This is an archived page.
The application window and the online portal are now closed and all remaining applications must be made to your local préfecture.
The basic information provided on this page however remains relevant.

Applying if you've been resident for 5 years or more

 On this page we take you through the process of completing the online application form if you have been resident in France for 5 years at the time of your application and you hold a CdS permanent. We look at how to apply and what evidence you need to provide when you apply.

The previous 2 pages gave an overview and set the context for your application, and looked generally at the process of making your application. It's a good idea to read these first.

Permanent residence is covered in Chapter VI, Articles 21 to 24 of the decree, which you can read here.
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A straightforward procedure

• If you've been resident for 5 years or more, your application will be straightforward and you can breathe a sigh of relief.
  
  
• The process varies according to whether or not you hold a carte de séjour permanent.
  
  
• If you hold a 10 year carte de séjour permanent, even if this has expired, or you have an old-style card without an expiry date, then you'll need to follow the route described on this page.
  
  
• If you don't have a carte de séjour permanent, then you will still apply on the 'over 5 years' route but the process is slightly different. Please go to this page to find out about this route.

YOU ALREADY HOLD A CURRENT OR EXPIRED
​CARTE DE SEJOUR PERMANENT

Start your application

• Note that this section only relates to those with a 10 year carte de séjour permanent and to those who have an old-style CdS without an expiry date. If you have a 5 year card but have now accrued more than 5 years residence, please go to the next section.
  
  
• Begin your application by navigating to either the French or the English version of the application form on the French government website.
  
  
• Follow the instructions on the previous page to complete the introductory pages of your application if you haven't already done so, then return to this page.

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Continuing your application

• As you already hold a carte de séjour permanent, the process will be a very simple one for you as you are in effect simply exchanging your former card for a new one issued under the Withdrawal Agreement that will maintain your permanent residence rights.
  
  
• First of all, you'll be asked for the date you first settled in France. Note that you're not asked for any evidence of this.
  
  
• Next, you'll be asked to confirm that you have a 10 year CdS permanent, even if it has expired, and you'll be asked to enter the 10 digit number that is found on the card. Take care to enter the right number - on cards issued since 2011, it's the number on the right hand short side that you need, not the one at the top. You'll find instructions and a diagram here: accueil.contacts-demarches.interieur.gouv.fr/media/uploads/2020/10/15/comment_trouver_mon_numero_d_etranger_en.pdf
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• Finally on this page you'll be asked for the issue date and the 'valid to' date on your card.

• Once you've completed this page and clicked the Suivant button, you'll be taken to a page where you have to upload a copy of the front only of your CdS permanent.

• On the following page you are asked to identify yourself, give your name and marital status, your date and place of birth, and your passport details. Note that you are not required to upload a copy of your passport as you already hold a CdS permanent.
  
  
• If you use a different name from your birth name - for example, your spouse's name - enter this as your Username.
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• Use the Issuing Authority details from your passport - for example, for a UK passport use GBR.

• Finally you're asked for your address details, email address and a phone number, either mobile or landline. An email address and at least one phone number are obligatory.
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• Note that 'Channel number' and 'Label of the Channel' refers to your road name and number, and 'Locality - PO Box' relates to your Lieu-dit or your Boite Postale if you have one (this will only apply to a few people and is not compulsory to complete).

• The last box on the form asks whether you have any additional observations to make. This is where you should now add your reasons for not applying before the original deadline of 30 June 2021. You can also use this box if, for example, you would like to attend the préfecture at the same time as your spouse or another family member (add their names here); if you have mobility difficulties and would like your préfecture to get in touch to see if alternative arrangements can be made; or for any other comments on your application. Please write in French, otherwise your comments may not be fully understood. If your French isn't good enough you can use this site to translate what you want to say: www.deepl.com/en/translator.

• When you click on Suivant, you'll be taken to a page where you can see all the information you have input and verify whether it's correct. If so, you can go on and validate your application (press Valider); before you do this you'll have to answer a simple anti-spam question.
  
  
• You will receive (usually in under an hour) an email which is your attestation d'enregistrement and contains your unique application number. Keep this email very safe as you won't be able to get a copy. It is your proof that you have made your application. If you travel outside France after 31 December 2025 you'll need to take it with you until you receive your new card so that you are treated as a resident and not as a tourist when you return.
  
  
• In due course your préfecture will contact you with an appointment for fingerprinting and to present your photo - see this page for details.
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• Your new card will then be sent to your home by post. You will receive a 10 year permanent residence card.