How to Apply for Housing Assistance (APL) in France in 2025
Have you just found your ideal apartment but the rent is over your budget? Don’t worry — there are housing assistance options like APL (Personalized Housing Assistance), provided by the CAF. Whether you’re a student, young professional, in a shared flat or an expat, here’s everything you need to know to apply for housing assistance in France in 2025.
Who is eligible for APL?
APL is a financial aid designed to help reduce your rent. It is granted by the Caisse d’Allocations Familiales (CAF), based on several factors such as your income, family situation, and the type of housing.
Good news: APL is available even if you’re not a French national, as long as you’re living legally in France.
How to check if you’re eligible
Before applying, you can use the online APL simulator on the official CAF website. This will give you an estimate of how much assistance you might receive.
You’ll need to provide:
- Your income from the past two years
- Your family situation (single, couple, children…)
- Your employment status (student, employee, job seeker…)
- Your rent amount (excluding charges)
- Information about any potential flatmates
How to apply for APL in 2025
All applications are now completed online through the CAF website: www.caf.fr.
- Create your CAF account
If you haven’t already, start by creating your personal account on the website. - Fill out the application form
Enter your employment status, income, family situation, and details about your accommodation. - Upload the required documents
Commonly requested documents include a copy of your residence permit or visa, your bank details (RIB), and a rent certificate filled out by your landlord. All documents can be uploaded online. - Track your application
Once submitted, you can monitor your application status through your CAF personal space. Payments are retroactive to the date your application was filed.
What to do if your situation changes
Moving, changes in employment, a new baby, separation… any life change should be declared via your CAF account. This ensures your benefits are recalculated accordingly, without interruption.
RSA and pregnancy: additional support
If you’re pregnant and have limited income, you may be eligible for RSA (Revenu de Solidarité Active), even if you’re under 25. This allowance can be combined with APL.
The application can be submitted online via your CAF account starting from your third month of pregnancy. If approved, you may also receive a base allowance linked to the birth (the amount may vary depending on your situation).
Single parents can receive an increased RSA benefit until the child turns three.
Moving house?
If you’re moving, make sure to update your address promptly in your CAF account. Your file will be automatically transferred and your benefits recalculated based on your new home.
Good to know
- The amount of APL varies depending on your situation, but it can significantly reduce your housing costs.
- The aid is paid monthly, either directly to you or to your landlord.
- The property must be CAF-approved, which is often the case for furnished rentals offered by Lodgis.
Looking for a place to rent? Check out our selection of furnished rentals in France.
Looking for a home but don’t have a permanent work contract? Don’t worry — we explain how to rent with confidence in our dedicated guide.
