ANEF: The Online Residence Permit Management Platform

The ANEF (Administration Numérique pour les Étrangers en France - Digital Administration for Foreigners in France) is the official platform that allows foreign nationals to manage their residence permit procedures entirely online, without having to visit a prefecture in most cases.

Gradually implemented since 2019, this platform significantly simplifies administrative procedures for foreigners residing in France.

🖥️ What is ANEF?

ANEF is a secure digital portal that allows you to:

Create and submit a residence permit application
Renew an existing permit
Track the progress status of your file
Upload and submit required documents
Receive notifications by email
Obtain a certificate of favorable decision

This digitalization aims to reduce queues at prefectures and speed up application processing.

📝 Who Can Use ANEF?

ANEF is accessible for most procedures related to residence permits:

First application for a residence permit (for certain categories)
Renewal of residence permit
Application for student residence permit
Application for employee or temporary worker residence permit
Private and family life residence permit
Passeport talent and European blue card
Change of status

⚠️ Important: some prefectures still require in-person appointments for certain procedures. Check your prefecture's website.

🔐 How to Create an ANEF Account?

Step 1: Access the Official Website

Go to the ANEF portal:

https://administration-etrangers-en-france.interieur.gouv.fr

Step 2: Create Your Account

Click on "Create an account"
Enter your personal information (last name, first name, date of birth, nationality)
Provide your email address and create a secure password
Validate your email address via the confirmation link received by email

Step 3: Complete Your Profile

Once logged in, complete your profile with:

Your address in France
Your family situation
Your AGDREF number (if you already have one)

📋 How to Submit an Application on ANEF?

1. Log into Your Account

Use your credentials to access your personal space.

2. Initiate a New Application

Click on "I am submitting an application"
Select the type of procedure (first application, renewal, change of status)
Choose the reason for your application (studies, work, private and family life, etc.)

3. Fill Out the Form

Complete all sections of the online form
Carefully verify the information entered

4. Upload Supporting Documents

Prepare your documents in PDF or JPEG format (maximum size: 2 MB per file):

Valid passport
ID photos meeting standards
Proof of address less than 6 months old
Documents related to your situation (employment contract, school certificate, etc.)

5. Validate and Submit

Once all documents are uploaded, validate your application. You will receive an acknowledgment of receipt by email.

📊 Tracking Your File on ANEF

Once your application is submitted, you can track its progress in real time:

Under review: your file is being analyzed
Documents to provide: the prefecture is requesting additional documents
Summons: you must appear at the prefecture to finalize your application
Favorable decision: your residence permit is granted
Unfavorable decision: your application is denied

You will receive email notifications at each important stage.

⚠️ Common Problems and Solutions

"I can't create my account"

Verify that you are using a valid email address
Check your spam folder for the confirmation link
Try with another browser (Chrome, Firefox)

"My documents are rejected"

Ensure your files are in PDF or JPEG format
Respect the maximum size of 2 MB
Check the quality and readability of your scans

"My file has been stuck for months"

Log in regularly to check if there are requests for additional documents
Contact the prefecture via the internal ANEF messaging system
In case of emergency, request an exceptional appointment

🤝 VisaPref Assists You

Using ANEF can sometimes be complex, especially for compiling a complete and compliant file.

At VisaPref, we help you to:

Create and manage your ANEF account
Prepare all your supporting documents
Correctly fill out your online application
Track the progress of your file

👉 Contact us for personalized and secure assistance.

❓ FAQ – ANEF

1. Is using ANEF mandatory?

In most prefectures, yes. However, some procedures still require an in-person appointment.

2. How long does processing a file on ANEF take?

Processing times vary depending on the prefecture and type of application, generally between 2 and 6 months.

3. Can I modify my file after submitting it?

No, once submitted, you cannot modify your application. However, you can add documents if the prefecture requests them.

4. What should I do if my application is denied?

You can file an administrative appeal with the prefecture or a contentious appeal before the administrative court within 2 months.

5. Does ANEF completely replace prefecture appointments?

Not always. Some procedures still require a physical appearance, particularly for the issuance of the residence permit or biometric data collection.