France is a popular destination for international students who wish to pursue their higher education in a country that offers a diverse culture and excellent education system. One question that often arises among international students is whether France grants Permanent Residency (PR) to foreign students after they complete their studies. The answer is yes, but it is not a straightforward process.
Firstly, it’s important to understand that France grants PR through a variety of channels. The most common are family reunification, economic activity, asylum, and study. However, the PR process for foreign students is different from the others, as it requires students to fulfill certain conditions.
The first condition for international students to apply for PR in France is to have completed their studies. Students must have completed a degree from a recognized institution and have a student visa or a valid residence permit at the time of their application.
The second condition is to have a job offer in France that is relevant to their degree. The job offer must be from a French company and should be in the student’s field of study. The job must be full-time, and the salary should be at least one and a half times the minimum wage in France.
Another way to obtain PR is by creating a business in France. International students who have completed their studies can start a business in France, and if the business is successful and generates enough revenue, the student can apply for PR.
It’s important to note that PR is not granted automatically to international students after they complete their studies. The student must apply for PR, and the application process can take several months. The French government reviews each application carefully and grants PR only to those who fulfill all the necessary conditions.
In addition to the conditions mentioned above, students must also prove their proficiency in French. This is because most jobs in France require fluency in French, and it is also a prerequisite for obtaining PR. Students can demonstrate their proficiency in French by taking the French language test, DELF or DALF.
In conclusion, France does grant PR to international students, but the process is not automatic. Students must fulfill certain conditions, such as completing their studies, having a job offer or creating a successful business, and proving their proficiency in French. The process can be challenging, but for those who fulfill the requirements, obtaining PR can open up new opportunities in France and the rest of Europe.