Purpose of Stay: Clearly define the purpose of your stay, whether it’s for work, study, family reunification, or retirement.

Duration: Your intended stay must exceed 90 days.

Financial Stability: Provide proof that you have enough funds available to support yourself while you are in France.

Health Insurance: Produce evidence that one has health insurance that fulfills the French standards.

Accommodation: Provide proof of residence in France like a lease agreement or a letter from your host.

Determine Visa Type: Determine which of the long stay visa category applies to your purpose of visit (i.e. student’s visa, worker’s visa, relative’s visa).

Gather Documents: Gather essential documents including identification, proof of purpose of stay, financial means, and qualifications.

Submit Application: Submit the application at the French consulate or visa application center nearest to you. Make sure all the forms are properly filled and all the relevant papers are attached.

Pay Fees: Get the France long stay visa fees in a range according to the type of visa and originating country.

Interview: Attend an interview if necessary. The consulate may ask for further details or supporting documents.

Wait for Processing: France long stays visa processing time might take some time ranging from few weeks to few months.

Receive Visa: After approval you can collect your visa and then you can make necessary travel arrangements.