Visa requirements

France

General visa requirements for travelling to France. These policies apply to all nationalities unless a country-specific policy exists.

Have a specific passport country? Check your specific route.

Work / Immigration visa (ICT - Intra-Corporate Transfer (Salarie Detache ICT))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 1095 days
Processing time: 2-4 weeks (consular) + 6-8 weeks (prefecture)
Fee: EUR 99 (visa) + EUR 260 (residence card)
Validity: Up to 3 years (non-renewable)
Entry: Multiple entry

For senior managers and high-level experts being seconded (detached) to a French entity within the same corporate group. Crucially, the employee KEEPS their contract with the foreign employer (no French contract). Requires at least 6 months seniority in the group (3 months for graduate trainees). Minimum salary: 1.8x SMIC (EUR 2,738.20 gross/month). Maximum duration 3 years, non-renewable. Different from 'Salarie en Mission' which involves a French contract. Spouse and dependents receive accompanying family status.

Eligibility

Nationality
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals
Employment
Must be a senior manager or high-level expert with 6+ months seniority in the corporate group, maintaining employment contract with foreign entity. Salary must be at least 1.8x SMIC.

Required status: ICT secondee

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 15
Photo
Count: 3; Specifications: 35x45mm, white background, ICAO compliant
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Assignment letter showing compensation; Minimum amount: 1.8x SMIC (EUR 2,738.20 gross/month, 2025)
Employment letter
Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.

Must include leave approval: No; Must include position: Yes; Must include salary: Yes
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Long-stay visa application form; Form url: https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/visa-wizard
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, card; Amount: EUR 99 + EUR 260 for ICT permit
Ict assignment
Corporate relationship: Same corporate group (parent-subsidiary or affiliated companies); Minimum employment years: 0

How to apply

Document gathering
French host entity applies for work authorization (autorisation de travail). Prepare assignment letter, proof of group relationship, and seniority proof.
Online application
Start visa application on France-Visas.
Appointment booking
Book consulate appointment.
Fee payment
Pay EUR 99 visa fee.
Document submission
Submit complete application at consulate.
Processing wait
Consular processing: 2-4 weeks. Prefecture processing for ICT card: 6-8 weeks after arrival.
Visa collection
Collect visa. Apply for ICT residence permit at prefecture within 2 months of arrival (EUR 260).

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Working Holiday Visa (Programme Vacances-Travail / PVT))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 365 days
Processing time: 2-4 weeks
Fee: Free (no visa fee for most bilateral agreements)
Validity: 12 months (non-renewable)
Entry: Single entry

Bilateral working holiday agreements with 16 countries. Duration is exactly 12 months and cannot be extended. The primary purpose must be tourism and cultural discovery; work is supplementary to fund the stay. Age limit is 18-30 for most countries, extended to 18-35 for Argentina, Australia, and Canada. Must apply from country of nationality (exceptions: Australians, Canadians, and Colombians may apply from country of residence). Annual quotas may apply for some nationalities. Russia's program is currently suspended.

Eligibility

Nationality
Nationals of: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Hong Kong, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, South Korea, Taiwan, Uruguay. (Russia suspended)

Eligible countries: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea (Republic of), Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Taiwan, Province of China, Uruguay
Age
Must be aged 18-30 at time of application (18-35 for Argentina, Australia, and Canada)

Max age: 35; Min age: 18
Visa history
Must not have previously held a French Working Holiday Visa

Required history: No prior French PVT

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 12
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm, white background, ICAO compliant
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statement showing available funds; Minimum amount: EUR 2,500 (approximate, varies by bilateral agreement)
Travel insurance
Coverage area: France; Minimum coverage: Full coverage including hospitalization and repatriation for 12 months
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: Yes
Cover letter
Explain the purpose of travel, travel dates, who will pay, and why you will leave before the visa or permission expires.

How to apply

Document gathering
Prepare passport, photos, proof of funds (EUR 2,500+), travel insurance (12 months), return flight or funds for return, and motivation letter.
Appointment booking
Book appointment at French consulate in country of nationality (or residence for AU/CA/CO nationals).
Document submission
Submit complete application at consulate.
Processing wait
Processing takes 2-4 weeks.
Visa collection
Collect passport with working holiday visa. No OFII validation required upon arrival.

Work / Immigration visa (Talent - Innovative Project / Startup Founder (French Tech Visa))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 1460 days
Processing time: 2-6 weeks
Fee: EUR 99 (visa) + EUR 225 (residence card)
Validity: Up to 4 years
Entry: Multiple entry

For startup founders with an innovative business project recognized by a French public body (such as a certified incubator, accelerator, or La French Tech). The project must be endorsed by a recognized public-sector body. Minimum financial resources required correspond to SMIC (EUR 21,876.40/year as of 2026). French Tech Visa is a fast-track version for founders accepted by certified incubators.

Eligibility

Nationality
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals
Purpose of visit
Developing an innovative business project in France, recognized and endorsed by a certified French public body (incubator, accelerator, or La French Tech)
Financial
Must demonstrate annual financial resources of at least EUR 21,876.40 (SMIC equivalent)

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 15
Photo
Count: 3; Specifications: 35x45mm, white background, ICAO compliant
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements, investor commitments, grant letters; Minimum amount: EUR 21,876.40 per year (SMIC level, 2026)
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Long-stay visa application form; Form url: https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/visa-wizard
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, card; Amount: EUR 99
Business plan
Provide a business plan showing the activity, funding, market and expected costs.

Minimum investment: No fixed minimum - must demonstrate viability; Must include financials: Yes

How to apply

Document gathering
Develop business plan and obtain endorsement from a recognized French public-sector body or certified incubator.
Online application
Start visa application on France-Visas website.
Appointment booking
Book consulate appointment.
Fee payment
Pay EUR 99 visa fee.
Document submission
Submit business plan, endorsement letter, financial proof, and all required documents.
Processing wait
Processing takes 2-6 weeks.
Visa collection
Collect VLS-TS visa. Apply for Talent - Innovative Project card at prefecture.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Talent - Employee on Assignment (Salarie en Mission))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 1460 days
Processing time: 2-6 weeks
Fee: EUR 99 (visa) + EUR 225 (residence card)
Validity: Up to 4 years (aligned with assignment duration)
Entry: Multiple entry

For employees of international groups being transferred to a French subsidiary or affiliate. Requires at least 3 months of professional seniority in the foreign group company. A French employment contract (3+ months) with the French entity is required. Minimum salary threshold: EUR 39,582 gross/year. Different from ICT permit - this is for intra-group mobility with a new French contract. Spouse receives Talent - Family card with work rights.

Eligibility

Nationality
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals
Employment
Must have at least 3 months seniority in an international group and a French employment contract (3+ months) with gross salary of at least EUR 39,582/year

Required status: Intra-group transferee

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 15
Photo
Count: 3; Specifications: 35x45mm, white background, ICAO compliant
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: French employment contract showing salary; Minimum amount: EUR 39,582 gross annual salary
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Long-stay visa application form; Form url: https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/visa-wizard
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, card; Amount: EUR 99
Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: Yes
Ict assignment
Corporate relationship: Same international group (parent, subsidiary, or affiliate); Minimum employment years: 0

How to apply

Document gathering
Prepare French employment contract, proof of group relationship, and seniority documentation.
Online application
Start visa application on France-Visas.
Appointment booking
Book consulate appointment.
Fee payment
Pay EUR 99 visa fee.
Document submission
Submit all documents at consulate.
Processing wait
Processing takes 2-6 weeks.
Visa collection
Collect VLS-TS visa. Apply for Talent card at prefecture.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Talent - Artist and Creative Professional)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 1460 days
Processing time: 4-8 weeks
Fee: EUR 99 (visa) + EUR 225 (residence card)
Validity: Up to 4 years
Entry: Multiple entry

For artists, musicians, performers, writers, and cultural professionals planning to work or perform in France. Must provide proof of professional activity in the arts or entertainment sector and valid contracts or invitations from French organizations or venues. Includes literary authors, visual artists, performing artists, filmmakers, and other creative professionals.

Eligibility

Nationality
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals
Employment
Must demonstrate professional activity in arts, culture, or entertainment sector with contracts or invitations from French entities

Required status: Professional artist or creative
Purpose of visit
Artistic creation, performance, or cultural work in France

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 15
Photo
Count: 3; Specifications: 35x45mm, white background, ICAO compliant
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Contracts, grant letters, bank statements; Minimum amount: Sufficient to cover living expenses
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Long-stay visa application form; Form url: https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/visa-wizard
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, card; Amount: EUR 99
Curriculum vitae
Provide a current CV showing education, work history and relevant qualifications.
Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: Yes

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather proof of artistic career, contracts/invitations from French organizations, portfolio, and CV.
Online application
Start visa application on France-Visas.
Appointment booking
Book consulate appointment.
Fee payment
Pay EUR 99 visa fee.
Document submission
Submit complete application with artistic portfolio and contracts.
Processing wait
Processing takes 4-8 weeks.
Visa collection
Collect VLS-TS visa. Apply for Talent card at prefecture.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Family Reunion Visa (Regroupement Familial))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 365 days
Processing time: 4-12 months (including OFII processing in France)
Fee: EUR 99 (visa) + EUR 200 (OFII tax upon arrival)
Validity: 1 year (renewable)
Entry: Multiple entry

For family members (spouse 18+, minor children under 18) of a non-EU national legally residing in France for at least 18 months. The sponsor in France initiates the process via OFII. The sponsor must meet minimum income (SMIC level: ~EUR 1,400/month for a couple) and housing requirements (minimum 22m2 for 2 persons). Algerian nationals benefit from reduced minimum residency of 12 months. Family members must demonstrate A1 French language level as of 2025. The visa leads to a residence permit (vie privee et familiale) upon arrival.

Eligibility

Nationality
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss family members (spouse, minor children) of a non-EU national legally residing in France for 18+ months
Financial
Sponsor must earn at least SMIC level (EUR 1,400/month net) and provide housing meeting minimum standards (22m2 for 2 persons)

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 15
Photo
Count: 3; Specifications: 35x45mm, white background, ICAO compliant
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Accepted types: Rental agreement, property deed (verified by OFII/municipality for minimum 22m2); Must cover full stay: Yes
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Long-stay visa application form + OFII family reunification form; Form url: https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/visa-wizard
Birth certificate
Must be notarized: Yes; Must be translated: Yes
Marriage certificate
Must be notarized: Yes; Must be translated: Yes
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, card; Amount: EUR 99
Sponsor financial
Minimum income: SMIC level (EUR 1,400/month net for couple, 2025); Required documents: Payslips, tax returns, employment contract
Language proficiency
Accepted tests: DELF A1, TCF A1, or equivalent French language certificate; Minimum score: A1 level (CEFR)

How to apply

Online application
Sponsor in France submits family reunification request to OFII. OFII verifies income and housing requirements.
Document gathering
Once OFII approval is received, family members gather translated/notarized marriage/birth certificates, passports, photos, and French language certificate (A1).
Appointment booking
Family members book visa appointment at French consulate in their country.
Fee payment
Pay EUR 99 visa fee.
Document submission
Submit complete visa application with OFII approval letter and all supporting documents.
Processing wait
OFII processing and housing inspection by municipality takes 6-12 months. Consular processing takes 2-4 weeks after OFII approval.
Visa collection
Collect visa. Upon arrival, apply for residence card (vie privee et familiale) at prefecture. Pay EUR 200 OFII tax.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Seasonal Worker Visa (Travailleur Saisonnier))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 180 days
Processing time: 4-8 weeks
Fee: EUR 99 (visa) + EUR 225 (residence card)
Validity: 3 years (multi-year permit; max 6 months work per 12-month period)
Entry: Multiple entry

For seasonal workers in agriculture, tourism, and other seasonal industries. The multi-year residence permit is valid for 3 years but work is limited to 6 months within any 12-month period. Employer must first obtain a work authorization (autorisation de travail) - jobs must be advertised via Pole Emploi for 3 weeks first unless in a sector with labor shortages (sous tension). After initial visa, subsequent entries do not require a new visa as long as the multi-year permit is valid.

Eligibility

Nationality
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals
Employment
Must have a seasonal employment contract with a French employer who has obtained an autorisation de travail

Required status: Seasonal employment contract
Purpose of visit
Seasonal work in agriculture, tourism, hospitality, or other seasonal industries

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 15
Photo
Count: 3; Specifications: 35x45mm, white background, ICAO compliant
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Accepted types: Employer-provided housing or rental agreement; Must cover full stay: Yes
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Long-stay visa application form; Form url: https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/visa-wizard
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, card; Amount: EUR 99
Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No
Work permit notification
Provide work permit approval, notification or authorisation evidence from the relevant authority.

Issuing authority: As required by issuing authority; Permit number: Autorisation de travail number

How to apply

Document gathering
Employer applies for work authorization (autorisation de travail) from DREETS. Job must be advertised for 3 weeks via Pole Emploi (unless shortage sector).
Online application
Start visa application on France-Visas once work authorization is approved.
Appointment booking
Book consulate appointment.
Fee payment
Pay EUR 99 visa fee.
Document submission
Submit work contract, work authorization, accommodation proof, and personal documents.
Processing wait
Processing takes 4-8 weeks.
Visa collection
Collect visa. Apply for multi-year seasonal worker permit at prefecture within 2 months of arrival.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Talent - Business Investor)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 1460 days
Processing time: 4-8 weeks
Fee: EUR 99 (visa) + EUR 225 (residence card)
Validity: Up to 4 years
Entry: Multiple entry

For investors making a significant investment of at least EUR 300,000 in tangible or intangible fixed assets of a French company. Investor must hold at least 10% equity in the company and serve as director or manager. The investment must lead to the creation or preservation of jobs within 4 years.

Eligibility

Nationality
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals
Financial
Must invest at least EUR 300,000 in fixed assets of a French company and hold at least 10% equity
Employment
Must serve as company director or manager; investment must create or preserve jobs within 4 years

Required status: Company director or manager

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 15
Photo
Count: 3; Specifications: 35x45mm, white background, ICAO compliant
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Investment certificates, shareholder agreements, bank transfer proof, company financial statements; Minimum amount: EUR 300,000 investment in fixed assets
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Long-stay visa application form; Form url: https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/visa-wizard
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, card; Amount: EUR 99
Company registration
Provide company registration evidence for the inviting, sponsoring or employing organisation.

Accepted documents: Company registration (Kbis), shareholder agreement showing 10%+ equity, director appointment documentation
Business plan
Provide a business plan showing the activity, funding, market and expected costs.

Minimum investment: EUR 300,000; Must include financials: Yes
Source of wealth
Must be notarized: No; Wealth source: Must be documented and legitimate

How to apply

Document gathering
Prepare investment documentation, company registration, shareholder agreement, and business plan showing job creation.
Online application
Start visa application on France-Visas.
Appointment booking
Book consulate appointment.
Fee payment
Pay EUR 99 visa fee.
Document submission
Submit investment proof, business plan, and all supporting documents.
Processing wait
Processing takes 4-8 weeks.
Visa collection
Collect VLS-TS visa. Apply for Talent card at prefecture.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Talent - Business Creator / Entrepreneur)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 1460 days
Processing time: 4-8 weeks
Fee: EUR 99 (visa) + EUR 225 (residence card)
Validity: Up to 4 years
Entry: Multiple entry

For entrepreneurs creating or acquiring a business in France with an investment of at least EUR 30,000. Must register the business via the government's online platform. If the business sector is regulated, all necessary permits must be obtained. A credible and approved business plan with a solid financial plan is required.

Eligibility

Nationality
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals
Financial
Must invest at least EUR 30,000 in creating or acquiring a business in France
Purpose of visit
Creating or taking over a business in France with a viable business plan

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 15
Photo
Count: 3; Specifications: 35x45mm, white background, ICAO compliant
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements, investment proof, business registration documents; Minimum amount: EUR 30,000 investment capital plus SMIC-level living expenses
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Long-stay visa application form; Form url: https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/visa-wizard
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, card; Amount: EUR 99
Company registration
Provide company registration evidence for the inviting, sponsoring or employing organisation.

Accepted documents: Business registration documents, Kbis extract or equivalent
Business plan
Provide a business plan showing the activity, funding, market and expected costs.

Minimum investment: EUR 30,000; Must include financials: Yes

How to apply

Document gathering
Prepare business plan with financials, proof of EUR 30,000 investment, and register business via government platform.
Online application
Start visa application on France-Visas.
Appointment booking
Book consulate appointment.
Fee payment
Pay EUR 99 visa fee.
Document submission
Submit business plan, investment proof, company registration, and personal documents.
Processing wait
Processing takes 4-8 weeks.
Visa collection
Collect VLS-TS visa. Apply for Talent card at prefecture.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Talent - Researcher (Talent - Chercheur))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 1460 days
Processing time: 2-6 weeks
Fee: EUR 99 (visa) + EUR 225 (residence card)
Validity: Up to 4 years (aligned with research agreement)
Entry: Multiple entry

For academics, scientists, and PhD candidates coming to France for research or teaching at a recognized French institution. Requires a hosting agreement (convention d'accueil) from a French research or higher education institution. No minimum salary requirement, but must prove sufficient income. Spouse receives Talent - Family card with work rights.

Eligibility

Nationality
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals
Employment
Must hold a hosting agreement (convention d'accueil) from a recognized French research or higher education institution

Required status: Hosted by French research institution
Purpose of visit
Research, teaching, or doctoral studies at a French institution

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 15
Photo
Count: 3; Specifications: 35x45mm, white background, ICAO compliant
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Hosting agreement stipend, grant letter, bank statements; Minimum amount: Sufficient to cover living expenses
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Long-stay visa application form; Form url: https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/visa-wizard
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, card; Amount: EUR 99
Curriculum vitae
Provide a current CV showing education, work history and relevant qualifications.
Sponsorship certificate
Certificate name: Convention d'accueil (Hosting Agreement); Sponsor type: French research institution or university
Research proposal
Must be peer reviewed: No
Degree attestation
Attesting authority: Home country university or ENIC-NARIC; Must be apostilled: Yes

How to apply

Online application
Obtain hosting agreement from French institution. Start visa application on France-Visas.
Document gathering
Gather hosting agreement, degree certificates, CV, research proposal, and financial proof.
Appointment booking
Book appointment at French consulate.
Fee payment
Pay EUR 99 visa fee.
Document submission
Submit application at consulate.
Processing wait
Processing takes 2-6 weeks.
Visa collection
Collect VLS-TS visa. Validate online within 3 months of arrival. Apply for Talent card at prefecture.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Talent - Qualified Employee (Passeport Talent - Salarie Qualifie))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 1460 days
Processing time: 2-6 weeks
Fee: EUR 99 (visa) + EUR 225 (residence card: EUR 200 tax + EUR 25 stamp duty)
Validity: Up to 4 years (aligned with contract duration)
Entry: Multiple entry

For skilled workers or recent graduates hired by a French company. As of 2025/2026, the category is called 'Talent - Qualified Employee' (the word 'Passport' was removed from the name). Minimum gross salary: EUR 39,582/year. Requires a master's degree or equivalent, and a permanent or fixed-term (3+ months) contract with a French employer. No separate work permit (autorisation de travail) needed. Spouse receives 'Talent - Family' card with full work rights.

Eligibility

Nationality
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals
Employment
Must hold a permanent or fixed-term (3+ months) employment contract with a French employer offering minimum gross salary of EUR 39,582/year

Required status: Employed by French company
Financial
Salary must meet or exceed EUR 39,582 gross per year (2026 threshold)

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 15
Photo
Count: 3; Specifications: 35x45mm, white background, ICAO compliant
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Employment contract showing salary; Minimum amount: EUR 39,582 gross annual salary (2026 threshold)
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Long-stay visa application form; Form url: https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/visa-wizard
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, card; Amount: EUR 99
Curriculum vitae
Provide a current CV showing education, work history and relevant qualifications.
Degree attestation
Attesting authority: ENIC-NARIC France or equivalent national authority; Must be apostilled: Yes
Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: Yes

How to apply

Online application
Start visa application on France-Visas and employer submits work authorization request if required.
Document gathering
Prepare employment contract, degree certificates (translated and apostilled), CV, passport, and photos.
Appointment booking
Book appointment at French consulate.
Fee payment
Pay EUR 99 visa fee.
Document submission
Submit complete application at consulate.
Processing wait
Processing takes 2-6 weeks.
Visa collection
Collect VLS-TS visa. Validate online within 3 months of arrival. Apply for multi-year Talent residence card within 2 months of arrival at prefecture (EUR 225 fee).

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Talent - EU Blue Card (Carte Bleue Europeenne))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 1460 days
Processing time: 2-4 weeks (expedited processing available)
Fee: EUR 99 (visa) + EUR 225 (residence card)
Validity: Up to 4 years (aligned with contract duration)
Entry: Multiple entry

The EU Blue Card is for highly qualified employees. Requires a higher-education degree (at least 3 years) or 5+ years of equivalent professional experience (for IT professionals). Minimum gross salary: EUR 59,373/year (2026 threshold). Employment contract must be permanent or fixed-term of at least 6 months. Reduced processing times have been introduced. After 2 years with a Blue Card in France, holder can move to another EU member state. Spouse receives automatic work authorization.

Eligibility

Nationality
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals
Employment
Must hold a permanent or fixed-term (6+ months) employment contract with a French employer offering minimum gross salary of EUR 59,373/year

Required status: Employed by French company
Financial
Salary must meet or exceed EUR 59,373 gross per year (2026 threshold)

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 15
Photo
Count: 3; Specifications: 35x45mm, white background, ICAO compliant
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Employment contract showing salary; Minimum amount: EUR 59,373 gross annual salary (2026 threshold)
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Long-stay visa application form; Form url: https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/visa-wizard
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, card; Amount: EUR 99
Curriculum vitae
Provide a current CV showing education, work history and relevant qualifications.
Degree attestation
Attesting authority: ENIC-NARIC France; Must be apostilled: Yes
Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: Yes

How to apply

Online application
Employer initiates work authorization on the ANEF platform. Start visa application on France-Visas.
Document gathering
Gather employment contract (translated), degree certificates (apostilled), CV, and proof of qualifications.
Appointment booking
Book consulate appointment.
Fee payment
Pay EUR 99 visa fee.
Document submission
Submit application at consulate.
Processing wait
Expedited processing of 2-4 weeks.
Visa collection
Collect visa. Apply for Blue Card at prefecture within 2 months of arrival (EUR 225).

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

Work / Immigration visa (Au Pair Visa (Jeune Au Pair))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 365 days
Processing time: 4-8 weeks
Fee: EUR 99
Validity: Duration of au pair agreement (up to 12 months)
Entry: Multiple entry

For non-EU nationals aged 18-30 who wish to live with a French host family as an au pair. VLS-TS visa valid for the duration of the au pair placement (up to 12 months). Must validate visa online within 3 months of arrival. Host family must register the au pair at URSSAF within 8 days of arrival. Au pair receives pocket money (minimum EUR 350/month) plus room and board, and must be enrolled in French language courses.

Eligibility

Nationality
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals
Age
Must be aged 18-30 at time of application

Max age: 30; Min age: 18
Purpose of visit
Au pair placement with a French host family, combined with French language study
Criminal record
Must have clean criminal record

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 15
Photo
Count: 3; Specifications: 35x45mm, white background, ICAO compliant
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Accepted types: Host family agreement (convention de placement au pair); Must cover full stay: Yes
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Long-stay visa application form; Form url: https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/visa-wizard
Cover letter
Explain the purpose of travel, travel dates, who will pay, and why you will leave before the visa or permission expires.
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, card; Amount: EUR 99
Academic transcript
Provide academic records for the course, qualification or training route.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: Yes
Language proficiency
Accepted tests: French language certificate (basic level) or letter of enrollment in French courses; Minimum score: A1-A2 level (CEFR)
Private health insurance
Coverage territory: France; Minimum coverage: Full medical coverage in France

How to apply

Document gathering
Secure au pair placement with a French host family and obtain signed convention de placement au pair. Enroll in French language courses.
Online application
Start visa application on France-Visas.
Appointment booking
Book consulate appointment.
Fee payment
Pay EUR 99 visa fee.
Document submission
Submit au pair agreement, health insurance, language enrollment, high school diploma, and personal documents.
Processing wait
Processing takes 4-8 weeks.
Visa collection
Collect VLS-TS visa. Validate online within 3 months of arrival. Host family registers at URSSAF within 8 days.

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

This information is provided for general guidance only. Visa requirements can change frequently and may vary by nationality. Always verify with the official embassy or consulate before making travel plans. Contact [email protected] for assistance.