Work Visa in France

This service is for non-EU nationals who have secured a job offer from a French employer and wish to reside and work legally in France. Known formally as the “visa de long séjour valant titre de séjour – salarié (VLS-TS salarié)”, the work visa in France grants permission to live and work in France for over 3 months and can be renewed or converted into long-term residency.

Whether you're an engineer, healthcare professional, hospitality worker, or IT specialist, this visa enables professionals across sectors to legally enter the French workforce. It is a key step for those seeking international work experience in France or long-term relocation to the country.

Applicants must fulfill the following requirements to obtain a French work visa:

• Valid Job Offer: A signed employment contract from a French employer. The job must offer at least the French minimum wage and comply with local labor laws.

• Labour Market Approval: In many cases, the employer must apply for authorization from the DIRECCTE (French labour authority), which verifies that the job cannot be filled by a local or EU candidate.

• Employer Sponsorship: The employer initiates the process by applying for a work permit on behalf of the applicant.

• Visa Application: Once the work permit is approved, the applicant submits a visa application at the French consulate in their home country.

• Proof of Qualifications: For regulated professions, proof of diplomas and sometimes professional recognition in France is required.

• Health Insurance: Either via the employer or arranged privately until social security coverage begins.

• Clean Criminal Record: A certificate of good conduct from the applicant's country of residence.

We support clients and their employers throughout the process to ensure compliance and smooth transition:

1. Eligibility Review: Initial consultation to evaluate your job contract and your employer's compliance with French labor immigration requirements.

2. Work Permit Support: Assist the employer with the submission of the work permit application to the DIRECCTE (or OFII for specific cases).

3. Document Preparation: Help you gather and prepare necessary documents including translations and legalizations.

4. Consular Visa Application: Guide you through the visa application process at your nearest French consulate.

5. Visa Issuance and Travel: Once approved, you receive the visa and may enter France to begin your employment.

6. OFII Registration: Upon arrival, we assist in registering your residence with the OFII (French Office for Immigration and Integration).

7. Renewal and Long-Term Planning: Support for renewals or transition to long-term residence permits.

• Legally Work and Live in France: Enables lawful employment and residency in France.

• Family Reunification: Allows the possibility of bringing a spouse and children under family reunification procedures.

• Social Security and Health Coverage: Entitlement to French healthcare and social benefits.

• Path to Long-Term Residency or Citizenship: After 5 years of lawful residence, you may apply for a 10-year residency card or naturalization.

• Comprehensive Support: Both employer and employee benefit from expert assistance with legal and administrative procedures.

• Legal consultation with a French immigration specialist regarding eligibility and employment compliance

• Employer support with work permit application and labour office formalities

• Visa document checklist tailored to your situation

• Guidance for obtaining translations and certified documents

• Step-by-step help with the visa application process at the French consulate

• Assistance with OFII registration upon arrival

• Advice on renewal or transition to permanent residence