Applying for French long-stay visa as spouse of French citizen

Hi everyone,

I’m preparing to apply for a long-stay visa (VLS-TS – Vie Privée et Familiale) as the spouse of a French citizen, and I’d appreciate insight from anyone who has gone through a similar situation.

Here’s my situation:

• I got legally married in France 3 months ago.
• We have a child together who was born in France and holds French nationality.
• I previously travelled to France on a short-stay visa for our marriage and stayed for the birth of our child. I returned to my country within the allowed period.
• I am currently applying for the long-stay spouse visa

My wife:

• Is a French citizen.
• Currently unemployed and receiving unemployment benefits.
• Living with her mother (who owns a large house together with her husband).
• We will be staying at her mother’s house when I arrive (attestation d’hébergement + property documents will be provided).

My concerns:

1. We have only been married for 3 months — does that raise red flags even though we have a French child together?
2. My wife is on unemployment benefits — is that considered sufficient proof of stability?
3. I currently have very less savings — will that negatively affect the application?
4. Since we are being hosted by her mother (property owner), is that typically acceptable for housing requirements?

I will be including:

• Marriage certificate and Livret de famille
• Child’s French passport
• Proof of accommodation (attestation + tax document + utility bills)
• Wife’s unemployment statements and bank statements
• My intention to seek work in France

Has anyone been approved (or refused) in a similar setup? Any practical advice on how consulates assess financial stability in cases involving French spouses?

Thanks in advance for any guidance.