by the French authorities and published on the France-Visas portal; the fee is paid at the appointment and is non-refundable, including if the visa is refused.
  • Students applying through the Études en France procedure benefit from a reduced long-stay student visa rate compared with other long-stay categories — check the current fee table on France-Visas before your appointment.
  • Processing typically takes from a couple of weeks to around two months outside peak season (April–August); the Campus France procedure upstream can add several weeks.

Official Links