When a foreign national arrives in France as a minor, they may, upon reaching the age of majority, apply for various residence permits. These rights depend mainly on the length and conditions of their presence in the country, their family ties, and their professional or educational situation.
The “private and family life” residence permit is often the main legal basis.
However, there are other possibilities, such as the issuance of a “salaried employee,” “temporary worker,” or “student” permit.
Right of residence on the basis of private and family life
A young foreign adult may obtain a private and family life residence permit if they are in one of the following situations:
They entered France or Mayotte (excluding family reunification) before the age of 13 and have been living there since then with one of their parents who holds a residence permit.
They are of Tunisian nationality and arrived in France before the age of 10.
They were placed in the care of the child welfare services (ASE) before the age of 16, under certain conditions.
They are the child of a French national.
They entered France through family reunification.
They were born in France, have resided there continuously for at least 8 years and, after the age of 10, have attended school in France for at least 5 years.
He is accompanying a parent who holds a long-term EU residence card issued by another European Union country.
He is accompanying a parent who holds a multi-year “talent passport” residence card and will be eligible for the family talent card.
One of their parents has stateless status.
One of their parents has subsidiary protection.
Other situations
In all these situations, young adults can apply for a residence permit at the prefecture of their place of residence, between four months and two months before they reach the age of majority and no later than their 19th birthday.
L423-12 et seq. CESEDA
Right of residence for professional reasons
If, from the age of 16, a foreign national has been in paid employment with a work permit, they may, upon reaching the age of majority, apply for a residence permit for employees or temporary workers. This situation applies, for example, to:
Young adults with an apprenticeship or professional training contract.
Minors who have worked under a fixed-term or permanent contract.
It is mandatory to hold a work permit or a contract validated by the OPCO.
The regularity of professional activity is an important criterion that will be assessed by the prefecture on a case-by-case basis.
Right of residence for study
When a foreign national has attended school in France without interruption since the age of 16 and is pursuing higher education there, the authorities may issue a “student” card even in the absence of a long-stay visa, provided that the foreign national entered the country legally. They may apply for a “student” residence permit if they can prove that:
That they are pursuing studies or education in France.
That they have sufficient means of subsistence.
This residence permit is valid for a maximum of one year and is renewable subject to the genuine and serious nature of the studies.
Right of residence under Article L435-1
In all cases, if the foreign national does not meet these specific conditions but can demonstrate that they have family ties that are sufficiently established in France, they may apply for a “private and family life” residence permit on the basis of Article L435-1 of the Ceseda.
Case-by-case assessment
Each situation is unique and is assessed individually by the authorities. Depending on their background and ties, young foreign adults may be eligible for other residence permits provided for in the Code on the Entry and Stay of Foreigners and the Right of Asylum.
FB Avocat provides rigorous and effective support to young foreign adults and their families in all procedures aimed at obtaining a residence permit appropriate to their situation.
Here is how we work:
Tailored support and strategic advice
In-depth assessment of your situation
We analyze in detail:
The date and conditions of entry into the country.
Family and social ties in France.
Education and level of integration.
Employment, training, or professional plans.
Any administrative difficulties or previous issues (OQTF, irregular residence).
Guidance on the most favorable legal basis
We advise you on the choice of residence permit:
“Private and family life” card (Articles L423-21, L435-1, or specific cases).
‘Employee’ or “temporary worker” card if professional activity began before the age of majority.
“Student” card if the applicant is continuing their education in higher education.
Securing your file
We check that all supporting documents are complete and compliant:
Proof of continuous presence in the country.
Family ties.
Means of subsistence and proof of education or employment.
Translation and legalization of foreign documents, if necessary.
Compilation and submission of the residence permit application file
Preparation of the online application or physical submission
We provide:
Drafting of personalized, well-argued letters.
Assistance in using the ANEF platform or making an appointment at the prefecture.
Verification of documents in the required format (e-photo, certificates).
Close monitoring of the application process
We monitor your application until a decision is made, acting as your point of contact with the authorities.
Handling disputes and appeals
If your application is rejected or you do not receive a response from the authorities, we can help you with:
Referring your case to the residence permit commission.
Lodging an informal or formal appeal.
Lodging an appeal before the administrative court.
Assistance during interviews or summonses to the prefecture
We can prepare you for your hearing and assist you during sensitive appointments.
Personalized and attentive support
FB Avocat regularly assists:
Young adults who have been placed in the care of the ASE (child welfare services) or who arrived in France before the age of 13.
Children born in France who have completed their schooling.
Minors who have reached the age of majority and have an employment contract.
Families wishing to regularize the situation of a child living in France.
For a personalized analysis of your situation and the development of a tailored strategy, please make an appointment:
Phone: 09 85 40 18 64
Email: contact@legalfb-avocat.fr
Website: www.fb-avocat.net
We are available to provide you with expert and friendly assistance throughout the process.
