Worth knowing for your nationality
- China is not a signatory to the Hague Apostille Convention: your official documents generally need full consular legalization rather than a simple apostille: budget the extra time.
- VLS-TS applications are filed through an authorized visa application center, and appointment wait times can be long depending on the city, so start early.
- Some international transfers from China are subject to foreign-exchange controls: check this before counting on a first transfer to cover your housing payment.
The order that unlocks housing, your bank, insurance and CAF
No housing without a bank account, no bank account without housing, and insurance and CAF wait on both. The order that breaks the loop:
- 1
Aim for a furnished flat
No French bank account or guarantor needed.
- 2
Open your bank account
Your lease is your proof of address.
- 3
Get home insurance
At the same address.
- 4
Apply for CAF housing benefit
With your signed lease.
Last updated: 14 August 2026
This guide is provided for informational purposes only and is not an official document. Procedures, deadlines and fees can change: always verify with the linked official source for each step.