FAQ
Welcome to our Frequently Asked Questions. Here you will find answers to the most common questions about our mi+ support service for international audiences (students, PhD and researchers).
Order
Who is eligible ?
To benefit from mi+ support, you must meet the following criteria :
- Be enrolled at or hosted by the University of Lille or one of the following institutions : Centrale Lille, CNRS, INRIA and INSERM ;
- Being undertaking incoming international mobility for a consecutive period of more than 2 months.
For the FAMILY option, services are exclusively intended for foreign spouses and children, to assist them with residence permit procedures and integration.
What university documents are required to access one or more mi+ support options ?
To access one or more mi+ support options, the following supporting documents are required :
- A valid enrollment certificate from the University of Lille or one of the following institutions : Centrale Lille, CNRS, INRIA and INSERM ;
- A copy of your visa along with the Campus France certificate ;
- An official admission or acceptance letter from the University of Lille or one of the following institutions : Centrale Lille, CNRS, INRIA and INSERM.
These documents are necessary to validate your registration and give you access to the options proposed by the mi+ support service.
Can I subscribe to multiple options at the same time ?
Yes. It is absolutely possible to subscribe to multiple options at the same time. You can choose the ones that best suit your needs and add them to your cart.
If I am a PhD or researcher and I want to benefit from one or more mi+ support options, how can I know if the payment will be covered by my research unit or if I need to pay myself ?
If you are a PhD or researcher and want to benefit from one or more mi+ support options, you should directly contact your research unit to determine whether the payment will be covered by them or if you will need to pay yourself.
If the option is covered by my research unit, do I need to place an order ?
No. Your research unit will place the order for you when the time comes. You will then receive a confirmation email and a mi+ manager will contact you. If you create your account before your research unit places the order, it could slow down the process. In case of an unusual delay, contact your institution directly.
How to place an individual order ?
- Create an account on the mi+ purchasing platform ;
- Select the option(s) that suit your needs ;
- Enter your personal information and upload a supporting document proving your affiliation with the University of Lille ;
- Complete the online payment to finalize your order ;
- A mi+ manager will then contact you to start the process.
How does payment work ?
When you place an order, the payment is secured through Paybox and made in a single transaction, immediately and in full. The amount is debited directly from your bank account. The order will then be validated by an mi+ manager.
What are the deadlines for placing an order ?
You must place your order at least 6 weeks before your arrival date. If you order less than one month before your arrival, we cannot guarantee that all services will be available, especially during busy periods.
Can I cancel and get a refund for my order ?
Yes. You can request to cancel and receive a refund by contacting your mi+ manager by email or phone.
A refund is possible if:
- The University of Lille is unable to provide the service due to a failure on the provider’s side ;
- You cancel at least 7 business days before the service begins, for a valid and justified reason (illness, emergency). Any costs already incurred or services already delivered are non-refundable ;
- A case of force majeure (pandemic, disaster, strike, government decision) prevents the service from being delivered.
Each request will be reviewed and a refund may be issued depending on the services not provided.
Can I place an order using a foreign bank account ?
Yes. You can place an order using a foreign bank account. Our purchasing platform accepts international payments via the secure Paybox solution. It supports international bank cards such as Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club and JCB.
Can I be exempt from payment ?
No. It is not possible to be exempt from payment when placing an order.
How can I contact an mi+ manager ?
You can contact the mi+ manager by email at miplus@univ-lille.fr or via the contact form available on this page. He is available Monday to Friday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (business hours). Please note that he is not available outside these hours or on weekends.
DAILY LIFE Option
What is the DAILY LIFE option and what does it include ?
Moving abroad comes with its share of challenges. Accessing the internet, taking the subway, these everyday activities can become real obstacles when you are in a foreign country. With this option, there is no need to stress about these daily aspects. From the moment you arrive, you can focus on what truly matters : your studies and research.
A mi+ manager will assist you upon your arrival and ensure the key elements are in place to facilitate your settling in :
- Transfer from Lille-Lesquin airport or Lille-Europe / Lille Flandres train stations to an address within the MEL (Métropole Européenne de Lille) ;
- Provision of a prepaid SIM card ;
- Access to a non-personnalized Ilévia transport card preloaded with 10 single journeys ;
- Assistance with opening a bank account ;
- Support in subscribing to health insurance ;
- Delivery of a welcome kit including useful information, a C'ART Solo card granting access to museums in Lille metropolitan area and various University-branded items.
Can my spouse and children benefit from the same services upon arrival ?
No. The services included in the DAILY LIFE option are exclusively reserved for the person affiliated with the University of Lille (student, PhD or researcher). Family members are not eligible for the same services.
How does the transfer from the airport or train station work ?
The mi+ manager will ask you for the necessary details to organize your transfer. This information will be shared with the taxi or rideshare company. Once the booking is confirmed, you will receive the transport company's contact details, including instructions to locate your driver upon arrival. The mi+ manager is available Monday to Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (business hours). He is not available outside these hours or on weekends.
Will an mi+ manager be present when I arrive ?
No. You will be given all the necessary information and the contact details of the transport company. However, a mi+ manager will not be present on site.
Can the taxi take me to temporary housing ?
Yes. If you wish, the taxi can take you to your temporary housing. However, no second ride to your permanent housing will be covered afterward.
How do I find the meeting point and the taxi on arrival ?
The meeting point will be communicated to you after booking, depending on your arrival location. The mi+ manager will provide you with all information and the contact details of the transport company so you can find the meeting point and identify your taxi or rideshare. It's usually a clearly marked area near the train or flight arrival exit.
What should I do if I can not find the taxi ?
If you can not find your taxi, contact the transport company directly using the contact details provided by the mi+ manager and mention your booking reference. You may also contact the mi+ manager. He is only available Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (business hours). He is not available outside of these hours or during the weekend.
What should I do if my train or flight is delayed or canceled ?
In case of delay or cancellation, contact the transport company using the contact details provided by the mi+ manager and mention your booking reference. You may also contact the mi+ manager. He is only available Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (business hours). He is not available outside of these hours or during the weekend.
Is the transfer available 24/7 ?
The transfer depends on the operating hours of the transport company. The mi+ manager is available Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (business hours). He is not available outside of these hours or during the weekend.
Can I travel with large luggage during the transfer ?
Yes. You can bring large luggage during your transfer. It is recommended to inform either the mi+ manager or the transport company in advance. The mi+ manager is available Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (business hours). He is not available outside of these hours or during the weekend.
Can I change the time or date of my transfer ?
Yes, if you notify in advance. To do this, you must contact your mi+ manager. The mi+ manager is available Monday to Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (business hours). They are not available outside of these hours or during weekends. You can also directly contact the transport company using the contact details provided beforehand.
Can I share a taxi with other passengers ?
Taxi or rideshare sharing may be possible depending on availability and your arrival time.
What if the driver does not show up at the airport or train station ?
If this happens, you must contact the mi+ manager or the taxi or VTC company. The mi+ manager is available Monday to Friday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (business hours). They are not reachable outside of these hours or on weekends. You can also directly contact the transport company using the contact details provided beforehand.
How do I get my prepaid SIM card ?
If you subscribe to the DAILY LIFE option, you will receive a prepaid SIM card upon arrival. It will activate as soon as you insert it into your phone.
Is a French phone number necessary ?
No. However, it is highly recommended, as some administrative procedures require one. For example, applying for a residence permit requires a French number.
What if I have issues with my prepaid SIM card ?
If you have issues with the prepaid SIM card, you can contact the mi+ manager or the operator's technical support, whose contact details will be provided to you when the SIM card is issued. The mi+ manager is available Monday to Friday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (business hours). They are not available outside of these hours or on weekends.
What if my SIM card is lost or stolen ?
If your SIM card is lost or stolen, mi+ support does not provide a replacement. You must immediately contact the operator to suspend the card.
What type of prepaid SIM card will I receive ?
If you choose the DAILY LIFE option, a prepaid SIM card will be provided to you upon arrival. After that, you will need to either top it up or subscribe to a new telephone plan.
What documents are required for the Ilévia rechargeable ticket ?
No additional documents are required. The card will be prepared in advance and loaded with 10 single-use tickets valid on Ilévia (tram, bus, metro), Arc en Ciel and TER Ilévia networks within the Lille Metropolitan Area. It activates on first use.
Will I receive the Ilévia card upon arrival ?
Yes, as long as you have informed the mi+ manager of your arrival in advance. The rechargeable ticket will already be loaded with 10 individual transport journeys valid on the Ilévia networks (tramway, bus, metro), Arc en Ciel and TER Ilévia within the Lille Metropolitan Area (MEL). It will activate upon first use.
What should I do if I lose the Ilévia rechargeable ticket ?
In case of loss of this rechargeable ticket, the mi+ support service does not provide a replacement ticket. You will need to go to a Pass Pass point of the MEL or an Ilévia agency (at "Lille subway Gare Lille Flandres", "Lille Place des Buisses Gare Lille Flandres", "Lille République Beaux-Arts", "Tourcoing Centre", "Roubaix Eurotéléport basement" or "Roubaix Eurotéléport surface"). There, you can purchase a new rechargeable ticket, a non-personalized card or a personal Pass Pass card.
Can I open a bank account before my arrival ?
In France, it is necessary to be physically present to open a bank account. However, if you choose the DAILY LIFE option, a mi+ manager will assist you in scheduling an appointment and opening your account before your arrival.
What documents are required to open an account ?
- Identity document : national ID card, passport, or residence permit ;
- Valid enrollment certificate or letter of registration from the University of Lille or one of the following institutions : Centrale Lille, CNRS, INRIA, or INSERM ;
- Proof of address (rental contract, accommodation certificate, bill, etc.).
Is it necessary to open a French bank account if I am European ?
It depends on your situation. For certain housing and administrative procedures, a French bank account is recommended. That is why we strongly encourage opening an account.
Is it necessary to open a French bank account if I have an international account ?
For certain procedures, such as applying for housing assistance, international online accounts are not always accepted. We recommend opening a French bank account to simplify the process.
How long does it take to open a bank account ?
The account can be opened before or upon your arrival, either on the same day or the next business day. Generally, you will receive your bank account details immediately and your debit card in the following days.
How long does it take to receive my debit card after opening the account ?
Generally, you will receive your debit card within a few business days after the account is opened.
Can I make banking transactions before receiving my debit card ?
Yes. As soon as your account is opened, you will receive your bank account details which will allow you to make certain transactions such as transfers.
What should I do if I lose my debit card ?
You must report the loss as soon as possible, either through the app or by contacting customer service by phone. Then, you can contact your advisor for information on how to order a new card. You can also contact the mi+ manager to assist you with your steps.
What is the validity period of the health insurance included in the DAILY LIFE option ?
The included health insurance is valid for the first three months of your mobility. After this period, you will need to extend your insurance or take out a new one, either through French Social Security (if eligible) or via private insurance. We recommend anticipating this transition to avoid any interruption in coverage.
Does the included health insurance cover all medical expenses ?
The health insurance included in the DAILY LIFE option covers basic medical expenses during the first three months. It does not replace a complete insurance and does not necessarily cover all expenses, especially specialized or dental care.
What happens after the three-month coverage period ?
After this period, you will need to extend your insurance or take out a new one, either through French Social Security (if eligible) or via private insurance.
What does the welcome kit include ?
The welcome kit includes useful information for your integration, a C'ART Solo card granting access to museums in the Lille metropolitan area and various university-branded items.
How and when will I receive my welcome kit ?
The welcome kit will be provided to you upon your arrival, during an appointment with the mi+ manager.
What is the C'ART Solo card ?
The C'ART Solo card is a personalized cultural card that gives you free and unlimited access to the partner museums of the Lille European Metropolis (MEL). It is valid for one year from the date of activation.
Can I pick up my welcome kit if I arrive late or on another date ?
Yes, you can pick up your kit by contacting the mi+ manager to arrange for its distribution.
What should I do if I lose any of the items in my welcome kit ?
In the event of loss, the items in the welcome kit are not replaced or reissued. Therefore, it is important to keep your kit and its items safe.
HOUSING Option
What is the HOUSING option and what services does it include ?
In a large city like Lille, finding housing is not always easy. With this option, we support you at every step, from searching for your new "home" to signing the rental contract.
A dedicated mi+ manager is available to assist you with all aspects of finding and securing housing :
- Assistance with subscribing to a rental guarantee ;
- Support in preparing your rental application ;
- Connection with partner residences ;
- Help with subscribing to home insurance.
- Provision of a welcome kit including useful information and university-branded items.
Can my spouse and children benefit from the same services as me upon my arrival ?
Yes. We can assist you in finding housing for your family, subject to availability.
What is a rental guarantee ?
A rental guarantee is a system that secures the landlord by ensuring rent payment in case of non-payment. It may be required if you do not have a personal guarantor.
How can I subscribe to a rental guarantee ?
If you choose the HOUSING option, a mi+ manager can guide and advise you on the steps to follow in order to obtain a rental guarantee suitable for your situation.
How long does it take to obtain a rental guarantee ?
The process can be immediate after the application is validated.
What is Dossier Facile and why should I use it ?
Dossier Facile is a free public service that allows you to create a complete and certified digital rental application, making it easier for landlords and property owners to accept it.
Does mi+ help me fill out my application on Dossier Facile ?
Yes. If you choose for the HOUSING option, a mi+ manager can assist you in completing your application.
How do I send my rental application to landlords after completing it on Dossier Facile ?
Once your application is validated, you will receive a secure link that you can share directly with landlords and real estate agencies.
What if my application is incomplete or rejected ?
You can ask the mi+ manager for help in understanding the reasons for the rejection and receive advice on how to improve your application.
Can mi+ help me get in touch with partner residences ?
Yes. If you choose for the HOUSING option, mi+ can guide you to partner residences offering housing suitable for international students, PhD and researchers.
How does the connection with partner residences work after placing an order ?
If you choose the HOUSING option, you will receive assistance in finding housing. After your order, the mi+ manager will send you an email with a questionnaire to complete. The questionnaire also allows you to specify if you have a disability or are coming with family members. Then, you will receive proposals based on your criteria and availability.
Is there a minimum budget required ?
Rental prices vary depending on the size, type of property and location in the Lille metropolitan area. Below is an overview of the average prices per month :
- Studio : between €500 and €650 per month ;
- Shared room : between €300 and €500 per person ;
- T1 : between €600 and €750 per month ;
- T2 : between €700 and €950 per month ;
- T3 : between €900 and €1,200 per month ;
- T4 : between €1,200 and €1,500 per month.
Additional costs (electricity, internet, etc.) may also apply. If you are eligible, you may qualify for social benefits (CAF) to help reduce your rent.
Are the housing only available in Lille?
No. Housing are not limited to Lille. They are also available in the Lille metropolitan area (Lille, Roubaix, Loos, Villeneuve d'Ascq, etc.).
Is there an age limit ?
There is no age limit. However, many student residences do not accept students over the age of 30. For minors, a parental consent form will be required.
Understanding the types of housing (Studio, T1, T2, T3, T4, shared room)
Below is an overview of the different housing options, suitable for various personal or family needs :
- Studio : a small apartment with a single room serving as the living room, bedroom, and kitchen, sometimes with a private bathroom. Ideal for a single person ;
- T1 : a one-room apartment, either separated from the kitchen or not, with a bathroom. Larger than a studio, suitable for one person ;
- T2 : an apartment with two separate rooms : a bedroom and a living room, in addition to the kitchen and bathroom. Suitable for a single person or a couple ;
- T3 : an apartment with three main rooms, usually two bedrooms and a living room, plus the kitchen and bathroom. Suitable for a small family or roommates ;
- T4 : an apartment with four main rooms, often three bedrooms and a living room. Ideal for a larger family or roommates needing more space ;
- Shared room : an individual room in shared accommodation with other people. Common areas (living room, kitchen, bathroom) are shared.
Can mi+ provide me with a housing certificate ?
mi+ does not directly provide housing but works with partner residences. Therefore, it cannot issue a housing certificate. However, it can facilitate contact with the partner residences to issue a housing certificate once the booking is made.
If I cancel my housing reservation, can I be refunded for the fees ?
If you have not signed the lease, no payment will be requested from you.
If you have already signed the lease, you should contact the mi+ manager, who can check with the residences whether fees are due, if a notice period is required or if a free cancellation is possible.
What are the fees associated with reserving housing ?
It depends on the type of housing and the landlord. Here are the possible fees :
- Security deposit : usually equivalent to one month's rent excluding charges (two months for furnished apartments) ;
- Agency fees : if you go through a real estate agency, fees may apply (limited by law) ;
- First month's rent: often requested upon signing the lease.
Does the rent include utilities (electricity, water, internet) ?
It depends on the landlord. Some rents include certain utilities (water, heating, internet), while others require separate contracts for electricity, gas and internet.
Can I receive housing assistance if I rent in the private sector ?
Yes. If you are eligible, you can apply for housing assistance from the CAF (Caisse d'Allocations Familiales). The amount depends on the type of housing, the rent and your income.
FAMILY Option
What is the FAMILY option and what services does it include ?
Coming to a new country with your family can be a real challenge. With this option, we support you at every step, from your partner's professional integration to your children's education.
A dedicated mi+ manager will assist you and your family upon arrival, coordinating all the necessary steps for your settlement :
- Assistance with administrative formalities for you and your relatives (residency permits, social benefits, taxes, social security, etc.) ;
- Support for your integration and inclusion in the local area ;
- Delivery of a welcome kit including useful information, a C'ART Tribu card (for up to 5 people) granting access to museums in the Lille metropolitan area and various university-branded items.
- French language courses at a preferential rate.
Can my spouse and children benefit from the same services as me upon my arrival ?
Yes. The FAMILY option is specifically designed for the researcher and their family. It allows your spouse and children to receive support to help them integrate and settle in.
Can mi+ assist me with administrative procedures for my family ?
Yes. If you benefit from the FAMILY option, the mi+ manager will be able to assist you with administrative procedures related to residence rights, social benefits, taxes and social security for you and your family.
Are specific aids provided for the professional integration of my spouse ?
Yes. If you have the FAMILY option, the mi+ support connects your spouse with resources and guidance to facilitate their integration and professional inclusion. The mi+ manager can guide them and assist them with their procedures.
What does the welcome kit include ?
The welcome kit includes useful information for your integration, a C’ART Tribu card (for up to 5 people), providing access to the museums of the Lille metropolitan area and various university-branded items.
How and when will I receive my welcome kit ?
The welcome kit will be handed to you upon your arrival during a meeting with the mi+ manager.
What is the C'ART Tribu card ?
The C'ART Tribu card is a personalized cultural card designed for families or groups of friends. It allows the cardholder to invite up to 5 people per visit : either 1 adult accompanied by 3 young people under the age of 18, or 4 young people under 18. With this card, you benefit from free and unlimited access for one year, starting from the activation date, to all partner museums of the European Metropolis of Lille (MEL).
Can I retrieve my welcome kit if I arrive late or on a different date ?
Yes. You can retrieve your kit by contacting the mi+ manager to arrange for its delivery.
What should I do if I lose an item from my welcome kit ?
In case of loss, items from the welcome kit are neither replaced nor reissued. It is important to keep your kit and its contents safe.
The FAMILY option includes French courses at preferential rates, proposed by the Language Center of the University of Lille (CLIL).
How can I register for the French courses ?
If you benefit from the FAMILY option, the mi+ manager will provide you with all necessary information : schedules, registration procedures and fees.
What documents are required for registration ?
To register, you must provide a document equivalent to the baccalaureate. This document may be submitted in English, French, or Spanish.
When are the registration periods ?
Registrations are open from December to April for the September intake, and from May to November for the February intake.
Are the French courses in-person or online ?
The courses are held in person.