France is known for its beauty, cultural richness and developed economy, which makes it an attractive destination for foreigners looking for work opportunities and new life experiences. However, foreigners need to obtain official permission to work in a new country. Find out more about the process of obtaining a work visa to France, the types of visas and the necessary documents for successful application

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Migrants from many CIS and Eastern European countries dream of moving to France for employment: Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Ukraine, etc. This is not surprising, as this country is a real economic giant in the heart of Europe. Communication with French employers opens the door to obtaining a work visa for foreigners. However, it is important to remember that compliance with the law is a key aspect of a successful process. It is necessary to familiarize yourself with the requirements of French legislation for labor migrants and submit all necessary documents on time.

The procedure for obtaining a work visa to France for foreigners

The procedure for obtaining a work visa in France can be complicated and time-consuming, but with the right steps and documents, it can be quite affordable. Here are some basic steps you need to take to obtain a work visa:

1. Choosing the type of visa. First, you need to determine what type of visa you need according to the purpose of your stay in France;

2. Preparation of documents. It is necessary to collect all the documents for obtaining a visa. These can be a passport, photographs, letters of confirmation from an employer or university, medical certificates, etc;

3. Submission of the application. It is necessary to apply for a visa at the French consular office in your country or to identify a visa application center. For some types of visas, this can be done online;

4. Payments. You may be required to pay a consular fee for processing your application;

5. Confirmation of the interview. For some visas, you may be required to undergo interviews or medical examinations;

6. Waiting for the decision. After submitting your application, you will have to wait for the consulate's decision. The processing time may vary depending on the type of visa;

7. Obtaining a visa. If the application is approved, you will need to obtain a visa at the French consular office in your country.

Types of work visas to France for expats

Firstly, it is important to understand the different types of work visas that are available in France. They are distinguished based on various criteria, including the length of stay and the nature of the work. Here are some of the main types of work visas to France:

1. Short-term visa (Visa de court séjour). This visa is granted for a short-term stay in France, usually up to 90 days. It can be used to participate in conferences, study, perform certain work, as well as to visit relatives or for tourism;

2. Work visa (Visa de long séjour). This visa is intended for those who plan to work and stay in France for a long period of time, exceeding 90 days. A work visa can be issued for different periods, including 1, 2 or 3 years;

3. Visa for seasonal workers (Visa travailleur saisonnier). This visa is granted to those who plan to work in seasonal industries such as agriculture, hotels and restaurants. It is valid for a certain period, which is determined by an agreement between France and your country;

4. Visa for investors and entrepreneurs (Visa entrepreneur). If you are planning to invest in a business or set up your own company in France, this visa will allow you to realize these plans. It can be issued for different periods of time depending on the nature of your entrepreneurial project;

5. Visa for teachers and researchers (Visa scientifique et enseignant). If you work in the field of science or education, you can get this visa to work at universities, research centers or teach students;

6. Visa for information technology specialists (Visa travailleur en informatique). France is actively looking for foreign IT specialists, and this visa provides an opportunity to work in this sector.

Short-term work visa to France

A short-term work visa is an important opportunity for many who dream of working in France and exploring this country for 90 days. This visa entitles you not only to seasonal work, but also to engage in professional activities. Upon expiration of the 90-day visa period, you must leave the country and apply for a new permit that will allow you to continue your work experience in France. In order to obtain a short-term work visa, you must comply with certain mandatory conditions and submit a certain package of documents.

One of the key steps in the process of obtaining a short-term work visa is to obtain a work permit from the DIRECCTE authority. This permit is mandatory and without it, the visa cannot be issued. The employer solves the issues related to obtaining this permit, so cooperation with him is very important.

The package of documents for obtaining a short-term work visa includes the following:

1. Two 35x45 mm photos, with requirements for the oval of the face and eyes;

2. A standard application form filled in French and English;

3. Original employment contract and a certified copy;

4. Work permit issued by the DIRECCTE;

5. National and international passport with copies of all filled pages;

6. Certificate of income;

7. Marriage or divorce certificate (if applicable);

8. Information on booking tickets for a trip to France and back with a return date before the expiration of the visa;

9. Insurance policy valid in the Schengen area;

10. Certificate from the place of work with a description of employment for the last 6 months, including position and tax returns.

If you are a private entrepreneur, you will also need to provide an extract from the Unified State Register of Legal Entities and Individual Entrepreneurs and a tax return.

Long-term visa to France for foreign workers

A long-term visa belongs to the category of national permits and is intended for highly skilled workers. If you have an employer in France, they must first apply to the French Immigration and Integration Office (OFII) or DIRECCTE for a work permit.

After obtaining a work permit, you need to collect a package of documents that will prove your qualifications and readiness to work in France. This package includes:

1. Three photographs;

2. Two questionnaires that must be filled out in both French and English;

3. A work permit that has been issued by the OFII or DIRECCTE;

4. An employment record that confirms your work experience;

5. A reference from your last job, a copy of your employment contract and your CV;

6. Employment contract signed with your employer in France;

7. National and international passport, together with copies of all filled pages;

8. The results of a full medical examination and a certificate from a doctor at the French Embassy.

EU Blue Card for employment in France

The EU Blue Card (Carte Bleue Européenne) is an important tool for highly skilled workers who intend to work and stay in the European Union without being citizens of EU member states. This card provides an opportunity to obtain legal status and work in one of the most attractive workplaces in the world.

In order to obtain an EU Blue Card, an applicant must meet certain conditions. The first condition is that the applicant must have a long educational experience - at least 3 years in a higher education institution accredited in his/her country, or work for at least 5 years in his/her specialty. The second condition is that the applicant's salary, which is paid in accordance with the terms of a contract lasting at least 1 year, must exceed the average salary in France (approximately 53,000 euros) by at least one and a half times.

The validity of the EU Blue Card when first issued can be from 1 to 3 years. However, after this period, it can be extended for 10 years, which opens up many opportunities for development and work experience in the EU. The EU Blue Card is the key to a successful career in Europe and an opportunity to explore new horizons.

Thus, obtaining a work visa to France is an important process that requires preparation and careful study of all requirements. Simplifying the procedure for obtaining work visas, facilitating conditions for labor migration and attracting foreign specialists to the economy is an issue that France is constantly considering and modernizing. Preparing and following all the necessary steps will help you realize your dream of working in this country.

Igor Usyk - Head of Legal Department at Visit World

For safe relocation to France, obtaining refugee status and employment, use the advice of an international lawyer. We help to solve complex and simple issues for your comfort and safety in France.

Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

Checklist for obtaining a visa and necessary documents in France;

Legal advice on business, medical, educational and immigration issues in France;

Travel and health insurance for foreigners in France;

Insurance for foreign students in France.

More articles on the topic:

Immigration to France: how to move for permanent residence.

Health Insurance in France for Foreigners: a detailed guide.

Employment contracts in France: types and characteristics.

France immigration: a detailed guide for Ukrainian refugees in FR.

French Tech Visa: obtaining a residence permit under the Passeport Talent program.

Higher education in France for foreigners: a detailed guide.