Now foreigners living in France will be able to extend their documents using a simplified procedure. The new rules for extension were introduced on July 15, 2024.
What’s changed
Now you can apply for an extension of your residence permit online, on the official website of government services: www.service-public.fr. Previously, you had to contact the prefecture in person to do this.
When a foreigner applies for an extension of status, he receives a special receipt for this. The receipt confirms that the person has the right to be in the country, despite the fact that his residence permit is no longer valid.
The receipt is valid for 3 months, and this period is usually enough to wait for the application for an extension of documents to be considered. For those applying for a residence permit for the first time, the receipt is valid for 4 to 6 months. If this period is not enough, the receipt itself can be extended for 3 months while the application is being processed.
Other changes in the field of residence permits
In addition, the government recently launched a new program that should remind residents that they need to extend their residence permit.
Such notifications will be sent several times: 4 months before the expiration of the documents, two months and a week. This is important because if you forget to renew the documents on time, you will have to pay a fine of €180. On average, the application must be submitted at least 2 months before the expiration of the documents.
How can you get a residence permit in France
In 2024, there are several grounds for obtaining a residence permit:
- Official work in the country
- Owning a business in France
- Family reunification
- Obtaining a talent visa
- Study or internship
