Decoding France’s Social Security System: A Comprehensive Guide for Indian
Students

What Is CAF & OFII?

What is CAF in France for international students?

CAF stands for Caisse des Allocations Familiales. It is a French state welfare agency by the French government that financially helps students by offering different types of benefits. CAF allows international students to reduce their housing-related expenses in France.

International students with valid residence permits are entitled to housing allowance. The benefit amount depends on where you live and how much monthly rent you pay for. Note that to receive housing aid, your lease and rental receipts must be created in your name.

Benefits for International Students under CAF

Housing can be a significant expense for students, especially those studying abroad. Under CAF, international students can receive financial assistance to help with housing expenses. To be eligible for this housing subsidy, students need to have a valid rental agreement and meet certain income criteria.

As mentioned above, the amount of financial assistance provided will depend on the student's income and the cost of their accommodation.

Documents Required For CAF Applications

Below are the documents you will need to apply for CAF

• Proof of identity (ID card, passport)

• Rental contract (your lease)

• Rent certificate (filled out by the owner of your apartment)

• RIB (French bank statement)

Once the CAF receives your application, you might be asked to send further documents like:

• Your resident permit (or visa validation)

• Proof of student status

• Your birth certificate translated into French

• Resource letter

What is OFII in France for international students?

OFII stands for Office for Immigration and Integration. To study in France, International students who don’t have French A-levels have to fulfill certain requirements.

The first one is to get access to higher education and have knowledge of the French language. Second, according to your situation, you have to enroll directly in a higher education school or institute in France.

After receiving your registration or pre-registration confirmation from a concerned institute/school, the French consulate will grant you a student visa.

OFII procedure is essential as it will grant you the permit to stay in France and avail the benefits provided by the French government.

Benefits for International Students under OFII

Under OFII, international students are eligible for 50-60% discounts on transportation, healthcare, and more. Students can avail of these discounts by presenting their student ID card and passport.

Documents Required For OFII Registration

Once you arrive in France below are the documents you will need when you submit to the OFII:

• The OFII certificate application form, filled with the missing information (Your visa Number, Date of arrival in France or the Schengen area, and your address in France)

• Your passport, and your visa

• Copy of the entry stamp in France or the Schengen area

Once the OFII receive your documents, they will send you the following instructions

• A letter to notify that they have received the documents

• A congregation for a medical visit, for visa validation

• A letter stamp asking you to buy a stamp

On the day of the medical visit, you need to have the following Documents:

• Your passport with the visa

• Proof of address

• A photo ID

• The letter stamp and the stamp according to the charge told in the letter-stamp

Lastly, the medical examination will include:

• A general clinical examination

• A chest x-ray

• A check of your vaccines