Talent Passport
Best for: Qualified employees, company founders and researchers
France
Immigrating to France with the right long-stay visa
Most French routes run through a long-stay visa that becomes a residence permit once validated.
- The long-stay visa is validated online shortly after you arrive
- Talent routes exist for qualified employees and company founders
- Students have a dedicated, well-defined route
Visa routes to France
Every route has its own eligibility rules. Use these summaries to know which official pages are worth your time.
Salaried Work Visa
Best for: Applicants with a French employment contract
Student Visa
Best for: Students enrolled at a French institution
Family Route
Best for: Spouses and family members of residents and citizens
What to know before you apply
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.
Frequently asked questions about immigrating to France
- 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.