When do I have to validate my VLS-TS visa?
Within 3 months of arriving in France, online on the ANEF website. If you miss this deadline, your VLS-TS loses its validity and your stay becomes irregular. Validation requires paying an electronic tax stamp (timbre fiscal); the amount depends on your visa type.
When can I apply to renew my residence permit?
Generally between 4 and 2 months before your permit expires, online on ANEF. It is safest to submit no later than 2 months before expiry. Exact windows can vary by permit type — check service-public.fr.
What is ANEF?
ANEF (Administration Numérique pour les Étrangers en France) is the French Interior Ministry's online portal for foreigners' procedures: VLS-TS validation, permit renewal, address changes and more. Address: administration-etrangers-en-france.interieur.gouv.fr.
Which documents count as proof of address (justificatif de domicile)?
A lease or rent receipt, an electricity, gas or internet bill, or a home insurance certificate. If you are hosted by someone, provide an attestation d'hébergement together with the host's ID and the host's own proof of address. A recent document is usually required (3 to 6 months depending on the procedure). See our proof of address guide.
How much does a residence permit renewal cost?
Payment is made with an electronic tax stamp (timbre fiscal électronique); the amount varies by permit type and situation. The exact amount is shown during your ANEF application. Stamps are purchased online by card at timbres.impots.gouv.fr. Cash is not accepted.
What if no prefecture appointment is available?
New slots often open early in the morning — check daily starting 3 to 4 months before your permit expires. Many procedures have moved online to ANEF and no longer require an appointment at all. Check your prefecture's website first to confirm how your procedure is filed.
What is a récépissé?
A récépissé is the receipt for a residence permit application: it proves your stay is legal while the application is being processed. For online ANEF applications, a PDF attestation often replaces the paper récépissé. Its validity period and whether it allows you to work are stated on the document.
My permit expired and I have no decision yet — am I staying illegally?
If you applied within the deadline, the attestation de prolongation d'instruction issued by ANEF keeps your stay legal. Carry it with you at all times. If you did not apply before expiry, contact your prefecture or a professional as soon as possible.
How do I switch from a student visa to a work permit?
There are three main routes: the RECE (Recherche d'Emploi ou Création d'Entreprise) to look for a job after graduating, a direct status change to Salarié with an employment contract, and the Passeport Talent subject to degree and salary conditions. Compare them in our post-study visa guide.
Is Settli free? What happens to my data?
Settli is completely free and requires no signup. Generating a checklist asks for no personal data and stores none. The newsletter is optional: your email is stored only if you subscribe, and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Does Settli fill in or submit applications for me?
No. Settli is a self-filing assistant: it provides information and checklists to help you prepare, but it is not an administrative representation service or legal advice. Filing remains your responsibility. For complex cases, consult a lawyer.
What if Settli's information differs from what my prefecture asks?
French administration changes often and operating practices vary between prefectures. Settli's information is for reference only — always verify on service-public.fr (official information) and ANEF (where applications are filed). If you spot a difference, report it via the feedback form and we will review and correct it quickly.
⚠️ The information on this page is for reference only and has no legal value. Regulations change — before any important decision, verify on service-public.fr and with your prefecture.
Need the exact document list for your situation?
Select your visa type and city — your personalized checklist is ready in 60 seconds.
→ Start the checklist