Are you in France and want to regularize your status or obtain your first residence permit? The process depends above all on your basis of stay. Here is a clear guide to know where to start and avoid mistakes.
Identify the right basis of stay
The residence permit you apply for varies according to your situation. The main grounds are:
- Work (employee, temporary worker, talent…);
- Studies (student enrolled at an institution);
- Private and family life (spouse of a French national, parent of a French child, personal ties);
- Visitor or other specific situations.
Choosing the right basis is decisive: it determines the supporting documents to provide and the conditions to meet.
Check the entry conditions
The administration takes into account how you entered France (long-stay visa, short-stay visa, no visa) and how long you have been present. Some situations make the application easier, others complicate it: a careful review of your background is essential.
Assemble a complete application
Whatever the basis, an application generally includes: an identity document (passport), proof of address, documents related to the basis (employment contract, school enrollment, proof of cohabitation…), identity photographs and the required forms.
Since 2026, an A2 level of French and passing thecivic exam are also required for a first multi-year residence permit.
The procedure
The application is most often made online via theANEF or at the prefecture. After filing a complete application, a receipt (récépissé) may be issued while awaiting the decision.
Pitfalls to avoid
- choosing the wrong basis or permit category;
- submitting an incomplete application;
- neglecting the new language and civics requirements.
Legalist helps you identify the right procedure and build a solid application for your first residence permit request.
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Frequently asked questions
Where do you start a first residence permit application?
By identifying the right basis of stay (work, studies, private and family life, visitor), which determines the conditions and documents.
Is a French level required for a first residence permit?
Since 2026, an A2 level and passing the civic exam are required for a first multi-year residence permit.
How do you file your application?
Most often online via the ANEF, or at the prefecture depending on the case; a receipt (récépissé) may be issued while awaiting the decision.
Which documents for a first application?
An identity document (passport), proof of address, documents related to the basis (contract, enrollment, cohabitation…), photos and the required forms.
