VLS-TS Visa Renewal: Can You Keep Your Passport and Travel During Processing?

6/01/2025

VLS-TS Visa Renewal Process and Travel Considerations

Original Question posted on 17/12/2024

Hi everyone ! I have an upcoming appointment to renew my VLS-TS visa. Just wondering if the préfecture will hold my passport whilst processing my application? I would like to travel out of the Schengen area whilst the application is being processed. Is this possible/advisable?

Top Answers

Not for renewal. That was only because they needed to put a sticker in it the first time. You will not leave your passport with them. As for travel as long as you have your document showing when your appointment is, you’ll be fine. Paper preferable but digital still accepted.

You do not renew a Visa. You apply for a carte de sejour so you give fingerprints and the card will be processed for you to pick up at a later date ( as long as you fulfill all the conditions). You will be given a recipisse in the meantime

AI Generated

When renewing your VLS-TS visa, the préfecture typically does not hold your passport during the application process. However, traveling outside the Schengen area while your application is being processed is not advisable and can be risky.

Passport Retention

The préfecture generally does not keep your passport when you apply for a VLS-TS renewal. You will need to bring your passport to the appointment, but it should be returned to you after they have verified your information[2].

Traveling During Application Processing

While it's technically possible to travel outside the Schengen area during the renewal process, it's not recommended for several reasons:

Legal Status: Once your current VLS-TS expires, you will be given a récépissé (receipt) that allows you to stay in France legally while your application is being processed. However, this récépissé does not guarantee re-entry into France if you leave[8].
Travel Restrictions: A récépissé for a first-time residence permit application does not allow you to travel outside of France[8]. While your situation is a renewal, it's still risky to travel with just a récépissé.
Potential Complications: If there are any issues with your application or if additional documents are required, being outside of France could complicate the process and potentially jeopardize your application.
Re-entry Difficulties: Even if you have time left on your 90-day visa-free period, border officials might question your status if you're returning to France with an expired VLS-TS and only a récépissé[4].

Alternatives

If you absolutely must travel during this period:

Urgent Processing: In some cases, if you have an urgent need to travel, you can request expedited processing from the préfecture. They may be able to provide a document allowing you to depart and return without problems[10].
Timing: Try to schedule your appointment well in advance of your VLS-TS expiration, giving yourself enough time to complete the renewal process before any planned travel.
Consult with Authorities: Before making any travel plans, it's best to consult directly with the préfecture or a legal expert specializing in immigration matters for the most up-to-date and personalized advice.

Remember, the safest option is to avoid international travel until you have received your new residence permit. This ensures you don't encounter any issues with re-entering France or maintaining your legal status.