Fact Sheet: France Working Permit Application Guide

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If you’re planning to become an employee in France, obtaining a France working permit is a mandatory step—regardless of the duration of your stay or the nature of your employment.

However, if you are a national of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland, you’re allowed to work in France without needing a work permit. You can consult this official fact sheet for more details.

For others, the France working permit may be granted either as part of a visa or residence permit or issued separately.

Types of Residence Permits That Allow Employment

Some residence permits automatically serve as work permits. These include permits issued under the:

  • “Talent Passport”
  • Intra-company transfer programs

When such a permit is granted, it covers the right to work during its entire period of validity—no additional steps are required. For more, see the “Residence Permits” section on official platforms.

When You Need a Separate Work Permit

In some situations, a separate work authorization must be obtained before starting the job. This generally applies to:

  • Permanent hires (excluding “Talent Passport” profiles)
  • Temporary or fixed-term contract workers
  • Employees changing employers
  • Posted workers (outside intra-company mobility schemes)

In these cases, the employer must submit the work permit application before the visa or residence permit can be granted.

Who Needs a France Working Permit?

  • Foreign employees recruited by a French company
  • Founders of startups
  • Company directors
  • International investors
  • Accompanying family members of permit holders

Special Note: Regulated Professions

If you’re aiming to work in a regulated profession such as healthcare, law, or accounting, you must also hold the required professional diploma or license in addition to your work permit.

Exemptions from Needing a France Working Permit

The following individuals are exempt from the work permit requirement:

  • Citizens of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland
  • Non-EU nationals already working in another EU country
  • Employees working in France for less than 3 months

Work Permit Duration and Validity

Length: Generally matches the employment contract or assignment letter. Some permits may be valid for 12 months, renewable.

Scope: Some permits are limited to a specific:

  • Employer
  • Job function
  • Geographic area within France

Different authorizations are required for mainland France and overseas territories.

🔄 Note: Changing your job or employer requires a new work permit.

How to Apply for a France Working Permit

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Labor Market Test (if applicable)
The employer must publish the job offer on France Travail or APEC for at least 3 weeks, if the role is subject to employment market verification.

Step 2: Online Application Submission
Employers submit the application via the official portal, ideally 3 months before the expected employment start date.

Step 3: Confirmation and Issuance
Once processed, both the employer and the foreign employee receive confirmation. If approved, the permit is sent by email and must be attached to the visa or residence permit application.

Step 4: Company Records
The permit must be added to the “registre unique du personnel” (personnel register) and made available to labor inspectors.

Need help understanding the tax implications when hiring? Read our detailed article on taxe employeur for Passeport Talent holders.

What Is “Opposability of Employment Situation”?

Employers may be required to prove there are no suitable local candidates before hiring a foreign worker. This means posting the role on national job boards (France Travail/APEC) for a minimum of three weeks.

Exemptions from this requirement include:

  • Roles in high-demand sectors (“métiers en tension”)
  • Graduates with a Master’s degree whose job aligns with their training and pays at least €2,702.07 gross/month
  • Nationals from countries with bilateral agreements with France

A simulator is available on the ANEF website to check if the employment situation test is necessary.

Documents Required for the France Working Permit

A detailed checklist of documents is available on the ANEF website. This includes:

  • Employment contract
  • Company registration documents
  • Proof of job posting (if applicable)

Cost and Employer Obligations

While applying for a France working permit is free, employers are required to pay a tax to the French Tax Authority (DGFiP) when the employee receives their first residence permit (excluding intra-company transfers).

This tax is declared along with the company’s annual VAT return. For details, refer to our complete guide on employer tax obligations.

Renewing or Modifying a France Working Permit

There are two main scenarios:

  • Renewal: When continuing with the same job/employer.
  • Change of Status: If switching from employment to launching a business or another status. Applications must be submitted within two months of the permit’s expiration date.

⚠️ Some statuses, such as posted workers, do not allow for permit extension. Once the assignment ends, they must leave France unless specific conditions are met.

Still Have Questions About the France Working Permit?

For the latest updates, requirements, and official procedures, refer to the official Welcome to France portal. You can also explore our other expert articles and consulting services at ESCEC International.