France

The business immigration system of France has separate processes for business visitors and foreign nationals seeking to work in the country.

 

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 labor laws establish several employment authorization schemes depending on the contract location, transfer arrangements, foreign national skill and salary. For most highly skilled workers, foreign nationals must 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, the foreign national must apply for a residence permit.

 

Note that the level of scrutiny applied to work authorization applications can vary based on the political climate and the perceived state of the French labor market. In-country change of status from business visitor to work authorized or from temporary to long-term status is very complex, has a high degree of discretion and requires case-by-case assessment. 

 

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