Last Updated on September 26, 2025
France has consistently been one of the top choices for Indian students to study in France, and for obvious reasons, such as the quality of education, globally recognised universities, and a diverse culture. But one common worry remains: “What happens after I finish my degree? Do I have to return home immediately?”
That’s where the France Post Study Work Visa comes in. Officially called the APS Visa (Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour), this visa allows international students to stay back after graduation, work freely, and even prepare for long-term settlement. For Indian students, it means a smoother transition from university to career.
Latest Updates on Post Study Work Visa in France
Curious about the latest changes in France’s post study work visa? Let’s check them out-
| Update | Details |
| Duration | 12 months, extendable up to 24 months |
| Eligibility | Master’s & higher degree graduates only |
| Policy Reason | Retain skilled graduates and support economy |
What is a Post Study Work Visa in France?
Wondering what the APS Visa actually allows you to do? Here’s a quick look-
| Feature | Details |
| Official Name | APS Visa (Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour) |
| Duration | 12 months (extendable to 24 months) |
| Eligibility | Master’s or higher degree from France |
| Work Rights | Full-time, part-time, freelance |
| Sponsorship | Not required initially |
| Application Timing | Before student visa expiry |
Benefits of Post Study Work Visa France
Thinking about why the APS Visa is so useful? Here’s why students love it-
| Benefit | How It Helps You |
| Flexibility | Work in any role or sector |
| Freedom | No immediate sponsorship required |
| Network | Connect with professionals and industries |
| Career Boost | European work experience for your CV |
| Financial Relief | Repay loans and manage living costs |
| Settlement Path | Easy transition to long-term residence |
Eligibility Criteria
Want to check if you can apply for the APS Visa? Here’s the breakdown-
| Requirement | Details |
| Location | Apply from inside France |
| Visa Status | Must hold a valid Student Residence Permit |
| Degree | Master’s, PhD, or higher from recognised French university |
| University Confirmation | Required proof of completion |
| Nationality | Non-EU/EEA students (like Indians) |
France Post Study Work Visa Duration
Curious about how long you can stay in France after graduation? Here’s a simple guide–
| Qualification | Visa Duration | Extension Possible? |
| Master’s Degree | 12 months | Yes, up to 24 months |
| PhD/Doctoral Degree | Case-specific (research/work visa) | Yes |
| Bachelor’s Degree | Not eligible | No |
How to Apply for Post Study Work Permit in France?
Wondering how to actually apply? Follow these simple steps-
| Step | Action |
| Step 1 | Apply at your local prefecture |
| Step 2 | Complete APS application form |
| Step 3 | Pay application fee (~€75) |
| Step 4 | Submit graduation documents |
| Step 5 | Provide biometrics if required |
| Step 6 | Wait for decision (few weeks) |
Documents Required
Not sure what paperwork you’ll need? Here’s the checklist–
| Document | Why It’s Needed |
| Valid Passport | Identity proof |
| Student Residence Permit | Current valid permit |
| Degree Certificate | Proof of graduation |
| Accommodation Proof | Rental contract or housing letter |
| Financial Proof | Bank statement |
| Health Insurance | Must cover duration of stay |
| Translations | For non-French documents |
Post Study Work Visa France Fees
Wondering about the cost of APS? Here’s a quick table–
| Cost Type | Amount |
| Application Fee | €75 |
| Residence Permit Tax | ~€225 |
| Total (1 year) | ~€300 |
| Total (2 years) | ~€525 |
Jobs After Post Study Work Permit in France for Indian Students
Curious which jobs you can take up while on APS? Check this out-
| Sector | Example Roles | Average Salary (€ per year) |
| IT & Computer Science | Software Engineer, Data Analyst | 32,000–40,000 |
| Finance & Accounting | Banking, Auditing, Consulting | 35,000–42,000 |
| Healthcare & Pharma | Research, Biotech | 33,000–41,000 |
| Engineering | Civil, Mechanical, Electrical | 34,000–45,000 |
| Luxury & Fashion | Marketing, HR, Brand Management | 30,000–38,000 |
What You Can and Cannot Do on a Post Study Work Permit in France?
Wondering about the dos and don’ts on APS? Here’s a handy table-
| Allowed | Not Allowed |
| Work full-time/part-time | Claim public benefits |
| Freelance/self-employment | Extend visa beyond 2 years |
| Volunteer work | Apply with only a Bachelor’s degree |
| Travel in Schengen | Bring new dependants |
Read more: Top Scholarships in France for Indian Students
Transition After Post Study Work Visa France
Curious about what happens once APS ends? Here’s your roadmap-
| Next Step | Who It’s For |
| Work Permit (Carte de Séjour Salarié) | Students with sponsored jobs |
| EU Blue Card | High-skilled, high-paying roles |
| Researcher Visa | PhD graduates or researchers |
| PR/Long-Term Residence | After 5 years of continuous stay |
Conclusion
The Post Study Work Visa in France is a golden opportunity for Indian students. It gives you freedom, flexibility, and time to build a career abroad. With no sponsorship requirement initially, it removes the biggest stress students usually face after graduation.
For those planning to study in France, the APS Visa works like a bridge between university life and long-term settlement. Combined with the strong education system in France, it’s one of the best pathways for international graduates.
FAQs
No, you must be in France to apply.
No, a job offer is not required.
No, APS does not allow bringing new dependants.
Not directly. You need to switch to a work permit or EU Blue Card.
The PSW visa in France lasts 12 months for Master’s graduates and up to 24 months maximum.
It costs about €300 for 1 year and ~€525 for 2 years.
Manasvi’s writing abilities stem from her previous experience working with bootstrap start-ups, advertising and PR agencies, as well as freelancing. She is currently employed as a Content Writer and Editor at Admissify, contributing to its thriving ecosystem.
