Visa Requirements for Non-EU Students Applying for Internships in France

Are you a student from outside the European Union (EU)? That’s great! France is a wonderful place to learn and work. But before you go, you need to understand the visa requirements for internships. This guide will help you.

What is an Internship?

An internship is a short-term job for students. It helps you learn new skills. You work with a company and get real experience. Many students from all over the world come to France for internships.

If you are from a nation that is not in Europe, you are called a non-EU student. You need a special internship visa that France offers to students like you.

Why Do Internships in France?

France is known for its culture and education. Many good companies are in France. Students from many countries come to learn and work.

Here are some reasons to do your internship in France:

• Good companies and work experience.
   
• Learn the French way of working.
   
• Practice speaking French.
   
• Meet people from different places.
   
• Learn about French culture and food.
   

But first, you need to know the rules. Let’s look at the visa requirements internships in France need for non-EU students France accepts.

Who Needs a Visa?

If you are a non-EU student, you will need a visa to do an internship in France. This means if you are from India, China, Nigeria, Brazil, or any country outside the EU, you need to follow these rules.

If you are already studying in France, you might not need a new visa. But if you are living in another country and want to go to France just for an internship, you will need a special internship visa France gives for that.

Types of Internship Visas

There are two main types of internship visa France offers to non-EU students:

1. Student Visa with Internship Option (VLS-TS)

If you are already a student in France, you may have a long-stay student visa (VLS-TS). This visa allows you to do internships as part of your course.

2. Internship Visa (Visa Stagiaire)

This visa is for students who are not studying in France but want to do an internship there. It is also called a Visa Stagiaire.

Let’s look at both visas more closely.

Student Visa with Internship (VLS-TS)

If your internship is part of your school program, and you already have a student visa, you can do an internship in France.

But you must have a signed internship agreement. This is a document that shows:

• The name of the company
   
• What work will you do?
   
• How long will the internship last
   
• Your work hours and pay (if any)
   

Your school, the company, and you must sign this agreement. This is very important for the visa requirements internships need.

Internship Visa (Visa Stagiaire)

If you are not studying in France but want to do an internship there, you need the internship visa France calls Visa Stagiaire.

To get this visa, you need:

• An internship agreement (just like above)
   
• A letter from your school saying the internship is part of your studies
   
• Evidence that you have enough money to live in France
   
• Health insurance
   
• A valid passport
   

You can apply for this visa at the French embassy or consulate in your country.

What is an Internship Agreement?

This is a very important paper. In French, it is called “Convention de Stage.”

This agreement must include:

• Your name and details
   
• The company’s name and address
   
• The type of work you will do
   
• The number of hours you will work
   
• Whether you will be paid or not
   
• The start and end dates of your internship
   

The visa requirements internships have will not be complete without this agreement. All three people – you, your school, and the company – must sign this.

How to Apply for an Internship Visa

Step 1: Get an Internship Offer

First, you need to find a company in France that offers internships. 

Step 2: Get the Internship Agreement Signed

Ask your school and the company to sign the internship agreement. Make sure everything is clear and correct.

Step 3: Gather All Documents

You will need:

• A passport
   
• The signed internship agreement
   
• A letter from your school
   
• Proof of money to live in France
   
• Health insurance
   
• A passport photo
   

Step 4: Apply at the French Consulate

Go to the French embassy or consulate in your country. Make an appointment. Submit your documents. Pay the visa fee.

Step 5: Wait for Approval

The embassy will check your documents. If everything is okay, they will give you your internship visa France needs you to have.

How Much Money Do You Need?

You must show that you can take care of yourself in France. Usually, the rule is to show about 615 euros per month. You can show:

• Bank statements
   
• A letter from your parents
   
• A letter from someone who will support you
   
• A letter from the company if they will give money
   

This is an important part of the visa requirements internships need.

What About Health Insurance?

You must have health insurance before going to France. This is very important. You can get:

• Insurance from your home country
   
• Insurance from a French company
   

Make sure your insurance covers all your stay in France.

Can You Get Paid During an Internship?

Yes, sometimes. In France, if your internship is longer than 2 months, the company must pay you. This is called a “gratification.”

It is around 4.35 euros per hour. This is not a salary, but it helps you with your costs. 

What is OFII?

If you stay in France for more than 90 days, you must register with OFII. OFII is the French office for immigration.

After getting your visa, you must send a form to OFII. They will check your papers and may do a health check.

Can You Work Part-Time?

If you have a student visa, you may be allowed to work part-time. But your internship must follow the rules in your agreement.

You cannot do both – an internship and a part-time job – unless the visa and your school allow it.

Can You Travel in Europe with a Visa?

Yes, sometimes. If you get a long-stay visa (VLS-TS), you may travel to other Schengen countries. But check with the embassy before planning your trips.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some mistakes that can cause problems:

• No internship agreement
   
• Missing documents
   
• Not enough money
   
• No health insurance
   
• Applying too late
   

Be careful. Follow all steps. Ask for help if needed.

Tips for a Smooth Visa Process

1. Start early
    
2. Keep your papers safe.
    
3. Make copies of everything.
    
4. Ask your school for help.
    
5. Talk to the company clearly.
    
6. Check the French embassy website.
    

Need Help?

If you want help with your internship and visa, visit Destiny Calling. We help non-EU students France to get their dreams started.

We guide you with:

• Finding internships
   
• Preparing your documents
   
• Applying for the right visa
   
• Understanding French life
   

Final Words

Doing an internship in France is a big step. But it is a great chance to learn and grow. If you are a non-EU student, you must follow the right steps.

Get your internship visa France, make your internship agreement, and get ready for an exciting journey!

Always check the latest visa requirements internships. Rules can change. And if you’re not sure, Destiny Calling is here to guide you.