30 days — not an hour more
An Obligation to Leave French Territory (OQTF) is a prefectural decision that can be challenged. But the deadline is strict: 30 days from the date of notification. After that, an appeal becomes inadmissible. If you received an OQTF today, start acting today — not tomorrow. The first thing to do: contact a specialist legal organisation (La Cimade, GISTI, France terre d'asile) or a lawyer specialising in immigration law.
The arguments most likely to succeed
The strongest ones are: minor children of French nationality or children schooled in France for over a year; a long-established private and family life in France (French spouse, family on the territory); a serious health condition requiring treatment unavailable in your country of origin; a procedural error in the notification of the OQTF; or a change of circumstances since the decision (new contract, marriage, birth of a child).
What generally doesn't work
Some arguments are regularly rejected by tribunals: simply having friends in France, recent integration without concrete evidence, or difficult economic conditions in the country of origin with no connection to your personal situation. Be honest with yourself about the strength of your arguments.
During the appeal: stay in France
Filing a contentious appeal in some cases automatically suspends the execution of the OQTF. But this suspension is not automatic for all types of OQTF. Do not leave French territory until you have written confirmation of suspension from your lawyer or the tribunal.
Legal aid if you can't afford a lawyer
If your income is below roughly €1,200 net per month, the state can cover all or part of a lawyer's fees through legal aid. Submit your application to the legal aid office at the competent administrative tribunal. FrenchDesk generates your initial appeal letter to help you start the process.