Once you’ve validated your long-stay visa (VLS-TS), your confirmation document will inform you that you’ll be invited to both a “visite d’accueil” and a “visite medicale” at your local OFII office (Office Français de l’Immigration et de l’Intégration). Commonly referred to as the “OFII visit”.
So, what exactly happens during this visit? And what do you need to prepare? Let’s walk through it step by step.
A la suite de la validation de votre visa, vous allez être convoqué(e) par la direction territoriale de l’Office français de l’immigration et de l’intégration (OFII) compétente pour participer à une demi-journée d’accueil dans le cadre du contrat d’intégration républicaine.
First of all, don’t panic! Here I will answer all your questions on:
- Overview of the OFII Convocation
- Medical Visit (It’s Free!)
- Welcome Visit and French Exam at l’OFII
- The Interview
- Signing the CIR (Contrat d’Intégration Républicaine)
- My Experience at the OFII Welcome Visit
Overview of the OFII Convocation
After validating your visa online, you’ll receive a PDF confirmation. This document outlines the two required visits. However, the exact date and time of your convocation will be sent separately, usually by email, SMS, or post.
How Long Do I have to Wait?
Timelines vary by region. On average, you should receive your appointment within 2–4 weeks. If you haven’t heard anything after 45 days, it’s a good idea to follow up with your regional OFII office by email.
📍 Find your nearest regional OFII office here
Be patient—Processing times can be delayed due to high volume.
Medical Visit (It’s Free!)
The medical visit is part of the integration process and is completely free of charge. It ensures that you are in good health and helps detect any conditions that may require follow-up. It includes
- A general clinical exam
- A chest X-ray to check for tuberculosis
- Vaccination record review
- Blood sugar screening (for those at-risk of diabetes)
In my case, the chest X-ray was done at a local clinic before my OFII appointment. The process was quick—around 20 minutes. I then brought the X-ray results to the OFII office, where a nurse and doctor completed the remaining health checks.
What to Bring to the Medical Visit?
- Your convocation letter
- Your passport or identity card
- Your vaccination record
- A proof of address (nice to have in case you don’t remember your address as you just arrived)
Think of it as a 350€ health check-up, offered for free—a generous welcome gesture from France! 🎁
Welcome Visit and French Exam at l’OFII
After checking in, the day typically begins with a short French language assessment. This test lasts about 20 minutes and consists of 4 questions, each corresponding to a CEFR level:
**The test might vary depending on the region!**
- Question 1 = Level A1
- Question 2 = Level A2
- Question 3 = Level B1
- Question 4 = Level B2
This test assesses your current level of French and determines whether you’ll be required to take French language courses (once again, it’s free, provided by the state).
Can I Be Exempted?
Yes—if you already have a valid certificate proving at least a B1 level, bring it with you to OFII. This may exempt you from both the test and the French courses.
The Interview
Next, you’ll have a short interview with an OFII agent. Expect questions like:
- Why did you move to France?
- Are you currently working or looking for a job?
- Do you have children or family here?
Be honest—these questions help OFII direct you to the right support services like language training, job assistance (France Travail), or CAF (family benefits).
Signing the CIR (Contrat d’Intégration Républicaine)
At the end of the session, you’ll officially sign the Contrat d’Intégration Républicaine (CIR). This is a mutual agreement between you and the French state, stating that you commit to integrating into French society.
You’ll also be informed whether:
- You need to take French lessons
- You are required to attend 4 days of civic training
My Experience at the OFII Welcome Visit
I had a smooth and informative visit at OFII Strasbourg. I appreciated how well-organized the process was and came away with useful information on healthcare, French language classes, and civic training.
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