Studying in France has many advantages, but covering living expenses can be tough. To help students, the Caisse d’Allocations Familiales (CAF) offers a rental subsidy that lowers monthly rent.
If you're an Indian student, you'll need key documents to apply for CAF, including an Apostilled and translated birth certificate. This guide will break down everything you need to know—who can apply, what documents are required, how to apply step by step, and common mistakes to avoid.
What is CAF?
CAF (Caisse d’Allocations Familiales) is a French government program that offers a rental subsidy to students based on their income, rent, and housing type. The financial aid is directly credited to the student’s French bank account or paid to the landlord.
Key Benefits of CAF for Indian Students
• Reduces monthly rent costs
• Available for international students
• Can be applied for after moving into accommodation
• Does not require a part-time job for eligibility
Who Can Apply for CAF?
Indian students in France can apply for CAF if they meet the following criteria:
• Enrolled in a French educational institution
• Living in a rental apartment, university residence, or private student housing
• Holding a valid visa and residence permit
• Having a rental contract (bail de location)
• Holding a French bank account (RIB) for CAF payments
Submitting an Apostilled and translated birth certificate
Documents Required for CAF Application
- Apostilled and translated Birth Certificate
- Valid Passport and Student Visa
- Rental Agreement (Bail de Location)
- French Bank Account Details (RIB – Relevé d'Identité Bancaire)
- Proof of Enrollment (Certificate de Scolarité)
- Income Proof (if applicable)
How to Get a Birth Certificate Apostille for CAF
- Obtain the Original Birth Certificate: Apply at the Municipal Corporation or Gram Panchayat office in India.
- Verify All Details: Ensure there are no errors in your name, parents’ names, or birth details.
- Get State-Level Attestation (If Required): Some Indian states require authentication before an Apostille.
- Apostille from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA): Submit the birth certificate to MEA for Apostille in Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, or Guwahati.
- Translate the Apostilled Certificate into French: Use a government-recognized translator for official translations.
How to Apply for CAF Online?
- Create an account on the official CAF website: www.caf.fr
- Complete the application with your rental and personal details
- Upload required documents (Apostille, rental contract, visa, bank details)
- Receive a CAF beneficiary number after submission
- Wait for approval (typically 4-8 weeks)
How Much CAF Subsidy Can You Receive?
CAF does not provide a fixed amount—it depends on:
- Monthly rent and type of housing
- City of residence (Paris student rent subsidies are higher)
- Student’s financial status
To check the amount you may receive, use the CAF Simulator Tool: www.caf.fr
What If My Birth Certificate Has Errors?
If there are errors in your birth certificate:
- Apply for a reissued certificate from the municipal office
- If minor errors exist, provide a self-declaration or affidavit
Can I Apply for CAF Late?
CAF may provide retroactive payments for up to 3 months, so applying late might still allow partial benefits.
Do I Need a French Guarantor for CAF?
Some landlords require a French guarantor (Garant) for rental approval. Indian students can use VISALE, a free government-backed guarantee service for student rentals.
Other Student Allowances in France
Apart from CAF, students in France can benefit from:
- CROUS Housing Assistance – Government-funded student residences
- Transport Discounts for Students – Reduced fares on public transport
- Student Health Insurance – Subsidized healthcare for international students
Can I Apply for CAF Without an Apostille?
