What is the VLS-TS long stay visa in France, and how many hours can I work on it?
The VLS-TS is a long-stay visa that acts as a residence permit for international students in France, for study longer than 3 months. It typically allows part-time work of up to 964 hours a year, or about 20 hours a week. It must be validated on arrival.
The VLS-TS is a long-stay visa in France that acts as a residence permit for international students taking a degree-level or higher course longer than 3 months. While on it you can typically work part-time for up to 964 hours annually, or about 20 hours a week.
What the VLS-TS Allows
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Part-time work | Up to 964 hours annually (or 20 hours a week) |
| Schengen travel | Free travel across Schengen countries, with stays of no more than 90 days in a total of 180 consecutive days |
| Travel outside France | Multiple trips anywhere in the world, returning without restrictions during the visa's validity |
| Visale | Free security deposit service for international students |
| CAF rental subsidy | Rental subsidy from the family allowance fund |
| Extension | You can request extended validity as your course demands |
Validity and Validation
- The visa is initially valid from 3 months to a year.
- If you need to stay longer to complete your course, you would need to apply for a residence permit.
- The VLS-TS must be validated after you arrive in France.
- Check the official French immigration page for the latest steps.
My Advice
Make validation one of your first tasks after landing, because it affects your travel freedom later. Keep your work hours under the limit and keep records of your shifts. Confirm the latest rules on the official French government page.
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