How to Obtain Permanent Residence in France After Studying: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you an international student dreaming of making France your home after completing your studies? France offers a pathway to permanent residence (PR) for students who meet specific criteria.

A ten-year residence permit, known as permanent residency (PR), is granted to individuals who have spent at least five years in the country for employment or education.

After ten years, you can seek French citizenship or, if needed, renew your permanent resident status in France.

Over the previous five years, there has been a 13.8% increase in the number of international students attending French universities. 370,000 international students are enrolled in higher education programs in France as of 2022.

Nonetheless, a Carte de résident, or permanent residence card, is unlike French citizenship.

Voting rights and French passports are not granted by permanent residency in France, even though it facilitates work and study without separate visas.

Only those having French citizenship are eligible for that. Read the entire article to learn more about the requirements, eligibility, documents needed, and other aspects of obtaining permanent residence in France.

1. Introduction

France is known for its world-class education and rich culture, making it a desirable destination for international students.

If you have studied in France and wish to settle there permanently, obtaining PR is a significant milestone. PR provides:

• Long-term residency rights.
• Access to social benefits.
• The ability to build a life in this beautiful country.

2. Duration of Legal Residence in France

To be eligible for PR in France, you must have legally resided there for at least five years.

However, there is a reduced residency requirement for students studying in France.

You may be eligible to apply for PR after completing a master’s program from a reputed university or business school and residing in France for two years.

3. Stable Source of Income

Having a stable source of income is crucial when applying for PR in France. It demonstrates your ability to support yourself financially and contribute to the country’s economy.

While studying, you may have had the opportunity to work part-time or engage in internships.

These work experiences can count towards the five-year requirement for PR, but it’s important to note that only certain types of work and income may be considered.

4. Types of Work and Income Considered in France

When calculating your duration of legal residence for PR eligibility, French authorities will consider specific types of work and income.

Generally, these include employment under a CDI (Contrat à Durée Indéterminée), which is an indefinite contract.

Other forms of work, such as internships, part-time jobs, or temporary contracts, may be considered depending on their duration and relevance to your field of study.

5. Integration into French Society

Apart from meeting the residency and income requirements, demonstrating integration into French society is essential for a successful PR application. This includes:

• Actively participating in French cultural activities.
• Engaging with local communities.
• Embracing the French way of life.

Integration also involves understanding French customs, traditions, and values well.

6. French Language Proficiency

Proficiency in the French language is a fundamental requirement for obtaining PR in France.

It showcases your commitment to integrating into French society and enhances your ability to communicate effectively with locals.

While studying in France, take advantage of language courses and immerse yourself in French environments to improve your language skills.

7. Passing the French Language Test

As part of the PR application process, you may be required to pass a French language test to demonstrate your proficiency.

The test assesses your speaking, writing, reading, and listening skills in French. Adequate preparation and practice are essential to ensuring success in the language test.

Consider enrolling in language courses or seeking language coaching to enhance your language abilities.

8. Master’s Program from Reputed Institutions

To strengthen your PR application, it is advisable to pursue a master’s program from a reputed university or business school in France.

Completing a master’s degree demonstrates your commitment to academic excellence and enhances your chances of finding employment in your field of study.

9. Applying for an APS Visa

After completing your studies in France, you may apply for the APS (Authorization Provisoire de Séjour) Visa. APS visa allows you to stay in France for another two years and search for employment.

It provides an opportunity to find a job that aligns with your qualifications and career goals, making you eligible for PR in the future.

10. Finding Employment Under CDI Contract in France

When searching for employment in France, prioritise finding a job under a CDI contract. The CDI contract is an indefinite contract that offers stability and long-term employment.

Having a CDI increases your chances of meeting the stable income requirement for PR and demonstrates your commitment to contributing to the French economy.

11. Additional Tips for PR Application

• Seek guidance from immigration lawyers or professionals specializing organized in French immigration laws. They can provide you and help you with valuable insights to navigate the PR application process.
• Maintain a clean criminal record and adhere to French laws and regulations during your stay in France.
• Stay updated on changes in immigration regulations and requirements and make sure you meet all the necessary criteria.
• Keep all relevant documents, such as educational certificates, work contracts, and language test results, organized and readily accessible for your PR application.

12. Cost of PR in France

Standard Cost

(€225)

French Disability Pension

(€75)

Refugee and Army veteran

(€25)

13. Citizenship vs Permanent Residency in France

While French citizenship and permanent residency have many similarities, they differ in duration of stay.

While permanent residency permits (PR) in France must be renewed every ten years, citizenship in France refers to a lifetime residence status.

The benefits of both residency permits are the same for their holders.

14. Conclusion

Obtaining permanent residence in France after studying is an exciting opportunity for international students.

By fulfilling the residency, income, integration, and language requirements, you can pave the way for a successful PR application.

At Edify, we are committed to empowering Pakistani students to pursue higher education abroad.

Our dedicated team of counsellors provides comprehensive support and guidance, assisting students at every stage of their study abroad journey. Bonne chance!

FAQ’s

Is it easy to get a PR in France?

Your French permanent residency decision is based on several elements, including your employment history, language skills, level of integration into French society, and financial stability.

How does a student obtain a French residency permit?

If you are a foreigner, You must first apply for a long-stay visa (VLS-TS) mentioned student, valid for four months to a year, if you wish to study in France.

Can I settle in France after study?

Students can stay in France for an entire year after completing their studies because of special agreements with France and a few other countries.