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Renewing the French visitor permit after the VLS-TS year: checklist

The prefecture is stricter than the consulate on one point: evidence that you did not work for the French economy.

Print or save as PDF The boxes are meant to be checked on paper.

• Apply on ANEF between 4 and 2 months before the visa expires, from the account used for validation
• Updated means: 12 months of statements (U.S. and any French account), pension or salary letters, tax returns in both countries if resident
• Insurance for the next year, or the PUMa attestation
• Housing: current lease and recent utility bill; proof that France is your main residence
• A fresh handwritten sworn statement not to work in France
• Renewal tax €250 (since May 1, 2026); the first visitor card after a VLS-TS is normally charged at the renewal rate (€250), not the first-issue rate (€350): check the amount shown on ANEF
• While the prefecture decides, keep the ANEF receipt (attestation de dépôt, then attestation de prolongation d'instruction if your permit expires before the decision) with your passport; check before traveling abroad
• Changed situation (French job, French spouse)? Change category at renewal rather than stretching "visiteur"

Sources, checked October 16, 2026: France-Visas (United States page and visa assistant), service-public.fr fiche F302, ANEF, Journal officiel (Assemblée nationale, written question no. 11730). Figures change at least yearly; re-check on the official source the week you file. Practical information, not legal advice.