ANEF file tracking: where my residence permit application stands
Once your residence permit application is filed on ANEF, you can track its progress at any time from your personal space. This guide details the processing stages, what each displayed status means, the usual delays, and what to do when a file appears stuck.
Track your file
Your residence permit application status can be checked at any time in your ANEF personal space.
Open the ANEF portalWhere to check your file status
Log in to your ANEF space and open the relevant procedure (first application, renewal, change of status…). The progress appears in the procedure tracking and updates automatically at each change.
You are also notified by email at each key stage: document request, decision, or a document becoming available.
Processing statuses and what they mean
As it is processed, your file goes through several statuses. The most common ones:
- Filed / registered: your application is received and queued.
- Under review: a prefecture officer is examining your file.
- Additional documents requested: you must provide documents within the stated deadline, or risk rejection.
- Favourable decision: your permit is granted, production started.
- Permit to collect / ready: your document is available, sometimes by prefecture appointment.
- Unfavourable decision: refused; appeal options are stated in the notification.
What delays to expect
Delays vary widely by prefecture, permit type and time of year, generally from a few weeks to several months. While your file is being processed and your previous permit has expired, a certificate of extended processing may be issued to prove the lawfulness of your stay.
No third-party service can speed up processing: only the status shown on ANEF is authoritative.
Stuck or unanswered file: what to do
If your file shows no progress beyond the announced delays, several steps are possible:
- Check that no document request is pending in your ANEF space.
- Contact the prefecture via ANEF messaging or the dedicated contact form.
- Request a prefecture appointment if your situation requires it (permit collection, regularisation).
- For prolonged silence, an administrative appeal can be considered.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know where my residence permit application stands?
Log in to your ANEF space and open the relevant procedure. The progress is displayed and updates automatically; you are also notified by email at each stage.
What does "under review" mean on ANEF?
It means a prefecture officer is examining your file. No action is required from you unless a request for additional documents appears.
How long does residence permit processing take?
From a few weeks to several months depending on the prefecture, permit type and period. While waiting, a certificate of extended processing may be issued.
My ANEF file is no longer moving, what should I do?
Check no document is requested, contact the prefecture via ANEF messaging, and request a prefecture appointment if needed. An appeal is possible for prolonged silence.
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