In 2024, accessing the services of French prefectures, including the prefecture of La Réunion, generally requires an appointment. Administrative procedures such as residence permit applications or document renewals require prior booking through official platforms.

Given the saturation of services and sometimes very long waiting times, it has become crucial to find alternatives to obtain an appointment quickly. The platform rendezvousprefecture.com offers an alert service that notifies you by email and SMS as soon as a slot becomes available, allowing you to secure an appointment more swiftly.
Key Points to Remember
- Appointments at the prefecture are generally free.
- Hundreds of slots are offered each week on the prefectures' websites.
- It is not advisable to pay for an appointment in a public service.
- The platform rendezvousprefecture.com provides notifications via email and SMS.
- Administrative procedures often require a prior appointment at the prefecture of Pyrénées-Orientales.
Can you go to the prefecture without an appointment in 2024?
In this year 2024, can you still show up at the prefecture without having made an appointment in advance? The answer to this question is becoming increasingly clear: reception at prefectures is primarily by appointment.
The General Rule: Reception by Appointment Only
The general rule in French prefectures is now well established: reception is exclusively by prior appointment. This measure has been implemented to streamline services and reduce waiting lines. The opening hours of prefectures are generally limited, often from Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM, making it all the more necessary to make an appointment.
The advantages of this approach include:
- A significant reduction in waiting times
- A better organization of user flow
- A more efficient management of files
The Rare Exceptions and Emergency Cases
Although the general rule is reception by appointment, there are a few rare exceptions. Certain situations of genuine emergency, such as asylum applications or exceptional humanitarian cases, can be handled without a prior appointment. Similarly, official summons are also exempt from this rule.
| Category | Exemptions |
|---|---|
| Asylum Applications | Yes |
| Exceptional Humanitarian Cases | Yes |
| Official Summons | Yes |
The Consequences of a Visit Without an Appointment
Showing up without an appointment at the prefecture can result in a denial of access to the counters. Security agents systematically check the appointment confirmation at the entrance of the buildings. For justified emergency cases, it is recommended to contact the prefecture by phone or via their online contact form before going there.

In summary, although a few exceptions exist, the general rule in 2024 is to make an appointment before going to the prefecture. This allows for better management of flows and a reduction in waiting times.
The Appointment System of French Prefectures
The appointment system in French prefectures, including the prefecture of Indre-et-Loire, has become a major issue for users. Prefectures have set up official platforms to manage appointment requests.
The Official Booking Platforms
French prefectures mainly use two official platforms for making appointments: the national site “rdv-prefecture.interieur.gouv.fr” and the websites specific to each departmental prefecture.

Waiting Times and Availability of Slots
Appointment slots are generally made available online on specific dates and are quickly taken, especially for residence permit applications and renewals.
The availability of slots varies significantly by department: in high-density areas like Paris or Seine-Saint-Denis, waiting times can reach several months.
Beware of Scams: Non-Official Paid Sites
Many non-official sites offer paid services to obtain appointments at the prefecture, but these are often scams.
It is essential to be wary of these sites and to prioritize official platforms for making appointments.
Administrative Procedures and Their Access Mode
The digitization of administrative procedures concerning residence permits is underway. This evolution allows users to simplify their interactions with the administration.
Residence Permits and Renewals
Residence permit applications are now largely digitized via the ANEF platform, which allows users to submit their files online and track their progress in real time. Initial applications generally require a physical appointment for fingerprinting.

Digitized Procedures on ANEF
The Digital Administration for Foreigners in France (ANEF) aims to digitize all procedures concerning foreigners in France. Users have a personal account to track the progress of their files.

Digital Reception Points for Assistance
Digital reception points are available to assist users who encounter difficulties with online procedures. These points are generally accessible from Monday to Friday.
Delivery of Permits and Renewal of Receipts
The delivery of issued residence permits is generally done by appointment via SMS or email. The renewal of receipts follows a specific procedure that may vary by prefecture.
Rendezvousprefecture.com: The Solution to Obtain an Appointment Quickly

The platform Rendezvousprefecture.com offers an innovative solution for those looking to quickly obtain an appointment at the prefecture. Given the increasing difficulty of securing an appointment for procedures related to residence permits, residence cards, or documents for foreigners, this platform significantly simplifies the process.
After registering on the platform, you specify the type of appointment you are seeking (first residence permit application, renewal, address change, etc.) and the prefecture or sub-prefecture relevant to your request. The system continuously monitors the official prefecture sites and alerts you immediately by email and SMS as soon as a slot corresponding to your request becomes available.
This service is particularly useful for urgent procedures such as residence permit renewals close to expiration, travel document requests, or situation changes requiring a quick update of your file. Unlike fraudulent sites that promise appointments for payment, Rendezvousprefecture.com does not sell slots but simply helps you be the first to know when appointments are posted online by the administration.
The platform covers all prefectures and sub-prefectures in France and adapts to all types of administrative procedures. The service is particularly appreciated by professionals managing numerous files who need to quickly secure appointments for their clients.
To use the service, simply create an account on Rendezvousprefecture.com, provide your contact details, and specify your request. The system takes care of the rest by notifying you as soon as an opportunity arises, allowing you to quickly book your appointment at the prefecture.
FAQ
How to make an appointment at the prefecture for a residence permit?
To make an appointment, you can visit the website of the prefecture or sub-prefecture of your place of residence. Procedures are generally done online by clicking on the tab dedicated to making appointments.
What documents are required for a residence permit renewal?
The required documents vary depending on your situation, but generally, you will need your current residence permit, an identity document, proof of residence, and proof of resources. It is advisable to check the exact list on the prefecture's website.
Can I go to the prefecture without an appointment for a residence permit application?
No, generally, prefectures operate by appointment. It is better to make an appointment online to avoid inconveniences related to changing prefectures.
What is a temporary residence permit?
The temporary residence permit is a document issued in certain cases, allowing a foreigner to stay temporarily in France while awaiting a decision on their residence permit.
How to obtain an appointment quickly at the prefecture?
To obtain an appointment quickly, you can use specialized platforms like rendezvousprefecture.com, which facilitate the acquisition of available slots.
What are the opening hours of the prefecture for public reception?
Opening hours vary by prefecture, but generally, they are open from Monday to Friday. It is advisable to check the opening hours on your prefecture's website.
How to contact the prefecture for information on procedures?
You can contact the prefecture by phone or email. The contact details are usually available on their website.
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