Top 3 France visa categories every Nigerian student must know before applying

1. Short-Stay Visa (Visa de court séjour pour études)

• Duration: Up to 90 days.
• Purpose: This visa is suitable for students attending short-term courses, language programs, internships, or seminars that last less than three months.
• Key Features:
  • Does not permit you to work in France.
  • Allows multiple entries into France within the validity period.
  • Usually, does not require a residence permit.

2. Long-Stay Student Visa (Visa de long séjour pour études)

• Duration: More than 90 days.
• Purpose: Intended for students enrolled in a degree program, exchange program, or any long-term academic course.
• Key Features:
  • Upon arrival in France, students must validate their visa as a residence permit (VLS-TS) within three months.
  • Allows students to work part-time (up to 964 hours per year).
  • Requires proof of enrollment in a French institution and sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay.

3. Temporary Long-Stay Visa (Visa de long séjour temporaire pour études)

• Duration: 3 to 6 months.
• Purpose: For students undertaking a course or program that lasts up to six months.
• Key Features:
  • Does not require a residence permit.
  • Cannot be extended or converted into a long-stay student visa.
  • Suitable for students in exchange programs, specific training courses, or certain internships.

Additional Considerations

• Financial Requirements: Students must demonstrate they have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in France. This usually involves proving access to a minimum monthly amount.
• Health Insurance: It’s mandatory for students to have health insurance coverage for the duration of their stay in France.
• Language Requirements: Depending on the course of study, proficiency in French or English may be required, and students might need to provide proof of language skills.

These visa options allow Nigerian students to explore a range of academic opportunities in France, from short courses to full-degree programs. It’s crucial to plan ahead and ensure all necessary documentation is in order before applying for a visa.