How to Stay in France After Graduation: Immigration Options for International Students

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Post-Graduation Immigration Options in France: A Guide for International Students 

International students graduating from a French university often wish to extend their stay in France to work, gain experience, or explore new ventures. Fortunately, France offers several immigration pathways designed to support post-graduation ambitions, whether that means entering the workforce, launching a business, or transitioning to longer-term residency. 

In this guide, we outline key immigration routes for students after graduation, and we’ll touch on how these differ from options like the visitor visa.

1. Jobseeker - Company Creation Permit (Recherche D’emploi - Creation D’entreprise)  

If you're completing a degree in France, you may be eligible for the Job Seeker - Company  Creation Permit  (Recherche d’emploi - Creation d’entreprise). This temporary residence permit is valid for 12 months (renewable once) and allows you to: 

• • • Look for employment in France 

• • • Start your own business related to your field of study 

Eligibility: 

• • • Must hold a Master’s degree or higher from a French institution 

If you find a qualifying job during this period, you can switch to a longer-term work permit, discussed below. 

Key Benefits: 

• • • Full-time work rights (no restrictions on hours or salary) 

• • • No labour market test 

• • • Time to explore opportunities without an immediate employer 

*Note: Eligibility may vary based on nationality or academic level. This permit is ideal for graduates who are not yet tied to an employer but want flexibility to plan next steps.

2. Local Hire (Salarié) or Temporary Employee (Travailleur Temporaire)

If you receive a job offer after graduation and meet the eligibility criteria, you may be able to apply directly for a Local Hire or Temporary Employee permit. 

This route allows you to begin working immediately under a valid contract with a French employer. However, labour market tests may apply, and minimum salary thresholds must be met depending on the permit type and your role. 

• • • Permanent Contract (CDI): You can apply for a “Salarié” permit. 

• • • Temporary Contract (CDD): A temporary work permit is issued for the contract duration, up to 12 months, and is renewable. 

This pathway suits graduates who transition directly into the workforce and have a defined job offer. 

Note: Students holding a Master’s or higher qualification from a French university may benefit from reduced administrative hurdles when transitioning to these permits.

3. Talent Qualified Employee / EU Blue Card

For highly qualified graduates who secure a higher-paid position, there are two strategic options that offer faster processing, multi-year validity, and a pathway to permanent residence: 

Talent Qualified Employee 

• • • Requires a French diploma (Master’s level or higher). 

• • • You must have a 3+ month job contract with a French company. 

• • • The salary must be at least 2x the minimum wage in France. 

EU Blue Card (Carte Bleue Européenne) 

• • • Available to non-EU citizens with a Bachelor’s degree or 3+ years of experience 

• • • You must have a 6+ month job contract with a French company 

• • • Requires a minimum annual gross salary of €53,836 (as of 2025). 

*Both permits are: 

• • • Valid for the length of your work contract (up to 4 years) 

• • • Renewable 

• • • Exempt from labour market testing 

• • • Processed faster than other work permits 

These are excellent options for graduates entering high-skilled professions in France and looking for long-term residency. 

How Do These Compare to the French Visitor Visa? 

While not directly related to post-graduation pathways, the Visitor Visa (Visa de Long Séjour Visiteur) is an important alternative, especially for those who want to reside in France temporarily without formal employment ties. 

Visitor Visa 

• • • Short-term stay (up to 90 days) or long-term visitor visa (renewable) 

• • • No local job requirement 

• • • Suitable for personal travel, remote work or study, or family visits 

*Note: While France does not currently offer a dedicated digital nomad visa, many remote workers use the Visitor Visa (Visa de Long Séjour Visiteur), which aligns with digital nomad lifestyle needs. 

For more information on France’s Visitor Visa (Visa de Long Séjour Visiteur), watch our video about digital nomad options in France. 

What to Do After You Graduate 

France offers several structured immigration pathways for international students who want to stay after completing their studies. Whether your goal is to launch a business, enter the local workforce, or leverage a highly skilled job offer, there’s an immigration route to match. 

Understanding these options. can help you make informed decisions about your next steps in France. 

Need Help Choosing the Right Pathway?

Fragomen supports international students, digital nomads and professionals across the globe in navigating complex immigration systems. Contact us to discuss your options.