International Students: All Steps to Take After Arriving in France (CAF, Health Insurance, Visa…)
🛠️ Installation Checklist for International Students in France
Here are the essential steps you need to take when arriving in France. Each one comes with direct links and a list of required documents. Save time, check off what you’ve done — or even easier, go to the Livinfrance platform ✅
| 📌 Task | ⏱️ When to do it | 🧾 Required Documents | 🔗 Useful Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visa validation (OFII) | Immediately upon arrival | Visa number, passport | OFII Website |
| Register for French Health Insurance | Within the first week | Passport, visa, student certificate | AMELI Portal |
| Subscribe to a complementary health insurance (mutuelle) | After getting your social security number | Health certificate, French bank RIB | Compare offers |
| Apply for housing aid (CAF) | After signing your rental contract | Rental contract, RIB, residence permit, rent certificate | CAF Website |
| Get civil liability insurance | Before classes start | ID, proof of school enrollment | Subscribe here |
| Open a French bank account | Right after arrival | Passport, proof of residence | Discover Livinfrance |