11/12/2024
Original Question posted on 11/12/2024
I’m an American with a French wife. I’ve been living in Lyon, France for almost a year and it’s time to renew my visa. I’ve never done this before. My visa says VIE PRIVEE/FAM F4 VLSTS. I went to renew my visa and the French website guided me to an application for Titre de Sejour. The website info page said I would have to pay and present all these different documents, but when I did the application, I didn’t have to pay and I didn’t provide many of the documents it said I would need like a birth certificate, a letter, etc (things I needed when I first got my visa). Also, they didn’t ask me anything about my Civic course or the French language course that they told me would be required to renew my visa. I just want to make sure that I have done the right application and I’m doing the right thing because I only have a few more weeks to apply before my two-month window closes. My Visa expires on Feb 28. Any advice or guidance?
Top Answers
I just did the same procedure (have the same visa type and am in my first year, just submitted the renewal about a week ago) and also was not asked for many of the things. I, however, knowing that I was told I would need those additional documents based on what OFII's documentation told me, added the other certificates and wrote a note in the comment box on the page where you actually click to submit. I hope you at least saw the note at the start about where to submit the contract d'engagement (under domiciliation). You will still need to pay the timbre but that can wait until you have a card to pick up so it doesn't expire.
You're doing the right thing. I have the same visa and just completed the first renewal of my titre de sejour. I also completed my civics and language lessons required by OFII but was not asked for this documentation for my TDS renewal. On the ANEF website, I was asked to provide ID, proof of residence, copy of marriage certificate, translated birth certificate, proof of community life, etc. Provide everything requested. They may come back and ask for additional documents. Once your application is accepted and approved, you will need to pay a stamp fee. Proof of payment is required when you pick up your card. The fee is usually 225 euros. You probably paid this same amount during your first year when you validated your visa after arrival.
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