Long-Stay Visa as Residence Permit (VLS-TS): Complete Guide
The VLS-TS (Visa Long Sejour valant Titre de Sejour) serves as both your visa and your first residence permit. Learn how to validate it and what to do when it expires.
Table of Contents
What Is a VLS-TS
The VLS-TS is a long-stay visa that functions as a residence permit for your first year in France. It eliminates the need to apply for a separate titre de sejour upon arrival.
You must validate the VLS-TS within 3 months of arriving in France through the OFII online platform.
Validation Process
Go to the OFII website and follow the validation steps. You will need to pay a tax stamp and provide your address in France.
After validation, you will receive a confirmation that your VLS-TS is active. Keep this confirmation with your passport at all times.
Key Takeaways
- The VLS-TS acts as both visa and residence permit for your first year
- You must validate it online within 3 months of arrival
- Apply for a carte de sejour before the VLS-TS expires
- Keep the OFII validation confirmation with your passport
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Frequently Asked Questions
Failure to validate your VLS-TS makes your stay irregular. You may face difficulties renewing your permit and could be subject to penalties.
Start the application process 2 to 4 months before your VLS-TS expires. Book a prefecture appointment as early as possible.
Yes, if your VLS-TS includes work authorization. Check the mentions on your visa and validation confirmation.
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