How can Indian Students Apply for a PR in France? A Complete Guide

The French Visa can be distinguished in two domains. First is the short-term and long-term visa, and another is the APS Visa and the Blue Card. The short-term visa is given for a duration of 3 months, whereas the long-term visa is given for a duration of 3 months to 1 year.

Indian students can also apply for an APS Visa or Blue Card. Here is an explanation of both kinds of visas-

A unique temporary visa status known as APS (Autorisation Provisoire de séjour) is granted to students enrolled in public university courses or those pursuing RNCP-certified courses. Certain nations, like India, have agreements with the French government that let international students remain in the country for a maximum of one year following the conclusion of their studies. The current plan from the French government also allows for an additional 12-month extension. You can apply for jobs or launch your own business during that period by obtaining an APS visa.

For Indian students, the Blue Card offers an additional route to France permanent residence. The French Blue Card is the immigration authorisation for the US Green Card. It enables bright, accomplished foreign graduates to investigate a variety of employment options. The Blue Card can be renewed beyond its initial four-year expiration date. You need to work for an established French company to do that. Your contract must pay 1.5 times the average income for the given year and be effective for at least one year.

Also, Read: Cost of Living in France  

Non-EU nationals visiting France for employment or study must apply for PR two months before the expiration of their visa. Prepare the necessary paperwork and apply for permanent residency in France by visiting any local French town hall. Here is a list of things you need to keep in mind while considering PR in France-

Foreign individuals, including students studying abroad, must possess the papers listed below in order to apply for French permanent residence. To ensure a seamless application procedure, keep all necessary documentation available.

1. The French PR application is in two copies.

2. Evidence proving the applicant's and spouse's identities, if any

3. Evidence of Residency

4. A key component of the France PR criteria is the applicant's certificate of French language competency.

5. Verification of a clean criminal history.

6. Evidence of income or resources.

7. Evidence of a valid residency permit demonstrating the applicant's completion of the required minimum stay in the nation (three or five years).

8. Marriage certificate (obtained within 3 months) if applying for French permanent residence after marrying a French citizen.

9. A declaration of honour at a French consulate, signed by both spouses.

10. Certificates of birth for both spouses or French-national offspring.

11. Relationship proof, such as pooled bank statements or a joint tax notification.

12. Evidence of a prior divorce decree or marriage certificate, if any.

The application procedure for PR in France consists of fees that the applicant must pay. The price varies depending on the type of resident, but the going rate is €225 (~20,000 INR).

There are certain rules for France PR which are applied to people seeking the same; the rules vary for European citizens and Non-European citizens; here is a list of all the rules-

Also, Read: Master's in France - Top Universities, Courses, Fees & More 

If all goes well with the application, it takes two to three months to receive a decision about permanent residency in France. Before awarding applicants the status of permanent residence in France, it goes through the following processes.

• The mayor's office, the police, and other government authorities will handle the applications for permanent residency.

• Interviewing with the police may be necessary.

• During the PR procedure, applicants must provide documentation of their fluency in French. Applicants who are disabled, older than 60, or hold an official language certificate are excluded from this requirement.

• The naturalisation ceremony will provide permanent residency in France if the interview goes well.

• The applicant's sole dependant will automatically be granted permanent residency in France.

• Citizens from non-EU/EEA nations who meet France's birth requirements for permanent residence may apply for French permanent residence immediately, with no minimum stay required.

• The minimum duration required to apply for French permanent residency is lowered to three years for individuals with family members currently residing there.

• Family members or spouses of non-EU/EEA nationals may apply immediately for French permanent residence after the individual has lived in France for five years. Their French permanent residence will not be impacted in the event of death or divorce.

• For non-EU/EEA nationals who have been married to a French native for three years, the minimum stay is reduced to three years. But finishing the whole three years is required.

While French citizenship and permanent residency have many similarities, they differ in terms of duration of stay. While PR in France needs to be renewed every ten years, France citizenship for Indians refers to a lifetime residence status. The benefits of both kinds of residency permits are the same for their holders.

• The holders of these licenses are free to work, study, and open their businesses in France.

• Permits entry to the health care and social assistance programs.

• The ability to purchase real estate, obtain bank loans, and mortgage their homes.

• Freedom to enter and exit France as often as needed without obtaining a second visa.

• French citizenship is the only need for obtaining a French passport.

• French citizens are The only people eligible to vote and participate in public politics.

• Citizens of France are free to leave the nation as often as they choose.

However, PR in France is a good choice for foreign students whose home country forbids dual citizenship.

Also, Read: Upcoming Intakes in Europe  

In conclusion, France is a good destination for Indian students seeking permanent immigration opportunities. The country offers excellent education opportunities, a high standard of living, and a variety of job prospects across different industries. However, Indian students may face challenges when seeking permanent residency in France, such as language barriers and high living expenses. By taking advantage of language courses, part-time work opportunities, and social welfare programs, Indian students can make the most of their European experience and achieve their career goals.

You can also get in touch with our team of expert counsellors for France at any branch of Meridean Overseas Education Consultants. Our counsellors will offer full support during your study in France and later settling there. You can visit us and get one-to-one counselling or avail yourself of free video counselling through our website. Please feel free to contact us at application02@meridean.org or call us at 1800-1230-00011.

1. Is it difficult for Indian students to get PR in France?

No, the process is relatively easy, depending on whether you are well aware of the application process and the requirements.

2. What are the basic documents required?

The documents required to study in France are given below. These are the basic documents required for France permanent residence for Indians.

• Valid passport 

• Copies of the application

• Birth certificate

• Address proof

• Employment contract

• Medical insurance

• Proof of funds

3. What is the duration of a Blue Card?

A person with a blue card in France is allowed to live for 4 years maximum in the country.

4. What is the validity of an APS Visa?

A student with an APS Visa can live in the country for up to one year after completing their courses. According to the French government’s scheme, it can also be extended for another 12 months.

5. In how much time does an international student get a PR?

The application process takes 2-3 months after submission to a French Consulate.

6. For how long can you get PR in France?

The time required to get PR in France varies based on each person's situation. To be eligible for French permanent residence, one must typically stay for five years. However, in the event of a relocation due to marriage, this can be shortened to three years.

7. Are there any benefits of France PR?

Acquiring a France PR allows individuals to work, study, and open their businesses in France. Real estate purchases, bank loans, and participation in a nation's economic activities are all feasible. A range of healthcare and social welfare benefits will also be accessible.

8. Can Indians apply for PR in France?

Yes, Indian citizens can also apply for France PR.

9. Are the rules of PR in France the same for all the people?

No, the rules differ for European citizens and non-European citizens. To know more about this, refer to the above blog.

10. Is permanent residency and citizenship in France the same thing?

No, both are different. However, there are certain similarities and differences between the two concepts.