What are the visa & residency requirements in Montpellier?

"To enter France for the purpose of residing in Montpellier, individuals must obtain a visa prior to arrival. Visa applicants must submit their application to the French Embassy or Consulate with jurisdiction over their place of residence. Along with this, applicants must submit a valid passport, valid for at least three months beyond the date of the intended stay in France, as well as supporting documents such as a birth certificate and proof of financial means to support themselves during their stay in France. Once in Montpellier, individuals may need to apply for residency, depending on how long they plan to stay. In order to obtain residency, applicants must submit a request to the local Office Français de l’Immigration et de l’Intégration (OFII) and provide supporting documentation such as a passport, a employment or student permit, valid health insurance, and proof of adequate financial means to live in the area. Additionally, they must provide recent photos, a completed application form and a signed OFII form. Applicants may also be asked to provide a birth certificate, marriage or divorce certificate, and a criminal background check, if applicable," explained one expat living in Montpellier, France.