Understanding prefecture response times for residence permits
Processing times for residence permit applications are often a source of concern and confusion. This article helps you understand the factors that influence these delays and better anticipate the waiting times for your case.
Average processing times by type of application
Delays vary considerably depending on the type of application and the prefecture concerned. Here is an estimate of the average observed delays:
| Type of application | Average delay | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| First residence permit application | 3-6 months | May be longer for some categories (student, private and family life) |
| Residence permit renewal | 2-4 months | Generally faster than first applications |
| Status change | 4-8 months | More thorough review, especially for changes to employee or entrepreneur status |
| Resident card (10 years) | 6-12 months | More thorough checks on integration and resources |
| Residence permit for medical care | 4-8 months | Requires the opinion of an OFII doctor |
Important to know:
These times are indicative and may vary greatly from one prefecture to another. Large cities such as Paris, Lyon or Marseille generally have longer delays due to the volume of applications to be processed.
Factors influencing processing times
Several factors may explain why some cases are processed faster than others.
Administration-related factors:
- Workload of the relevant prefecture
- Staff available to process cases
- Periods of high demand (university start, end of year)
- Legislative changes requiring service adaptation
- Degree of digitalization of procedures
Case-related factors:
- Complexity of your personal situation
- Completeness of the submitted file (missing documents)
- Need for additional checks
- Consultation of other administrations (OFII, DIRECCTE)
- Nature of your application (some categories are prioritized)
Consequences of a prolonged processing time
When your residence permit or renewal application takes time, several consequences may arise:
Receipt and provisional authorization
When you submit a residence permit application or renewal, the prefecture usually issues you a receipt which:
- Certifies that your application is being processed
- Authorizes you to stay legally in France while your application is being processed
- May allow you to work depending on your situation (mention "authorizes the holder to work")
This receipt is usually valid for 3 to 6 months and can be renewed if your application is not processed by the deadline.
Potential difficulties
Despite the protection offered by the receipt, excessive delays can cause:
- Complications for traveling outside France
- Difficulties with some employers unfamiliar with the legal value of the receipt
- Obstacles to accessing certain services (banks, housing)
- Prolonged uncertainty about your administrative situation
What to do in case of an abnormally long delay?
If you notice that your application is taking much longer than the average times indicated, you have several options:
- Contact the foreigners' service
The first step is to contact the foreigners' service of your prefecture to inquire about the progress of your case. Preferably use official channels (online form, dedicated email).
- Administrative appeal
Send a letter to the prefect to remind them of your situation and politely ask to speed up your application. Attach copies of your receipt and any document proving your application.
- Request a mediator
The Defender of Rights can intervene in case of administrative malfunction. You can contact a delegate of the Defender of Rights in your department.
- Legal action
As a last resort, if no decision has been made after 4 months (which constitutes an implicit rejection), you can take the matter to the administrative court. This usually requires the help of a specialized lawyer.
How RDVHUB can help you
Although RDVHUB cannot directly speed up the processing of your file by the prefecture, our service allows you to:
- Get an appointment more quickly to submit your initial or renewal application
- Save valuable time in the first step of the process, thanks to our SMS and email alerts as soon as a slot becomes available
- Avoid the race for appointments, often a source of stress and wasted time
Tips to reduce processing times
To maximize your chances of getting a quick response to your residence permit application:
- Anticipate your application
For a renewal, start your application 2 to 3 months before your current permit expires.
- Prepare a complete file
Check the list of required documents several times and make sure you provide them all. An incomplete file will automatically result in additional delays.
- Take care with presentation
Sort your documents in the order requested by the administration, with a table of contents. Use good quality copies.
- Avoid busy periods
If possible, avoid submitting your application during busy periods (September-October, end of the year).
- Use online procedures
When available, prefer online procedures, which often allow faster processing and better tracking.
Frequently asked questions about processing times
Last updated: April 2025