Preparing for your arrival in France to study is an exciting adventure. However, before embarking on a new life, it is essential to fully understand the administrative formalities required, particularly those related to the student visa. At Hexagone Aviation School, we recognize that these steps can appear complex. Therefore, we provide clear, structured information and personalized support to help you navigate each stage with confidence.
Obtaining a visa, registering with the competent authorities, subscribing to social security, opening a bank account, or acquiring a residence permit are all integral obligations of your journey. Far from being an obstacle, this structured process is also the first step towards your autonomy and integration into French society.
It depends on your nationality:
- Citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area, or Switzerland: No visa is required. You are free to settle and study in France, provided you have health insurance and sufficient financial resources.
- Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals: A long-stay student visa is required for any program lasting more than 90 days. This visa is essential for enrollment at Hexagone Aviation School, regardless of whether you are enrolled in a short-term or long-term program. It is generally issued for a period of one year and allows you to reside legally in France during your studies.
The process of obtaining a student visa begins well before your departure for France. As soon as you receive your official letter of admission from Hexagone Aviation School, you can begin the application process.
For most students, the first step is to use the Études en France platform, managed by Campus France, before submitting your visa application to the French consulate or embassy in your country. This platform centralizes your documents, schedules any academic interviews you may need, and streamlines the processing of your application by French authorities.
It is essential to submit a complete and well-prepared application, including:
- Your letter of admission to Hexagone
- Proof of your financial resources
- Proof of accommodation or a reservation for lodging
- Your valid passport
- Health insurance
Once your application has been approved by Campus France, you can schedule an appointment with the consulate to obtain your visa. Processing times may vary, so we strongly recommend that you begin this process several months before the start of the academic year.
Hexagone Aviation School will guide you through every step of the process to ensure that your arrival in France goes smoothly.
For international students, the VLS-TS is the most common type of visa. It allows you to stay in France for one year, with the option to renew it depending on your academic progress.
After arriving in France, you must validate this visa online withthe French Office for Immigration and Integration (OFII) within three months. This step is mandatory to ensure you are in good standing with the French authorities.
Passing the VLS-TS exam entitles you to several key benefits:
- Access to Social Security
- Part-time work available
- Right to apply for renewal of your residence permit at the end of the first year
Hexagone Aviation School will guide you through every step of the process to ensure that your stay and studies go smoothly.
If your program lasts longer than one year—as is the case with many of the programs offered at Hexagone Aviation School—you will need to renew your residence permit at the prefecture in your area of residence.
The process can be completed online through the official website of the Ministry of the Interior. You will need to provide several documents, including:
- Your attendance records
- A certificate of continued enrollment
- Proof of sufficient financial resources
- Proof of address
- A Social Security certificate
Hexagone Aviation School offers personalized support for this step: we help you prepare your application, plan for deadlines, and understand the specific requirements of each prefecture, so that the renewal process goes smoothly.
All international students must register with the French Social Security system upon arrival, unless they already have valid European health insurance coverage (EHIC) or an equivalent plan recognized by the French authorities.
Registration is free and can be done online via the portal etudiant-etranger.ameli.fr. You will need to provide:
- A form of identification
- Your visa or residence permit
- Proof of enrollment at Hexagone Aviation School
- Proof of address
- Bank account information (RIB)
After you register, you will receive a temporary Social Security number, followed by a permanent one, which will allow you to receive partial reimbursement for your medical expenses.
To supplement this coverage, we strongly recommend purchasing supplemental health insurance to cover the remaining portion of your healthcare costs, allowing you to study with peace of mind.
Opening a bank account is essential for managing your expenses, receiving transfers (scholarships, financial support from family, part-time jobs), paying your rent, or signing up for a cell phone plan.
Most banks offer packages specifically designed for international students, featuring tailored services, a multilingual interface, and personalized support.
To open an account, you will need to provide:
- A form of identification
- Your visa or residence permit
- Proof of address
- Your proof of enrollment
- Possibly proof of financial means
Hexagone Aviation School works with several banks to guide you and simplify the process, so that you can manage your finances with peace of mind as soon as you arrive in France.
In addition to the main steps, there are several additional formalities that may apply to you:
- Registration at City Hall in certain municipalities
- Homeowners insurance is required if you rent a home
- Subscription to a mobile phone service with a French phone number
- You may need to transfer your driver's license if you plan to drive in France
- Sign up for student job platforms or Pôle Emploi to find internships
To help you get settled, Hexagone Aviation School provides a comprehensive guide to settling in and a team readyto answer any questions you may have as soon as you are admitted.
This allows you to settle in with peace of mind and fully enjoy your student life in France.
We know that navigating administrative procedures abroad can be stressful. That’s why Hexagone Aviation School proactively supports its international students, going well beyond the basic entry requirements.
Once your registration has been confirmed, you will receive:
- A detailed timeline of the steps to be taken
- List of required documents
- Official links and useful contacts
We also offer one-on-one appointments to help you prepare your documents, as well as remote assistance for those who haven’t yet arrived in France.
If you encounter any difficulties, our team is here to help—in French, English, and other languages as needed. At Hexagone, we ensure our students’ successful integration through a warm and thorough welcome that respects your goals, your culture, and your background.
To make the most of your time in France and settle in quickly, here are a few practical tips:
- Learn some basic French: even though your training at Hexagone Aviation School is conducted in English, knowing a little French makes daily life and communication easier. Free courses are available on platforms like Frantastique.
- Get in touch with student organizations: they’re a great way to find your way around a new city and meet other international students. You can find out about these organizations on Etudiant.gouv.fr.
- Use local apps: apps likeUber will help you get around French cities easily and save time.
These little habits will help you settle in smoothly and make the most of your student life in France.
