Complete Guide to French Residence Permits (2026)

France remains one of the most sought-after destinations for individuals and families from around the world who wish to live, work, study, or retire in a country known for its incredible culture and quality of life.

Introduction to Residence Permits in France

Non-EU nationals staying in France for more than 3 months must obtain a residence permit (titre de séjour), a physical card called a carte de séjour. This guide covers types of permits, the application process, and necessary documents. Whether you’re a student, professional, retiree, joining family, or a British resident post-Brexit, understanding these helps you navigate the process, which can seem a little overwhelming at first. 

Special Considerations for British Nationals in France

British nationals who were legally residing in France before 31 December 2020 are protected by the Withdrawal Agreement between the UK and the EU. This agreement permits British citizens and their family members to continue living, working, and studying in France, provided they apply for a new residency status.

British nationals living in France should have applied for a Withdrawal Agreement Residence Permit (WARP) to confirm their right to stay under the Withdrawal Agreement. The process requires proof of residency before December 31, 2020, such as proof of address, employment, or studies.

Understanding the Titre de Séjour and Carte de Séjour

A titre de séjour is the official authorisation allowing a foreign national to reside in France. The carte de séjour is the official document that verifies this, and it is required for anyone from outside the EU, EEA, Switzerland, or San Marino planning to stay in France for more than 3 months. Without it, you may face restrictions on legally working, accessing healthcare, or signing contracts, such as rental agreements.

The carte de séjour, issued by the local Préfecture, contains biometric information such as your photo, details, and ID number. EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens don’t need a residence permit for stays of more than 3 months, but may need to register if staying longer.

The Contrat d’Intégration Républicaine (CIR): A Key Step for Integration

For non-EU nationals intending to settle in France long-term, the Contrat d’Intégration Républicaine (CIR) is an essential part of the integration process. The CIR is a personalised agreement between the French state and the foreign national, designed to support their integration into French society. The CIR includes two main components:

• French Language Training: This assists applicants in reaching the required level of French proficiency. By 2026, a B1 level (intermediate) in French will be mandatory to obtain a multi-year residence permit.
• Civic Education: This prepares applicants for the mandatory civic exam, which assesses knowledge of French values, culture, history, and societal norms. The exam has been required since January 2026 for applicants seeking a carte de séjour pluriannuelle (multi-year residence permit) or a carte de résident (10-year residence permit).

The CIR ensures that individuals and families settling in France are equipped with the linguistic and cultural knowledge necessary to integrate successfully into French society.

Types of French Residence Permits

France provides various types of residence permits; each one is designed for different purposes and lengths of stay. Below, we examine these permits, including the requirements and documents required for each.

Long-Stay Visa Equivalent to a Residence Permit (VLS-TS)

The Visa de Long Séjour Valant Titre de Séjour (VLS-TS)  is a long-stay visa that also functions as a temporary residence permit. It generally remains valid for 4 to 12 months and is suitable for people coming to France for study, work, family reunification, retirement, or internships.

One of the most vital steps after arriving in France with a VLS-TS is to validate it within 3 months of your arrival. This validation is essential because it officially converts your visa into a residence permit, allowing you to stay legally in France.

The VLS-TS also permits travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, making it a convenient choice for those who may need to travel within Europe during their stay.

Temporary Residence Permit (1 Year)

If you plan to stay in France beyond the duration permitted by your VLS-TS, you’ll need to apply for a temporary residence permit. This permit is valid for 1 year and can be renewed each year. It is suitable for individuals studying, working, joining family, or residing in France as visitors without work plans.

To obtain this permit, you must submit your application at the local Préfecture before your VLS-TS expires. The process generally requires several documents common to most residence permit types.

• Your long-stay visa or current carte de séjour: This proves your current legal status in France.
• Your passport: Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your intended stay.
• Your full birth certificate: This document must be translated into French by an approved translator.
• Proof of address in France: This should be dated less than six months old and can include a utility bill, rental agreement, or any official document that confirms your residence.
• Three passport-style photos: These must be recent, identical, and comply with French standards for identification photos.
• OFII medical certificate: If required for your specific permit type, this certificate confirms that you have undergone the necessary medical examinations (see more information below).

Visitor Carte de Séjour

The visitor carte de séjour is designed for individuals who wish to reside in France without engaging in any professional activity. This category is ideal for retirees or those with independent financial means who do not intend to work while staying in France.

To qualify for a visitor’s carte de séjour, you must demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself without relying on French social services.

As of January 2026, the minimum required financial resources are €17,317.39 per year (€1,443.11 per month). You will need to provide proof of these resources, such as bank statements from the last three months or pension receipts. Along with the standard documents needed for a temporary residence permit, you will need to submit:

• A handwritten statement confirming that you will not undertake any professional activity in France.
• A certificate of health insurance covering the entire period of your stay in France.

This permit is valid for one year and can be renewed annually, provided you continue to meet the financial and insurance requirements.

Family Carte de Séjour

The family carte de séjour is for spouses, partners, or family members of French nationals or residents in France. It allows family members to join loved ones and stay legally. To apply, you must submit documents proving your family ties and your spouse’s legal status, including:

• Marriage certificate (if applicable) and proof of registration on the French marriage registry.
• Spouse’s passport or National Identity Card confirming French nationality or residence.
• Declaration of honour from your spouse about your relationship and their support.
• Documents proving at least 6 months of cohabitation in France, like joint utility bills or a rental agreement in both names.

This permit is valid for one year and can be renewed annually, provided the family relationship remains valid, and you continue to meet the other requirements.

Work Carte de Séjour

The carte de séjour work permit is for individuals who have obtained employment in France. It is linked to your employment contract and grants you the legal right to work in the country. To apply for a work carte de séjour, you will need to provide:

• Your work permit, issued by the French authorities, which confirms that you are authorised to work in France.
• Your work contract, signed by both you and your employer, detailing the terms of your employment, including your position, salary, and duration of the contract.

This permit usually lasts for one year and can be renewed each year as long as you remain employed and meet the other legal requirements.

Multi-Year Residence Permit (2 to 4 Years)

For those with a temporary residence permit seeking more stability in France, a multi-year permit is ideal. Valid for 2 to 4 years and renewable if stay conditions are met, it offers greater security. To qualify, applicants must prove ongoing compliance with French immigration laws. From 2026, this includes:

• Proof of B1-level French proficiency, which is an intermediate level of language skills.
• Successful completion of the mandatory civic exam, which tests your knowledge of French values, culture, and societal norms.

The multi-year residence permit is available in several categories, including:

• General Multi-Year Permit: For individuals who have previously held a temporary permit and still meet their stay conditions.
• Talent Passport (Passeport Talent): Designed for highly skilled professionals, researchers, artists, and investors. This permit is especially appealing because it can be valid for up to 4 years and features a simplified renewal process.
• Intra-Company Transfer (ICT): For employees transferred within a multinational corporation to work in France.

Long-Term Residence Permit (10 Years)

The long-term residence permit, or carte de résident, is designed for individuals who have legally resided in France for a long time and wish to enjoy stability in the long term.

This permit is valid for 10 years and can be renewed, providing a high level of security and flexibility. To be eligible for a long-term residence permit, you must meet the following criteria:

• 5 years of continuous legal residence in France (or 3 years if you are married to a French national).
• Proof of stable and sufficient financial resources to support yourself and any dependents.
• B1-level French proficiency.

The long-term residence permit is available in several categories:

• Carte de Résident: For spouses of French nationals, retirees, and parents of French children.
• Carte de Résident Longue Durée-UE: For non-EU nationals who have legally resided in France for at least five years. This permit also grants certain rights within the European Union.
• Carte de Résident Permanent: Granted after holding a 10-year residence permit for two consecutive terms or for applicants aged 60 and above. This permit provides permanent residency status in France.

How to Apply for a Carte de Séjour

Applying for a carte de séjour involves several steps, both before and after your arrival in France. Below is a detailed guide to help you through the process.

Before Applying

Before applying for a carte de séjour, you must have a valid long-stay visa (VLS-TS). This visa grants entry to France and acts as your initial residence permit. Once there, follow these steps:

1. Validate Your VLS-TS Online: Within three months of arrival, validate your VLS-TS on the official French immigration website to convert it into a residence permit.
2. Pay the Required State Tax: Pay a fee when validating your VLS-TS and applying for a residence permit, with amounts varying by permit type.
3. Complete a Medical Examination with OFII: OFII requires a medical exam for certain permits, including a chest X-ray, to check for contagious diseases. Results are confidentially submitted to OFII.

The OFII Medical Certificate

The OFII medical certificate is an essential document for certain residence permit applications, especially those related to health or long-term stays. This certificate is issued following a medical examination conducted by a doctor registered with the OFII. The examination generally includes:

• A review of your medical history, including any chronic conditions or ongoing treatments.
• A chest X-ray, to screen for tuberculosis and other respiratory conditions.
• A general health assessment to ensure you are in good health and do not require immediate medical attention that could potentially burden the French healthcare system.

The certificate is then submitted to OFII, where a panel of doctors reviews your case. Their assessment is used to inform the Préfecture’s decision on your residence permit application.

Application and Renewal Process

The process of applying for and renewing a carte de séjour depends on whether you are applying from abroad or from within France.

Applying from Abroad

If you are not yet in France, your initial step is to apply for a long-stay visa (VLS-TS) at the French consulate or embassy in your home country. The application process generally involves submitting the following documents:

• A completed visa application form.
• Your passport, valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay.
• Passport-sized photos that meet French visa requirements.
• Proof of your purpose of stay (e.g., a letter of acceptance from a French university for students, a work contract for employees, or proof of financial means for visitors).
• Proof of accommodation in France (e.g., a rental agreement or a letter from a host).
• Proof of financial means to support yourself during your stay.
• Healthcare insurance that covers your entire stay in France.

Once your visa is approved, you can travel to France and begin validating your VLS-TS and applying for a carte de séjour.

Applying Within France

If you’re already in France with a valid VLS-TS, you can request a carte de séjour at your local Préfecture. The process involves submitting your application with the necessary documents (as previously specified) and attending an in-person appointment to provide biometric data, including fingerprints and a photo.

It’s crucial to apply for your residence permit at least 2 months before your current permit expires to prevent gaps in your legal status. Submitting your application after the deadline may result in a late fee or the loss of your legal residency.

Renewing Your Carte de Séjour

Renewing a carte de séjour follows a process similar to the initial application. You should submit your renewal application two to four months before your current permit expires. The Préfecture will review your application and may request updated documents to confirm that you still meet the eligibility criteria for your permit type.

For example, if you hold a work carte de séjour, you will need to provide an updated work contract or proof of ongoing employment. If you hold a student carte de séjour, you will need to provide proof of continued enrolment in your educational programme.

Key Changes in 2026

France has made several significant changes to its immigration policies, aimed at fostering better integration and ensuring that new residents are well-prepared for life in France . These include:

• Increased Language Requirements: As of January 1, 2026, applicants for multi-year residence permits must demonstrate B1-level French proficiency (intermediate level). For those applying for French citizenship, the required level has increased to B2 (upper-intermediate).
• Mandatory Civic Exam: A civic exam is required for first-time applicants of multi-year permits and resident cards. This exam tests knowledge of French values, history, culture, and societal norms and is designed to ensure that new residents understand and respect the principles of the French Republic.

These changes reflect France’s commitment to fostering integration and ensuring that new residents are equipped with the linguistic and cultural knowledge necessary to thrive in French society.

Entry/Exit System (EES) and Its Impact on Travellers

In autumn 2025, the EU introduced the Entry/Exit System (EES), a digital border system recording the entry and exit of non-EU travellers crossing Schengen borders, including France. It primarily affects short-stay visa holders and tourists through biometric data collection and automated passport checks.

While not affecting long-term residence permit applications, first-time travellers to France seeking a residence permit should expect EES procedures to cause delays at the border.

Additional Resources

Navigating the French immigration system might seem tricky at first, but don’t worry, there are lots of helpful official resources ready to guide you every step of the way.

• Service-Public.fr: The official French government website provides comprehensive information on visas, residence permits and the application process. We’ve included links to the various options, but for more information, visit the government’s website at Service-Public.fr.
• French Ministry of the Interior: For updates on immigration policies and procedures.
• Campus France: A valuable resource for students planning to study in France, offering guidance on visas, accommodation, and integration.

Welcome to France!

Obtaining a residence permit in France is a systematic process that demands careful preparation and attention to detail. Whether you are coming to France to study, work, retire, or are a British national already living in France after Brexit, understanding the requirements specific to your situation will help ensure a smooth and successful application. With the right information and preparation, you can enjoy all that France has to offer as a legal, welcome resident.

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