Employer of record in France | Work Visas and Immigration

Work Visas and Immigration

Visas for foreign nationals

In France, hiring foreigners without valid work permits can lead to substantial fines, legal proceedings, or visa revocation. The French government closely monitors employment to prioritize job opportunities for French citizens. France offers limited skilled migration programs for foreigners, with provisions for highly qualified professionals in sectors like science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Work visas for foreign nationals include:

• Talent Passport - A multi-year residence permit for highly skilled workers, researchers, artists, and employees of innovative companies
• Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Permit - For employees transferred within the same company to a French branch
• EU Blue Card - For highly qualified non-EU nationals with a job offer in France

Foreigners may also apply for a Short-Stay Business Visa, which is issued for attending meetings, conferences, or training sessions in France. It does not permit full-time employment in a French company.

Sponsorship and employer responsibilities

Hiring a foreign national in France requires compliance with immigration, labor, and tax regulations. The sponsoring employer (or EOR) must satisfy the eligibility criteria and required documentation, and the sponsored worker must be aware of post-arrival requirements.

Eligibility criteria

• Confirm that the foreign applicant has the required qualifications and that no suitable French or EU candidate is available.
• Conduct a labor market test, if applicable, through the French unemployment agency (France Travail).
• Submit a signed job offer, company registration documents, and the applicant’s credentials to the Territorial Unit of Directions régionales de l'économie, de l'emploi, du travail et des solidarités (DREETS).

Required documentation

• Valid passport with at least six months’ validity
• Employment contract specifying job duties, salary, and duration
• Company registration and letter of intent
• Certified copies of educational and professional qualifications
• Work permit application (e.g., Salarié, Passeport Talent, or ICT, depending on the employment type)
• Completed visa application form and biometric photos

Post-arrival requirements

• Residence permit: After entering France, the foreign worker must validate their long-stay visa (VLS-TS) with the French Office of Immigration and Integration (OFII) within three months.
• Social security registration: Register with the French social security system for healthcare and other benefits.
• Update local authorities in case of change of address, employment status, or permit renewal.