10/06/2024
The question that inspired this post:
Hello everyone
I am planning to apply for a 10-year visa in France.
What is the procedure and what is the list of documents required
Thanks for your help in advance
Answer
"Check the website of the prefecture of your city. At some places, it's online while in some prefectures you need to make an appointment to submit your application and documents for a 10-year residence card."
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Introduction
To apply for a 10-year residence card (carte de résident) in France, you need to follow a specific procedure and provide a set of required documents. Here is a detailed guide based on the provided sources:
Procedure for Applying for a 10-Year Residence Card
1. Eligibility
Duration of Stay: You must have been legally residing in France for at least 3 or 5 years, depending on your specific situation and nationality.
Residence Permit: You must hold a valid residence permit that qualifies for the 10-year card. This includes permits such as "Visitor," "Employee," "Merchant," "Temporary worker," "Scientific or artistic and cultural profession," or "Private and family life".
2. Application Process
If You Reside Abroad:
Apply for a long-stay visa at the French consulate in your country of residence. This visa is valid for 3 months and allows you to engage in paid employment upon arrival in France.
Once in France, contact the Prefecture or Sub-prefecture of your place of residence to apply for the 10-year residence card.
3. If You Already Reside in France:
Request a change of status from the Prefecture or Sub-prefecture of your place of residence at least 2 months before the expiry of your current residence permit.
You will be issued a 10-year residence card if you meet the eligibility conditions.
Required Documents
The specific documents required can vary, but generally, you will need the following:
Application Form:
Complete the appropriate application form, which can be found on the France-Visas website or at the Prefecture.
Passport:
A valid passport with all relevant pages (personal details, validity dates, entry stamps, and visas).
Current Residence Permit:
Your current valid residence permit or long-stay visa with the OFII vignette.
Proof of Residence:
Recent proof of residence in France, such as a utility bill, rental agreement, or any official correspondence showing your address (less than 6 months old).
Photos:
Three recent passport-sized photos.
Proof of Financial Means:
Evidence of sufficient financial resources, such as bank statements, salary slips, or proof of pension. The minimum required is typically equal to the minimum wage (€21,203.00 as of January 1, 2024).
Proof of Integration:
Proof of integration into French society, such as language proficiency certificates (A2 level or higher) and any other relevant documents.
Additional Documents:
Depending on your specific situation, additional documents may be required, such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, proof of family ties, or evidence of professional activity.
Cost
Long-Stay Visa: €99 for the visa authorizing entry into France.
Residence Permit: A tax to the OFII (€200) and a stamp duty (€25), totalling €225.
Steps to Follow
Gather Documents: Collect all required documents and ensure they are up-to-date.
Submit Application: Submit your application at the Prefecture or Sub-prefecture of your residence or the French consulate if you are applying from abroad.
Attend Appointment: Attend any required appointments, including biometric data collection and a medical examination if necessary.
Follow-up: Keep track of your application status and provide any additional information requested by the authorities.
Conclusion
Applying for a 10-year residence card in France requires careful preparation and documentation. Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria and gather all necessary documents before submitting your application.
For detailed guidance, consult the official France-Visas website or contact your local Prefecture.
Comments