Demarches-Simplifiees
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Apply for CAF housing aid (APL)

Claim APL housing benefit from the CAF to lower your rent.

For: Tenants and students in France who may be eligible for APL or other CAF housing benefits.

Overview

APL (aide personnalisée au logement) is a monthly housing benefit from the CAF that can significantly lower your rent, including for many students and foreign residents. The application is made on caf.fr and depends on your income, rent and situation. The assistant checks whether you are likely eligible, helps you create your CAF account, get your allocataire number and submit the right documents so your file is not delayed.

The steps

  1. 1
    Check eligibility
    See whether your rent, income and status likely qualify for APL.
  2. 2
    Create your CAF account
    Register on caf.fr and get your allocataire number.
  3. 3
    Prepare documents
    Lease, RIB, ID, residence permit and rent details.
  4. 4
    Complete the online request
    Declare your housing, rent and income on caf.fr.
  5. 5
    Provide the rent attestation
    Have your landlord confirm the rent if requested.
  6. 6
    Track your file
    Follow the decision and the first payment date.

Documents you will typically need

  • Signed lease (contrat de bail)
  • RIB (French bank details)
  • Valid ID or passport
  • Residence permit or visa if applicable
  • Income information for the reference period

Your personal assistant

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Frequently asked questions

Can foreign residents get APL?

Many can, provided they hold a valid residence document and meet the housing and income conditions. The assistant checks your specific case.

When does the first payment arrive?

APL usually starts the month after your request is complete, and there is often no payment for the first month of tenancy. The assistant explains the timing.

Does APL work in shared flats or student housing?

Often yes, including CROUS and private student housing, with specific rules. The assistant tells you what applies to your housing type.

Demarches-Simplifiees.co is an independent service and is not affiliated with the French government or any administration. The assistant provides practical guidance, not personalised legal advice. Always confirm details, fees and deadlines on the official government websites.