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In brief
Section actions
Duration: Online validation: about 10 to 20 minutes with ready information
Cost: Variable tax depending on the category of the VLS-TS; amount displayed on the official portal
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Who this guide is for

Section actions
  • Persons whose vignette bears the endorsement VLS-TS or "valid residence permit"
  • New arrivals who must declare their date of entry and their address in France
  • Persons who must distinguish a VLS-TS from a visa indicating that they are applying for a residence card

To be prepared in advance

Section actions
  • Readable passport and visa sticker
  • Actual date of entry into France or the Schengen area according to the route requested by the portal
  • Residence address in France and accessible e-mail address
  • Method of payment for the fee when the category of visa is subject to it
  • Digital copy of certificate to be retained after validation

Step-by-step procedure

Section actions
  1. 1First check the exact mention of the visa. Do not validate as VLS-TS a visa that asks you to apply for a residence card after arrival.
  2. 2Within 3 months of entry, open the official validation service on the ANEF and enter the information of the passport, visa, entry and address.
  3. 3Pay the tax only at the rate displayed for your category. The amount is not uniform: some categories have a reduced tariff or an exemption.
  4. 4Download the validation certificate immediately and keep it with the passport. Save multiple copies from the ANEF account.
  5. 5Respond to any invitations from the OFII, especially for medical check-ups or Republican integration contracts when your category is concerned.
  6. 6Prepare the renewal before the expiration of the VLS-TS according to the window applicable to the future title. Initial validation is not an application for renewal.

Common mistakes

Section actions
  • Waiting for the last days of the 3 month period
  • Consolidate VLS-TS and visa requiring a card application in prefecture or on ANEF
  • Enter an incorrect entry date or visa number
  • Announce a single tariff for all categories
  • Do not download the certificate or ignore an OFII summons

Official sources

Section actions
Show sources in this section

Useful links

Section actions
Create an ANEF accountRenewing residence permitTax stamp

Important remark

The tariff, the OFII summons and the visa rights depend on its mention. Always check the thumbnail and the official route corresponding to your category.

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