France Guide: Visas & Permits

Which documents do you need when going abroad? What are the regulations on visas and residence permits? Our legal guide will help you understand the paperwork you need to complete before moving abroad.

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  Requirements

  Which papers do you need to come to France?

  If you come to live, work or study in France, you might need to get a visa, residence permit and/or work permit. Be prepared to spend a lot of time assembling your documentation and waiting in line. As some permits have to be applied for from your home country, you should start this process well in advance of your move to France.

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  Visas

  Who needs a visa? And which one?

  Not everyone needs a visa to enter France. Read the following section to find out which rules will apply to you. Also be sure to check out the official links provided for up-to-date information.

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  Residency in France

  What is a residency and how do you apply for it?

  Any stay in French territory for more then three months is considered as residency. To become a French resident you need a residency permit, with the exception of EU/EEA nationals for whom the residency permit is no longer mandatory.

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  Types of residency

  What do you need to apply for?

  There are several types of residency permits and each has a clearly defined purpose, giving you a specific status during your stay in France. You therefore need to make sure which permit to apply for.

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  Glossary

  Common French expressions and abbreviations

  Common French expressions and abbreviations

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