Different Pathways to France

France welcomes newcomers through various legal pathways, each with its own requirements and opportunities. Understanding which category fits your situation is your first crucial step.

Work-Based Immigration

Salaried Employees If you have a job offer from a French employer, your path is relatively straightforward: - Your employer typically initiates the work permit process - The type of contract (CDI, CDD, or interim) affects your visa type - EU/EEA citizens don't need work permits but should register if staying over 3 months - Non-EU citizens need either a "passeport talent" (for highly skilled workers) or standard work visa

Intra-Company Transfers Many international companies have French offices: - ICT permits allow temporary assignments (usually 3 years maximum) - Your home country employer remains your official employer - Salaries must meet minimum thresholds set by French law

Entrepreneurs and Freelancers Starting a business or working independently in France: - The "passeport talent" visa covers innovative business creators - Traditional business visas require detailed business plans - Freelancers need to prove financial viability and may need professional qualifications recognized

Study-Based Pathways

University Students - Apply through Campus France in your home country - Student visas allow part-time work (964 hours annually) - Can transition to work visas after graduation

Language Students - Short-term study visas for courses under 90 days - Long-term visas for extended French language programs - Often a stepping stone to other visa types

Researchers - Special "chercheur" permits with simplified procedures - Often arranged through hosting institutions - Family members can accompany and work

Family Reunification

Joining Family Members - Spouses and children of French citizens or residents - Requires proof of relationship and adequate housing - Processing times vary significantly by nationality

French Partners - PACS (civil partnership) or marriage to French citizens - Unmarried partners may qualify with proof of stable relationship - Children automatically qualify if one parent is French

Retirement and Passive Income

Retirees - "Visiteur" visa for those with sufficient income - Cannot work but can enjoy French lifestyle - Minimum income requirements (typically €1,500+ monthly)

Digital Nomads - France is developing specific digital nomad visas - Currently use "visiteur" visa with remote income proof - Cannot work for French companies directly