Work Visa - France
Long-stay work visa and residence permits for employment in France.
Purpose
For non-EU/EEA nationals with a French job offer to reside and work in France for the employment duration.
Who it's for
- Professionals with a French employer's job offer or contract.
- Highly-skilled workers, seasonal workers, ICT transferees, managers, and regulated professions.
Key requirements
- Signed employment contract or binding job offer.
- Job matches qualifications and salary complies with sector norms.
- Evidence of qualifications and relevant experience.
- Health insurance (until covered by French system, if required).
- Clean criminal record and valid passport.
Typical documents checklist
- Valid passport and biometric photos.
- Signed employment contract with salary and job description.
- CV, references, diplomas/certificates (with certified translations as required).
- Proof of accommodation in France.
- Health insurance and police clearance (where applicable).
Application process
- Employer and employee agree terms; employer may submit documents to labour authorities depending on role.
- Apply for a long-stay work visa at the French consulate (national visa).
- Enter France, register/validate and obtain the residence permit (titre de séjour/work permit).
- Some categories have streamlined pathways; others may require labour market checks.
Duration & rights
- Duration typically tied to contract and visa type: one year (renewable) up to multi-year permits.
- Right to work for the named employer; secondary work may be limited by permit conditions.
- Family reunification may be possible depending on permit and salary.
Renewals / change of status
- Renew before expiry if employment continues.
- Changing employers may require notification or a new permit, depending on category.