Under the CESEDA, the prefecture has 4 months to decide on a residence permit application. Beyond this deadline without response, silence constitutes an implicit rejection.
When does the 4-month period start?
The clock starts from the submission of a complete file. If additional documents were requested, it restarts from their submission.
What to do after 4 months?
- Send an official follow-up letter by registered mail citing Article L412-5 CESEDA
- If still no response after 15 days, appeal before the administrative court
- You can also contact the Défenseur des droits
Important: Your current permit remains valid during processing. A deposit receipt protects you even if your permit expires.
Deadline warning: After an implicit rejection, you have 2 months to contest it before the administrative court.