Residence card "private and family life" of a foreigner in France
Verified 01 January 2026 - Public Service / Directorate of Legal and Administrative Information (Prime Minister)
If you are a non-European foreigner and have family ties in France, you can obtain a residence card for private and family life under certain conditions. We present you the necessary information according to your situation (for example, husband of a Frenchman, past with a Frenchman, parent of a French child, family member of a foreigner legally staying in France).
Warning
Other rules apply if you are European, Algerian or originating in a country which has concluded a agreement on migration flows.
1st request
The residence card private and family life authorizes you to stay in France. It allows you to work. Your employer does not have to apply for a work permit.
Step 1: Check if the conditions are met
The conditions are different depending on the residence permit or visa you hold:
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
You have a long-stay visa (VLS-TS)
You can apply for the residence card multi-annual private and family life the 2e year of your stay in France, in renewal of your VLS-TS (valid for 1 year).
You must complete all of the following conditions :
- Your community of life is effective (may have ceased in the event of death or domestic violence)
- Your spouse must be French on the day of marriage and must have retained French nationality
- You must not live in a situation of polygamy
- If your marriage was celebrated abroad, it must be transcribed into the civil status registers of the French consulate in order to be recognized in France.
You entered France on a short-stay visa
The residence card "private and family life" can be issued to you if you meet the following conditions:
- You don't live in a state of polygamy
- You are married in France to a French national with whom you have a common and effective life of 6 months in France.
The residence card issued to you is valid 1 year.
You have another residence permit
The residence card temporary private and family life may be granted to you as part of a change of status at the end of another card (such as student, employeeetc.).
Warning
The prefecture may refuse to deliver you your residence card if you have not complied with an obligation to leave the country (OQTF) or if you have committed any of the following acts:
- Forgery and use of forged documents
- Offenses severe or crimes (drug trafficking, trafficking in human beings, procuring, working conditions or undignified accommodation, among others)
- Violence against elected officials, public officials or security agents.
2nd step: Check the deadlines to complete the procedure
You must submit your application on the Internet no earlier than 4 months and no later than 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
3rd step: Inquire about the tax stamp
You have to pay €225 (stamp duty of €25 and tax €200) by tax stamps.
If you entered without a long-stay visa, you must pay extra €200 of the right of regularization visa by fiscal stamps (of which €50 to be paid at the time of application and non-refundable in case of refusal to issue the title).
You will need to provide proof of payment when you hand over the card.
You can buy the tax stamp on the internet or in a tobacco office.
On the internet
You can purchase your tax stamp using an online service:
Purchase on the internet of the tax stamp - Title for foreigner
Payment is possible with the following bank cards:
- Carte bleue (CB) and e-carte bleue
- Visa
- Mastercard.
However, payment by Paypal or American Express card is not accepted.
The electronic stamp can be issued on 2 supports:
- PDF document with a 2D code that can also be scanned directly from a phone or tablet by the service responsible for receiving your request
- SMS containing the 16-digit identifier of the stamp that will be accepted by the agent responsible for processing your file.
If you do not use the stamp or have purchased the wrong type of stamp, you can request a refund.
In a tobacco shop
You can buy a tax stamp from a tobacco office, if the business is equipped to be able to edit them.
An online service allows to locate a tobacconist equipped:
Who shall I contact
Warning
Do not buy a fine stamp by mistake.
Step 4: Prepare the documents to be provided
You must prepare documents to make your application. These documents vary depending on your situation.
To make your request via the internet, you must provide in form digital all supporting documents presented below. These documents must be legible.
Personal Information
Proof of regular entry or regular stay in France :
- Copy of the pages of your passport with the visa + the entry stamp
or a copy of the passport bearing only the entry stamp
or certificate of exemption from entry visa
or valid residence permit
or declaration on honor of regular entry into the territory
Proof of nationality
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular certificate with photo
or photo ID card
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality of less than 6 months with photo
Proof of civil status
- Full copy of the birth certificate containing the most recent information, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
Photos of identity
- e-photo : enter the e-photo code (provided by the photographer or the authorized booth on the photo board). If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
Home
- Proof of address less than 6 months old
Reasons for the stay
- Proof of your spouse's French nationality: valid passport, valid national identity card or certificate of french nationality less than 6 months
- Full copy of the marriage certificate or transcription of the marriage certificate celebrated abroad
- Joint declaration of honor attesting to your life together plus all documents allowing to establish a community of life of at least 6 months in France (lease contract, EDF release, RIB: titleContentetc.)
- Statement on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- If the relationship has been broken due to death or domestic or domestic violence: death certificate, filing of a complaint, divorce judgment for fault, conviction of the spouse for violence
- Signed copy of the commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
Supporting documents to be submitted later
- Proof of payment of the stamp duty (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
- Medical certificate issued by theOfii: titleContent (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
FYI
Civil status documents in a foreign language must be accompanied by their translation into French by a certified translator/interpreter. In some cases, these acts must also be legalized (apostille or legalization by the French consulate abroad).
5th step: Do the process on the internet
You must submit your application on the Internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
The request is made on the following website:
When you submit your application for a residence permit on the internet, you will immediately receive a dematerialized certificate of deposit.
6th step: Receive the residence card once it is available
If your application is accepted, you are informed by the prefecture that your title is available.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your home (depending on the place where your application is submitted).
In most prefectures, you need to make an appointment.
Find out more on the prefecture's website.
The residence card temporary is valid 1 year.
7th step: Dispute in case of refusal
If you meet the conditions for issuing the residence card, the prefect must enter the residence permit committee for advice, in the event that he intends to refuse to issue you the card.
To be heard by the committee, you receive a summons by mail at least 15 days before its meeting date.
You are informed of the following rights:
- Be assisted by a lawyer or any person of your choice
- Be heard with the assistance of an interpreter
- Possibly benefit during this procedure from legal aid.
You can explain the reasons and circumstances of your application for a residence permit.
You also have the right to request that the mayor of your municipality of residence (or his representative) be present and heard.
If you do not have a residence card or if your card has expired, you will be given a provisional residence document.
Your explanations are sent to the prefect with the reasoned opinion of the residence permit committee. You will also be informed of the committee's opinion.
FYI
The prefect may decide to refuse you the issuance of the card, even in the event of a favorable opinion from the commission.
The deadlines for contesting are different depending on whether or not you have received a response from the prefecture:
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
If the prefect has notified you of the refusal
The prefect's decision is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional cases, this refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) determining the country to which you will be returned.
You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).
You can also form a administrative appeal (gracious before the prefect, hierarchical before the minister of the interior).
No response from the prefect on your request
If the prefecture has not responded after 4 months, this is an implicit refusal.
You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:
- One administrative appeal (ex gratia before the prefect and/or hierarchical redress before the Minister of the Interior),
- And/or a litigation before the administrative court.
The residence card private and family life authorizes you to stay and work in France. Your employer does not have to apply for a work permit.
Step 1: Check if the conditions are met
You can obtain the temporary residence card, even if you are in an irregular situation, if you fulfill all the following conditions:
- You are the father or mother of a minor French child residing in France
- You contribute effectively to its maintenance and education since its birth (or for at least 2 years)
- You don't live in a state of polygamy.
Warning
The prefecture may refuse to deliver you your residence card if you have not complied with an obligation to leave the country (OQTF) or if you have committed any of the following acts:
- Forgery and use of forged documents
- Offenses severe or crimes (drug trafficking, trafficking in human beings, procuring, working conditions or undignified accommodation, among others)
- Violence against elected officials, public officials or security agents.
2nd step: Check the deadlines to complete the procedure
You must submit your application on the Internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
3rd step: Inquire about the tax stamp
You have to pay €225 (stamp duty of €25 and tax €200) by tax stamps.
You will need to provide proof of payment when you hand over the card.
You can buy the tax stamp on the internet or in a tobacco office.
On the internet
You can purchase your tax stamp using the following online service:
Purchase on the internet of the tax stamp - Title for foreigner
Payment is possible with the following bank cards:
- Carte bleue (CB) and e-carte bleue
- Visa
- Mastercard.
However, payment by Paypal or American Express card is not accepted.
The electronic stamp can be issued on 2 supports:
- PDF document with a 2D code that can also be scanned directly from a phone or tablet by the service responsible for receiving your request
- SMS containing the 16-digit identifier of the stamp that will be accepted by the agent responsible for processing your file.
If you do not use the stamp or have purchased the wrong type of stamp, you can request a refund.
In a tobacco shop
You can buy a tax stamp from a tobacco office, if the business is equipped to be able to edit them.
An online service allows to locate a tobacconist equipped:
Who shall I contact
Warning
Do not buy a fine stamp by mistake.
Step 4: Prepare the documents to be provided
You must prepare documents to make your application. These documents vary depending on your situation.
To make your request via the internet, you must provide in form digital all supporting documents presented below. These documents must be legible.
Personal Information
Proof of regular entry or regular stay in France :
- Copy of the pages of your passport with the visa + the entry stamp
or a copy of the passport bearing only the entry stamp
or certificate of exemption from entry visa
or valid residence permit
or declaration on honor of regular entry into the territory
Proof of civil status
- Full copy of the birth certificate containing the most recent information, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
Proof of nationality
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular certificate with photo
or photo ID card
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality of less than 6 months with photo
Photos of identity
- e-photo : enter the e-photo code (provided by the photographer or the authorized booth on the photo board). If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
Home
- Proof of address less than 6 months old
- Signed copy of the commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
Reasons for the stay
French child
- Full copy of the birth certificate of the French child containing the parentage
- Proof of the child's French nationality: valid passport, valid national identity card or certificate of French nationality less than 6 months old
- Proof of the child's residence in France (proof by any means): certificate of schooling or nursery, for example.
Parent of a French child: effective participation in the maintenance and education of the child
- Proof by any means of your contribution to the maintenance and education of your child since birth or for at least 2 years: payment of a pension, proof of purchases intended for the child (food, clothing, toys, etc.), certificates (accommodation, school follow-up, etc.), proof of the real emotional link (interest in the child's development, knowledge of his environment, real emotional presence, testimonies, etc.)
In case of recognition of filiation by the French parent
- If the filiation in respect of the French parent results from a recognition of filiation:
- Evidence that the French parent has effectively contributed to the maintenance and education of the child since birth or for at least 2 years (payment of a pension, purchases for the child, food or clothing, leisure, educational, amusement, toys), regular accommodation, interest in the child's schooling, real emotional presence, testimonies, etc.
- Otherwise: decision of the judicial judge ordering the French parent to fulfill his obligations towards the child.
- Proof of payment of the stamp duty (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
FYI
Civil status documents in a foreign language must be accompanied by their translation into french by a certified translator/interpreter.
5th step: Do the process on the internet
You must submit your application on the Internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
The request is made on the following website:
When you submit your application for a residence permit on the internet, you will immediately receive a dematerialized certificate of deposit.
6th step: Receive the residence card once it is available
If your application is accepted, you are informed by the prefecture that your title is available.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your home (depending on the place where your application is submitted).
In most prefectures, you need to make an appointment.
Find out more on the prefecture's website.
The residence card temporary is valid 1 year.
7th step: Dispute in case of refusal
If you meet the conditions for issuing the residence card, the prefect must enter the residence permit committee for advice, in the event that he intends to refuse to issue you the card.
To be heard by the committee, you receive a summons by mail at least 15 days before its meeting date.
You are informed of the following rights:
- Be assisted by a lawyer or any person of your choice
- Be heard with the assistance of an interpreter
- Possibly benefit during this procedure from legal aid.
You can explain the reasons and circumstances of your application for a residence permit.
You also have the right to request that the mayor of your municipality of residence (or his representative) be present and heard.
If you do not have a residence card or if your card has expired, you will be given a provisional residence document.
Your explanations are sent to the prefect with the reasoned opinion of the residence permit committee. You will also be informed of the committee's opinion.
FYI
The prefect may decide to refuse you the issuance of the card, even in the event of a favorable opinion from the commission.
The deadlines for contesting are different depending on whether or not you have received a response from the prefecture:
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
If the prefect has notified you of the refusal
The prefect's decision is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional cases, this refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) determining the country to which you will be returned.
You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).
You can also train an administrative appeal (gracious before the prefect, hierarchical before the Minister of the Interior).
No response from the prefect on your request
If the prefecture has not responded after 4 months, this is an implicit refusal.
You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:
- One administrative appeal (ex gratia before the prefect and/or hierarchical redress before the Minister of the Interior),
- And/or a litigation before the administrative court.
Warning
If your spouse has been residing in France for at least 18 months with a residence permit, you are subject to the family reunification.
If your spouse has a “talent” residence card, you are subject to the procedure talent family.
Step 1: Check if the conditions are met
The conditions are different depending on the residence permit or visa you hold:
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
Your spouse has a "long-term resident - EU" residence card
You can get the residence card private and family life.
This card allows you to stay in France. She doesn't does not entitle to the exercise of a professional activity in the year following its 1re delivery, unless you entered France as a minor and you have been residing in France for at least 1 year.
You are concerned if you are the husband of a foreigner who holds the status of long-term resident-EU in another EU country. You must apply for the card within 3 months of your entry into France. Your children receive the same card at 18 (or 16 if they want to work).
Please note
You must prove that you have resided legally with the EU long-term resident in the other Member State and have health insurance. You need to have stable and sufficient resources or you need to be cared for by your EU long-term resident spouse or parent.
Other personal and family ties in France
You can apply for the residence card private and family life if you have strong, old and stable personal and family ties in France.
You will also have to justify your republican integration into the French business and your living conditions in France. Finally, you will have to prove the nature of your ties with your family who stayed in your country of origin. You must not live in a state of polygamy.
Warning
The prefecture may refuse to deliver you your residence card if you have not complied with an obligation to leave the country (OQTF) or if you have committed any of the following acts:
- Forgery and use of forged documents
- Offenses severe or crimes (drug trafficking, trafficking in human beings, procuring, working conditions or undignified accommodation, among others)
- Violence against elected officials, public officials or security agents.
2nd step: Make an appointment
You must submit your card application to the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your home, 2 months before the expiry of your residence permit.
In most prefectures, you need to make an appointment.
Find out more on the prefecture's website.
Warning
It is not possible to carry out the procedures in some sub-prefectures. Find out more on the website of your prefecture.
3rd step: Inquire about the tax stamp
You must pay:
- Spouse and child of holder of EU long-term resident status in another Member State: €225 (stamp duty of €25 and tax €200) by tax stamps
- Right to respect for private and family life: €225 (stamp duty of €25 and tax €200) by tax stamps
- Regularization visa €200 (of which €50 to be paid at the time of application and non-refundable in case of refusal to issue the title).
You will need to provide proof of payment when you hand over the card.
You can buy the tax stamp on the internet or in a tobacco office.
On the internet
You can purchase your tax stamp using the following online service:
Purchase on the internet of the tax stamp - Title for foreigner
Payment is possible with the following bank cards:
- Carte bleue (CB) and e-carte bleue
- Visa
- Mastercard.
However, payment by Paypal or American Express card is not accepted.
The electronic stamp can be issued on 2 supports:
- PDF document with a 2D code that can also be scanned directly from a phone or tablet by the service responsible for receiving your request
- SMS containing the 16-digit identifier of the stamp that will be accepted by the agent responsible for processing your file.
If you do not use the stamp or have purchased the wrong type of stamp, you can request a refund.
In a tobacco shop
You can buy a tax stamp from a tobacco office, if the business is equipped to be able to edit them.
An online service allows to locate a tobacconist equipped:
Who shall I contact
Warning
Do not buy a fine stamp by mistake.
Step 4: Prepare the documents to be provided
You must prepare documents to make your application. These documents vary depending on your situation.
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
Your spouse has a "long-term resident - EU" residence card
- Residence card issued by France to your spouse who holds the status of "long-term resident - EU" in another member country of the European Union (or certificate of application for this residence card in case of simultaneous arrival)
- Residence card, issued to your spouse, by another EU Member State, marked "long-term resident - EU"
- Full copy of the birth certificate containing the most recent information, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular certificate with photo
or photo ID card
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality of less than 6 months with photo
- Proof of address less than 6 months old
- 3 photos.
If the request is made on the internet: indicate the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the authorized booth on the photo board).
If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Proof of payment of the stamp duty (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
- Statement on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- Medical certificate issued by theOfii: titleContent (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
- Proof of your lawful residence in a Member State which has granted your spouse the status of "long-term resident - EU": residence card or favorable decision on family reunification taken by the competent authority of the other EU country
- Proof of own resources (exclusion of social benefits or allowance)
- Proof of health insurance: health insurance card or health insurance certificate
- Signed copy of the commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
You prove personal and family ties in France
- Full copy of the birth certificate containing the most recent information, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular certificate with photo
or photo ID card
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality of less than 6 months with photo
- Proof of address less than 6 months old
- 3 photos.
If the request is made on the internet: indicate the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the authorized booth on the photo board).
If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Proof of payment of the stamp duty (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
- Statement on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- Medical certificate issued by theOfii: titleContent (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
- Proofs of personal and family ties in France:
- Matrimonial and filial ties: extract from the marriage certificate, CIVIL PARTNERSHIPS' agreement, or extracts from the birth certificates of children with filiation (documents corresponding to the situation at the time of application)
- Parental and collateral links: extracts from birth certificates of parents and siblings with filiation, adoption or guardianship judgment (documents corresponding to the situation at the time of application)
- Professional or personal links: employment contract, payslips, participation in local/associative life, etc.
- Proof of legal residence in France of family members: copy of residence card or national identity card
- Proof by any means of maintaining certain and continuous relationships with family members settled in France (children, husband, cohabiting partner or past partner)
- All supporting documents to assess habitual residence in France: visa, residence card application certificate, asylum application certificate, documents from a public administration (prefecture, social service, school), documents from a private institution (medical certificate, bank statements, etc.), family certificates.
- Nature of ties with your family that remained in the country of origin: death certificates of family members abroad
- Proof of your living conditions: income, salaries, bank statements, etc.
- Proof of your integration into the French business: certificates of friendly circles, membership of associations, voluntary activity, participation in school activities of children, etc.
- Signed copy of the commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
FYI
Civil status documents in a foreign language must be accompanied by their translation into French by a certified translator/interpreter.
5th step: Go to the appointment
You must go to this appointment in person.
If your file is complete, you will receive a receipt pending the response of the prefecture.
6th step: Receive the residence card once it is available
You are informed by the prefecture that your title is available.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your home (depending on the place where your application is submitted).
In most prefectures, you need to make an appointment.
Find out more on the prefecture's website.
The end date of the temporary residence card issued to you is the same as the end date of the residence card issued to your EU long-term resident spouse or parent.
7th step: Dispute in case of refusal
If you meet the conditions for issuing the residence card, the prefect must enter the residence permit committee for advice, in the event that he intends to refuse to issue you the card.
To be heard by the committee, you receive a summons by mail at least 15 days before its meeting date.
You are informed of the following rights:
- Be assisted by a lawyer or any person of your choice
- Be heard with the assistance of an interpreter
- Possibly benefit during this procedure from legal aid.
You can explain the reasons and circumstances of your application for a residence permit.
You also have the right to request that the mayor of your municipality of residence (or his representative) be present and heard.
If you do not have a residence card or if your card has expired, you will be given a provisional residence document.
Your explanations are sent to the prefect with the reasoned opinion of the residence permit committee. You will also be informed of the committee's opinion.
FYI
The prefect may decide to refuse you the issuance of the card, even in the event of a favorable opinion from the commission.
The deadlines for contesting are different depending on whether or not you have received a response from the prefecture:
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
If the prefect has notified you of the refusal
The prefect's decision is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional cases, this refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) determining the country to which you will be returned.
You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).
No response from the prefect on your request
If the prefecture has not responded after 4 months, this is an implicit refusal.
You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:
- One administrative appeal (ex gratia before the prefect and/or hierarchical redress before the Minister of the Interior),
- And/or a litigation before the administrative court.
The residence card private and family life authorizes you to stay and work in France. Your employer does not have to apply for a work permit.
Step 1: Check if the conditions are met
If you are a young adult who entered France as a minor, in the context of family reunification, you can apply for a residence card "private and family life", subject to conditions.
You must have entered France as a minor, as part of the family reunification. You get a family and private life card from the age of 18 (or 16 if you want to work).
Warning
The prefecture may refuse to deliver you your residence card if you have not complied with an obligation to leave the country (OQTF) or if you have committed any of the following acts:
- Forgery and use of forged documents
- Offenses severe or crimes (drug trafficking, trafficking in human beings, procuring, working conditions or undignified accommodation, among others)
- Violence against elected officials, public officials or security agents.
2nd step: Check the deadlines to complete the procedure
You must submit your application on the Internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
3rd step: Inquire about the tax stamp
You have to pay €75 by tax stamps.
You will need to provide proof of payment when you hand over the card.
You can buy the tax stamp on the internet or in a tobacco office.
On the internet
You can purchase your tax stamp using the following online service:
Purchase on the internet of the tax stamp - Title for foreigner
Payment is possible with the following bank cards:
- Carte bleue (CB) and e-carte bleue
- Visa
- Mastercard.
However, payment by Paypal or American Express card is not accepted.
The electronic stamp can be issued on 2 supports:
- PDF document with a 2D code that can also be scanned directly from a phone or tablet by the service responsible for receiving your request
- SMS containing the 16-digit identifier of the stamp that will be accepted by the agent responsible for processing your file.
If you do not use the stamp or have purchased the wrong type of stamp, you can request a refund.
In a tobacco shop
You can buy a tax stamp from a tobacco office, if the business is equipped to be able to edit them.
An online service allows to locate a tobacconist equipped:
Who shall I contact
Warning
Do not buy a fine stamp by mistake.
Step 4: Prepare the documents to be provided
You must prepare documents to make your application.
- Long-stay visa for family reunification
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular certificate with photo
or photo ID card
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality of less than 6 months with photo
- Proof of address less than 6 months old
- e-photo : enter the e-photo code (provided by the photographer or the authorized booth on the photo board). If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Proof of payment of the stamp duty (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
- Decision authorizing family reunification
- Temporary residence card, multi-year residence card or resident card of the parent you are joining
- Medical certificate issued by theOfii: titleContent (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
- Statement on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- Signed copy of the commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
FYI
Civil status documents in a foreign language must be accompanied by their translation into French by a certified translator/interpreter.
5th step: Do the process on the internet
You must submit your application on the Internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
The request is made on the following website:
When you submit your application for a residence permit on the internet, you will immediately receive a dematerialized certificate of deposit.
6th step: Receive the residence card once it is available
You are informed by the prefecture that your title is available.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your home (depending on the place where your application is submitted).
In most prefectures, you need to make an appointment.
Find out more on the prefecture's website.
The residence card temporary is valid 1 year.
7th step: Dispute in case of refusal
If you meet the conditions for issuing the residence card, the prefect must enter the residence permit committee for advice, in the event that he intends to refuse to issue you the card.
To be heard by the committee, you receive a summons by mail at least 15 days before its meeting date.
You are informed of the following rights:
- Be assisted by a lawyer or any person of your choice
- Be heard with the assistance of an interpreter
- Possibly benefit during this procedure from legal aid.
You can explain the reasons and circumstances of your application for a residence permit.
You also have the right to request that the mayor of your municipality of residence (or his representative) be present and heard.
If you do not have a residence card or if your card has expired, you will be given a provisional residence document.
Your explanations are sent to the prefect with the reasoned opinion of the residence permit committee. You will also be informed of the committee's opinion.
FYI
The prefect may decide to refuse you the issuance of the card, even in the event of a favorable opinion from the commission.
The deadlines for contesting are different depending on whether or not you have received a response from the prefecture:
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
If the prefect has notified you of the refusal
The prefect's decision is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional cases, this refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) determining the country to which you will be returned.
You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).
No response from the prefect on your request
If the prefecture has not responded after 4 months, this is an implicit refusal.
You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:
- One administrative appeal (ex gratia before the prefect and/or hierarchical redress before the Minister of the Interior),
- And/or a litigation before the administrative court.
If you are a young adult who has entered France as a minor, outside of family reunification, you can apply for a residence card private and family life, subject to conditions.
The residence card private and family life authorizes you to stay and work in France. Your employer does not have to apply for a work permit.
Step 1: Check if the conditions are met
You are affected if you are in any of the following situations:
- You entered metropolitan France overseas (outside Mayotte and outside family reunification) before your 13th birthday and usually reside there since that age with your father or mother
- You entered Mayotte (excluding family reunification) before the age of 13 and have usually resided there since that age with your father or mother who holds a residence permit
- You are Tunisian and you entered France before your 10th birthday
- You have been entrusted to the service of theAse: titleContent at the latest at the age of 16 (under certain conditions)
- You were born in France and have resided there for at least 8 years continuously and have followed, after the age of 10, a minimum education of 5 years in a French school
- You accompany one of your parents who holds a EU long-term resident from another EU country
- You accompany one of your parents, holder of a multi-year residence card talent
- One of your parents has been granted stateless status
- One of your parents was granted subsidiary protection.
Warning
The prefecture may refuse to deliver you your residence card if you have not complied with an obligation to leave the country (OQTF) or if you have committed any of the following acts:
- Forgery and use of forged documents
- Offenses severe or crimes (drug trafficking, trafficking in human beings, procuring, working conditions or undignified accommodation, among others)
- Violence against elected officials, public officials or security agents.
2nd step: Check the deadlines to complete the procedure
The approach is different depending on your situation:
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
You were born in France and have resided there for at least 8 years continuously and have followed, after the age of 10, a minimum education of 5 years in a French school
You must submit your application on the Internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
When you submit your application for a residence permit on the internet, you will immediately receive a dematerialized certificate of deposit.
You accompany one of your parents, holder of a multi-year residence card talent
You must submit your application on the Internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
When you submit your application for a residence permit on the internet, you will immediately receive a dematerialized certificate of deposit.
You have been entrusted to the child welfare service (ASE) or a trusted third party no later than the day you turn 16
You must submit your application on the Internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
One of your parents has been granted subsidiary protection
You must submit your application on the Internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
When you submit your application for a residence permit on the internet, you will immediately receive a dematerialized certificate of deposit.
Other
You must submit your application no earlier than 4 months and no later than 2 months before the expiry of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
In most prefectures, you need to make an appointment.
Find out more on the prefecture's website.
Warning
It is not possible to carry out the procedures in some sub-prefectures. Find out more on the website of your prefecture.
3rd step: Inquire about the tax stamp
You must pay:
- €225 (stamp duty of €25 and tax €200) by tax stamps
- Child Welfare 1st application: €25.
You will need to provide proof of payment when you hand over the card.
You can buy the tax stamp on the internet or in a tobacco office.
Warning
In some cases, you may be asked to pay a visa to regularize €200.
On the internet
You can purchase your tax stamp using the following online service:
Purchase on the internet of the tax stamp - Title for foreigner
Payment is possible with the following bank cards:
- Carte bleue (CB) and e-carte bleue
- Visa
- Mastercard.
However, payment by Paypal or American Express card is not accepted.
The electronic stamp can be issued on 2 supports:
- PDF document with a 2D code that can also be scanned directly from a phone or tablet by the service responsible for receiving your request
- SMS containing the 16-digit identifier of the stamp that will be accepted by the agent responsible for processing your file.
If you do not use the stamp or have purchased the wrong type of stamp, you can request a refund.
In a tobacco shop
You can buy a tax stamp from a tobacco office, if the business is equipped to be able to edit them.
An online service allows to locate a tobacconist equipped:
Who shall I contact
Warning
Do not buy a fine stamp by mistake.
Step 4: Prepare the documents to be provided
You must prepare documents to make your application. These documents vary depending on your situation.
To make your request via the internet, you must provide in form digital all supporting documents presented below. These documents must be legible.
Common documents
Personal Information
Proof of civil status
- Full copy of the birth certificate containing the most recent information, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
Proof of nationality
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular certificate with photo
or photo ID card
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality of less than 6 months with photo
Home
- Proof of address less than 6 months old
Photos of identity
- 3 photos.
If the request is made on the internet: indicate the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the authorized booth on the photo board).
If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Statement on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- Signed copy of the commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
Proof to be submitted later
- Proof of payment of the stamp duty (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
Documents specific to the title requested
Foreigner who entered France before the age of 13 and has resided there ever since
- Proof of habitual residence in France since at most the age of 13 (since the age of 10 for Tunisian minors): enrollment in a school, school reports, administrative documents
- Proof of residence in France of one or more parents since the child was 13 years old (since the age of 10 for the Tunisian minor): any proof (one per semester)
- Document of stay of one of the parents in Mayotte since the child was 13 years old
Foreigner entrusted to theAse: titleContent before age 16
- Decision to place inAse: titleContent
- Proof of employment or vocational training: enrollment in a school, employment or apprenticeship contract, attestation of the person in charge of the training center
- Evidence of the real and serious nature of the training follow-up (transcript, attendance certificate)
- Nature of family ties remaining in the country of origin: any supporting documents, including death certificates of family members abroad, loss of parental authority of parents remaining in the country, etc.
- Inclusion in the French business: attestation of the host organization (foster home or host family)
Foreigner born in France
- Proof of continuous presence in France of at least 8 years: at least one document for each year from a public administration (social service, school, etc.)
- Proof of completion, after the age of 10, of at least 5 years of schooling in a French institution: school certificates
- Medical certificate issued by OFII to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title
Foreigner accompanying one of his parents who holds a EU long-term resident from another EU country
- Residence card issued by France to your parent holding the status "long-term resident - EU" in another member country of the European Union and having been admitted as such to stay in France (or attestation of application for this residence card in case of simultaneous arrival)
- Residence card issued by another Member State of the European Union marked "long-term resident - EU" to your parent
- Proof of your lawful residence in the Member State which granted the status of "long-term resident - EU" to your parent (residence card or favorable decision on family reunification taken by the competent authority of the other Member State of the European Union)
- Proof of health insurance: health insurance card or health insurance certificate
FYI
Civil status documents in a foreign language must be accompanied by their translation into French by a certified translator/interpreter. In some cases, these acts must also be legalized (apostille or legalization by the French consulate abroad).
5th step: Go to the appointment
You must go to this appointment in person.
If your file is complete, you will receive a receipt pending the response of the prefecture.
6th step: Receive the residence card once it is available
You are informed by the prefecture that your title is available.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your home (depending on the place where your application is submitted).
In most prefectures, you need to make an appointment.
Find out more on the prefecture's website.
The residence card temporary is valid 1 year.
7th step: Dispute in case of refusal
If you meet the conditions for issuing the residence card, the prefect must enter the residence permit committee for advice, in the event that he intends to refuse to issue you the card.
To be heard by the committee, you receive a summons by mail at least 15 days before its meeting date.
You are informed of the following rights:
- Be assisted by a lawyer or any person of your choice
- Be heard with the assistance of an interpreter
- Possibly benefit during this procedure from legal aid.
You can explain the reasons and circumstances of your application for a residence permit.
You also have the right to request that the mayor of your municipality of residence (or his representative) be present and heard.
If you do not have a residence card or if your card has expired, you will be given a provisional residence document.
Your explanations are sent to the prefect with the reasoned opinion of the residence permit committee. You will also be informed of the committee's opinion.
FYI
The prefect may decide to refuse you the issuance of the card, even in the event of a favorable opinion from the commission.
The deadlines for contesting are different depending on whether or not you have received a response from the prefecture:
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
If the prefect has notified you of the refusal
The prefect's decision is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional cases, this refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) determining the country to which you will be returned.
You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).
No response from the prefect on your request
If the prefecture has not responded after 4 months, this is an implicit refusal.
You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:
- One administrative appeal (ex gratia before the prefect and/or hierarchical redress before the Minister of the Interior),
- And/or a litigation before the administrative court.
The residence card private and family life authorizes you to stay and work in France. Your employer does not have to apply for a work permit.
Step 1: Check if the conditions are met
You are concerned if you meet the following 2 conditions:
- You receive an occupational health or illness pension paid by a French organization
- Your permanent disability rate is at least 20%.
Warning
The prefecture may refuse to deliver you your residence card if you have not complied with an obligation to leave the country (OQTF) or if you have committed any of the following acts:
- Forgery and use of forged documents
- Offenses severe or crimes (drug trafficking, trafficking in human beings, procuring, working conditions or undignified accommodation, among others)
- Violence against elected officials, public officials or security agents.
2nd step: Make an appointment
You must submit your card application to the prefecture (or sub-prefecture) of your home, 2 months before the expiry of your residence permit.
In most prefectures, you need to make an appointment.
Find out more on the prefecture's website.
Warning
It is not possible to carry out the procedures in some sub-prefectures. Find out more on the website of your prefecture.
3rd step: Inquire about the tax stamp
You have to pay €75 (stamp duty of €25 and tax €50) by tax stamps.
You will need to provide proof of payment when you hand over the card.
You can buy the tax stamp on the internet or in a tobacco office.
On the internet
You can purchase your tax stamp using the following online service:
Purchase on the internet of the tax stamp - Title for foreigner
Payment is possible with the following bank cards:
- Carte bleue (CB) and e-carte bleue
- Visa
- Mastercard.
However, payment by Paypal or American Express card is not accepted.
The electronic stamp can be issued on 2 supports:
- PDF document with a 2D code that can also be scanned directly from a phone or tablet by the service responsible for receiving your request
- SMS containing the 16-digit identifier of the stamp that will be accepted by the agent responsible for processing your file.
If you do not use the stamp or have purchased the wrong type of stamp, you can request a refund.
In a tobacco shop
You can buy a tax stamp from a tobacco office, if the business is equipped to be able to edit them.
An online service allows to locate a tobacconist equipped:
Who shall I contact
Warning
Do not buy a fine stamp by mistake.
Step 4: Prepare the documents to be provided
You must prepare documents to make your request:
- Full copy of the birth certificate containing the most recent information, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
- Proof of address less than 6 months old
- 3 photos.
If the request is made on the internet: indicate the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the authorized booth on the photo board).
If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Proof of payment of the stamp duty (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
- Statement on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- Medical certificate issued by theOfii: titleContent (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
- Proof of a permanent physical disability rate equal to or greater than 20%
- Proof of payment of an occupational pension or sickness paid by a French body: certificate issued by the French body (CPAM: titleContentetc.) paying the pension
- Signed copy of the commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
FYI
Civil status documents in a foreign language must be accompanied by their translation into French by a certified translator/interpreter.
5th step: Go to the appointment
You must go to this appointment in person.
If your file is complete, you will receive a receipt pending the response of the prefecture.
6th step: Receive the residence card once it is available
You are informed by the prefecture that your title is available.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your home (depending on the place where your application is submitted).
In most prefectures, you need to make an appointment.
Find out more on the prefecture's website.
The residence card temporary is valid 1 year.
7th step: Dispute in case of refusal
If you meet the conditions for issuing the residence card, the prefect must enter the residence permit committee for advice, in the event that he intends to refuse to issue you the card.
To be heard by the committee, you receive a summons by mail at least 15 days before its meeting date.
You are informed of the following rights:
- Be assisted by a lawyer or any person of your choice
- Be heard with the assistance of an interpreter
- Possibly benefit during this procedure from legal aid.
You can explain the reasons and circumstances of your application for a residence permit.
You also have the right to request that the mayor of your municipality of residence (or his representative) be present and heard.
If you do not have a residence card or if your card has expired, you will be given a provisional residence document.
Your explanations are sent to the prefect with the reasoned opinion of the residence permit committee. You will also be informed of the committee's opinion.
FYI
The prefect may decide to refuse you the issuance of the card, even in the event of a favorable opinion from the commission.
The deadlines for contesting are different depending on whether or not you have received a response from the prefecture:
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
If the prefect has notified you of the refusal
The prefect's decision is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional cases, this refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) determining the country to which you will be returned.
You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).
No response from the prefect on your request
If the prefecture has not responded after 4 months, this is an implicit refusal.
You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:
- One administrative appeal (ex gratia before the prefect and/or hierarchical redress before the Minister of the Interior),
- And/or a litigation before the administrative court.
You usually reside in France and your state of health requires exceptional medical care.
You can get a temporary residence card private and family life for care if you fill the whole the following conditions:
- You are a foreigner (except from a country) European)
- You usually reside in France
- Your condition requires medical attention without which your health would become critical
- You cannot access the appropriate treatment in your country of origin
- You are not a threat to public order
FYI
You can apply for this title even if you are in irregular situation.
You have to follow a specific procedure.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your home (depending on the place where your application is submitted).
The residence card private and family life authorizes you to stay and work in France. Your employer does not have to apply for a work permit.
Step 1: Check if the conditions are met
You are affected if you are in any of the following situations:
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
Domestic violence
The residence card private and family life is issued to you if you are a beneficiary of a protection order because of violence committed by your spouse, Civil partnership partner or common-law partner.
The prefect cannot refuse you this card for breakdown of the common life.
Threat of Forced Marriage
The residence card private and family life is issued to you if you are a beneficiary of a protection order because of the threat of forced marriage.
Trafficking in human beings or procuring
The residence card private and family life is delivered to you if the following 3 conditions are completed:
- You have made a complaint or testified in criminal proceedings against one or more persons prosecuted for procuring or trafficking in human beings (sexual or domestic slavery, forced removal of organs, etc.)
- You are no longer in contact with the accused perpetrator(s)
- You are not a threat to public order.
Undignified accommodation conditions
The residence card private and family life you are delivered if you have worn complaint against a person who forces you to live in housing conditions that do not respect human dignity.
Warning
The prefecture may refuse to deliver you your residence card if you have not complied with an obligation to leave the country (OQTF) or if you have committed any of the following acts:
- Forgery and use of forged documents
- Offenses severe or crimes (drug trafficking, trafficking in human beings, procuring, working conditions or undignified accommodation, among others)
- Violence against elected officials, public officials or security agents.
2nd step: Check the deadlines to complete the procedure
You must submit your application on the Internet or at the prefecture (or sub-prefecture) of your home, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
The procedure to be carried out is different depending on your situation:
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
Undignified accommodation conditions
You must submit your application to the prefecture (or sub-prefecture) of your home.
Other situations
You must submit your application on the internet.
3rd step: Inquire about the tax stamp
The issuance of the residence card "private and family life" is free of charge.
There is no tax stamp to buy.
Step 4: Prepare the documents to be provided
You must prepare documents to make your application. These documents vary depending on your situation:
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
Domestic violence or threat of forced marriage
Documents to be provided
- Full copy of the birth certificate containing the most recent information, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular certificate with photo
or photo ID card
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality of less than 6 months with photo
- Proof of address less than 6 months old
- e-photo : enter the e-photo code (provided by the photographer or the authorized booth on the photo board). If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Protection order rendered by the family judge
- Signed copy of the commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
Trafficking in human beings or procuring
- Full copy of the birth certificate containing the most recent information, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular certificate with photo
or photo ID card
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality of less than 6 months with photo
- Proof of address less than 6 months old
- e-photo : enter the e-photo code (provided by the photographer or the authorized booth on the photo board). If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Receipt for filing of complaint or reference to the legal proceedings initiated involving your testimony
- Signed copy of the commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
Undignified accommodation conditions
Documents to be provided
- Full copy of the birth certificate containing the most recent information, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular certificate with photo
or photo ID card
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality of less than 6 months with photo
- 3 photos.
If the request is made on the internet: indicate the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the authorized booth on the photo board).
If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Receipt for filing of complaint or reference to the legal proceedings initiated involving your testimony
- Signed copy of the commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
The prefecture may ask you for additional documents.
FYI
Civil status documents in a foreign language must be accompanied by their translation into french by a certified translator/interpreter.
5th step: Make the step
The approach to follow is different depending on your situation.
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
Undignified accommodation conditions
You must submit your application to the prefecture (or sub-prefecture) of your home, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
If your file is complete, you will receive a receipt pending the response of the prefecture.
Warning
It is not possible to carry out the procedures in some sub-prefectures. Find out more on the website of your prefecture.
Other situations
You must submit your application on the Internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
The request is made on the following website:
When you submit your application for a residence permit on the internet, you will immediately receive a dematerialized certificate of deposit.
6th step: Receive the residence card once it is available
You are informed by the prefecture that your title is available.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your home (depending on the place where your application is submitted).
The residence card temporary is valid 1 year.
7th step: Dispute in case of refusal
The deadlines for contesting are different depending on whether or not you have received a response from the prefecture.
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
If the prefect has notified you of the refusal
The prefect's decision is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional cases, this refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) determining the country to which you will be returned.
You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).
No response from the prefect on your request
If the prefecture has not responded after 4 months, this is an implicit refusal.
You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:
- One administrative appeal (ex gratia before the prefect and/or hierarchical redress before the Minister of the Interior),
- And/or a litigation before the administrative court.
The residence card private and family life authorizes you to stay and work in France. Your employer does not have to apply for a work permit.
Step 1: Check if the conditions are met
You are concerned if you are greeted by a community hosting and solidarity activities organization . You must justify to 3 years of uninterrupted activity within the latter. You must also justify the real and serious nature of your activity and your social, professional and linguistic integration projects.
Warning
The prefecture may refuse to deliver you your residence card if you have not complied with an obligation to leave the country (OQTF) or if you have committed any of the following acts:
- Forgery and use of forged documents
- Offenses severe or crimes (drug trafficking, trafficking in human beings, procuring, working conditions or undignified accommodation, among others)
- Violence against elected officials, public officials or security agents.
2nd step: Make an appointment
You must submit your card application to the prefecture (or sub-prefecture) of your home, 2 months before the expiry of your residence permit.
In most prefectures, you need to make an appointment.
Find out more on the prefecture's website.
Warning
It is not possible to carry out the procedures in some sub-prefectures. Find out more on the website of your prefecture.
3rd step: Inquire about the tax stamp
You have to pay €225.
You will need to provide proof of payment when you hand over the card.
You can buy the tax stamp on the internet or in a tobacco office.
On the internet
You can purchase your tax stamp using the following online service:
Purchase on the internet of the tax stamp - Title for foreigner
Payment is possible with the following bank cards:
- Carte bleue (CB) and e-carte bleue
- Visa
- Mastercard.
However, payment by Paypal or American Express card is not accepted.
The electronic stamp can be issued on 2 supports:
- PDF document with a 2D code that can also be scanned directly from a phone or tablet by the service responsible for receiving your request
- SMS containing the 16-digit identifier of the stamp that will be accepted by the agent responsible for processing your file.
If you do not use the stamp or have purchased the wrong type of stamp, you can request a refund.
In a tobacco shop
You can buy a tax stamp from a tobacco office, if the business is equipped to be able to edit them.
An online service allows to locate a tobacconist equipped:
Who shall I contact
Warning
Do not buy a fine stamp by mistake.
Step 4: Prepare the documents to be provided
You must prepare documents to make your request:
- Full copy of the birth certificate containing the most recent information, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular certificate with photo
or photo ID card
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality of less than 6 months with photo
- Proof of address less than 6 months old
- 3 photos.
If the request is made on the internet: indicate the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the authorized booth on the photo board).
If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Proof of payment of the stamp duty (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
- Medical certificate issued by theOfii: titleContent (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
- Statement on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- Documents proving 3 years of uninterrupted activity within one or more organizations approved for the reception, accommodation or accommodation of people in difficulty (certificates of presence, contribution statements)
- Proof of the real and serious nature of the activity and integration projects (diplomas, training certificates, attendance certificates, volunteer certificates, etc.)
- Report prepared by the head of the host organization (at the date of application) mentioning the accreditation and specifying the following:
- Nature of the missions carried out, their hourly volume, the duration of activity
- Real and serious nature of the activity
- Prospects for integration, particularly with regard to language level
- Skills acquired
- Professional project
- Elements concerning your private and family life.
- Signed copy of the commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
FYI
Civil status documents in a foreign language must be accompanied by their translation into French by a certified translator/interpreter.
5th step: Go to the appointment
You must go to this appointment in person.
If your file is complete, you will receive a receipt pending the response of the prefecture.
6th step: Receive the residence card once it is available
You are informed by the prefecture that your title is available.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your home (depending on the place where your application is submitted).
In most prefectures, you need to make an appointment.
Find out more on the prefecture's website.
The residence card temporary is valid 1 year.
7th step: Dispute in case of refusal
The deadlines for contesting are different depending on whether or not you have received a response from the prefecture:
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
If the prefect has notified you of the refusal
The prefect's decision is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional cases, this refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) determining the country to which you will be returned.
You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).
No response from the prefect on your request
If the prefecture has not responded after 4 months, this is an implicit refusal.
You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:
- One administrative appeal (ex gratia before the prefect and/or hierarchical redress before the Minister of the Interior),
- And/or a litigation before the administrative court.
The residence card private and family life authorizes you to stay and work in France. Your employer does not have to apply for a work permit.
Step 1: Check if the conditions are met
You are affected if you have humanitarian or exceptional grounds:
- Duration of presence in France
- Previous employment
- Professional qualification
- Documents relating to services rendered in the cultural, sporting, associative, civic or economic fields.
Warning
The prefecture may refuse to deliver you your residence card if you have not complied with an obligation to leave the country (OQTF) or if you have committed any of the following acts:
- Forgery and use of forged documents
- Offenses severe or crimes (drug trafficking, trafficking in human beings, procuring, working conditions or undignified accommodation, among others)
- Violence against elected officials, public officials or security agents.
2nd step: Make an appointment
You must submit your card application to the prefecture (or sub-prefecture) of your home, 2 months before the expiry of your residence permit.
In most prefectures, you need to make an appointment.
Find out more on the prefecture's website.
Warning
It is not possible to carry out the procedures in some sub-prefectures. Find out more on the website of your prefecture.
3rd step: Inquire about the tax stamp
You have to pay €225.
You will need to provide proof of payment when you hand over the card.
You can buy the tax stamp on the internet or in a tobacco office.
On the internet
You can purchase your tax stamp using the following online service:
Purchase on the internet of the tax stamp - Title for foreigner
Payment is possible with the following bank cards:
- Carte bleue (CB) and e-carte bleue
- Visa
- Mastercard.
However, payment by Paypal or American Express card is not accepted.
The electronic stamp can be issued on 2 supports:
- PDF document with a 2D code that can also be scanned directly from a phone or tablet by the service responsible for receiving your request
- SMS containing the 16-digit identifier of the stamp that will be accepted by the agent responsible for processing your file.
If you do not use the stamp or have purchased the wrong type of stamp, you can request a refund.
In a tobacco shop
You can buy a tax stamp from a tobacco office, if the business is equipped to be able to edit them.
An online service allows to locate a tobacconist equipped:
Who shall I contact
Warning
Do not buy a fine stamp by mistake.
Step 4: Prepare the documents to be provided
You must prepare documents to make your application.
- Full copy of the birth certificate containing the most recent information, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular certificate with photo
or photo ID card
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality of less than 6 months with photo
- Proof of address less than 6 months old
- 3 photos.
If the request is made on the internet: indicate the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the authorized booth on the photo board).
If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Proof of payment of the stamp duty (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
- Medical certificate issued by theOfii: titleContent (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
- Statement on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- Supporting documents for assessing humanitarian considerations or exceptional grounds (for example, special humanitarian circumstances, length of stay in France, previous employment, professional qualifications, documents relating to services rendered in the cultural, sporting, associative, civic or economic fields, etc.)
- Signed copy of the commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
FYI
Civil status documents in a foreign language must be accompanied by their translation into French by a certified translator/interpreter.
5th step: Go to the appointment
You must go to this appointment in person.
If your file is complete, you will receive a receipt pending the response of the prefecture.
6th step: Receive the residence card once it is available
You are informed by the prefecture that your title is available.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your home (depending on the place where your application is submitted).
In most prefectures, you need to make an appointment.
Find out more on the prefecture's website.
The residence card temporary is valid 1 year.
7th step: Dispute in case of refusal
The deadlines for contesting are different depending on whether or not you have received a response from the prefecture:
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
If the prefect has notified you of the refusal
The prefect's decision is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional cases, this refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) determining the country to which you will be returned.
You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).
No response from the prefect on your request
If the prefecture has not responded after 4 months, this is an implicit refusal.
You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:
- One administrative appeal (ex gratia before the prefect and/or hierarchical redress before the Minister of the Interior),
- And/or a litigation before the administrative court.
Renewal
Step 1: Check if the conditions are met
Warning
The prefecture can refuse you renew your residence card if you are in one of the following situations:
- You have not complied with an obligation to leave the country (OQTF)
- You have committed forgery and the use of forged documents
- You've committed offenses severe or crimes (drug trafficking, trafficking in human beings, procuring, working conditions or undignified accommodation, among others)
- You have committed acts of violence against elected officials, public officials or security agents.
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
You have a temporary residence card
You can apply for a multi-year residence card for private and family life 2 months before the end of validity of your current permit.
In addition, you must meet a condition ofrepublican integration assessed against the following criteria:
- Your attendance and the seriousness of your participation in the training prescribed as part of the Republican Integration Contract (CIR)
- Your knowledge of the French language at A2 level for the issuance of a first multi-year residence card, unless you are over 65 years of age
- Success at civic examination entry ‘multi-annual residence card ” for the issuance of a first multi-year residence card, unless you are over 65 years old
To examine your integration into the French business, the prefect takes into account the follow-up of your CIR.
Warning
Your temporary residence card cannot be renewed more than 3 consecutive times with the same reason.
You have a multi-year residence card
If you've been married since At least 3 years with a French person, you can request a resident card 2 months before the end of validity of your current title.
Please note
The community of life with your spouse must not have ceased. But there are two exceptions: in case of death or in case of domestic violence.
2nd step: Check the deadlines to complete the procedure
You must submit your application on the Internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
3rd step: Inquire about the tax stamp
You have to pay €225 (stamp duty of €25 and tax €200) by tax stamps.
You will need to provide proof of payment when you hand over the card.
You can buy the tax stamp on the internet or in a tobacco office.
On the internet
You can purchase your tax stamp using the following online service:
Purchase on the internet of the tax stamp - Title for foreigner
Payment is possible with the following bank cards:
- Carte bleue (CB) and e-carte bleue
- Visa
- Mastercard.
However, payment by Paypal or American Express card is not accepted.
The electronic stamp can be issued on 2 supports:
- PDF document with a 2D code that can also be scanned directly from a phone or tablet by the service responsible for receiving your request
- SMS containing the 16-digit identifier of the stamp that will be accepted by the agent responsible for processing your file.
If you do not use the stamp or have purchased the wrong type of stamp, you can request a refund.
In a tobacco shop
You can buy a tax stamp from a tobacco office, if the business is equipped to be able to edit them.
An online service allows to locate a tobacconist equipped:
Who shall I contact
Warning
Do not buy a fine stamp by mistake.
Step 4: Prepare the documents to be provided
You must prepare documents to make your application. These documents vary depending on your situation. To make your request via the internet, you must provide in form digital all supporting documents presented below. These documents must be legible.
Personal Information
Proof of civil status
- Full copy of the birth certificate containing the most recent information, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
Proof of nationality
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular certificate with photo
or photo ID card
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality of less than 6 months with photo
Photos of identity
- e-photo : enter the e-photo code (provided by the photographer or the authorized booth on the photo board). If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
Home
- Proof of address less than 6 months old
Warning
Renewal of your multi-year residence card may be refused if you cannot prove that you have established your habitual residence in France. You are considered to be habitually resident in France:
- If you have transferred the center of your private and family interests there
- And that you stay there for at least 6 months during the calendar year.
Reason for stay
- Full copy of the marriage certificate or transcription of the marriage certificate celebrated abroad (if you do not have a long-stay visa a marriage in France is required)
- Proof of your spouse's French nationality: valid passport, valid national identity card or certificate of french nationality less than 6 months
- Proof of community of life: joint declaration of honor attesting to your life together and production of all documents allowing to establish a community of life in France (lease contract, EDF receipt, RIB: titleContentetc.)
- If the relationship has been broken due to death or domestic or family violence: death certificate, filing of a complaint, divorce judgment for fault, conviction of the spouse for violence.
Integration
- Certificate ofknowledge of the French language at A2 level for the issuance of a first multi-year residence card, unless you are over 65 years of age
- Certificate of Success at civic examination entry ‘multi-annual residence card ” for the issuance of a first multi-year residence card, unless you are over 65 years old
In addition, you must meet a condition ofrepublican integration assessed against the following criteria:
- Your attendance and the seriousness of your participation in the training prescribed as part of the Republican Integration Contract (CIR)
- Your knowledge of the French language at A2 level for the issuance of a first multi-year residence card, unless you are over 65 years of age
- Success at civic examination entry ‘multi-annual residence card ” for the issuance of a first multi-year residence card, unless you are over 65 years old
To examine your integration into the French business, the prefect takes into account the follow-up of your CIR.
- Signed copy of the commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
FYI
Civil status documents in a foreign language must be accompanied by their translation into French by a certified translator/interpreter. In some cases, these acts must also be legalized (apostille or legalization by the French consulate abroad).
5th step: Do the process on the internet
You must submit your application on the Internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
The request is made on the following website:
When you submit your application for a residence permit on the internet, you will immediately receive a dematerialized certificate of deposit.
6th step: Receive the residence card once it is available
If your application is accepted, you are informed by the prefecture that your title is available.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your home (depending on the place where your application is submitted).
In most prefectures, you need to make an appointment.
Find out more on the prefecture's website.
The residence card multi-annual is valid from 2 to 4 years.
7th step: Dispute in case of refusal
If you meet the conditions for issuing the residence card, the prefect must enter the residence permit committee for advice, in the event that he intends to refuse to issue you the card.
To be heard by the committee, you receive a summons by mail at least 15 days before its meeting date.
You are informed of the following rights:
- Be assisted by a lawyer or any person of your choice
- Be heard with the assistance of an interpreter
- Possibly benefit during this procedure from legal aid.
You can explain the reasons and circumstances of your application for a residence permit.
You also have the right to request that the mayor of your municipality of residence (or his representative) be present and heard.
If you do not have a residence card or if your card has expired, you will be given a provisional residence document.
Your explanations are sent to the prefect with the reasoned opinion of the residence permit committee. You will also be informed of the committee's opinion.
FYI
The prefect may decide to refuse you the issuance of the card, even in the event of a favorable opinion from the commission.
The deadlines for contesting are different depending on whether or not you have received a response from the prefecture:
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
If the prefect has notified you of the refusal
The prefect's decision is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional cases, this refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) determining the country to which you will be returned.
You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).
You can also make a ex gratia appeal to the prefect or a hierarchical appeal to the minister of the interior.
No response from the prefect on your request
If the prefecture has not responded after 4 months, this is an implicit refusal.
You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:
- One administrative appeal (ex gratia before the prefect and/or hierarchical redress before the Minister of the Interior),
- And/or a litigation before the administrative court.
After a 1re year of regular stay in France with the temporary residence card, you can apply for a residence card multi-annual private and family life (valid 2 years).
In addition, you must meet a condition ofrepublican integration assessed against the following criteria:
- Your attendance and the seriousness of your participation in the training prescribed as part of the Republican Integration Contract (CIR)
- Your knowledge of the French language at A2 level for the issuance of a first multi-year residence card, unless you are over 65 years of age
- Success at civic examination entry ‘multi-annual residence card ” for the issuance of a first multi-year residence card, unless you are over 65 years old
To examine your integration into the French business, the prefect takes into account the follow-up of your CIR.
After 3 years of regular residence, you can submit an application for resident card, 2 months before the end of validity of your residence card.
Warning
The prefecture can refuse you renew your residence card if you are in one of the following situations:
- You have not complied with an obligation to leave the country (OQTF)
- You have committed forgery and the use of forged documents
- You've committed offenses severe or crimes (drug trafficking, trafficking in human beings, procuring, working conditions or undignified accommodation, among others)
- You have committed acts of violence against elected officials, public officials or security agents.
1st step: Check the deadlines to complete the procedure
You must submit your application on the Internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
2nd step: Inquire about the tax stamp
You have to pay €225 (stamp duty of €25 and tax €200) by tax stamps.
You will need to provide proof of payment when you hand over the card.
You can buy the tax stamp on the internet or in a tobacco office.
On the internet
You can purchase your tax stamp using the following online service:
Purchase on the internet of the tax stamp - Title for foreigner
Payment is possible with the following bank cards:
- Carte bleue (CB) and e-carte bleue
- Visa
- Mastercard.
However, payment by Paypal or American Express card is not accepted.
The electronic stamp can be issued on 2 supports:
- PDF document with a 2D code that can also be scanned directly from a phone or tablet by the service responsible for receiving your request
- SMS containing the 16-digit identifier of the stamp that will be accepted by the agent responsible for processing your file.
If you do not use the stamp or have purchased the wrong type of stamp, you can request a refund.
In a tobacco shop
You can buy a tax stamp from a tobacco office, if the business is equipped to be able to edit them.
An online service allows to locate a tobacconist equipped:
Who shall I contact
Warning
Do not buy a fine stamp by mistake.
Step 3: Prepare the documents to be provided
You must prepare documents to make your application. These documents vary depending on your situation. To make your request via the internet, you must provide in form digital all supporting documents presented below. These documents must be legible.
Personal Information
Proof of civil status
- Full copy of the birth certificate containing the most recent information, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
Proof of nationality
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular certificate with photo
or photo ID card
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality of less than 6 months with photo
Photos of identity
- e-photo : enter the e-photo code (provided by the photographer or the authorized booth on the photo board). If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Statement on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
Home
- Proof of address less than 6 months old
Warning
Renewal of your multi-year residence card may be refused if you cannot prove that you have established your habitual residence in France. You are considered to be habitually resident in France:
- If you have transferred the center of your private and family interests there
- And that you stay there for at least 6 months during the calendar year.
Reason for stay: French child
- Full copy of the birth certificate of the French child comprising the parentage
- Proof of the residence in France of the child (proof by any means): certificate of schooling or nursery, for example
- Proof of the French nationality of the child : valid passport, valid national identity card or certificate of French nationality of less than 6 months
- Proof by any means of your contribution to the maintenance and education of your child since birth or for at least 2 years: payment of a pension, proof of purchases (food, clothing, toys, etc.), certificates (accommodation, school follow-up, etc.), proof of the real emotional link (interest in the child's development, knowledge of his environment, real emotional presence, testimonies, etc.)
- If the filiation in respect of the French parent results from a recognition of filiation :
- Evidence that the French parent has effectively contributed to the maintenance and education of the child since birth or for at least 2 years (payment of a pension, purchases for the child, food or clothing, leisure, educational, amusement, toys), regular accommodation, interest in the child's education, real emotional presence, testimonies, etc.
- Otherwise: decision of the judicial judge ordering the French parent to fulfill his obligations towards the child.
Integration
In addition, you must meet a condition ofrepublican integration assessed against the following criteria:
- Your attendance and the seriousness of your participation in the training prescribed as part of the Republican Integration Contract (CIR)
- Your knowledge of the French language at A2 level for the issuance of a first multi-year residence card, unless you are over 65 years of age
- Success at civic examination entry ‘multi-annual residence card ” for the issuance of a first multi-year residence card, unless you are over 65 years old
To examine your integration into the French business, the prefect takes into account the follow-up of your CIR.
- Signed copy of the commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
Stamp duty
- Proof of payment of the stamp duty (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
FYI
Civil status documents in a foreign language must be accompanied by their translation into french by a certified translator/interpreter.
4th step: Do the process on the internet
You must submit your application on the Internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
The request is made on the following website:
When you submit your application for a residence permit on the internet, you will immediately receive a dematerialized certificate of deposit.
5th step: Receive the residence card once it is available
You are informed by the prefecture that your title is available.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your home (depending on the place where your application is submitted).
In most prefectures, you need to make an appointment.
Find out more on the prefecture's website.
The residence card multi-annual is valid of 2 years.
6th step: Dispute in case of refusal
If you meet the conditions for issuing the residence card, the prefect must enter the residence permit committee for advice, in the event that he intends to refuse to issue you the card.
To be heard by the committee, you receive a summons by mail at least 15 days before its meeting date.
You are informed of the following rights:
- Be assisted by a lawyer or any person of your choice
- Be heard with the assistance of an interpreter
- Possibly benefit during this procedure from legal aid.
You can explain the reasons and circumstances of your application for a residence permit.
You also have the right to request that the mayor of your municipality of residence (or his representative) be present and heard.
If you do not have a residence card or if your card has expired, you will be given a provisional residence document.
Your explanations are sent to the prefect with the reasoned opinion of the residence permit committee. You will also be informed of the committee's opinion.
FYI
The prefect may decide to refuse you the issuance of the card, even in the event of a favorable opinion from the commission.
The deadlines for contesting are different depending on whether or not you have received a response from the prefecture:
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
If the prefect has notified you of the refusal
The prefect's decision is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional cases, this refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) determining the country to which you will be returned.
You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).
You can also make a ex gratia appeal to the prefect or a hierarchical appeal to the minister of the interior.
No response from the prefect on your request
If the prefecture has not responded after 4 months, this is an implicit refusal.
You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:
- One administrative appeal (ex gratia before the prefect and/or hierarchical redress before the Minister of the Interior),
- And/or a litigation before the administrative court.
You are concerned if you hold a residence card for private and family life issued for the following reasons:
- Personal and family ties in France
- Foreigner spouse holding an EU long-term resident card.
Your temporary residence card cannot be renewed more than 3 consecutive times with the same reason.
Warning
The prefecture can refuse you renew your residence card if you are in one of the following situations:
- You have not complied with an obligation to leave the country (OQTF)
- You have committed forgery and the use of forged documents
- You've committed offenses severe or crimes (drug trafficking, trafficking in human beings, procuring, working conditions or undignified accommodation, among others)
- You have committed acts of violence against elected officials, public officials or security agents.
1st step: Make an appointment
You must submit your card application to the prefecture (or sub-prefecture) of your home 2 months before the expiry of your temporary residence card.
In most prefectures, you need to make an appointment.
Find out more on the prefecture's website.
Warning
It is not possible to carry out the procedures in some sub-prefectures. Find out more on the website of your prefecture.
2nd step: Inquire about the tax stamp
You must pay:
- Spouse and child of holder of EU long-term resident status in another Member State: €225 (stamp duty of €25 and tax €200) by tax stamps
- Right to respect for private and family life: €225 (stamp duty of €25 and tax €200) by tax stamps
- Regularization visa €200 (of which €50 to be paid at the time of application and non-refundable in case of refusal to issue the title).
You will need to provide proof of payment when you hand over the card.
You can buy the tax stamp on the internet or in a tobacco office.
On the internet
You can purchase your tax stamp using the following online service:
Purchase on the internet of the tax stamp - Title for foreigner
Payment is possible with the following bank cards:
- Carte bleue (CB) and e-carte bleue
- Visa
- Mastercard.
However, payment by Paypal or American Express card is not accepted.
The electronic stamp can be issued on 2 supports:
- PDF document with a 2D code that can also be scanned directly from a phone or tablet by the service responsible for receiving your request
- SMS containing the 16-digit identifier of the stamp that will be accepted by the agent responsible for processing your file.
If you do not use the stamp or have purchased the wrong type of stamp, you can request a refund.
In a tobacco shop
You can buy a tax stamp from a tobacco office, if the business is equipped to be able to edit them.
An online service allows to locate a tobacconist equipped:
Who shall I contact
Warning
Do not buy a fine stamp by mistake.
Step 3: Prepare the documents to be provided
You must prepare documents to make your application. These documents vary depending on your situation.
Your spouse has a "long-term resident - EU" residence card
- Residence card issued by France to your spouse (s) holding the status "long-term resident - EU" in another member country of the European Union (or attestation of application for this residence card in case of simultaneous arrival)
- Residence card, issued to your spouse, by another EU Member State, marked "long-term resident - EU"
- Full copy of the birth certificate containing the most recent information, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular certificate with photo
or photo ID card
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality of less than 6 months with photo
- Proof of address less than 6 months old
- 3 photos.
If the request is made on the internet: indicate the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the authorized booth on the photo board).
If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Proof of payment of the stamp duty (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
- Statement on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- Medical certificate issued by theOfii: titleContent (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
- Proof of your lawful residence in a Member State which has granted your spouse "long-term resident - EU" status: residence card or favorable decision on family reunification taken by the competent authority of the other European Union country
- Proof of own resources (exclusion of social benefits or allowance)
- Proof of health insurance: health insurance card or health insurance certificate
- Signed copy of the commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
You prove personal and family ties in France
- Full copy of the birth certificate containing the most recent information, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular certificate with photo
or photo ID card
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality of less than 6 months with photo
- Proof of address less than 6 months old
Warning
Renewal of your multi-year residence card may be refused if you cannot prove that you have established your habitual residence in France. You are considered to be habitually resident in France:
- If you have transferred the center of your private and family interests there
- And that you stay there for at least 6 months during the calendar year.
- 3 photos.
If the request is made on the internet: indicate the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the authorized booth on the photo board).
If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Proof of payment of the stamp duty (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
- Statement on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- Medical certificate issued by theOfii: titleContent (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
- Proofs of personal and family ties in France:
- Matrimonial and filial links: extract from the marriage certificate, or extracts from the birth certificates of children with filiation (documents corresponding to the situation at the time of application)
- Parental and collateral links: extracts from birth certificates of parents and siblings with filiation, adoption or guardianship judgment (documents corresponding to the situation at the time of application)
- Professional or personal links: employment contract, payslips, participation in local/associative life, etc.
- Proof of legal residence in France of family members: copy of residence card or national identity card
- Proof by any means of maintaining certain and continuous relationships with family members settled in France (children, husband, cohabiting partner or past partner)
- All supporting documents to assess habitual residence in France: visa, residence card application certificate, asylum application certificate, documents from a public administration (prefecture, social service, school), documents from a private institution (medical certificate, bank statements, etc.), family certificates.
- Nature of ties with your family that remained in the country of origin: death certificates of family members abroad
- Proof of your living conditions: income, salaries, bank statements, etc.
- Proof of your integration into the French business: certificates of friendly circles, membership of associations, voluntary activity, participation in school activities of children, etc.
- Signed copy of the commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
FYI
Civil status documents in a foreign language must be accompanied by their translation into French by a certified translator/interpreter.
4th step: Go to the appointment
You must go to this appointment in person.
If your file is complete, you will receive a receipt pending the response of the prefecture.
5th step: Receive the residence card once it is available
You are informed by the prefecture that your title is available.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your home (depending on the place where your application is submitted).
In most prefectures, you need to make an appointment.
Find out more on the prefecture's website.
The residence card multi-annual is valid of 2 years.
6th step: Dispute in case of refusal
If you meet the conditions for issuing the residence card, the prefect must enter the residence permit committee for advice, in the event that he intends to refuse to issue you the card.
To be heard by the committee, you receive a summons by mail at least 15 days before its meeting date.
You are informed of the following rights:
- Be assisted by a lawyer or any person of your choice
- Be heard with the assistance of an interpreter
- Possibly benefit during this procedure from legal aid.
You can explain the reasons and circumstances of your application for a residence permit.
You also have the right to request that the mayor of your municipality of residence (or his representative) be present and heard.
If you do not have a residence card or if your card has expired, you will be given a provisional residence document.
Your explanations are sent to the prefect with the reasoned opinion of the residence permit committee. You will also be informed of the committee's opinion.
FYI
The prefect may decide to refuse you the issuance of the card, even in the event of a favorable opinion from the commission.
The deadlines for contesting are different depending on whether or not you have received a response from the prefecture:
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
If the prefect has notified you of the refusal
The prefect's decision is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional cases, this refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) determining the country to which you will be returned.
You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).
No response from the prefect on your request
If the prefecture has not responded after 4 months, this is an implicit refusal.
You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:
- One administrative appeal (ex gratia before the prefect and/or hierarchical redress before the Minister of the Interior),
- And/or a litigation before the administrative court.
You can apply for a residence card multi-annual private and family life (valid 4 years).
In addition, you must meet a condition ofrepublican integration assessed against the following criteria:
- Your attendance and the seriousness of your participation in the training prescribed as part of the Republican Integration Contract (CIR)
- Your knowledge of the French language at A2 level for the issuance of a first multi-year residence card, unless you are over 65 years of age
- Success at civic examination entry ‘multi-annual residence card ” for the issuance of a first multi-year residence card, unless you are over 65 years old
To examine your integration into the French business, the prefect takes into account the follow-up of your CIR.
Warning
The prefecture can refuse you renew your residence card if you are in one of the following situations:
- You have not complied with an obligation to leave the country (OQTF)
- You have committed forgery and the use of forged documents
- You've committed offenses severe or crimes (drug trafficking, trafficking in human beings, procuring, working conditions or undignified accommodation, among others)
- You have committed acts of violence against elected officials, public officials or security agents.
1st step: Check the deadlines to complete the procedure
You must submit your application on the Internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
2nd step: Inquire about the tax stamp
You have to pay €75.
You will need to provide proof of payment when you hand over the card.
You can buy the tax stamp on the internet or in a tobacco office.
On the internet
You can purchase your tax stamp using the following online service:
Purchase on the internet of the tax stamp - Title for foreigner
Payment is possible with the following bank cards:
- Carte bleue (CB) and e-carte bleue
- Visa
- Mastercard.
However, payment by Paypal or American Express card is not accepted.
The electronic stamp can be issued on 2 supports:
- PDF document with a 2D code that can also be scanned directly from a phone or tablet by the service responsible for receiving your request
- SMS containing the 16-digit identifier of the stamp that will be accepted by the agent responsible for processing your file.
If you do not use the stamp or have purchased the wrong type of stamp, you can request a refund.
In a tobacco shop
You can buy a tax stamp from a tobacco office, if the business is equipped to be able to edit them.
An online service allows to locate a tobacconist equipped:
Who shall I contact
Warning
Do not buy a fine stamp by mistake.
Step 3: Prepare the documents to be provided
You must prepare documents to make your request:
- Residence card
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular certificate with photo
or photo ID card
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality of less than 6 months with photo
- Proof of address less than 6 months old
Warning
Renewal of your multi-year residence card may be refused if you cannot prove that you have established your habitual residence in France. You are considered to be habitually resident in France:
- If you have transferred the center of your private and family interests there
- And that you stay there for at least 6 months during the calendar year.
- e-photo : enter the e-photo code (provided by the photographer or the authorized booth on the photo board). If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Proof of payment of the stamp duty (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
- Decision authorizing family reunification
- Temporary residence card, multi-year residence card or resident card of the parent you are joining
- Medical certificate issued by theOfii: titleContent (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
- Statement on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- Certificate of knowledge of the French language at A2 level for the issuance of a first multi-year residence card, unless you are over 65 years of age
- Certificate of Success at civic examination entry ‘multi-annual residence card ” for the issuance of a first multi-year residence card, unless you are over 65 years old
- Signed copy of the commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
4th step: Do the process on the internet
You must submit your application on the Internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
The request is made on the following website:
When you submit your application for a residence permit on the internet, you will immediately receive a dematerialized certificate of deposit.
5th step: Receive the residence card once it is available
You are informed by the prefecture that your title is available.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your home (depending on the place where your application is submitted).
In most prefectures, you need to make an appointment.
Find out more on the prefecture's website.
The residence card multi-annual is valid of 4 years.
6th step: Dispute in case of refusal
If you meet the conditions for issuing the residence card, the prefect must enter the residence permit committee for advice, in the event that he intends to refuse to issue you the card.
To be heard by the committee, you receive a summons by mail at least 15 days before its meeting date.
You are informed of the following rights:
- Be assisted by a lawyer or any person of your choice
- Be heard with the assistance of an interpreter
- Possibly benefit during this procedure from legal aid.
You can explain the reasons and circumstances of your application for a residence permit.
You also have the right to request that the mayor of your municipality of residence (or his representative) be present and heard.
If you do not have a residence card or if your card has expired, you will be given a provisional residence document.
Your explanations are sent to the prefect with the reasoned opinion of the residence permit committee. You will also be informed of the committee's opinion.
FYI
The prefect may decide to refuse you the issuance of the card, even in the event of a favorable opinion from the commission.
The deadlines for contesting are different depending on whether or not you have received a response from the prefecture.
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
If the prefect has notified you of the refusal
The prefect's decision is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional cases, this refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) determining the country to which you will be returned.
You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).
No response from the prefect on your request
If the prefecture has not responded after 4 months, this is an implicit refusal.
You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:
- One administrative appeal (ex gratia before the prefect and/or hierarchical redress before the Minister of the Interior),
- And/or a litigation before the administrative court.
You can apply for a residence card multi-annual private and family life (valid 4 years).
Warning
The prefecture can refuse you renew your residence card if you are in one of the following situations:
- You have not complied with an obligation to leave the country (OQTF)
- You have committed forgery and the use of forged documents
- You've committed offenses severe or crimes (drug trafficking, trafficking in human beings, procuring, working conditions or undignified accommodation, among others)
- You have committed acts of violence against elected officials, public officials or security agents.
1st step: Check the deadlines to complete the procedure
The approach is different depending on your situation.
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
You were born in France and have resided there for at least 8 years continuously and have followed, after the age of 10, a minimum education of 5 years in a French school
You must submit your application on the Internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
When you submit your application for a residence permit on the internet, you will immediately receive a dematerialized certificate of deposit.
You accompany one of your parents, holder of a multi-year residence card talent
You must submit your application on the Internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
When you submit your application for a residence permit on the internet, you will immediately receive a dematerialized certificate of deposit.
You have been entrusted to the child welfare service (ASE) or a trusted third party no later than the day you turn 16
You must submit your renewal application on the internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence card.
One of your parents has been granted subsidiary protection
You must submit your application on the Internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
When you submit your application for a residence permit on the internet, you will immediately receive a dematerialized certificate of deposit.
Other
You must submit your application no earlier than 4 months and no later than 2 months before the expiry of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
In most prefectures, you need to make an appointment.
Find out more on the prefecture's website.
Warning
It is not possible to carry out the procedures in some sub-prefectures. Find out more on the website of your prefecture.
2nd step: Inquire about the tax stamp
In general, you have to pay €225 (stamp duty of €25 and tax €200) by tax stamps.
But in the case of a minor entrusted to the service of the ASE, the cost is €25 for a 1re ask.
You will need to provide proof of payment when you hand over the card.
You can buy the tax stamp on the internet or in a tobacco office.
Warning
In some cases, you may be asked to pay a visa to regularize €200.
On the internet
You can purchase your tax stamp using the following online service:
Purchase on the internet of the tax stamp - Title for foreigner
Payment is possible with the following bank cards:
- Carte bleue (CB) and e-carte bleue
- Visa
- Mastercard.
However, payment by Paypal or American Express card is not accepted.
The electronic stamp can be issued on 2 supports:
- PDF document with a 2D code that can also be scanned directly from a phone or tablet by the service responsible for receiving your request
- SMS containing the 16-digit identifier of the stamp that will be accepted by the agent responsible for processing your file.
If you do not use the stamp or have purchased the wrong type of stamp, you can request a refund.
In a tobacco shop
You can buy a tax stamp from a tobacco office, if the business is equipped to be able to edit them.
An online service allows to locate a tobacconist equipped:
Who shall I contact
Warning
Do not buy a fine stamp by mistake.
Step 3: Prepare the documents to be provided
- Full copy of the birth certificate containing the most recent information, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular certificate with photo
or photo ID card
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality of less than 6 months with photo
- Proof of address less than 6 months old
- 3 photos.
If the request is made on the internet: indicate the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the authorized booth on the photo board).
If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Proof of payment of the stamp duty (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
- Statement on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- Signed copy of the commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
- Proof of habitual residence in France since the age of 13 at the latest (since the age of 10 for Tunisian minors): registration in a school, school reports, administrative documents
- Proof of residence in France of one or more parents since the child was 13 years old (since the age of 10 for the Tunisian minor): any proof (one per semester)
- Document of stay of one of the parents in Mayotte since the child was 13 years old
- If you have been entrusted to theAse: titleContent before the age of 16:
- Decision on placement at Esa
- Proof of employment or vocational training: enrollment in a school, employment or apprenticeship contract, attestation of the person in charge of the training center
- Evidence of the real and serious nature of the training follow-up (transcript, attendance certificate)
- Nature of family ties remaining in the country of origin: any supporting documents, including death certificates of family members abroad, loss of parental authority of parents remaining in the country, etc.
- Inclusion in the French business: attestation of the host organization (foster home or host family)
- If you were born in France:
- Proof of continuous presence in France of at least 8 years: at least one document for each year from a public administration (social service, school, etc.)
- Proof of completion, after the age of 10, of at least 5 years of schooling in a French institution: school certificates
- If you accompany one of your parents who holds a EU long-term resident from another EU country:
- Residence card issued by France to your parent holding the status "long-term resident - EU" in another member country of the European Union and having been admitted as such to stay in France (or attestation of application for this residence card in case of simultaneous arrival)
- Residence card issued by another Member State of the European Union marked "long-term resident - EU" to your parent
- Proof of your lawful residence in the Member State which granted the status of "long-term resident - EU" to your parent (residence card or favorable decision on family reunification taken by the competent authority of the other Member State of the European Union)
- Proof of health insurance: health insurance card or health insurance certificate
FYI
Civil status documents in a foreign language must be accompanied by their translation into French by a certified translator/interpreter.
4th step: Go to the appointment
You must go to this appointment in person.
If your file is complete, you will receive a receipt pending the response of the prefecture.
5th step: Receive the residence card once it is available
You are informed by the prefecture that your title is available.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your home (depending on the place where your application is submitted).
In most prefectures, you need to make an appointment.
Find out more on the prefecture's website.
The residence card multi-annual is valid of 4 years.
6th step: Dispute in case of refusal
If you meet the conditions for issuing the residence card, the prefect must enter the residence permit committee for advice, in the event that he intends to refuse to issue you the card.
To be heard by the committee, you receive a summons by mail at least 15 days before its meeting date.
You are informed of the following rights:
- Be assisted by a lawyer or any person of your choice
- Be heard with the assistance of an interpreter
- Possibly benefit during this procedure from legal aid.
You can explain the reasons and circumstances of your application for a residence permit.
You also have the right to request that the mayor of your municipality of residence (or his representative) be present and heard.
If you do not have a residence card or if your card has expired, you will be given a provisional residence document.
Your explanations are sent to the prefect with the reasoned opinion of the residence permit committee. You will also be informed of the committee's opinion.
FYI
The prefect may decide to refuse you the issuance of the card, even in the event of a favorable opinion from the commission.
The deadlines for contesting are different depending on whether or not you have received a response from the prefecture:
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
If the prefect has notified you of the refusal
The prefect's decision is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional cases, this refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) determining the country to which you will be returned.
You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).
No response from the prefect on your request
If the prefecture has not responded after 4 months, this is an implicit refusal.
You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:
- One administrative appeal (ex gratia before the prefect and/or hierarchical redress before the Minister of the Interior),
- And/or a litigation before the administrative court.
You can apply for a residence card multi-annual private and family life (valid 4 years).
Your temporary residence card cannot be renewed more than 3 consecutive times with the same pattern.
Warning
The prefecture can refuse you renew your residence card if you are in one of the following situations:
- You have not complied with an obligation to leave the country (OQTF)
- You have committed forgery and the use of forged documents
- You've committed offenses severe or crimes (drug trafficking, trafficking in human beings, procuring, working conditions or undignified accommodation, among others)
- You have committed acts of violence against elected officials, public officials or security agents.
1st step: Make an appointment
You must submit your card application to the prefecture (or sub-prefecture) of your home, 2 months before the expiry of your temporary residence card.
In most prefectures, you need to make an appointment.
Find out more on the prefecture's website.
Warning
It is not possible to carry out the procedures in some sub-prefectures. Find out more on the website of your prefecture.
2nd step: Inquire about the tax stamp
You have to pay €75 (stamp duty of €25 and tax €50) by tax stamps.
You will need to provide proof of payment when you hand over the card.
You can buy the tax stamp on the internet or in a tobacco office.
On the internet
You can purchase your tax stamp using the following online service:
Purchase on the internet of the tax stamp - Title for foreigner
Payment is possible with the following bank cards:
- Carte bleue (CB) and e-carte bleue
- Visa
- Mastercard.
However, payment by Paypal or American Express card is not accepted.
The electronic stamp can be issued on 2 supports:
- PDF document with a 2D code that can also be scanned directly from a phone or tablet by the service responsible for receiving your request
- SMS containing the 16-digit identifier of the stamp that will be accepted by the agent responsible for processing your file.
If you do not use the stamp or have purchased the wrong type of stamp, you can request a refund.
In a tobacco shop
You can buy a tax stamp from a tobacco office, if the business is equipped to be able to edit them.
An online service allows to locate a tobacconist equipped:
Who shall I contact
Warning
Do not buy a fine stamp by mistake.
Step 3: Prepare the documents to be provided
You must prepare documents to make your request:
- Full copy of the birth certificate containing the most recent information, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
- Proof of address less than 6 months old
Warning
Renewal of your multi-year residence card may be refused if you cannot prove that you have established your habitual residence in France. You are considered to be habitually resident in France:
- If you have transferred the center of your private and family interests there
- And that you stay there for at least 6 months during the calendar year.
- 3 photos.
If the request is made on the internet: indicate the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the authorized booth on the photo board).
If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Proof of payment of the stamp duty (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
- Statement on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- Medical certificate issued by theOfii: titleContent (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
- Proof of a permanent physical disability rate equal to or greater than 20%
- Proof of payment of an occupational pension or sickness paid by a French body: certificate issued by the French body (CPAM: titleContentetc.) paying the pension
- Signed copy of the commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
FYI
Civil status documents in a foreign language must be accompanied by their translation into French by a certified translator/interpreter.
4th step: Go to the appointment
You must go to this appointment in person.
If your file is complete, you will receive a receipt pending the response of the prefecture.
5th step: Receive the residence card once it is available
You are informed by the prefecture that your title is available.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your home (depending on the place where your application is submitted).
In most prefectures, you need to make an appointment.
Find out more on the prefecture's website.
The residence card multi-annual is valid of 4 years.
6th step: Dispute in case of refusal
If you meet the conditions for issuing the residence card, the prefect must enter the residence permit committee for advice, in the event that he intends to refuse to issue you the card.
To be heard by the committee, you receive a summons by mail at least 15 days before its meeting date.
You are informed of the following rights:
- Be assisted by a lawyer or any person of your choice
- Be heard with the assistance of an interpreter
- Possibly benefit during this procedure from legal aid.
You can explain the reasons and circumstances of your application for a residence permit.
You also have the right to request that the mayor of your municipality of residence (or his representative) be present and heard.
If you do not have a residence card or if your card has expired, you will be given a provisional residence document.
Your explanations are sent to the prefect with the reasoned opinion of the residence permit committee. You will also be informed of the committee's opinion.
FYI
The prefect may decide to refuse you the issuance of the card, even in the event of a favorable opinion from the commission.
The deadlines for contesting are different depending on whether or not you have received a response from the prefecture:
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
If the prefect has notified you of the refusal
The prefect's decision is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional cases, this refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) determining the country to which you will be returned.
You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).
No response from the prefect on your request
If the prefecture has not responded after 4 months, this is an implicit refusal.
You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:
- One administrative appeal (ex gratia before the prefect and/or hierarchical redress before the Minister of the Interior),
- And/or a litigation before the administrative court.
Your one-year residence card is automatically renewed if you continue to benefit from a protection order.
If you have lodged a complaint against the perpetrator, your residence card is automatically renewed during the criminal proceedings.
If you have been a victim of domestic or spousal violence and have filed a complaint, you can benefit from a 10-year resident card. The violent spouse must have been definitively convicted.
1st step: Check the deadlines to complete the procedure
You must submit your application on the Internet or at the prefecture (or sub-prefecture) of your home, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
The procedure to be carried out is different depending on your situation:
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
Undignified accommodation conditions
You must submit your application to the prefecture (or sub-prefecture) of your home.
Other situations
You must submit your application on the internet.
2nd step: Inquire about the tax stamp
The issuance of the residence card "private and family life" is free of charge.
There is no tax stamp to buy.
Step 3: Prepare the documents to be provided
You must prepare documents to make your application. These documents vary depending on your situation:
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
Domestic violence or threat of forced marriage
- Full copy of the birth certificate containing the most recent information, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular certificate with photo
or photo ID card
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality of less than 6 months with photo
- Proof of address less than 6 months old
Warning
Renewal of your multi-year residence card may be refused if you cannot prove that you have established your habitual residence in France. You are considered to be habitually resident in France:
- If you have transferred the center of your private and family interests there
- And that you stay there for at least 6 months during the calendar year.
- e-photo : enter the e-photo code (provided by the photographer or the authorized booth on the photo board). If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Protection order rendered by the family judge
- Signed copy of the commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
Trafficking in human beings or procuring
- Full copy of the birth certificate containing the most recent information, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular certificate with photo
or photo ID card
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality of less than 6 months with photo
- Proof of address less than 6 months old
Warning
Renewal of your multi-year residence card may be refused if you cannot prove that you have established your habitual residence in France. You are considered to be habitually resident in France:
- If you have transferred the center of your private and family interests there
- And that you stay there for at least 6 months during the calendar year.
- e-photo : enter the e-photo code (provided by the photographer or the authorized booth on the photo board). If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Receipt for filing of complaint or reference to the legal proceedings initiated involving your testimony
- Signed copy of the commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
Undignified accommodation conditions
If the residence permit has to be renewed throughout the criminal proceedings, the situation of the holder of the residence permit will be examined when applying for authorizationexceptional admission to stay.
FYI
Civil status documents in a foreign language must be accompanied by their translation into french by a certified translator/interpreter.
4th step: Make the step
The approach to follow is different depending on your situation:
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
Undignified accommodation conditions
You must submit your application to the prefecture (or sub-prefecture) of your home, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
If your file is complete, you will receive a receipt pending the response of the prefecture.
Warning
It is not possible to carry out the procedures in some sub-prefectures. Find out more on the website of your prefecture.
Other situations
You must submit your application on the Internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
The request is made on the following website:
When you submit your application for a residence permit on the internet, you will immediately receive a dematerialized certificate of deposit.
5th step: Receive the residence card once it is available
You are informed by the prefecture that your title is available.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your home (depending on the place where your application is submitted).
6th step: Dispute in case of refusal
If you meet the conditions for issuing the residence card, the prefect must enter the residence permit committee for advice, in the event that he intends to refuse to issue you the card.
To be heard by the committee, you receive a summons by mail at least 15 days before its meeting date.
You are informed of the following rights:
- Be assisted by a lawyer or any person of your choice
- Be heard with the assistance of an interpreter
- Possibly benefit during this procedure from legal aid.
You can explain the reasons and circumstances of your application for a residence permit.
You also have the right to request that the mayor of your municipality of residence (or his representative) be present and heard.
If you do not have a residence card or if your card has expired, you will be given a provisional residence document.
Your explanations are sent to the prefect with the reasoned opinion of the residence permit committee. You will also be informed of the committee's opinion.
FYI
The prefect may decide to refuse you the issuance of the card, even in the event of a favorable opinion from the commission.
The deadlines for contesting are different depending on whether or not you have received a response from the prefecture:
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
If the prefect has notified you of the refusal
The prefect's decision is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional cases, this refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) determining the country to which you will be returned.
You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).
No response from the prefect on your request
If the prefecture has not responded after 4 months, this is an implicit refusal.
You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:
- One administrative appeal (ex gratia before the prefect and/or hierarchical redress before the Minister of the Interior),
- And/or a litigation before the administrative court.
In addition, you must meet a condition ofrepublican integration assessed against the following criteria:
- Your attendance and the seriousness of your participation in the training prescribed as part of the Republican Integration Contract (CIR)
- Your knowledge of the French language at A2 level for the issuance of a first multi-year residence card, unless you are over 65 years of age
- Success at civic examination entry ‘multi-annual residence card ” for the issuance of a first multi-year residence card, unless you are over 65 years old
To examine your integration into the French business, the prefect takes into account the follow-up of your CIR.
Warning
The prefecture can refuse you renew your residence card if you are in one of the following situations:
- You have not complied with an obligation to leave the country (OQTF)
- You have committed forgery and the use of forged documents
- You've committed offenses severe or crimes (drug trafficking, trafficking in human beings, procuring, working conditions or undignified accommodation, among others)
- You have committed acts of violence against elected officials, public officials or security agents.
You can apply for a residence card multi-annual private and family life (valid from 2 to 4 years).
Warning
Your temporary residence card cannot be renewed more than 3 consecutive times with the same reason.
1st step: Make an appointment
You must submit your card application to the prefecture (or sub-prefecture) of your home, 2 months before the expiry of your temporary residence card.
In most prefectures, you need to make an appointment.
Find out more on the prefecture's website.
Warning
It is not possible to carry out the procedures in some sub-prefectures. Find out more on the website of your prefecture.
2nd step: Inquire about the tax stamp
You have to pay €225.
You will need to provide proof of payment when you hand over the card.
You can buy the tax stamp on the internet or in a tobacco office.
On the internet
You can purchase your tax stamp using the following online service:
Purchase on the internet of the tax stamp - Title for foreigner
Payment is possible with the following bank cards:
- Carte bleue (CB) and e-carte bleue
- Visa
- Mastercard.
However, payment by Paypal or American Express card is not accepted.
The electronic stamp can be issued on 2 supports:
- PDF document with a 2D code that can also be scanned directly from a phone or tablet by the service responsible for receiving your request
- SMS containing the 16-digit identifier of the stamp that will be accepted by the agent responsible for processing your file.
If you do not use the stamp or have purchased the wrong type of stamp, you can request a refund.
In a tobacco shop
You can buy a tax stamp from a tobacco office, if the business is equipped to be able to edit them.
An online service allows to locate a tobacconist equipped:
Who shall I contact
Warning
Do not buy a fine stamp by mistake.
Step 3: Prepare the documents to be provided
- Full copy of the birth certificate containing the most recent information, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular certificate with photo
or photo ID card
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality of less than 6 months with photo
- Proof of address less than 6 months old
Warning
Renewal of your multi-year residence card may be refused if you cannot prove that you have established your habitual residence in France. You are considered to be habitually resident in France:
- If you have transferred the center of your private and family interests there
- And that you stay there for at least 6 months during the calendar year.
- 3 photos.
If the request is made on the internet: indicate the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the authorized booth on the photo board).
If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Proof of payment of the stamp duty (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
- Medical certificate issued by theOfii: titleContent (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
- Statement on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- Documents proving 3 years of uninterrupted activity within one or more organizations approved for the reception, accommodation or accommodation of people in difficulty (certificates of presence, contribution statements)
- Proof of the real and serious nature of the activity and integration projects (diplomas, training certificates, attendance certificates, volunteer certificates, etc.)
- Report prepared by the head of the host organization (at the date of application) mentioning the accreditation and specifying the following:
- Nature of the missions carried out, their hourly volume, the duration of activity
- Real and serious nature of the activity
- Prospects for integration, particularly with regard to language level
- Skills acquired
- Professional project
- Elements relating to your private and family life
- Certificate of knowledge of the French language at level A2 for the issuance of a first multi-year residence card, unless you are over 65 years old
- Certificate of successful completion of the civic examination entry ‘multi-annual residence card ” for the issuance of a first multi-year residence card, unless you are over 65 years old
- Signed copy of the commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
FYI
Civil status documents in a foreign language must be accompanied by their translation into French by a certified translator/interpreter.
4th step: Go to the appointment
You must go to this appointment in person.
If your file is complete, you will receive a receipt pending the response of the prefecture.
5th step: Receive the residence card once it is available
You are informed by the prefecture that your title is available.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your home (depending on the place where your application is submitted).
In most prefectures, you need to make an appointment.
Find out more on the prefecture's website.
The residence card multi-annual is valid from 2 to 4 years.
6th step: Dispute in case of refusal
If you meet the conditions for issuing the residence card, the prefect must enter the residence permit committee for advice, in the event that he intends to refuse to issue you the card.
To be heard by the committee, you receive a summons by mail at least 15 days before its meeting date.
You are informed of the following rights:
- Be assisted by a lawyer or any person of your choice
- Be heard with the assistance of an interpreter
- Possibly benefit during this procedure from legal aid.
You can explain the reasons and circumstances of your application for a residence permit.
You also have the right to request that the mayor of your municipality of residence (or his representative) be present and heard.
If you do not have a residence card or if your card has expired, you will be given a provisional residence document.
Your explanations are sent to the prefect with the reasoned opinion of the residence permit committee. You will also be informed of the committee's opinion.
FYI
The prefect may decide to refuse you the issuance of the card, even in the event of a favorable opinion from the commission.
The deadlines for contesting are different depending on whether or not you have received a response from the prefecture:
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
If the prefect has notified you of the refusal
The prefect's decision is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional cases, this refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) determining the country to which you will be returned.
You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).
No response from the prefect on your request
If the prefecture has not responded after 4 months, this is an implicit refusal.
You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:
- One administrative appeal (ex gratia before the prefect and/or hierarchical redress before the Minister of the Interior),
- And/or a litigation before the administrative court.
In addition, you must meet a condition ofrepublican integration assessed against the following criteria:
- Your attendance and the seriousness of your participation in the training prescribed as part of the Republican Integration Contract (CIR)
- Your knowledge of the French language at A2 level for the issuance of a first multi-year residence card, unless you are over 65 years of age
- Success at civic examination entry ‘multi-annual residence card ” for the issuance of a first multi-year residence card, unless you are over 65 years old
To examine your integration into the French business, the prefect takes into account the follow-up of your CIR.
Warning
The prefecture can refuse you renew your residence card if you are in one of the following situations:
- You have not complied with an obligation to leave the country (OQTF)
- You have committed forgery and the use of forged documents
- You've committed offenses severe or crimes (drug trafficking, trafficking in human beings, procuring, working conditions or undignified accommodation, among others)
- You have committed acts of violence against elected officials, public officials or security agents.
You can apply for a residence card multi-annual private and family life (valid from 2 to 4 years).
Warning
Your temporary residence card cannot be renewed more than 3 consecutive times with the same reason.
1st step: Make an appointment
You must submit your card application to the prefecture (or sub-prefecture) of your home, 2 months before the expiry of your temporary residence card.
In most prefectures, you need to make an appointment.
Find out more on the prefecture's website.
Warning
It is not possible to carry out the procedures in some sub-prefectures. Find out more on the website of your prefecture.
2nd step: Inquire about the tax stamp
You have to pay €225.
You will need to provide proof of payment when you hand over the card.
You can buy the tax stamp on the internet or in a tobacco office.
On the internet
You can purchase your tax stamp using the following online service:
Purchase on the internet of the tax stamp - Title for foreigner
Payment is possible with the following bank cards:
- Carte bleue (CB) and e-carte bleue
- Visa
- Mastercard.
However, payment by Paypal or American Express card is not accepted.
The electronic stamp can be issued on 2 supports:
- PDF document with a 2D code that can also be scanned directly from a phone or tablet by the service responsible for receiving your request
- SMS containing the 16-digit identifier of the stamp that will be accepted by the agent responsible for processing your file.
If you do not use the stamp or have purchased the wrong type of stamp, you can request a refund.
In a tobacco shop
You can buy a tax stamp from a tobacco office, if the business is equipped to be able to edit them.
An online service allows to locate a tobacconist equipped:
Who shall I contact
Warning
Do not buy a fine stamp by mistake.
Step 3: Prepare the documents to be provided
- Full copy of the birth certificate containing the most recent information, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular certificate with photo
or photo ID card
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality of less than 6 months with photo
- Proof of address less than 6 months old
Warning
Renewal of your multi-year residence card may be refused if you cannot prove that you have established your habitual residence in France. You are considered to be habitually resident in France:
- If you have transferred the center of your private and family interests there
- And that you stay there for at least 6 months during the calendar year.
- 3 photos.
If the request is made on the internet: indicate the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the authorized booth on the photo board).
If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Proof of payment of the stamp duty (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
- Medical certificate issued by theOfii: titleContent (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the title)
- Statement on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- Supporting documents for assessing humanitarian considerations or exceptional grounds (for example, special humanitarian circumstances, length of stay in France, previous employment, professional qualifications, documents relating to services rendered in the cultural, sporting, associative, civic or economic fields, etc.)
- Certificate of knowledge of the French language at level A2 for the issuance of a first multi-year residence card, unless you are over 65 years old
- Certificate of successful completion of the civic examination entry ‘multi-annual residence card ” for the issuance of a first multi-year residence card, unless you are over 65 years old
- Signed copy of the commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
FYI
Civil status documents in a foreign language must be accompanied by their translation into French by a certified translator/interpreter.
4th step: Go to the appointment
You must go to this appointment in person.
If your file is complete, you will receive a receipt pending the response of the prefecture.
5th step: Receive the residence card once it is available
You are informed by the prefecture that your title is available.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your home (depending on the place where your application is submitted).
In most prefectures, you need to make an appointment.
Find out more on the prefecture's website.
The residence card multi-annual is valid from 2 to 4 years.
6th step: Dispute in case of refusal
If you meet the conditions for issuing the residence card, the prefect must enter the residence permit committee for advice, in the event that he intends to refuse to issue you the card.
To be heard by the committee, you receive a summons by mail at least 15 days before its meeting date.
You are informed of the following rights:
- Be assisted by a lawyer or any person of your choice
- Be heard with the assistance of an interpreter
- Possibly benefit during this procedure from legal aid.
You can explain the reasons and circumstances of your application for a residence permit.
You also have the right to request that the mayor of your municipality of residence (or his representative) be present and heard.
If you do not have a residence card or if your card has expired, you will be given a provisional residence document.
Your explanations are sent to the prefect with the reasoned opinion of the residence permit committee. You will also be informed of the committee's opinion.
FYI
The prefect may decide to refuse you the issuance of the card, even in the event of a favorable opinion from the commission.
The deadlines for contesting are different depending on whether or not you have received a response from the prefecture.
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
If the prefect has notified you of the refusal
The prefect's decision is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional cases, this refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) determining the country to which you will be returned.
You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).
No response from the prefect on your request
If the prefecture has not responded after 4 months, this is an implicit refusal.
You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:
- One administrative appeal (ex gratia before the prefect and/or hierarchical redress before the Minister of the Interior),
- And/or a litigation before the administrative court.
Who can help me?
Find who can answer your questions in your region
Administrative information by phone - Allô Service Public
For more information on this subject, you can contact Allô Service Public.
Attention: the service does not have access to users' personal files and therefore cannot provide information on their progress.
- Lundi : de 08h30 à 17h30
- Mardi : de 08h30 à 12h15
- Mercredi : de 08h30 à 12h15
- Jeudi : de 08h30 à 17h30
- Vendredi : de 13h00 à 16h15
- Service free
The informants who answer you belong to the Ministry of the Interior.
Contract of commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
Residence permits for family reasons
Residence permits on humanitarian grounds
Refusal and withdrawal of residence permit
Exceptional admission to stay
Taxes and stamp duty payable
Residence permit for family reasons
Refusal and withdrawal of residence permit
Renewal of the residence permit
List of parts to be supplied
Categories of work authorization issued to foreigners and licensed professional activities
FAQ
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