The 10-year residence permit offers long-term stability for any foreign national (outside the European Union) wishing to stay in France. This residence permit allows you to live, work, and settle legally without annual restrictions. It gives you access to many rights, but obtaining it is subject to strict rules. To obtain it, renew it, or contest a refusal, it is essential to have the right information. In this article, discover all the steps to follow, the pitfalls to avoid, and the solutions in case of difficulty. Our lawyers who are experts in residence permits will assist you with the necessary procedures.
Understanding the 10-year resident card
Definition and role of a residence permit in France
First and foremost, let’s clarify what a residence permit is. It authorizes a foreign national in France to reside legally on French territory. The residence card is a special type of residence permit that grants a more permanent right of residence. It is issued by the Directorate-General for Foreigners in France, in accordance with guidelines defined by the Ministry of the Interior. Unlike a visa, it allows the holder to live in France without having to renew it annually, to access certain rights, and to benefit from reassuring continuity of residence. The residence permit aims to reward the long-term integration of foreigners into French society.
What is the difference between a residence permit and a resident card?
The resident card is a residence permit, but a long-term one (10 years). Both refer to the right to legally reside in France. The term “residence permit” is used for all documents, and “resident card” for permits valid for ten years.
This document is reserved for foreigners who are already well established in France. Unlike temporary permits (valid for one year, sometimes renewable for two to four years), the residence card offers greater stability and rights and exempts holders from certain repetitive procedures. It is a key step towards lasting integration.
What are the advantages of a 10-year residence permit?
The 10-year residence permit offers many concrete advantages for foreigners who have settled permanently in France:
- Living in France without having to renew your residence permit frequently, as with a multi-year residence permit.
- To freely engage in any occupation without specific authorization: this is a full right to work.
- Enjoy easier access to social benefits: social security, housing assistance, family benefits.
- Travel more freely, particularly within the Schengen area, without having to apply for a visa for each country.
- Apply for French citizenship after 3 to 5 years under certain conditions.
- Facilitating family reunification procedures: residents can legally bring their family members (spouse, minor children) to join them.
- Access housing more easily, take out a bank loan, or sign a long-term lease.
- Consolidating its administrative presence: the card is recognition of the integration process.
In some cases, beneficiaries of subsidiary protection may obtain a residence permit after four years of stable residence in France.
You can apply for naturalization after living in France for a few years, under certain conditions set by the CESEDA (Code on the Entry and Stay of Foreigners and the Right of Asylum).
What does an EU long-term resident card allow you to do?
The European Union long-term resident card allows you to stay in other European Union countries. It is subject to specific rules. It is issued after five years of regular residence in France. It authorizes business or family travel. To be eligible, you must meet strict conditions. This card facilitates intra-European mobility. It differs from the standard residence card and is subject to certain restrictions, for example:
- It does not allow you to work automatically in another Member State. A local work permit is often required.
- Each country applies its own conditions for admission: resources, housing, health insurance, etc.
- The length of stay in the other country is often limited to 3 months without formalities. Beyond that, an application for local residency is required.
- Some countries may refuse installation on grounds related to public order or public health.
- The card may be withdrawn if the holder leaves the EU for more than 12 consecutive months.
Identify the right resident card for your situation
Who is eligible for a resident card?
Any foreign national residing legally in France may apply for a residence permit, provided they meet the criteria specific to the type of residence permit they are applying for. In all cases, the applicant must have a stable and verified place of residence, and the prefecture checks each case individually, line by line.
10-year resident card or permanent resident card: what are the differences?
Although the 10-year resident card and the permanent resident card are often confused, there are notable differences between them in terms of duration, conditions for obtaining them, and renewal.
| Criterion | 10-year resident card | Permanent resident card |
| Validity period: | 10 years, renewable | Unlimited |
| Renewal | Yes, every 10 years | No, except in the event of a change in circumstances or damage to the card |
| Conditions for obtaining permanent residency: | stable, regular residence, integration into society, resources. | Must have held a residence permit for 10 years without interruption or a residence permit marked “long-term resident – EU.” |
| Rights in France | Right to work, social benefits, family life | Same rights as the 10-year card |
| Entry on the card: | “Resident Card” | “Permanent Resident” |
| Application procedure | Standard application at the prefecture or via the ANEF | Specific application after several years of uninterrupted residence |
| Main advantage: | 10-year residency stability | Guaranteed long-term residency without periodic formalities |
While the permanent resident card remains more advantageous than
the 10-year resident card, it is still subject to certain obligations.
- The cardholder must reside permanently in France. An absence of more than 3 consecutive years may result in the card being withdrawn.
- He must not pose a threat to public order, otherwise he will be removed.
- He must report any change in his personal circumstances (name, address, marital status) to the prefecture.
- He may be required to update his title physically (e.g., change of format or biometric data).
Residence permits for Algerian nationals: specific rules
If you are an Algerian national, you are not covered by CESEDA but by a specific agreement. Here is what this means in practical terms. You are covered by the amended Franco-Algerian agreement of December 27, 1968. You can obtain a 10-year residence certificate, equivalent to a residence card, but governed by a framework separate from CESEDA.
How to apply for a 10-year resident card
When and how to submit an application?
Applying for a residence permit is an administrative procedure overseen by the public service. The application must be submitted to the prefecture (or sub-prefecture) of your place of residence within two months prior to the expiry of your current residence permit. The procedure varies depending on the department: some prefectures require applications to be submitted online via the ANEF (Digital Administration for Foreigners in France) website or through the “simplified procedures” service, while others still require you to make an appointment in person.
In all cases, it is necessary to anticipate delays, which are often lengthy, and prepare the form, the exact address, and the file number. The applicant must be able to prove the legality of their stay, their resources, their integration, and their ties to France.
For up-to-date information, we recommend consulting your local prefecture website or service-public.fr. You can also seek assistance from a lawyer to simplify the process.
Do you need a diploma or a test to obtain the 10-year card?
In some cases, a French language proficiency test is required. The expected level is A2 on the European Framework (corresponding to a basic level of French, enabling the candidate to understand and express themselves on simple everyday topics).
It is also possible to prove your language skills with a diploma (for example, a Diplôme Initial de Langue Française (DILF) or any higher-level French diploma, e.g., DELF A2, CAP, BEP, baccalaureate, etc.).
The review of the application may include an interview. The aim is to verify republican integration. Language proficiency, knowledge of French values, and understanding of rights and duties are assessed.
Renew a 10-year resident card before it expires
What are the steps involved in renewing a residence permit?
You must renew your residence permit between three and six months before it expires. Renewing early will prevent any interruption in your right of residence. You must make an appointment at the prefecture or submit your application online. your application online via the ANEF website. The process is similar to that for a first-time application: a complete file must be prepared.
The administration checks, in particular, the continuity of residence in France, the maintenance of resources, and compliance with the integration contract. In case of doubt, an interview may be arranged.
What documents are required to renew a residence permit?
The renewal application generally includes the same elements as an initial application.
You do not need to resubmit certain supporting documents that you have already provided if they have not changed, but the prefecture may request them again for verification purposes.
Depending on the circumstances, you may also be required to present: proof of family status, a language certificate, or proof of an integration contract. Any omission may result in your appointment being refused or postponed.
What should I do if my residence card is delayed or has expired?
It is essential to take action before the document expires, as any delay may result in your right of residence being blocked. If this is not possible, contact the prefecture immediately. A receipt may be issued if your application has already been submitted.
If the expiration is prolonged or unjustified, a new complete file must be compiled, accompanied by an explanatory letter. The risk of refusal is then higher, especially if you previously had a multi-year residence permit or a residence permit that expired a long time ago. In some cases, a refusal may give rise to litigation before the court, particularly if the administration rejects the application despite favorable evidence.
Refusal, withdrawal, or loss: how should you respond?
What are the grounds for refusing a 10-year residence permit?
A refusal may be based on failure to meet the conditions for issuance set out in the CESEDA, but also on illegal residence, insufficient resources, lack of proof of integration, or a criminal record. In case of doubt, the authorities may refuse to issue the card. The decision must be justified and notified in writing. It may be appealed.
Can an appeal be lodged in the event of refusal or withdrawal?
Yes. It is possible to lodge an administrative appeal (informal or hierarchical) with the prefecture. This appeal must be lodged within two months of notification of the decision to refuse or withdraw. Informal appeals have a low success rate, unless new and well-argued evidence is presented. If this appeal fails, a contentious appeal may be lodged with the administrative court. The latter will analyze the legality of the decision.
In exceptional cases, an appeal may also be lodged with the Prime Minister, particularly on serious humanitarian grounds.
It is strongly recommended that you seek the assistance of an immigration lawyer to prepare your application.
In what cases can the card be automatically withdrawn?
Withdrawal may be decided if the foreign national leaves France for an extended period, loses their right of residence, or in cases of fraud. A residence permit may be withdrawn for reasons of threat to public order or in cases of use of false documents.
If the conditions for issuance are no longer met, the prefect may initiate a withdrawal procedure. A reasoned decision is then sent to the holder.
Cost, validity, and conditions of use
How much does the 10-year resident card cost?
The cost of the residence permit is 225€, payable in the form of tax stamps (€25 for the stamp duty and €200 for the tax). This covers the cost of producing the permit and the administrative fees. The amount remains the same in the event of renewal.
However, additional charges may apply:
- If the applicant entered France without a long-stay visa, an additional fee of 200€ is required for a regularization visa.
- In the event of a late application (after the expiration of the permit), a regularization visa fee of 180€ is required.
Certain situations give entitlement to an exemption, particularly for asylum seekers, young adults under protection, or individuals benefiting from a protection order for domestic violence. In the latter case, renewal is free of charge.
Payment must be made before the card is issued.
How long is the card valid for?
Unsurprisingly, the resident card is valid for 10 years. It is renewable. It is advisable to check its expiry date as soon as you receive it and make a note of it in your diary as a reminder to renew it. In the event of loss or a change of circumstances (name, address), an update is required.
The 10-year residence permit should not be confused with the permanent residence permit, which entitles you to permanent residence in France, subject to certain conditions.
Can you stay outside France with a residence permit?
Yes, but under strict conditions, as a prolonged stay outside France may result in the withdrawal of the residence card or
the refusal to renew it.
To avoid any difficulties when returning to France, it is strongly recommended that you:
- keep travel documents (tickets, passport stamps, etc.),
- and, in the event of a prolonged absence, be able to prove a stable connection with France (employment certificate, pay slips, tax notices, etc.).
If you have any doubts or are facing a complex personal situation (professional mobility, extended family stay, etc.), it is advisable to consult a lawyer. G-Partners can help you preserve your right of residence in the event of a long absence. Save time by submitting a solid application with our help!
Legal support: why seek help from a lawyer?
Why consult a professional before submitting your application?
Consulting a lawyer as soon as you begin preparing your application allows you to approach your request with rigor and strategy. They will identify the specific criteria that must be met, based on your background, resources, or family situation. They will gather the necessary documents, discard any unnecessary ones, and identify any elements that could weaken your application. This support significantly reduces the risk of rejection, which is often linked to procedural errors or insufficient supporting documents. The support of an experienced professional helps you avoid administrative pitfalls and strengthens the credibility of your application when it is submitted to the prefecture.
How can a lawyer help you in the event of refusal or administrative complexity?
When faced with a refusal, withdrawal of status, or unusual situation, the assistance of an immigration lawyer becomes a decisive asset. They build a solid legal argument, prepare the necessary appeals (informal, hierarchical, or contentious), and, if necessary, refer the case to the administrative court.
In complex cases (late filing, change in personal circumstances, irregular residence, or administrative history), the lawyer identifies the applicable laws and draws on prefectural practice to build a solid defense. He also intervenes urgently to prevent any deportation or interruption of rights.
Every month, G-Partners assists numerous applicants with their residency card applications.
For personalized assistance, contact us at +33 (0)1 86 70 83 00 or via our contact page.
Conclusion
Don’t let missing documentation or a delay in submission jeopardize your residence permit. Obtaining or renewing a 10-year residence permit requires diligence, solid evidence, personal commitment, and compliance with administrative procedures. This permit can also be a step toward French naturalization, under certain conditions. In the event of refusal, withdrawal, or a complex situation, every day counts.
G-Partners will assist you every step of the way, from the initial application process to the issuance of your residence permit. Contact us today to secure your future in France.
Frequently asked questions about the 10-year resident card
How can I prove 10 years of residence in France?
By providing ongoing supporting documents: pay slips, rent receipts, school certificates, CAF certificates, bank statements.
Can you obtain a resident card without having a valid residence permit?
No. You must be legally residing in the country. A residence card cannot be issued without prior authorization.
How can I track the progress of my online application?
By consulting the personal space on the website of the prefecture where you live.
What should I do if I lose my card?
If you lose your residence card, you must immediately report the loss to the police or gendarmerie, then apply for a duplicate at the relevant prefecture. You will need to provide valid ID, a compliant photograph, and, if possible, a copy of the old card.
Can we apply for a child? A parent?
Yes, but under strict conditions set out by CESEDA and bilateral agreements.
Each application requires individual review and solid supporting documentation. G. Partners can assist you in assessing the conditions and preparing a complete and well-argued application.
How many passport photos should be attached?
Generally three. Some prefectures may request more for duplicates or renewals.
Can a permanent resident card be renewed?
The permanent resident card does not have an expiration date. However, a physical renewal may be required in the event of loss, change of address, or if the card is illegible. You can submit your application at the prefecture, with a simplified file: only proof of residence in France is required. It is not necessary to provide proof of income.
