The “private and family life” residence permit is a document that allows non-European foreigners to live and work in France when they have personal or family ties in the country. This scheme, governed by the Code de l'entrée et du séjour des étrangers et du droit d'asile (CESEDA), covers several specific situations: marriage to a French national, civil partnership, parenthood, family ties with a foreign national residing legally in France, humanitarian situations, etc.
Who is eligible?
The residence permit can be requested by:
The spouse of a French national, provided that they are actually living together.
A partner bound by a civil partnership with a French national and who can prove that they have been living together in France for at least one year.
The parent of a minor French child residing in France and who is actively contributing to their maintenance and education.
Family members of a foreign national legally residing in France (in particular holders of a “long-term EU resident” residence permit).
Young adults who entered France as minors (family reunification or other situations).
Foreign nationals who can prove strong personal and family ties in France.
Victims of domestic violence, forced marriage, trafficking, or pimping.
Persons who have been living in a community reception center for at least three years.
Foreign nationals suffering from an illness requiring treatment in France.
Persons with humanitarian or exceptional reasons.
Rights and validity
The card entitles you to:
Reside in France.
Engage in any professional activity, whether salaried or not, without additional work permit formalities.
It is generally valid for one year and renewable, but may be issued for multiple years (up to two years) depending on the circumstances.
Conditions and precautions
Applicants must:
Be legally resident or provide proof of legal entry (with some exceptions, e.g., parents of French children).
Provide proof of the existence and duration of family or personal ties.
Not pose a threat to public order or have committed certain serious offenses.
Agree to respect the principles of the Republic.
Steps in the application process
Check eligibility requirements
The supporting documents required vary depending on your situation (marriage, civil partnership, parenthood, etc.).
Submit the application
Most often online on the ANEF platform, or at the prefecture. The application must be submitted between 4 and 2 months before the expiry date of the permit or visa.
Prepare the file
You will need to provide:
Identity documents and proof of civil status (birth certificate, passport).
Proof of family or personal ties.
Proof of address dated within the last 6 months.
Commitment to respect republican principles.
Proof of payment of taxes.
Payment of the tax
In general, $225 (except in special cases: $75 for young adults, free for certain victims).
Processing of the application
A certificate of submission will be issued. The prefect may refer the case to the residence permit commission if a refusal is envisaged.
Withdrawal of the card
Upon summons, at the prefecture.
Appeal in case of refusal
If the decision is negative, you can lodge an administrative appeal and/or refer the matter to the administrative court.
Points to note
Foreign civil status documents must be translated by a certified translator and, where applicable, legalized or apostilled.
Proof of cohabitation must be provided in the form of concrete evidence (receipts, certificates, joint bills).
Processing times can be long, so plan ahead.
Certain situations (family talent passport, family reunification) are subject to specific procedures.
