Student visa application process
Non-European students need to apply for a student visa
Before leaving your country
Please check with Campusfrance office in your country to find out how to apply for a student visa. IMT Atlantique is connected to Etudes en France to make procedures easier. However, the application process is different in each country. You might also be able to apply online on France-visas. In any case, be sure to start the process several months in advance to be sure to get your student visa in time for the beginning of the school year! For those who have no Campusfrance office in their country and no online application services, please contact directly the French Embassy or Consulate.
IMT Atlantique provide admission letters to the students admitted into our programs, this document is necessary to apply for student visa. Make sure that you also have an accommodation certificate, required for visa application.
During your studies in France
- On arrival
You have to validate your visa online (also called OFII procedure) or to apply for a residence permit. Our administrative services help students for this process.
- At the end of the first year
You will have to change your one-year visa into a residence permit valid one year or to renew your current residence permit. Visit Campus France website for detailed information about this renewal procedure.
To extend visa after finishing studies at IMT Atlantique
After your studies at IMT Atlantique, you can apply for a temporary residence permit, called "Carte de séjour - Recherche d'emploi ou création d'entreprise" (Job seeker / New business creator). This permit allows you to stay 12 extra months in France in order to find a job. You have to apply for this document at least 4 months before the residence permit expires, at the “Prefecture” of the city you live. More information on Campus France website.
Once employment has been found, the permit becomes a full-time work permit, as long as the type of employment and the salary correspond to your degree level.