Algerian applicants · French Republic
Student Visa (VLS-TS Étudiant) for Algerian citizens
Long-stay student visa for international students enrolled at French higher-education institutions — includes part-time work rights.
This page covers the Student Visa (VLS-TS Étudiant) specifically for Algerian applicants — including document requirements, consular procedures, and common issues specific to Algeria. The general eligibility criteria apply to everyone.
- Processing time
- 2–6 weeks at consulate; Campus France procedure adds 4–8 weeks.
- Government fees
- Visa fee €99; CVEC contribution €103; residence permit tax €75.
- Typical duration
- 1 year; renewable for duration of studies.
- Sponsorship required
- Yes
- Leads to permanent residency
- No
Bilateral context
No nationality-specific treaty frameworks apply to this combination.
Consular processing: a French Republic consulate or visa application centre in your country of residence
Tourist entry vs. this route
Tourist-entry rules for Algerian nationals are set by Campus France / DGEF and change periodically — check the official entry-requirements page. The Student Visa (VLS-TS Étudiant) is a separate application from any tourist entry.
Visa overview
The VLS-TS Étudiant is issued to non-EU students enrolled in French higher education. Students can work up to 964 hours per year (approximately 20 hours per week). After graduation, students can apply for a 12-month post-study APS (Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour) to seek employment and transition to a Talent Passport or salarié permit.
Eligibility
Typical criteria
- ✓Acceptance at a French higher-education institution.Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs (France) ↗
- ✓Campus France procedure completed (Études en France) for nationals of countries with a Campus France presence.Campus France ↗
- ✓Evidence of financial resources (approximately €615/month or €7,380/year — verify on Campus France).Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs (France) ↗
Common blockers
- !Campus France procedure not completed or refused.Campus France ↗
- !Insufficient financial guarantees.Campus France ↗
Typical evidence
- ·Acceptance letter from institution.Campus France ↗
- ·Campus France attestation.Campus France ↗
- ·Bank statements or scholarship letter.Campus France ↗
Application pathway
Complete Campus France procedure
Register on Études en France and complete the Campus France interview/procedure.
Apply for VLS-TS Étudiant
Apply at the French consulate with acceptance letter and Campus France attestation.
Study and work part-time
Work up to 964 hours/year alongside studies.
Apply for APS post-study
After graduation, apply for a 12-month APS to seek employment and transition to Talent Passport.
Other French Republic routes covered for Algerian applicants
Not sure French Republic is right for you? Compare similar routes
Other countries offer study routes that Algerian nationals also apply to. See how they compare.
Frequently asked questions
Are Algerian citizens eligible for the Student Visa (VLS-TS Étudiant)?+
Eligibility for the Student Visa (VLS-TS Étudiant) is set by Campus France / DGEF and is not nationality-restricted. See the criteria below for the published requirements.
Where do Algerian applicants typically file the Student Visa (VLS-TS Étudiant)?+
a French Republic consulate or visa application centre in your country of residence. Specific intake (online portal, biometrics centre, or in-country lodgement) is determined by Campus France / DGEF — confirm the current intake channel on the primary source linked above before filing.
Do Algerian applicants need a tourist visa for French Republic as well?+
Tourist-entry rules for Algerian nationals are set by Campus France / DGEF and change periodically — check the official entry-requirements page. The Student Visa (VLS-TS Étudiant) is a separate application from any tourist entry.
Can I work while studying in France?+
Yes — up to 964 hours per year (roughly 20 hours per week). No separate work permit is needed. This limit applies to all employment, including internships outside the curriculum.
Can I stay in France after graduating?+
Yes. Graduates can apply for a 12-month Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour (APS) to seek employment. If you find a qualifying job, you can transition to a Talent Passport if you meet the current salary and qualification criteria, or to a standard salarié permit.