Student Visas
Visas for Studying in France
The French government requires all students staying longer than three months to obtain a student visa before arriving in France. Students who plan to participate in the Smith in Paris program must have a valid passport when they apply to the program, valid six months beyond the planned time abroad. A copy of the passport photo page or proof of application or renewal must be submited with the program application.
Students studying on the Paris program will apply for their long-stay student visas independently. Guidance is provided by the Office for International Study, but students are responsible for researching, understanding and following visa application requirements, which vary by French consulate. Students may apply to the French consulate in Boston or the consulate responsible for their home state.
Things to Consider
Before making any summer plans, students intending to study in Paris must consider the following:
- Applicants must appear in person at the consulate to apply for a visa; applications are not accepted by mail.
- Visa applications cannot be made more than 90 days in advance of departure for France.
- Applying for a French visa requires surrender of the passport to the French consulate for a period of two to four weeks.
