Talent Passport
Best suited to: Qualifying skilled employees, founders and researchers
France
Moving to France with the right long-stay visa
Most French routes run through a long-stay visa that doubles as a residence permit once validated.
- The long-stay visa is validated online soon after arrival
- Talent routes exist for qualifying employees and founders
- Students have a dedicated, well-defined process
Visa routes to France
Each route has its own eligibility rules. Use these summaries to decide which official pages are worth your time.
Salaried worker visa
Best suited to: Applicants with a French employment contract
Student visa
Best suited to: Students enrolled at a French institution
Family route
Best suited to: Spouses and family members of residents and citizens
What to know before applying
France offers several routes for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, investors, students and family members. The Talent Passport is the flagship permit for people who can demonstrate economic or professional value.
- The Talent Passport is the main route for skilled workers, founders and investors.
- French Tech Visa offers a fast track for people joining innovative companies.
- Validate your long-stay visa online within three months of arrival.
- Work visas usually require employer authorisation before you apply.
France immigration FAQs
- Do I need a job offer for the Talent Passport?
- The salaried employee category does, but categories such as founder, investor or author rely on a project or resources rather than a traditional job offer.
- Can I bring my family on a Talent Passport?
- Yes, the Talent Passport includes a simplified procedure for spouses and dependent children, who receive residence permits that allow work or study.
- How long can students stay after graduation?
- Graduates can usually apply for a temporary residence permit to look for or start a job related to their qualification, subject to conditions.