Practical guides

French prefecture: appointments, online procedures and appeals — guide

The prefecture represents the State in each department: residence permits, naturalisation, licence exchange… Most procedures are now online and you are invited by appointment.

Verified, up to date 20261 min read

Key points in 30 seconds

  • Identify the procedure.
  • Prepare documents.
  • Book or apply online.

Online

Residence permits and naturalisation on ANEF; driving licences and car registration on ANTS.

Advice from the association

Don't leave this procedure to the last minute — come and see us.

Booking

On your department prefecture's website. Free. If no slots, keep screenshots for the Défenseur des droits or court.

Common mistake

Buying appointments.

Digital help desk

Help with online forms at the prefecture and France Services offices.

Common mistake

No copies.

Refusal

Informal, hierarchical or court appeal within short deadlines (much shorter for an OQTF).

Common mistake

Missed appeal deadlines.

Common mistake

No evidence of booking attempts.

Step by step

  1. 1Identify the procedure.
  2. 2Prepare documents.
  3. 3Book or apply online.
  4. 4Bring originals and copies.
  5. 5Keep the receipt.
  6. 6Watch the answer and deadlines.

Official documents and forms

Official sources only. Links open the current version of each form.

Documents needed

Collected: 0 / 5

FAQ

No slots?

Repeated screenshots, registered letter, Défenseur des droits. We help.

Bring an interpreter?

Yes, our volunteers can accompany you.

Which prefecture?

Your department of residence, sometimes a sub-prefecture.

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