If you're a non-European national planning to complete an internship in France lasting more than three months, it's essential to understand the specific procedures and eligibility conditions.
Whether you’re pursuing professional training, university requirements, or participating in a cooperation program, France offers a structured framework to host international interns through the long-stay visa marked “stagiaire” (intern).
Who Can Apply for the French Internship Visa?
This visa is available to foreign nationals enrolled in a study program in their home country that includes a mandatory internship. The internship must be tied to:
- A school or university curriculum.
- A vocational training program.
- An European Union or intergovernmental cooperation program in education, youth, culture, or professional development.
A tripartite internship agreement is mandatory and must be signed by:
- The intern.
- The home institution (or employer abroad).
- The host company in France.
Importantly, this agreement does not constitute an employment contract, and interns do not gain employee status.
Administrative Procedure Before Arrival
The host company in France must submit the internship agreement for validation at least 2 months before the start date via the designated online portal:
Approval Timeline:
- General internships: 30 days.
- Internships under cooperation programs: 15 days.
A lack of response after this period is considered a refusal.
Financial Requirements
Interns must prove they can financially support themselves in France, with minimum monthly resources of €615, equivalent to the French government’s maintenance grant for scholarship holders.
Need help? Our team at Blue Bridge offers expert advice to ensure that your application meets all legal and procedural requirements.
Book a free 20-minute consultation today!
Applying for the Long-Stay Visa (VLS-TS)
Once the agreement is approved, the applicant must apply for a “visa long séjour valant titre de séjour” (VLS-TS) – stagiaire at the French consulate in their country.
Key documents include:
- Valid passport.
- Approved tripartite internship agreement.
- Proof of financial resources.
- Proof of accommodation in France.
After arrival, the visa must be validated online with OFII (French Immigration and Integration Office) within the first three months.
If the internship is shorter than 3 months, a short-stay visa applies, which involves a different process.
Renewal Process for Extended Internships
If the internship is extended beyond the original visa period:
- The French host company must submit an addendum to the original agreement for approval.
- Once validated, the intern must apply for a temporary residence permit – “stagiaire” at their local prefecture.
Documents for Residence Permit Application
- Expiring long-stay visa (VLS-TS).
- Valid passport or national ID.
- Proof of residence in France (dated within 6 months).
- Approved internship agreement and its addendum.
- 3 recent identity photos (e-photo format required).
- Proof of resources.
- Payment of €75 in tax stamps.
The permit is issued by the prefecture or sub-prefecture based on your place of residence.
Our Expertise at Your Service
At Blue Bridge, we have successfully assisted numerous international interns and host companies in navigating the French visa process. Our external legal team is available to help you with:
- Legal structuring of your internship stay.
- Preparing documents for the consulate and OFII.
- Coordinating with host institutions.
- Ensuring proper visa and residence compliance.
If you’re an educational institution, company, or student planning a professional internship in France, contact us for personalized guidance from our experienced immigration professionals.
