France is a country rich in history, culture, and innovation, making it a significant global player in various fields. Its combination of cultural heritage, economic strength, and quality of life continues to attract people from around the world.
Western Europe, bordered by Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Monaco, Spain, and Andorra.
France, in Western Europe, encompasses medieval cities, alpine villages and Mediterranean beaches. Paris, its capital, is famed for its fashion houses, classical art museums including the Louvre and monuments like the Eiffel Tower. The country is also renowned for its wines and sophisticated cuisine. Lascaux’s ancient cave drawings, Lyon’s Roman theater and the vast Palace of Versailles attest to its rich history.
Student has to go personally for submission to Local Collection Centre of BHC, know as VFS (Visa Facilitation Services) spread across 12 major cities in India to have their fingerprints and photograph taken when they apply for Tier 4 category visa.
Process
a. How Many days prior a student can apply for visa
Student can apply any time within 90 days period prior to the date of commencement of the program.
b. Documents Checklist
Original Passport – Valid for minimum 6 months at the time of departure
Prescribed online form (VAF 9) and Appendix 8 to be filled in manually
Copy of CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Study)
Set 2
All relevant original financial documents in acceptable format
It can be in the form of balance in Saving a/c and or Bank FD, preferably in the name of Applicant or Parents or jointly held with Applicant. Funds you are projecting should be from one of those listed financial institutions approved by BHD.
Set 3
All academic documents & IELTS / work exp - as listed in CAS certificate
Set 4
Effective from Nov 2012, it is mandatory to have TB Clearance Certificate issued by approved panel doctors only.
c. Visa application Fees
Student can carry Demand Draft of required amount fvg. "British High Commission" drawn on Mumbai Branch. Student has option to carry enough cash (approx 26 K. subject to change) towards visa processing fee which is non refundable.
e. Processing time
Under normal circumstances it takes 15 to 20 working days. Sometime process may take longer time. It is advisable to submit documents well in advance within 90 days period before commencement of the program.
f. English ability Requirements
If the Education provider has asked for then the student has to give IELTS, But it is strongly recommended to give IELTS
Types of French Student Visas:
Short-stay student visa:
Valid for up to 90 days.
Suitable for short courses, language programs, or short-term exchanges.
Temporary long-stay visa:
Valid for up to 6 months.
Allows students to study in France without needing a residence permit.
Long-stay student visa:
Valid for more than 6 months.
Requires a residence permit, which allows the student to stay in France for the duration of their studies.
