With globalization accelerating, more and more companies are expanding overseas, and sending employees abroad has become a crucial step for multinational development. France, as a major European economy, attracts many businesses with its excellent living environment and mature business system. However, “how to apply for a French work visa for dispatched employees” remains a headache for many HR professionals and prospective expats.
This guide will help you understand the types of work visas for France and how to apply for them.
01 【Core Logic of French Work Visas】
The core logic of the French work visa process is “first obtain an entry permit, then apply for an entry visa.”
Many people misunderstand the French visa system, thinking they can directly apply for a work visa. In fact, France implements a dual-approval system:
1) Pre-approval by the French Labor Authority (DIRECCTE)
Before an employee goes to France, the employer must submit a hiring plan to the local labor office. This includes justification for the position, salary standards, and proof of efforts to hire locally. If approved, the company will receive a Work Permit Certificate (Attestation d’accueil). This ensures that hiring a foreign employee will not negatively affect the local job market.
2) Visa Application at the French Consulate
With the Work Permit Certificate and other required documents, the employee must apply for a long-stay work visa (Visa de long séjour salarié) at the French consulate in China. Once approved, they can enter France and later exchange it for a residence permit (Carte de séjour).
Note: If your company already has a subsidiary or branch in France, some steps can be supported by the local HR team. If it’s your first time sending staff abroad, it’s recommended to start the process at least 3-6 months in advance.
02 【Types of Work Visas】
France offers different work visas for different job categories. Choosing the wrong type may lead to rejection.
Common types for dispatched staff include:
(Tip: For Chinese nationals applying for an ICT visa, if the parent company’s registered capital is less than RMB 500,000, an additional guarantee letter may be required.)
03 【Required Documents】
For the most common professional/technical work visa, the applicant typically needs to prepare the following documents (subject to the consulate’s latest requirements — missing any document may cause rejection):
1) Employee Documents:
- Original passport and copy (valid for at least 3 months beyond the visa period)
- Recent white background ID photos (3.5cm × 4.5cm)
- Official employment contract from the French company (specifying salary, position, contract term)
- Degree certificate and professional qualifications (certified by the French consulate in China)
- Criminal record certificate (notarized and double-certified)
- Medical report (from designated institutions, covering HIV, TB, etc.)
2) Company Documents:
- Work Permit Certificate issued by the French Labor Authority
- Copy of the parent company’s business license (stamped)
- Dispatch letter (explaining purpose, position, duration, salary)
- Latest 6-month bank statements (showing company’s financial standing)
Special Note: All non-English/French documents must have official translations. Degree certifications must be done through an institution recognized by the French Ministry of Education, which may take 1–2 months — plan ahead!
04 【Processing Timeline】
Allow at least 3 months for the visa process! The time needed depends on factors such as additional documents and consulate processing speeds. A general timeline:
- T-3 months: Start Labor Authority pre-approval, begin degree certification
- T-2 months: Finalize employment contract, gather all documents
- T-1 month: Book consulate appointment (slots in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, etc., fill up fast — reserve 1–2 weeks early)
- T-day: Submit documents and provide biometric data (fingerprints, photos)
- Post-approval: Receive visa within 1–2 weeks, then exchange for a residence permit within 15 days of arrival in France.
Tip: Avoid applying during major French holidays (e.g., Bastille Day, Christmas) to prevent delays.
05 【After Arrival in France: Don’t Forget These Steps】
Securing the visa is just the first step. After entering France, employees must complete the following:
1) Obtain a Long-Stay Residence Permit
Bring your visa, passport, employment contract, and apply at the local OFII (French Immigration Office). Approval usually takes 1–2 months.
2) Social Security and Health Insurance Registration
The employer will help register for Sécurité sociale and complementary medical insurance (Mutuelle), so employees can enjoy public health services.
3) Tax ID Application
Get a tax ID at the local Impots (tax office). This is required for salary payment and tax declaration (France uses a pay-as-you-earn system).
4) Open a French Bank Account
Most companies require salary deposits to a local account. Bring your residence permit, passport, and contract to open an account at banks like BNP Paribas or Société Générale.
06 【FAQs】
Q: Can my spouse and children come with me?
A: Yes. Once the main applicant’s work visa is approved, the spouse can apply for a family reunification visa (marriage certificate must be double-certified). Minor children can apply for a dependent visa. Spouses may work in France without a separate work permit after obtaining a family residence card.
Q: What if my visa is rejected?
A: If rejected, you must appeal within one month, providing new documents or corrections. Common reasons for rejection include an invalid employment contract, incomplete translations, or salary below industry standards.
Q: Can I get permanent residence after working in France for a few years?
A: If you hold a legal residence status for 5 consecutive years (with no more than 10 months of absence), meet language (A2 French level) and tax requirements, you may apply for a 10-year residence card, equivalent to permanent residency.
📌 This guide is compiled based on official French regulations. Please always follow the latest local policies if any rules change.
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