Post Study Work Visa France

The most significant development for Indian students is the landmark agreement extending the post-study work visa to five years for those who complete a Master's degree in France. This policy, a direct result of strengthening ties between India and France, positions the country as one of the most attractive post-study destinations globally.

This extended duration provides an unparalleled advantage. It gives graduates ample time to find a role that truly matches their skills, integrate into the professional landscape, and make a substantial contribution to the French economy without the pressure of a looming visa expiration. This move solidifies France's goal of welcoming 30,000 Indian students by 2030 and underscores the value it places on Indian talent.

Navigating the visa landscape can seem complex, but for post-study work, there are a few key permits to understand. Each serves a different purpose on your journey from student to professional.

The APS (Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour): The Standard 2-Year Job Seeker Visa

The APS is the most common pathway for recent graduates. Think of it as your "job-seeker" visa. It is designed to give you time to search for employment or even plan the creation of your own company in a field related to your studies. The standard APS is valid for 12 months and can be renewed once, giving you a total of 24 months to secure a position. It's the essential first step for most Bachelor’s and Master’s graduates.

The Passeport Talent (Talent Passport): Securing Long-Term Work in France

The Talent Passport is a multi-year residence permit designed for highly skilled professionals, researchers, entrepreneurs, and artists. While you might not apply for this immediately after graduation, it's the permit you would typically transition to once you secure a qualifying job contract. It signifies that you are a "talent" contributing significantly to the French economy.

The 5-Year 'Alumni' Visa (Not a Work Permit)

It is important not to confuse the post-study work visa with the 5-year short-stay alumni visa. This visa is a benefit for anyone of Indian nationality who has studied for at least one semester in France and holds a Master's degree or higher. It allows for multiple short visits to France (and the Schengen Area) for tourism or business meetings, but does not grant the right to work full-time.

Eligibility is straightforward but strict. You must meet specific criteria linked to your degree and your status as a student.

Eligibility Criteria for the 2-Year APS Post Study Visa

To qualify for the standard 24-month (12+12) APS, you must have obtained a professional Bachelor's degree (Licence Professionnelle) or a Master's level degree from a recognised French institution. This is the primary route for a wide range of graduates looking to start their careers in France.

Specific Requirements for the 5-Year Post Study Visa for Master's Graduates

This highly advantageous 5-year visa is specifically for Indian nationals who have completed a Master's degree or higher from a French university. This bilateral agreement makes it a unique and powerful option for Indian alumni.

Requirements for All French Post Study Visa Applicants

Regardless of the visa type, all applicants must have held a valid French student visa (VLS-TS "étudiant") during their course of study. You must apply for the post-study visa either before your student visa expires (if in France) or within four years of your graduation (if applying from India).

A methodical approach is key to a successful application. Whether you are applying from within France or have returned to India, the core requirements remain the same.

Step 1: Required Documents for Your Post Study Visa France Application

Your application dossier is crucial. You will generally need your valid passport, your recently obtained degree certificate from the French institution, a copy of your old student residence permit, proof of health insurance, and proof of address. You should also prepare a detailed CV and a cover letter explaining your career aspirations in France.

Step 2: The Application Process: Applying from France vs. India

If you are still in France, you must apply at your local Prefecture before your student visa expires. If you have already returned to India, you can leverage the four-year window to apply through the designated VFS Global centre in India, which will forward your application to the relevant French consulate.

Step 3: France Post Study Visa Fees and Processing Times for 2025

Visa fees can vary, but you should budget for the application processing charge. Processing times generally take a few weeks to a couple of months, so it is imperative to apply well in advance. Always check the official France-Visas website for the most current fee structure and estimated timelines.

The APS visa grants you the right to seek employment and also allows you to work. During your job search period, you are permitted to work up to 964 hours per year, which is roughly 60% of a full-time schedule. This is an excellent provision that allows you to gain experience and support yourself financially while you look for a permanent, full-time role related to your studies.

Once you receive a job offer, the next step is to transition from your temporary visa to a full work permit. The primary condition for this change of status is securing an employment contract (either a fixed-term CDD or permanent CDI) with a salary of at least 1.5 times the French minimum wage (SMIC). As of early 2025, this translates to a gross monthly salary of approximately €2,600-€2,700 (₹2.6L - ₹2.7L). Your employer will play a key role in this process, helping you apply for the change of status to a "Passeport Talent" or another relevant work permit.

Your Pathway to Permanent Residency in France After Your Studies

Your time on a post-study and subsequent work permit counts towards long-term residency. After residing in France legally and continuously for five years, you become eligible to apply for Permanent Residency. This requires demonstrating stable employment, sufficient income, and a degree of integration into French society, which often includes basic French language proficiency.

For Indian students in 2025 and 2026, France offers more than just a degree; it offers a clear and welcoming runway to a global career. The combination of a world-class education, a vibrant culture, and exceptionally favourable post-study work policies, highlighted by the new five-year visa for Master's graduates, makes it a premier destination. By understanding the process and planning strategically, you can transform your French education into a life-changing professional experience.