Planning your arrival to France

As you begin preparing your travel to France, you may start to feel overwhelmed by all the things that you need to remember. Don't worry, our team is here to help you with the traveling abroad checklist. You will find all the essential things you will need to do before heading to france. 

Few months before your departure to France

Start looking for accommodation as soon as possible. Some procedures (accommodation reservation, deposit) can be done before your departure to France. If you are planning on looking for housing upon your arrival, make sure to have a place to stay for at least 3 months following your arrival. It will save you from problems when submitting your visa and will provide you with security during your housing research in France. 

accommodation

One month before your departure 

If you are a Non-European Union national, you must complete the visa process. If you are traveling for more than 1 year, your passport must be valid for 1 year and 3 months. Waiting for a visa can take a month or more. Therefore, it is highly recommended to submit your visa application early and ensure it will be valid for your entire stay.

To know more about the visa application process, visit the following page "Applying for a student visa".

visa

Financial preparations for traveling 

Before traveling to France, make sure to have a sufficient amount of money that covers your stay for the first year. This amount includes the following (600 euros/month for monthly expenses + accommodation fees + tuition fees). Later on and once you arrive in France, you will be able to open a bank account.

money

One week before your departure 

The weather in France is unpredictable. We highly recommend you pack clothes adapted to all types of weather. Last but not least, don't forget to take all types of documents that you will need to settle in which includes :

 

Identity documents:

  • Identity card;
  • Passport;
  • Birth certificate (a translated and certified copy);
  • Driving license (if you are planning on driving in France).

Study documents: 

  • Proof of enrolment in your school;
  • Language certificate (DELF B2). Only students who are planning to study in French, must provide this document.
  • Last completed degree (a translated and certified copy).

Transportation documents:

  • Train/plane tickets;
  • Map of France (metro/RER).

Documents related to accommodation:

  • Reservation of your accommodation;
  • Required documents to take your accommodation.
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