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Immigration & residence in France
France issues residence permits through the local préfecture. Categories include work, student, family, and international protection (asylum via OFPRA).
Immigration offices in France
OFII (Office Français de l'Immigration): Visa validation, integration contract (CIR). Phone: 01 55 35 60 00. Préfecture: Residence permits (titre de séjour) renewals. OFPRA: Asylum applications.
Residence steps to prioritise
Validate your long-stay visa (VLS-TS): Within 3 months of arrival, validate online — otherwise you become irregular. Pay the OFII tax online — Use the official site administration-etrangers-en-france.interieur.gouv.fr. Cost: 200 € (most categories). Wait for OFII summons — You'll be called for a medical visit + welcome interview. Bring passport, address proof, photo. Sign the CIR — Contrat d'Intégration Républicaine commits you to civic training (4 days) and French classes if your level is below A1. Residence card (titre de séjour): Apply 2–4 months before your VLS-TS or current titre expires. Online via ANEF. Use ANEF online portal — administration-etrangers-en-france.interieur.gouv.fr — most categories now fully digital. Attestation de prolongation — If processing is slow, you can download a free attestation that legalizes your stay until the decision. Card pickup — At your préfecture or sous-préfecture, with proof of fiscal stamp (~225 €). Get Carte Vitale & health cover: All residents (stable + regular for 3 months) have a right to health insurance via Assurance Maladie. Apply on ameli.fr — Create your account, upload passport, residence permit, RIB (bank details), birth certificate translated by a sworn translator. Receive your provisional number — Use it at doctors meanwhile. Carte Vitale arrives in 3–6 months. Complementary insurance — Public 'Complémentaire santé solidaire' is free or cheap for low incomes (apply on ameli.fr).
Documents to keep ready
Prepare your passport, visa or residence card, birth and marriage certificates, address proof, health-insurance proof, job or study documents, and passport photos. In France, officials may ask for originals, copies and certified translations.
If a decision is delayed or refused
Ask OFII (Office Français de l'Immigration) for written confirmation that your application is pending. If you receive a refusal, read the appeal deadline immediately and contact a legal-aid organisation or migrant support office in France.
Documents checklist
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- Proof of purpose (job/study/family)
- Health insurance
- Proof of accommodation
- Proof of sufficient funds
Frequently asked questions
Which office should I contact first in France?
Start with OFII (Office Français de l'Immigration). For broader newcomer help, also check OFII (Office Français de l'Immigration), Préfecture, OFPRA.
What language will offices use in France?
The main administrative language is French. Larger offices often offer English or interpreters, but bring translated documents when possible.
How long does a residence permit take in France?
Processing times vary from a few weeks to several months depending on the permit type and completeness of your documents.
Can I work while waiting for my permit?
In many cases yes, especially if you already hold a work-based permit. Rules differ by category — check with the migration authority before starting work.
What if my application is refused?
You almost always have the right to appeal. Free legal counselling is available through NGOs and, in some cases, publicly funded lawyers.
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