France Immigration Services

•​ France's immigration system provides many options for employers of foreign nationals. France is a member of the European Union (EU) and the Schengen Area. Requirements, processing times, employment eligibility and benefits for accompanying family members vary by permit type.

 

• Business visitors to France typically use a local version of the Schengen C Visa, unless they are visa exempt based on their nationality. The Schengen Area generally limits stays to 90 days within a 180-day period.

 

• France's immigration and labour laws establish several employment authorization schemes depending on the contract location, transfer arrangements, foreign national's skills, and salary. For most highly skilled workers, foreign nationals apply for a suitable visa at a French consular post. The visa authorizes the holder to enter and work in France. Work authorization is generally issued for three to four years. Secondments​ are firmly limited to three years with no possibility of extension. Once in France, foreign nationals apply for a residence permit.​

 

Detailed Immigration Snapshots, Document Lists and Process Guides are available to clients on request.