💶 How to Get CAF Housing Aid in France. Step by Step Guide to Applying for APL

Guide to CAF Housing Assistance (APL) in France

Finding a house in France is as expensive as it is difficult. Therefore, the CAF housing assistance (APL) provided by the state is vital for many. However, many people lose hundreds of euros a month because they do not apply or apply incorrectly. In this article, you will find clear answers to questions such as what APL is, how to apply, and who can receive it.

❓ What are CAF and APL? CAF is the institution that manages social benefits in France. APL is the housing assistance given to people who pay rent.

• • It reduces your monthly rent burden 💶.

• • Students and employees can receive support.

• • Payments are made based on income. This assistance is not a scholarship; it is not repaid.

👤 Who Can Receive CAF Housing Assistance? The biggest mistake is thinking only French citizens can receive it. People who can get APL:

• • Those with legal residency in France 🪪.

• • Those whose rental contract is in their own name 🏠.

• • Students 🎓 and employees 💼.

• • Newly arrived foreigners 🌍.

🏠 Which Houses Are Covered by APL?

• • Eligible: Houses with official contracts, student dorms, studios.

• • Ineligible: Unregistered room rentals ❌, houses rented from family members ❌.

📝 How to Apply for CAF APL?

1. Enter the CAF website 💻.

2. Create an account (Compte).

3. Declare rental and income information.

4. Upload documents 📂.

📂 Required Documents

• • Rental contract 🏠.

• • French bank account (IBAN) 💳.

• • Residence permit or visa 🪪.

• • Student certificate or employment status 📄.

⏳ When Does CAF Make Payments?

• • Review may take several weeks.

• • The first payment usually arrives with a delay.

• • Retroactive payments (rappel) are possible.

🚫 Most Common CAF Mistakes

• • Incorrect income declaration.

• • Not reporting a change of address.

• • Uploading incomplete documents.

🧠 Realistic Advice

• • Apply as soon as you move in.

• • Update immediately if your address changes.

• • Check your CAF account at least once a month.