Admission exceptionnelle au séjour (AES): 2026 rules
Updated October 2026
Exceptional admission to residence (admission exceptionnelle au séjour, AES) allows some people living in France without a residence permit to apply for one. It is not a right: the prefect decides case by case. Since January 2025, the rules are stricter. Here is what you need to know before applying.
In short
- AES is decided case by case by the prefect, it is never automatic.
- Since the circular of 23 January 2025, 7 years of presence in France is the usual reference.
- Integration, French language and respect for public order weigh heavily in the decision.
- A refusal is often followed by an OQTF, so prepare a strong file before applying.
Living in France for several years? Take the free eligibility test
What is AES?
AES is provided for by the French immigration code (CESEDA, articles L435-1 to L435-4). The prefect can issue a residence permit for humanitarian reasons or exceptional circumstances, even if you do not meet the usual conditions of another permit.
If your application is accepted, you receive a 1-year temporary residence permit, marked vie privée et familiale, salarié or travailleur temporaire. It can then be renewed.
The rules since January 2025
The circular of 23 January 2025 replaced the 2012 circular (known as the "Valls circular"). It gives prefects new guidelines:
- 7 years of presence in France is now considered a relevant sign of integration (5 years before)
- A French language diploma or certificate is assessed favourably
- You must commit to respecting the principles of the Republic
- Any threat to public order or a polygamous situation excludes the application
- Prefects pay particular attention to people who did not leave France after an OQTF
The main situations
- Private and family life: long presence in France, children at school, strong personal and family ties
- Work in a shortage occupation: 12 months of work in the last 24 months and 3 years of residence, until 31 December 2026. Read our article on jobs in short supply in France.
- Other work situations: possible, but examined more strictly since 2025
- Solidarity work: 3 years of activity within an approved solidarity organisation (OACAS)
- Young adults: people placed in child welfare (aide sociale à l'enfance) between 16 and 18 who follow a qualifying training
Studying in France alone is not enough to obtain AES.
Prepare your file
The prefecture looks at your whole situation. Prepare clear proof of:
- Your presence in France, year by year: bills, medical documents, bank statements, tax notices
- Your integration: French level, training, volunteering, letters of support
- Your family ties: children at school, family living legally in France
- Your work, if you rely on it: payslips, work contract or job offer
- Your identity: passport or consular card
You apply to the prefecture of your place of residence. The procedure (appointment, online form, mail) depends on each prefecture.
Be careful: AES is never guaranteed, and a refusal is often followed by an order to leave France (OQTF), with very short deadlines to appeal. Do not apply with an incomplete file: get advice first.
How TSA helps you
- We review your situation with you and check if AES is the right route, or if another permit fits better
- We help you organise your proof of presence and integration, year by year
- We prepare your file and your appointment at the prefecture, in your language
- In case of refusal or OQTF, our partner lawyers take over before the court
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Sources: CESEDA articles L435-1 to L435-4 and the circular of 23 January 2025 (analyses by Gisti and Le Club des juristes)
