10-year resident card of a foreigner in France
Verified 06 September 2024 - Directorate for Legal and Administrative Information (Prime Minister)
You have family ties in France or you have rendered services to France (e.g. Foreign Legion engagement) or you benefit international protection (refugee for example)? You can, under certain conditions, apply for a 10-year-old resident card. It can be given to you as your first residence permit or as a renewal of a temporary or multiannual card. We explain the steps to follow, depending on your situation.
Warning
Other rules apply if you are European, Algerian or originating in a country which has concluded with France a agreement on migration flows.
The residence card allows you to stay in France. It allows you to work. Your employer does not have to apply for a work permit.
Step 1: Check if the conditions are met
The resident card is issued to you if the following conditions are met :
- You have been married to a Frenchman for at least 3 years (or at least 1 year if you are Tunisian)
- Your community of life is effective
- Your spouse has retained French nationality
- If your marriage was celebrated abroad, it must have been transcribed previously on the French civil registry.
Please note
You must meet the following 3 conditions:
- You do not represent a threat to public order
- You don't live in a state of polygamy in France
- You have not been convicted of child abuse resulting in mutilation or permanent disability.
In addition, you must meet a condition ofrepublican integration. This condition shall be examined in particular in the light of the following criteria:
- Your commitment to respect the principles governing the French Republic
- Your respect for these principles
- Your sufficient knowledge of the French language
To examine your integration into the French business, the prefect takes into account the conclusion and follow-up of your republican integration contract. In this context, he shall consult the mayor of your home.
Step 2: Check the deadlines for completing the process
You must submit your application on the Internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end the validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
Step 3: Inquire about the tax stamp
You have to pay €225 (stamp duty of €25 and €200) by tax stamps.
If you entered without a long-stay visa, you have to pay more €200 of the right to an adjustment visa by tax stamps (of which €50 to be paid upon submission of the application and non-refundable in the event of refusal to issue the certificate).
You will need to provide a proof of payment when the card is delivered.
You can buy the tax stamp on the internet or at a tobacco office.
If you submit your application after the deadline, except in cases of force majeure or presentation of a valid visa, you will have to pay, in addition to the cost of the card, a visa fee for regularization of the €180.
On the Internet
You can purchase your tax stamp using the following online service:
Purchase of the tax stamp on the Internet - Title for foreigner
Payment is possible with the following bank cards:
- Blue Card (CB) and e-Blue Card
- Endorsement
- Mastercard.
However, payment by Paypal or American Express card is not accepted.
The electronic stamp can be issued on 2 media:
- PDF document with a 2D code that can also be scanned directly from a phone or tablet by the service responsible for receiving your request
- SMS containing the 16-digit stamp identifier that will be accepted by the agent in charge of processing your file.
If you do not use the stamp or have purchased the wrong type of stamp, you can claim the refund.
In a tobacco office
You can buy a tax stamp from a tobacco office, if the store is equipped to edit them.
Warning
Do not buy a fine stamp by mistake.
Step 4: Prepare documents to be provided
You must prepare documents to complete your application. These documents vary depending on your situation.
- Long-stay visa or valid residence permit
- 3 years of proof regular stay : residence cards, renewal certificates
- Full copy of the marriage certificate corresponding to the situation at the time of the application (in the case of marriage celebrated abroad: transcription of the marriage on the French civil registration records)
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular attestation with photo
or photo ID
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality under 6 months with photo
- Proof of domicile less than 6 months old
- e-photo : enter the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the approved cabin on the photo board). If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Medical certificate issued by theOfii: titleContent (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the security)
- Declaration on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- Proof of your spouse's French nationality: valid passport, valid national identity card or certificate of French nationality less than 6 months
- Community of Life Proofs:
- Statement on joint honor attesting to your life together
- All documents enabling this community of life to be established (lease contract, EDF receipt, RIB: titleContent, etc), unless it has been broken up due to domestic or domestic violence.
- Proof of your Republican integration: you must prove your sufficient knowledge of the French language (diploma, test or linguistic certificate), unless you are over 65 years of age.
- Signed copy of a commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
Step 5: Doing it on the Internet
You must submit your application on the Internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
The request can be made at the following website:
When you apply for a residence permit on the Internet, you immediately get a dematerialized certificate deposit.
Step 6: Receive the residence card once it is available
You are informed by the prefecture that your title is available.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your residence (depending on the place where your application is filed).
The resident card is valid 10 years and is renewable.
However, it is no longer valid if you leave France for more than 3 consecutive years.
When renewing your resident card, you can apply for one of the following cards:
Warning
Renewal of your residency card may be refused if you pose a serious threat to public order.
Renewal may also be refused if you cannot prove that you have established your habitual residence in France.
You are considered to be habitually resident in France if you reply 2 conditions following:
- You have transferred the center of your private and family interests there
- And you stay there for at least 6 months during calendar year.
Step 7: Challenge in case of refusal
The time limits for contesting are different depending on whether or not you received a response from the prefecture.
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
The prefect notified you of the refusal
The decision of the prefect is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional circumstances, such refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) setting the country to which you will be returned.
You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).
No reply from the prefect to your request
If the prefecture did not respond after 4 months, this is a implied refusal.
You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:
- One administrative appeal (ex gratia appeal before the prefect and/or hierarchical remedy to the Minister of the Interior),
- And/or a litigation before the administrative court.
The residence card allows you to stay in France. It allows you to work. Your employer does not have to apply for a work permit.
Step 1: Check if the conditions are met
The residence card is issued to you if the following conditions are met:
- You are the spouse or child under 19 years of age of foreigner who has a resident card, entered France by family reunification
- You have been residing regularly and continuously for at least 3 years in France and you justify your republican integration.
Please note
You must meet the following 3 conditions:
- You do not represent a threat to public order
- You don't live in a state of polygamy in France
- You have not been convicted of child abuse resulting in mutilation or permanent disability.
Step 2: Check the deadlines for completing the process
You must submit your application on the Internet, not earlier than 4 months and not later than 2 months before the end the validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
Step 3: Inquire about the tax stamp
You have to pay €225 (stamp duty of €25 and €200) by tax stamps.
If you entered without a long-stay visa, you must pay extra €200 of the right to an adjustment visa by tax stamps (of which €50 to be paid upon submission of the application and non-refundable in the event of refusal to issue the certificate).
You will need to provide proof of payment when you hand over the card.
You can buy the tax stamp on the internet or at a tobacco office.
If you submit your application after the deadline, except in cases of force majeure or presentation of a valid visa, you will have to pay, in addition to the cost of the card, a visa fee for regularization of the €180.
On the Internet
You can purchase your tax stamp using the following online service:
Purchase of the tax stamp on the Internet - Title for foreigner
Payment is possible with the following bank cards:
- Blue Card (CB) and e-Blue Card
- Endorsement
- Mastercard.
However, payment by Paypal or American Express card is not accepted.
The electronic stamp can be issued on 2 media:
- PDF document with a 2D code that can also be scanned directly from a phone or tablet by the service responsible for receiving your request
- SMS containing the 16-digit stamp identifier that will be accepted by the agent in charge of processing your file.
If you do not use the stamp or have purchased the wrong type of stamp, you can claim the refund.
In a tobacco office
You can buy a tax stamp from a tobacco office, if the store is equipped to edit them.
Warning
do not buy a fine stamp by mistake.
Step 4: Prepare documents to be provided
You must prepare documents to complete your application. These documents vary depending on your situation.
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular attestation with photo
or photo ID
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality under 6 months with photo
- Proof of domicile less than 6 months old
- e-photo : enter the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the approved cabin on the photo board). If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Long-stay visa issued for family reunification
- Decision authorizing family reunification
- Valid residence permit
- Residence permit of the person you have joined
- If you are the spouse:
- Statement on honor attesting to your life together
- Extract of marriage certificate corresponding to the situation at the time of application
- Proof of legal residence not interrupted for at least 3 years (residence cards and renewal receipts, school certificate, tax assessment, etc.)
- Proof of your Republican integration: you must prove your sufficient knowledge of the French language (diploma, test or linguistic certificate), unless you are over 65 years of age.
- Declaration on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- Signed copy of a commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
FYI
Civil status documents in a foreign language must be accompanied by their translation into french by a certified translator.
Step 5: Doing it on the Internet
You must submit your application on the Internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
The request can be made at the following website:
When you apply for a residence permit on the Internet, you immediately get a dematerialized certificate deposit.
Step 6: Receive the residence card once it is available
You are informed by the prefecture that your title is available.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your residence (depending on the place where your application is filed).
The resident card is valid 10 years and is renewable.
However, it is no longer valid if you leave France for more than 3 consecutive years.
When renewing your resident card, you can apply for one of the following cards:
Warning
Renewal of your residency card may be refused if you pose a serious threat to public order.
Renewal may also be refused if you cannot prove that you have established your habitual residence in France.
You are considered to be habitually resident in France if you reply 2 conditions following:
- You have transferred the center of your private and family interests there
- And you stay there for at least 6 months during calendar year.
Step 7: Challenge in case of refusal
The time limits for contesting are different depending on whether or not you received a response from the prefecture.
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
The prefect notified you of the refusal
The decision of the prefect is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional circumstances, such refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) setting the country to which you will be returned.
You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).
No reply from the prefect on your request
If the prefecture did not respond after 4 months, this is a implicit refusal.
You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:
- One administrative appeal (ex gratia appeal before the prefect and/or hierarchical remedy to the Minister of the Interior)
- And/or a litigation before the Administrative Court.
The residence card allows you to stay in France. It allows you to work. Your employer does not have to apply for a work permit.
Step 1: Check if the conditions are met
The residence card is issued to you if the following conditions are met:
- You are the father or mother of a French child residing in France
- As such, you have held a residence card for at least 3 years private and family life (you must always meet the criteria for this card).
Please note
You must meet the following 3 conditions:
- You do not represent a threat to public order
- You don't live in a state of polygamy in France
- You have not been convicted of child abuse resulting in mutilation or permanent disability.
Step 2: Check the deadlines for completing the process
You must submit your application on the Internet, to earlier than 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end the validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
Step 3: Inquire about the tax stamp
You have to pay €225 (stamp duty of €25 and €200) by tax stamps.
If you entered without a long-stay visa, you must pay extra €200 of the right to an adjustment visa by tax stamps (of which €50 to be paid upon submission of the application and non-refundable in the event of refusal to issue the certificate).
You will need to provide proof of payment when you hand over the card.
You can buy the tax stamp on the internet or at a tobacco office.
If you submit your application after the deadline, except in cases of force majeure or presentation of a valid visa, you will have to pay, in addition to the cost of the card, a visa fee for regularization of the €180.
On the Internet
You can purchase your tax stamp using the following online service:
Purchase of the tax stamp on the Internet - Title for foreigner
Payment is possible with the following bank cards:
- Blue Card (CB) and e-Blue Card
- Endorsement
- Mastercard.
However, payment by Paypal or American Express card is not accepted.
The electronic stamp can be issued on 2 media:
- PDF document with a 2D code that can also be scanned directly from a phone or tablet by the service responsible for receiving your request
- SMS containing the 16-digit stamp identifier that will be accepted by the agent in charge of processing your file.
If you do not use the stamp or have purchased the wrong type of stamp, you can claim the refund.
In a tobacco office
You can buy a tax stamp from a tobacco office, if the store is equipped to edit them.
Warning
do not buy a fine stamp by mistake.
Step 4: Prepare documents to be provided
You must prepare documents to complete your application. These documents vary depending on your situation.
- Full copy of the birth certificate with the most recent entries, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular attestation with photo
or photo ID
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality under 6 months with photo
- Valid residence permit
- 3 years of proof regular stay as a parent of a french child: residence cards, renewal receipts
- Proof of domicile less than 6 months old
- e-photo : enter the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the approved cabin on the photo board). If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Declaration on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- Birth certificate of the child (full copy or extract with parentage) corresponding to the situation at the time of the request)
- Proof of actual contribution to the maintenance and upbringing of the child since birth or for at least 2 years: payment of a pension, purchases for the child, for example
- If the filiation with respect to the French parent results from a filiation recognition :
- Proof of actual contribution to the maintenance and upbringing of the child since birth or for at least 2 years: payment of a pension, purchases for the child, for example.
- Otherwise, a court order that you fulfill your obligations (payment of maintenance or a financial contribution)
- Proof of residence in France of the child (proof by all means): certificate of schooling or nursery, presence of the child at the time of application, for example
- Proof of your Republican integration: you must prove your sufficient knowledge of the French language (diploma, test or linguistic certificate), unless you are over 65 years of age.
- Signed copy of a commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
Step 5: Doing it on the Internet
You must submit your application on the Internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
The request can be made at the following website:
When you apply for a residence permit on the Internet, you immediately get a dematerialized certificate deposit.
Step 6: Receive the residence card once it is available
You are informed by the prefecture that your title is available.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your residence (depending on the place where your application is filed).
The resident card is valid 10 years and renewable.
However, it is no longer valid if you leave France for more than 3 consecutive years.
When renewing your resident card, you can apply for one of the following cards:
Warning
Renewal of your residency card may be refused if you pose a serious threat to public order.
Renewal may also be refused if you cannot prove that you have established your habitual residence in France.
You are considered to be habitually resident in France if you reply 2 conditions following:
- You have transferred the center of your private and family interests there
- And you stay there for at least 6 months during calendar year.
Step 7: Challenge in case of refusal
If you meet the conditions for issuing the residence card, the prefect must enter the committee on residence permits for advice, in case he plans to refuse to issue you the card.
To be heard by the Commission, you receive a notice by mail at least 15 days before its meeting date.
You are informed of the following rights:
- Be assisted by a lawyer or any person of your choice
- To be heard with the assistance of an interpreter
- Possibly benefit during this procedure from legal aid.
You can explain the reasons and circumstances of your application for a residence permit.
You also have the right to request that the mayor of your municipality of residence (or his representative) be present and heard.
If you do not have a residence card or if your card is out of date, a temporary residence document is provided.
Your explanations shall be forwarded to the Prefect with the reasoned opinion of the Committee on the Residence Permit. The opinion of the committee is also sent to you.
FYI
The prefect may decide to refuse you the issue of the card, even in case of a favorable opinion of the commission.
The time limits for contesting are different depending on whether or not you received a response from the prefecture.
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
The prefect notified you of the refusal
The decision of the prefect is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional circumstances, such refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) setting the country to which you will be returned.
You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).
No reply from the prefect on your request
If the prefecture did not respond after 4 months, this is a implicit refusal.
You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:
- One administrative appeal (ex gratia appeal before the prefect and/or hierarchical remedy to the Minister of the Interior),
- And/or a litigation before the administrative court.
The residence card allows you to stay in France. It allows you to work. Your employer does not have to apply for a work permit.
Step 1: Check if the conditions are met
The conditions for obtaining a residency card differ according to your case.
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
Child of French
The residence card is issued to you if you are the foreigner child of a French national and if you meet one of the following conditions:
- You are between the ages of 18 and 21
- You are between the ages of 16 and 18 and say you want to work
- You are dependent on your parents.
For Algerian and Tunisian nationals, you must meet one of the following 2 conditions:
- You're under 21
- You are dependent on your parents.
Please note
You must meet the following 3 conditions:
- You do not represent a threat to public order
- You don't live in a state of polygamy in France
- You have not been convicted of child abuse resulting in mutilation or permanent disability.
Please note
If you are a child of French, you must have a parentage legally established. If you have been adopted abroad, the adoption must be regular.
Ascendant to a Frenchman
The residence card is issued to you if you are a parent (father or mother) or in-laws dependent on a French national.
You must have entered France with a long-stay visa (for a stay of more than 3 months).
If you are an Algerian or Tunisian national, you must:
- Be legally resident in France
- Be financially supported by the French host and her husband.
Please note
You must meet the following 3 conditions:
- You do not represent a threat to public order
- You don't live in a state of polygamy in France
- You have not been convicted of child abuse resulting in mutilation or permanent disability.
Step 2: Check the deadlines for completing the process
You must submit your application on the Internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
Step 3: Inquire about the tax stamp
You have to pay €225 (stamp duty of €25 and €200) by tax stamps.
If you entered without a long-stay visa, you must pay extra €200 of the right to an adjustment visa by tax stamps (of which €50 to be paid upon submission of the application and non-refundable in the event of refusal to issue the certificate).
You will need to provide proof of payment when you hand over the card.
You can buy the tax stamp on the internet or at a tobacco office.
If you submit your application after the deadline, except in cases of force majeure or presentation of a valid visa, you will have to pay, in addition to the cost of the card, a visa fee for regularization of the €180.
FYI
If you are Algerian, the issuance of your 10-year residency certificate is tax exempt.
On the Internet
You can purchase your tax stamp using the following online service:
Purchase of the tax stamp on the Internet - Title for foreigner
Payment is possible with the following bank cards:
- Blue Card (CB) and e-Blue Card
- Endorsement
- Mastercard.
However, payment by Paypal or American Express card is not accepted.
The electronic stamp can be issued on 2 media:
- PDF document with a 2D code that can also be scanned directly from a phone or tablet by the service responsible for receiving your request
- SMS containing the 16-digit stamp identifier that will be accepted by the agent in charge of processing your file.
If you do not use the stamp or have purchased the wrong type of stamp, you can claim the refund.
In a tobacco office
You can buy a tax stamp from a tobacco office, if the store is equipped to edit them.
Warning
do not buy a fine stamp by mistake.
Step 4: Prepare documents to be provided
You must prepare documents to complete your application. These documents vary depending on your situation.
To apply online, you must provide all the supporting documents listed below in digital form. These documents must be legible.
Child of French
Personal information
Proof of legal entry or stay in France
- Long-stay visa: copy of the pages of your passport bearing your valid visa + entry stamp
or valid residence permit.
For Algerian or Tunisian applicants: any document proving the regularity of your stay. If you are a minor, any document proving your presence in France.
Proof of nationality
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular attestation with photo
or photo ID
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality under 6 months with photo
Non-polygamy
- Declaration on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
Identity Photos
- e-photo : enter the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the approved cabin on the photo board). If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Signed copy of a commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
Home
- Proof of domicile less than 6 months old
Reason for stay
- Proof of French nationality of the French parent(s): valid passport, valid national identity card or certificate of French nationality (document less than 6 months old)
- Proof of parentage with the french parent(s): birth certificate (full copy or extract with parentage), simple or full adoption judgment (corresponding to the situation at the time of the application)
- If you are over 21 years of age, proof of support by your French parent(s):
- Proof of resources of your French parent(s): tax notice, salary voucher, proof of accommodation, financial payment, rental contract, deed of ownership, etc.
- Proof of your lack of resources: notice of taxation or non-taxation, statement of account, medical certificate attesting to a disability that prevents you from working or performing everyday acts, etc.
Ascendant to a Frenchman
Personal information
Proof of legal entry or stay in France
- Long-stay visa: copy of the pages of your passport bearing your valid visa + entry stamp
- Or valid residence permit
Proof of nationality
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular attestation with photo
or photo ID
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality under 6 months with photo
Civil status certificate
Full copy of your birth certificate with the most recent entries, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
Identity Photos
- e-photo : enter the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the approved cabin on the photo board). If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
Medical certificate (unless you are Algerian or Tunisian)
- Medical certificate issued by theOfii: titleContent (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the security)
Non-polygamy
- Declaration on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- Signed copy of a commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
Home
- Proof of domicile less than 6 months old
Reason for stay
- Proof of French nationality of your child or his/her spouse : valid passport, valid national identity card or certificate of French nationality (document of less than 6 months)
- Proof of family relationship
- Birth certificate of your French child with filiation and marginal mentions
- Or a full copy of your child's marriage certificate with her French spouse
- Or family booklet
- Proof of your French child's resources (and her/his spouse if necessary): tax notice, bank statements, salary slips, proof of accommodation, rental agreement, deed of ownership, etc.
- Justifications for your lack of resources, you must provide at least one of the following:
- Superannuation payments or other benefits and their amounts
- Regular and sufficient financial payments from the French host
- Account Statements
- Statement from the consulate regarding your isolation and the financial situation of your children staying in the country of origin
- Declaration that you do not have any other children who can take you to your country of origin
- Dependent mention on the income tax return of the host with mention of the amount paid
Step 5: Doing it on the Internet
You must submit your application on the Internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
The request can be made at the following website:
When you apply for a residence permit on the Internet, you immediately get a dematerialized certificate deposit.
Step 6: Receive the residence card once it is available
If your application is accepted, you are informed by the prefecture that your title is available.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your residence (depending on the place where your application is filed).
The resident card is valid 10 years and renewable.
However, it is no longer valid if you leave France for more than 3 consecutive years.
When renewing your resident card, you can apply for one of the following cards:
Warning
Renewal of your residency card may be refused if you pose a serious threat to public order.
Renewal may also be refused if you cannot prove that you have established your habitual residence in France.
You are considered to be habitually resident in France if you reply 2 conditions following:
- You have transferred the center of your private and family interests there
- And you stay there for at least 6 months during calendar year.
Step 7: Challenge in case of refusal
If you meet the conditions for issuing the residence card, the prefect must enter the committee on residence permits for advice, in case he plans to refuse to issue you the card.
To be heard by the Commission, you receive a notice by mail at least 15 days before its meeting date.
You are informed of the following rights:
- Be assisted by a lawyer or any person of your choice
- To be heard with the assistance of an interpreter
- Possibly benefit during this procedure from legal aid.
You can explain the reasons and circumstances of your application for a residence permit.
You also have the right to request that the mayor of your municipality of residence (or his representative) be present and heard.
If you do not have a residence card or if your card is out of date, a temporary residence document is provided.
Your explanations shall be forwarded to the Prefect with the reasoned opinion of the Committee on the Residence Permit. The opinion of the committee is also sent to you.
FYI
The prefect may decide to refuse you the issue of the card, even in case of a favorable opinion of the commission.
The time limits for contesting are different depending on whether or not you received a response from the prefecture.
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
If the prefect has notified you of the refusal
The decision of the prefect is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional circumstances, such refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) setting the country to which you will be returned.
You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).
No reply from the prefect on your request
If the prefecture did not respond after 4 months, this is a implied refusal.
You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:
- One administrative appeal (ex gratia appeal before the prefect and/or hierarchical remedy to the Minister of the Interior),
- And/or a litigation before the Administrative Court.
The residence card allows you to stay in France. It allows you to work. Your employer does not have to apply for a work permit.
Step 1: Check if the conditions are met
The conditions for obtaining a residency card differ depending on your situation.
Please note
You must meet the following 3 conditions:
- You do not represent a threat to public order
- You don't live in a state of polygamy in France
- You have not been convicted of child abuse resulting in mutilation or permanent disability.
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
Refugee and his family
The residence card is issued to you:
- If you have obtained the refugee status,
- Or if you are part of the refugee’s family:
- In the case of marriage, civil union or cohabitation prior to the date of lodging the application for asylum: spouse, cohabitation or civil union partner of the refugee, authorized to reside in France under the family reunification
- In the case of a marriage or civil union after the date of application for asylum: spouse or civil union partner of the refugee, if the marriage or civil union has been celebrated for at least one year and community of life is effective between spouses or partners
- Children under 19 years of age of the refugee
- Parents of a recognized refugee child who entered as unaccompanied minor in France.
Please note
If you are a refugee child, you must have a parentage legally established. If you have been adopted abroad, the adoption must be regular.
Stateless person and family
The residence card is issued to you:
- If you have been granted stateless status and have held a multi-annual residence permit for 4 years,
- Or if you are part of the family of a stateless person and have held a multi-annual residence permit for 4 years:
- In the case of marriage, civil union or cohabitation anterior on the date of lodging the application for asylum: spouse, common-law partner or civil union partner of the refugee, authorized to reside in France on the basis of family reunification
- In case of marriage or civil union posterior on the date of lodging the asylum application: spouse or civil union partner, if the marriage or civil union has been celebrated for at least 1 year and community of life is effective between spouses or partners
Children of the foreigner recognized as stateless, unmarried and aged over 19 years - Parents of a minor child recognized as stateless if unmarried. Parents may be accompanied, if necessary, by their unmarried minor children in their effective care.
Please note
If you are a child of statelessness, you must have a parentage legally established. If you have been adopted abroad, the adoption must be regular.
Beneficiary of subsidiary protection and his family
The residence card is issued to you:
- If you are a beneficiary of subsidiary protection and have held a multiannual residence permit for 4 years,
- Or if you are part of the family of a beneficiary of subsidiary protection and have held a multiannual residence permit for 4 years:
- In the case of marriage, civil union or cohabitation anterior on the date of lodging the application for asylum: spouse, common-law partner or civil union partner of the refugee, authorized to reside in France on the basis of family reunification
- In case of marriage or civil union posterior on the date of lodging the asylum application: spouse or civil union partner, if the marriage or civil union has been celebrated for at least 1 year and community of life is effective between spouses or partners
- Children of the beneficiary of subsidiary protection, unmarried and over 19 years of age
- Parents of a minor child who is granted subsidiary protection if he or she is unmarried. Parents may be accompanied, if necessary, by their unmarried minor children in their effective care.
Please note
If you are a child of statelessness, you must have a parentage legally established. If you have been adopted abroad, the adoption must be regular.
Step 2: Inquire about the tax stamp
You must pay the following amount:
- Refugee and family:
- 1re asks: €25 (stamp duty) by tax stamps
- Renewal and duplicate: €225 (stamp duty of €25 + tax €200) by tax stamps
- Stateless person and family:
- 1re card issue: free of charge
- Renewal and duplicate: €225(stamp duty of €25 + tax €200) by tax stamps
- Subsidiary protected person and his family:
- 1re card issue: free of charge
- Renewal and duplicate: €225 (stamp duty of €25 + tax €200) by tax stamps
The proof of payment is requested when the card is handed over to the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your domicile (depending on the place of deposit of your application).
Step 3: Prepare documents to be provided
You must prepare documents to complete your application. These documents vary depending on your situation.
Refugee and his family
Refugee
- e-photo : enter the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the approved cabin on the photo board). If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Decision of theOfpra: titleContent or the NDA: titleContent granting you refugee status
- Civil status certificate (sent by Ofpra to the prefecture)
- Proof of domicile less than 6 months old (or declaration of domicile)
- Declaration on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- Signed copy of a commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
Refugee family
- Full copy of the birth certificate with the most recent entries, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular attestation with photo
or photo ID
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality under 6 months with photo
- e-photo : enter the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the approved cabin on the photo board). If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Proof of domicile less than 6 months old (or declaration of domicile)
- Declaration on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- If you apply for the residence card at the same time as the refugee: decision of theOfpra: titleContent or the NDA: titleContent granting refugee status
- Proof of family relationship with the refugee: proof of marriage or civil union or proof of filiation for children and ascendants
- Signed copy of a commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
Stateless person and family
Stateless
- 3 photos.
If the request is made on the internet: enter the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the approved cabin on the photo board).
If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Decision of theOfpra: titleContent granting you statelessness
- Civil status certificate (sent by Ofpra to the prefecture)
- Proof of domicile less than 6 months old (or declaration of domicile)
- Valid residence permit
- Proof of 4 years of legal residence (temporary or multi-year residence cards issued as stateless)
- Declaration on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- Signed copy of a commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
Family of stateless persons
- Full copy of the birth certificate with the most recent entries, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
- Valid residence permit
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular attestation with photo
or photo ID
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality under 6 months with photo
- 3 photos.
If the request is made on the internet: enter the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the approved cabin on the photo board).
If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Proof of domicile less than 6 months old (or declaration of domicile)
- Declaration on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- Decision of theOfpra: titleContent assigning stateless status to your spouse, partner, common-law partner or parent
- Proof of family relationship with the refugee: proof of marriage or civil union or proof of filiation for children and ascendants
- If you have arrived in France for family reunification: medical certificate issued by the Ofii (at the latest when the residence permit is issued)
- Proof of 4 years of legal residence (temporary or multi-annual residence cards issued as a family member of stateless persons)
- If your application is later than that of the stateless person: residence card issued to your spouse, partner, cohabiting partner or parent benefiting from stateless status
- Signed copy of a commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
Beneficiary of subsidiary protection and his family
Beneficiary of subsidiary protection
- Civil status certificate (transmitted by theOfpra: titleContent to the prefecture)
- Proof of domicile less than 6 months old
- e-photo : enter the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the approved cabin on the photo board). If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Declaration on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- Decision of Ofpra or the NDA: titleContent granting you subsidiary protection
- Valid residence permit
- Proof of 4 years of legal residence (temporary or multiannual residence cards issued as subsidiary protection)
- Signed copy of a commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
Family of the beneficiary of subsidiary protection
- Full copy of the birth certificate with the most recent entries, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular attestation with photo
or photo ID
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality under 6 months with photo
- Proof of domicile less than 6 months old
- e-photo : enter the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the approved cabin on the photo board). If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Decision of theOfpra: titleContent or the NDA: titleContent conferring subsidiary protection
- Proof of family relationship with the refugee: proof of marriage or civil union or proof of filiation for children and ascendants
- If you have arrived in France for family reunification: medical certificate issued by the Ofii (at the latest when the residence permit is issued)
- Declaration on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- Valid residence permit
- Proof of 4 years of legal residence (temporary or multi-annual residence cards issued as a family member of a subsidiary protected person)
- Signed copy of a commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
Step 4: Check the steps to be taken
The way in which applications for residence permits are submitted depends on the nature of the residence permit:
Refugee
You must submit your application on the Internet, not earlier than 4 months and not later than 2 months before the end the validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
The request can be made at the following website:
Stateless
You must submit your card application to the prefecture (or sub-prefecture) of your home, 2 months before the expiry of your VLS-TS or residence permit.
In most prefectures, you have to make an appointment.
Find out more on the website of the prefecture.
Warning
It is not possible to carry out the procedures in some sub-prefectures. Find out more on your prefecture's website.
Beneficiary of subsidiary protection
You must submit your application on the Internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
The request can be made at the following website:
Step 5: Receive the residence card once it is available
You are informed by the prefecture that your title is available.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your residence (depending on the place where your application is filed).
In most prefectures, you have to make an appointment.
Find out more on the website of the prefecture.
The resident card is valid 10 years and renewable.
However, it is no longer valid if you leave France for more than 3 consecutive years.
When renewing your resident card, you can apply for one of the following cards:
Please note
If you pose a serious threat to public order, the prefect may refuse to renew your residence card.
Step 6: Challenge in case of refusal
If you meet the conditions for issuing the residence card, the prefect must enter the committee on residence permits for advice, in case he plans to refuse to issue you the card.
To be heard by the Commission, you receive a notice by mail at least 15 days before its meeting date.
You are informed of the following rights:
- Be assisted by a lawyer or any person of your choice
- To be heard with the assistance of an interpreter
- Possibly benefit during this procedure from legal aid.
You can explain the reasons and circumstances of your application for a residence permit.
You also have the right to request that the mayor of your municipality of residence (or his representative) be present and heard.
If you do not have a residence card or if your card is out of date, a temporary residence document is provided.
Your explanations shall be forwarded to the Prefect with the reasoned opinion of the Committee on the Residence Permit. The opinion of the committee is also sent to you.
FYI
The prefect may decide to refuse you the issue of the card, even in case of a favorable opinion of the commission.
The time limits for contesting are different depending on whether or not you received a response from the prefecture.
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
The prefect notified you of the refusal
The decision of the prefect is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional circumstances, such refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) setting the country to which you will be returned.
You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).
No reply from the prefect on your request
If the prefecture did not respond after 4 months, this is a implicit refusal.
You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:
- One administrative appeal (ex gratia appeal before the prefect and/or hierarchical remedy to the Minister of the Interior),
- And/or a litigation before the administrative court.
The residence card allows you to stay in France. It allows you to work. Your employer does not have to apply for a work permit.
Step 1: Check if the conditions are met
The resident card is issued if you are in one of the following situations:
- You receive an accident at work or occupational disease pension paid by a French organization for a rate of permanent incapacity of at least 20%
- You are entitled of a foreigner accident at work who is in receipt of a death benefit for a French organization.
Please note
You must meet the following 3 conditions:
- You do not represent a threat to public order
- You don't live in a state of polygamy in France
- You have not been convicted of child abuse resulting in mutilation or permanent disability.
Step 2: Make an appointment
You must submit your card application to the prefecture (or sub-prefecture) of your home, 2 months before the expiry of your visa (or residence permit).
In most prefectures, you have to make an appointment.
Find out more on the website of the prefecture.
Warning
It is not possible to carry out the procedures in some sub-prefectures. Find out more on your prefecture's website.
Step 3: Inquire about the tax stamp
You have to pay €75 (tax of €50 + €25 stamp duty) by tax stamps.
If you entered without a long-stay visa, you must pay extra €200 of the right to an adjustment visa by tax stamps (of which €50 to be paid upon submission of the application and non-refundable in the event of refusal to issue the certificate).
You will need to provide proof of payment when you hand over the card.
You can buy the tax stamp on the internet or at a tobacco office.
If you submit your application after the deadline, except in cases of force majeure or presentation of a valid visa, you will have to pay, in addition to the cost of the card, a visa fee for regularization of the €180.
On the Internet
You can purchase your tax stamp using the following online service:
Purchase of the tax stamp on the Internet - Title for foreigner
Payment is possible with the following bank cards:
- Blue Card (CB) and e-Blue Card
- Endorsement
- Mastercard.
However, payment by Paypal or American Express card is not accepted.
The electronic stamp can be issued on 2 media:
- PDF document with a 2D code that can also be scanned directly from a phone or tablet by the service responsible for receiving your request
- SMS containing the 16-digit stamp identifier that will be accepted by the agent in charge of processing your file.
If you do not use the stamp or have purchased the wrong type of stamp, you can claim the refund.
In a tobacco office
You can buy a tax stamp from a tobacco office, if the store is equipped to edit them.
Warning
Do not buy a fine stamp by mistake.
Step 4: Prepare documents to be provided
You must prepare documents to complete your application. These documents vary depending on your situation.
Beneficiary
- Visa valid at the time of application (photocopy of passport pages with entry stamps and visas) or valid residence card
- Full copy of the birth certificate with the most recent entries, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular attestation with photo
or photo ID
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality under 6 months with photo
- Proof of domicile less than 6 months old
- 3 photos.
If the request is made on the internet: enter the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the approved cabin on the photo board).
If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Declaration on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- Medical certificate issued by theOfii: titleContent (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the security)
- Proof of a rate of permanent physical invalidity equal to or greater than 20%
- Accident at work Proof of payment of a pension for an occupational disease or an occupational disease paid by a French body: certificate issued by the French body (CPAM: titleContent, etc.) paying the annuity
- Signed copy of a commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
Beneficiary's family
- Valid visa at the time of application (photocopy of passport pages concerning entry stamps and visas) or valid residence card
- Full copy of the birth certificate with the most recent entries, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular attestation with photo
or photo ID
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality under 6 months with photo
- Proof of domicile less than 6 months old
- 3 photos.
If the request is made on the internet: enter the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the approved cabin on the photo board).
If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Declaration on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- Medical certificate issued by theOfii: titleContent (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the security)
- Accident at work Proof of receipt of an annuity from a French body as beneficiary: certificate issued by the French body (CPAM: titleContent, etc.) paying the annuity
- Signed copy of a commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
Step 5: Go to the appointment
You must surrender in person to this appointment.
If your file is complete, you will receive a receipt awaiting the response of the prefecture.
Step 6: Receive the residence card once it is available
You are informed by the prefecture that your title is available.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your residence (depending on the place where your application is filed).
In most prefectures, you have to make an appointment.
Find out more on the website of the prefecture.
The resident card is valid 10 years and is renewable.
However, it is no longer valid if you leave France for more than 3 consecutive years.
When renewing your resident card, you can apply for one of the following cards:
Warning
Renewal of your residency card may be refused if you pose a serious threat to public order.
Renewal may also be refused if you cannot prove that you have established your habitual residence in France.
You are considered to be habitually resident in France if you reply 2 conditions following:
- You have transferred the center of your private and family interests there
- And you stay there for at least 6 months during calendar year.
Step 7: Challenge in case of refusal
If you meet the conditions for issuing the residence card, the prefect must enter the committee on residence permits for advice, in case he plans to refuse to issue you the card.
To be heard by the Commission, you receive a notice by mail at least 15 days before its meeting date.
You are informed of the following rights:
- Be assisted by a lawyer or any person of your choice
- To be heard with the assistance of an interpreter
- Possibly benefit during this procedure from legal aid.
You can explain the reasons and circumstances of your application for a residence permit.
You also have the right to request that the mayor of your municipality of residence (or his representative) be present and heard.
If you do not have a residence card or if your card is out of date, a temporary residence document is provided.
Your explanations shall be forwarded to the Prefect with the reasoned opinion of the Committee on the Residence Permit. The opinion of the committee is also sent to you.
FYI
The prefect may decide to refuse you the issue of the card, even in case of a favorable opinion of the commission.
The time limits for contesting are different depending on whether or not you received a response from the prefecture.
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
The prefect notified you of the refusal
The decision of the prefect is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional circumstances, such refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) setting the country to which you will be returned.
You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).
No reply from the prefect on your request
If the prefecture did not respond after 4 months, this is a implied refusal.
You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:
- One administrative appeal (ex gratia appeal before the prefect and/or hierarchical remedy to the Minister of the Interior),
- And/or a litigation before the Administrative Court.
The residence card allows you to stay in France. It allows you to work. Your employer does not have to apply for a work permit.
Step 1: Check if the conditions are met
The conditions for obtaining a residency card vary depending on your situation.
Please note
You must meet the following 3 conditions:
- You do not represent a threat to public order
- You don't live in a state of polygamy in France
- You have not been convicted of child abuse resulting in mutilation or permanent disability.
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
Victim of domestic violence or forced marriage
The resident card is issued to you if you are a beneficiary of protection order because of the violence committed by your spouse, partner or partner. Your husband must have been definitively convicted as a result of your complaint.
The prefect can't refuse you this card for breaking up the common life.
Victim of trafficking in human beings or of procuring
The resident card can be issued if the following conditions are met:
- You have complained or testified in criminal proceedings against a person or persons prosecuted for procuring or trafficking in human beings (sexual or domestic slavery, forced removal of organs, etc.)
- You must no longer be in contact with the accused author(s)
- Defendant definitively sentenced.
Step 2: Check the deadlines for completing the process
You must submit your application on the Internet, not earlier than 4 months and not later than 2 months before the end the validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
Step 3: Inquire about the tax stamp
The 10-year-old resident card is free. There is no tax stamp to buy.
If you submit your application after the deadline, except in cases of force majeure or presentation of a valid visa, you will have to pay, in addition to the cost of the card, a visa fee for regularization of the €180.
Step 4: Prepare documents to be provided
You must prepare documents to complete your application. These documents vary depending on your situation.
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
Victim of domestic violence or forced marriage
- Full copy of the birth certificate with the most recent entries, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular attestation with photo
or photo ID
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality under 6 months with photo
- Proof of domicile less than 6 months old
- e-photo : enter the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the approved cabin on the photo board). If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Proof of final conviction of the perpetrators of the offenses complained of: judgment handed down at first instance and certificate of non-appeal issued by the Chief Registrar of the Court of Appeal (if no mention is made of the judgment), or judgment of the Court of Appeal
- Signed copy of a commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
Victim of trafficking in human beings or of procuring
- Full copy of the birth certificate with the most recent entries, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular attestation with photo
or photo ID
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality under 6 months with photo
- Proof of domicile less than 6 months old
- e-photo : enter the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the approved cabin on the photo board). If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Proof of final conviction of the perpetrators of the offenses complained of: judgment handed down at first instance and certificate of non-appeal issued by the Chief Registrar of the Court of Appeal (if no mention is made of the judgment), or judgment of the Court of Appeal
- Signed copy of a commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
Step 5: Doing it on the Internet
You must submit your application on the Internet, at the earliest 4 months and at the latest 2 months before the end of validity of your residence document (visa, VLS-TS or title).
The request can be made at the following website:
When you apply for a residence permit on the Internet, you immediately get a dematerialized certificate deposit.
Step 6: Receive the residence card once it is available
You are informed by the prefecture that your title is available.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your residence (depending on the place where your application is filed).
The resident card is valid 10 years and is renewable.
However, it is no longer valid if you leave France for more than 3 consecutive years.
When renewing your resident card, you can apply for one of the following cards:
Warning
Renewal of your residency card may be refused if you pose a serious threat to public order.
Renewal may also be refused if you cannot prove that you have established your habitual residence in France.
You are considered to be habitually resident in France if you reply 2 conditions following:
- You have transferred the center of your private and family interests there
- And you stay there for at least 6 months during calendar year.
Step 7: Challenge in case of refusal
If you meet the conditions for issuing the residence card, the prefect must enter the committee on residence permits for advice, in case he plans to refuse to issue you the card.
To be heard by the Commission, you receive a notice by mail at least 15 days before its meeting date.
You are informed of the following rights:
- Be assisted by a lawyer or any person of your choice
- To be heard with the assistance of an interpreter
- Possibly benefit during this procedure from legal aid.
You can explain the reasons and circumstances of your application for a residence permit.
You also have the right to request that the mayor of your municipality of residence (or his representative) be present and heard.
If you do not have a residence card or if your card is out of date, a temporary residence document is provided.
Your explanations shall be forwarded to the Prefect with the reasoned opinion of the Committee on the Residence Permit. The opinion of the committee is also sent to you.
FYI
The prefect may decide to refuse you the issue of the card, even in case of a favorable opinion of the commission.
The time limits for contesting are different depending on whether or not you received a response from the prefecture.
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
The prefect notified you of the refusal
The decision of the prefect is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional circumstances, such refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) setting the country to which you will be returned.
You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).
No reply from the prefect on your request
If the prefecture did not respond after 4 months, this is a implied refusal.
You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:
- One administrative appeal (ex gratia appeal before the prefect and/or hierarchical remedy to the Minister of the Interior),
- And/or a litigation before the administrative court.
The residence card allows you to stay in France. It allows you to work. Your employer does not have to apply for a work permit.
Step 1: Check if the conditions are met
The resident card is issued if you are in one of the following situations:
- You served in a fighting unit of the French army or an allied army
- You have spent at least 3 years under contract with the Foreign Legion or are still under contract with the Foreign Legion and you have obtained the certificate of good conduct
- You fought in the ranks of the French Interior Forces (FFI).
Please note
You must meet the following 3 conditions:
- You do not represent a threat to public order
- You don't live in a state of polygamy in France
- You have not been convicted of child abuse resulting in mutilation or permanent disability.
Step 2: Make an appointment
You must submit your card application to the prefecture (or sub-prefecture) of your home, 2 months before the expiry of your visa (or residence permit).
In most prefectures, you have to make an appointment.
Find out more on the website of the prefecture.
Warning
It is not possible to carry out the procedures in some sub-prefectures. Find out more on your prefecture's website.
Step 3: Inquire about the tax stamp
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
Veteran
Depending on the situation:
- 1re asks: €25 (stamp duty) to be paid by tax stamps
- Renewal and duplicate €225 (stamp duty of €25 + tax €200) to be paid by tax stamps.
Serving and former serving members of the Foreign Legion
€225 (stamp duty of €25 + tax €200) to be settled by tax stamps.
You can buy the tax stamp on the internet or at a tobacco office.
The proof of payment is requested when the card is handed over to the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your domicile (depending on the place of deposit of your application).
On the Internet
You can purchase your tax stamp using the following online service:
Purchase of the tax stamp on the Internet - Title for foreigner
Payment is possible with the following bank cards:
- Blue Card (CB) and e-Blue Card
- Endorsement
- Mastercard.
However, payment by Paypal or American Express card is not accepted.
The electronic stamp can be issued on 2 media:
- PDF document with a 2D code that can also be scanned directly from a phone or tablet by the service responsible for receiving your request
- SMS containing the 16-digit stamp identifier that will be accepted by the agent in charge of processing your file.
If you do not use the stamp or have purchased the wrong type of stamp, you can claim the refund.
In a tobacco office
You can buy a tax stamp from a tobacco office, if the store is equipped to edit them.
Warning
Do not buy a fine stamp by mistake.
Step 4: Prepare documents to be provided
You must prepare documents to complete your application. These documents vary depending on your situation.
Veteran of the French Army, the FFI or an Allied Army
- Full copy of the birth certificate with the most recent entries, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular attestation with photo
or photo ID
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality under 6 months with photo
- Proof of domicile less than 6 months old
- 3 photos.
If the request is made on the internet: enter the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the approved cabin on the photo board).
If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Declaration on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- Medical certificate issued by theOfii: titleContent (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the security)
- Proof of regularity of the stay: valid long or short stay visa at the time of application (photocopy of the pages of the passport concerning entry stamps and visas), or valid residence card
- Map of the fighter
- If you served in a French army fighting unit: military booklet
- If you fought in the French Interior Forces (FFI): certificate of demobilization issued by the commission of incorporation or proof of injury
- If you served in France in an Allied combat unit or if you previously resided in France, you also fought in an Allied army: military libretto
- Proof of payment of stamp duty (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the security)
- Signed copy of a commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
Military member serving or having served in the Foreign Legion
- Full copy of the birth certificate with the most recent entries, accompanied if necessary by the court decision ordering its transcription
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular attestation with photo
or photo ID
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality under 6 months with photo
- Proof of domicile less than 6 months old
- 3 photos.
If the request is made on the internet: enter the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the approved cabin on the photo board).
If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Proof of payment of stamp duty (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the security)
- Declaration on the honor of no polygamy in France if you are married and are a national of a country that allows it
- Certificate of good conduct
- If you have left the Legion: Discharge Certificate
- If you are still in service: contract in progress
- Signed copy of a commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
If you submit your application after the deadline, except in cases of force majeure or presentation of a valid visa, you will have to pay, in addition to the cost of the card, a visa fee for regularization of the €180.
Step 5: Go to the appointment
You must surrender in person to this appointment.
If your file is complete, you will receive a receipt awaiting the response of the prefecture.
Step 6: Receive the residence card once it is available
You are informed by the prefecture that your title is available.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your residence (depending on the place where your application is filed).
In most prefectures, you have to make an appointment.
Find out more on the website of the prefecture.
The resident card is valid 10 years and renewable.
However, it is no longer valid if you leave France for more than 3 consecutive years.
When renewing your resident card, you can apply for one of the following cards:
Warning
Renewal of your residency card may be refused if you pose a serious threat to public order.
Renewal may also be refused if you cannot prove that you have established your habitual residence in France.
You are considered to be habitually resident in France if you reply 2 conditions following:
- You have transferred the center of your private and family interests there
- And you stay there for at least 6 months during calendar year.
Step 7: Challenge in case of refusal
If you meet the conditions for issuing the residence card, the prefect must enter the committee on residence permits for advice, in case he plans to refuse to issue you the card.
To be heard by the Commission, you receive a notice by mail at least 15 days before its meeting date.
You are informed of the following rights:
- Be assisted by a lawyer or any person of your choice
- To be heard with the assistance of an interpreter
- Possibly benefit during this procedure from legal aid.
You can explain the reasons and circumstances of your application for a residence permit.
You also have the right to request that the mayor of your municipality of residence (or his representative) be present and heard.
If you do not have a residence card or if your card is out of date, a temporary residence document is provided.
Your explanations shall be forwarded to the Prefect with the reasoned opinion of the Committee on the Residence Permit. The opinion of the committee is also sent to you.
FYI
The prefect may decide to refuse you the issue of the card, even in case of a favorable opinion of the commission.
The time limits for contesting are different depending on whether or not you received a response from the prefecture.
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
The prefect notified you of the refusal
The decision of the prefect is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional circumstances, such refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) setting the country to which you will be returned.
You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).
No reply from the prefect on your request
If the prefecture did not respond after 4 months, this is a implied refusal.
You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:
- One administrative appeal (ex gratia appeal before the prefect and/or hierarchical remedy to the Minister of the Interior),
- And/or a litigation before the Administrative Court.
The residence card allows you to stay in France. It allows you to work. Your employer does not have to apply for a work permit.
Step 1: Check if the conditions are met
If you were born in France to foreigner parents, you can get the French nationality at age 18 if the following 2 conditions are met:
- You reside in France at the age of 18
- You have usually resided in France for a continuous or discontinuous period of at least 5 years, since the age of 11.
Please note
You must meet the following 3 conditions:
- You do not represent a threat to public order
- You don't live in a state of polygamy in France
- You have not been convicted of child abuse resulting in mutilation or permanent disability.
Step 2: Make an appointment
You must submit your card application to the prefecture (or sub-prefecture) of your home, 2 months before the expiry of your visa (or residence permit).
In most prefectures, you have to make an appointment.
Find out more on the website of the prefecture.
Warning
It is not possible to carry out the procedures in some sub-prefectures. Find out more on your prefecture's website.
Step 3: Inquire about the tax stamp
You have to pay €225 (stamp duty of €25 and €200) by tax stamps.
If you entered without a long-stay visa, you must pay extra €200 of the right to an adjustment visa by tax stamps (of which €50 to be paid upon submission of the application and non-refundable in the event of refusal to issue the certificate).
You will need to provide proof of payment when you hand over the card.
You can buy the tax stamp on the internet or at a tobacco office.
If you submit your application after the deadline, except in cases of force majeure or presentation of a valid visa, you will have to pay, in addition to the cost of the card, a visa fee for regularization of the €180.
On the Internet
You can purchase your tax stamp using the following online service:
Purchase of the tax stamp on the Internet - Title for foreigner
Payment is possible with the following bank cards:
- Blue Card (CB) and e-Blue Card
- Endorsement
- Mastercard.
However, payment by Paypal or American Express card is not accepted.
The electronic stamp can be issued on 2 media:
- PDF document with a 2D code that can also be scanned directly from a phone or tablet by the service responsible for receiving your request
- SMS containing the 16-digit stamp identifier that will be accepted by the agent in charge of processing your file.
If you do not use the stamp or have purchased the wrong type of stamp, you can claim the refund.
In a tobacco office
You can buy a tax stamp from a tobacco office, if the store is equipped to edit them.
Warning
Do not buy a fine stamp by mistake.
Step 4: Prepare documents to be provided
You must prepare documents to complete your application. These documents vary depending on your situation.
- Birth certificate (full copy or extract with parentage)
- Passport (pages concerning civil status, validity dates, entry stamps and visas)
or consular attestation with photo
or photo ID
or consular card with photo
or certificate of nationality under 6 months with photo
- Proof of domicile less than 6 months old
- 3 photos.
If the request is made on the internet: enter the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the approved cabin on the photo board).
If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Medical certificate issued by theOfii: titleContent (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the security)
- Proof of foreign nationality of your 2 parents
- Proof of your habitual residence in France of at least 5 years (continuous or discontinuous), between the age of 11 and 18 years: school certificates, for example
- Signed copy of a commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
Step 5: Go to the appointment
You must surrender in person to this appointment.
If your file is complete, you will receive a receipt awaiting the response of the prefecture.
Step 6: Receive the residence card once it is available
You are informed by the prefecture that your title is available.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your residence (depending on the place where your application is filed).
In most prefectures, you have to make an appointment.
Find out more on the website of the prefecture.
The resident card is valid 10 years and renewable.
However, it is no longer valid if you leave France for more than 3 consecutive years.
When renewing your resident card, you can apply for one of the following cards:
Warning
Renewal of your residency card may be refused if you pose a serious threat to public order.
Renewal may also be refused if you cannot prove that you have established your habitual residence in France.
You are considered to be habitually resident in France if you reply 2 conditions following:
- You have transferred the center of your private and family interests there
- And you stay there for at least 6 months during calendar year.
Step 7: Challenge in case of refusal
If you meet the conditions for issuing the residence card, the prefect must enter the committee on residence permits for advice, in case he plans to refuse to issue you the card.
To be heard by the Commission, you receive a notice by mail at least 15 days before its meeting date.
You are informed of the following rights:
- Be assisted by a lawyer or any person of your choice
- To be heard with the assistance of an interpreter
- Possibly benefit during this procedure from legal aid.
You can explain the reasons and circumstances of your application for a residence permit.
You also have the right to request that the mayor of your municipality of residence (or his representative) be present and heard.
If you do not have a residence card or if your card is out of date, a temporary residence document is provided.
Your explanations shall be forwarded to the Prefect with the reasoned opinion of the Committee on the Residence Permit. The opinion of the committee is also sent to you.
FYI
The prefect may decide to refuse you the issue of the card, even in case of a favorable opinion of the commission.
The time limits for contesting are different depending on whether or not you received a response from the prefecture.
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
The prefect notified you of the refusal
The decision of the prefect is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional circumstances, such refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) setting the country to which you will be returned.
You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).
No reply from the prefect on your request
If the prefecture did not respond after 4 months, this is a implied refusal.
You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:
- One administrative appeal (ex gratia appeal before the prefect and/or hierarchical remedy to the Minister of the Interior),
- And/or a litigation before the Administrative Court.
The residence card allows you to stay in France. It allows you to work. Your employer does not have to apply for a work permit.
Step 1: Check if the conditions are met
The residence card is issued to you if you are a foreigner with a residence card bearing the mention "retired". You must prove that you want to establish your principal residence in France.
Please note
You must meet the following 3 conditions:
- You do not represent a threat to public order
- You don't live in a state of polygamy in France
- You have not been convicted of child abuse resulting in mutilation or permanent disability.
Step 2: Make an appointment
You must submit your card application to the prefecture (or sub-prefecture) of your home, 2 months before the expiry of your visa (or residence permit).
In most prefectures, you have to make an appointment.
Find out more on the website of the prefecture.
Warning
It is not possible to carry out the procedures in some sub-prefectures. Find out more on your prefecture's website.
Step 3: Inquire about the tax stamp
You have to pay €225 (stamp duty of €25 and €200) by tax stamps.
If you entered without a long-stay visa, you must pay extra €200 of the right to an adjustment visa by tax stamps (of which €50 to be paid upon submission of the application and non-refundable in the event of refusal to issue the certificate).
You will need to provide proof of payment when you hand over the card.
You can buy the tax stamp on the internet or at a tobacco office.
If you submit your application after the deadline, except in cases of force majeure or presentation of a valid visa, you will have to pay, in addition to the cost of the card, a visa fee for regularization of the €180.
On the Internet
You can purchase your tax stamp using the following online service:
Purchase of the tax stamp on the Internet - Title for foreigner
Payment is possible with the following bank cards:
- Blue Card (CB) and e-Blue Card
- Endorsement
- Mastercard.
However, payment by Paypal or American Express card is not accepted.
The electronic stamp can be issued on 2 media:
- PDF document with a 2D code that can also be scanned directly from a phone or tablet by the service responsible for receiving your request
- SMS containing the 16-digit stamp identifier that will be accepted by the agent in charge of processing your file.
If you do not use the stamp or have purchased the wrong type of stamp, you can claim the refund.
In a tobacco office
You can buy a tax stamp from a tobacco office, if the store is equipped to edit them.
Warning
do not buy a fine stamp by mistake.
Step 4: Prepare documents to be provided
You must prepare documents to complete your application. These documents vary depending on your situation.
- Honor certificate by which you declare from now on to establish your habitual place of residence in France
- Medical certificate issued by theOfii: titleContent (to be delivered at the time of delivery of the security)
- Residence card bearing the mention "retired" ending
- 3 photos.
If the request is made on the internet: enter the code of the e-photo (provided by the photographer or the approved cabin on the photo board).
If you don't have an e-photo yet, you can locate a digital photo and signature service.
- Your identity card and passport
- Signed copy of a commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
Step 5: Go to the appointment
You must surrender in person to this appointment.
If your file is complete, you will receive a receipt awaiting the response of the prefecture.
Step 6: Receive the residence card once it is available
You are informed by the prefecture that your title is available.
The card is given to you by the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your residence (depending on the place where your application is filed).
In most prefectures, you have to make an appointment.
Find out more on the website of the prefecture.
The resident card is valid 10 years and renewable.
However, it is no longer valid if you leave France for more than 3 consecutive years.
When renewing your resident card, you can apply for one of the following cards:
Warning
Renewal of your residency card may be refused if you pose a serious threat to public order.
Renewal may also be refused if you cannot prove that you have established your habitual residence in France.
You are considered to be habitually resident in France if you reply 2 conditions following:
- You have transferred the center of your private and family interests there
- And you stay there for at least 6 months during calendar year.
Step 7: Challenge in case of refusal
If you meet the conditions for issuing the residence card, the prefect must enter the committee on residence permits for advice, in case he plans to refuse to issue you the card.
To be heard by the Commission, you receive a notice by mail at least 15 days before its meeting date.
You are informed of the following rights:
- Be assisted by a lawyer or any person of your choice
- To be heard with the assistance of an interpreter
- Possibly benefit during this procedure from legal aid.
You can explain the reasons and circumstances of your application for a residence permit.
You also have the right to request that the mayor of your municipality of residence (or his representative) be present and heard.
If you do not have a residence card or if your card is out of date, a temporary residence document is provided.
Your explanations shall be forwarded to the Prefect with the reasoned opinion of the Committee on the Residence Permit. The opinion of the committee is also sent to you.
FYI
The prefect may decide to refuse you the issue of the card, even in case of a favorable opinion of the commission.
The time limits for contesting are different depending on whether or not you received a response from the prefecture.
Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement
The prefect notified you of the refusal
The decision of the prefect is yours notified by reasoned letter (explicit decision). Except in exceptional circumstances, such refusal shall be accompanied by a obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) setting the country to which you will be returned.
You can form a litigation before the administrative court (within 48 hours, 15 days or 30 days depending on the type of OQTF).
No reply from the prefect on your request
If the prefecture did not respond after 4 months, this is a implicit refusal.
You can then train within 2 months of this refusal:
- One administrative appeal (ex gratia appeal before the prefect and/or hierarchical remedy to the Minister of the Interior),
- And/or a litigation before the administrative court.
Who can help me?
Find who can answer your questions in your region
Telephone administrative information - Allo Public Service
For more information on this topic, you can contact Allô Service Public.
Attention: the service does not have access to users' personal files and cannot therefore provide information on their status.
- Lundi : de 08h30 à 17h30
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- Mercredi : de 08h30 à 12h15
- Jeudi : de 08h30 à 17h30
- Vendredi : de 13h00 à 16h15
- Service free
The informants who answer you belong to the Ministry of the Interior.
Contract of commitment to respect the principles of the Republic
Assessment of the integration condition for issuing the residence card
Refusal and withdrawal of the residence card
General Resident Card Provisions
Taxes and stamp duty payable
Refusal and withdrawal of the residence card
List of parts to be supplied
FAQ
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