To work or set up your business in the Paris Region, you will need to apply for the appropriate visa and, in most cases, a work authorization depending on your situation and length of stay. This is a key step in your relocation process. Here’s what you need to know to identify the right pathway for you.

Do you need a French visa?

EU Citizens

If you are a citizen of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland, you are free to live and work in France without a visa or work permit. A valid passport or national ID card is sufficient.
Although optional, you may choose to apply for a residence card to facilitate certain administrative procedures.

Non-EU Citizens

If you are not a citizen of the EU, EEA or Switzerland and you plan to work, invest or stay in France for an extended period, you will generally need both a visa and a residence permit adapted to your situation.

How long will you stay?

There are two main types of visas depending on the duration and purpose of your stay:

Short-Stay Visa

Also known as a Schengen visa, the short-stay visa allows non-EU nationals to travel to France for purposes such as tourism, business trips, family visits, or short professional activities (including training, internships, conferences or meetings).
Stays in the Schengen Area cannot exceed 90 days within any 180-day period.
Online tools are available to help calculate your remaining days under Schengen rules (Schengen calculator). While short-stay visas may be issued multiple times, applicants must respect waiting periods between applications depending on their situation.
Visa fees vary depending on nationality and current regulations. Applicants are encouraged to consult official sources for up-to-date information.

Long-Stay Visa

If you plan to work in France for more than three months, you will need to apply for a long-stay visa.
Depending on your situation, this visa may act as a residence permit (VLS-TS) or require you to apply for a residence permit after arrival in France.
In most cases, your employer must initiate the work authorization process before your arrival. The long-stay visa allows you to enter France, while your residence status determines your right to live and work in the country. Long-stay visas are typically issued for a duration of three months to one year. To remain in France beyond this period, you must apply for or renew your residence permit through the appropriate administrative channels.
Check out the French Government page for the different stages of the visa application process.

Which Work Permit are you eligible for?

In most cases, non-EU nationals must obtain a work authorization before starting employment in France. This process is generally initiated by the employer.
However, certain residence permits include a built-in work authorization, simplifying the process for eligible applicants. Employers are advised to anticipate administrative timelines and submit applications several months before the planned start date.

The “Talent” residence permit for international profiles

The “Talent” multi-year residence permit(which replaces the former “Passeport Talent” scheme) is designed to attract highly skilled professionals, entrepreneurs and investors to France.
This residence permit allows non-EU nationals to live and work in France under a streamlined and favorable framework.

You may be eligible if you fall into one of several categories, including:

• Qualified employees
• Startup founders
• Investors
• Highly skilled professionals contributing to France’s economic attractiveness

This permit is generally issued for up to four years, renewable, and provides significant flexibility. It also allows immediate family members to reside in France and access the labor market.
Importantly, this residence permit includes direct work authorization, meaning no separate work permit is required.

Procedure and Cost

Applications must be submitted to the French consular authorities in your country of residence, usually within the three months preceding your arrival in France.

Once in France, holders of a long-stay visa must complete an online validation process via the official digital platform dedicated to foreign nationals. This step is mandatory to regularize your stay.

Administrative fees apply and may vary depending on the type of visa and residence permit. These typically include visa fees and residence taxes, payable online during the process.

Applicants should always refer to official government sources to check the most up-to-date fees and requirements.

The French Tech Visa: For founders, employees and investors

The French Tech Visa is a simplified procedure within the “Talent” residence permit framework. It is specifically designed for international tech talent wishing to join France’s innovation ecosystem.

This scheme targets three main profiles:

• Startup founders supported by recognized incubators or accelerators,
• Talents recruited by innovative French companies,
• International investors planning to establish themselves in France.

The French Tech Visa simplifies and accelerates the application process, making it easier for qualified candidates to relocate.

Check out the “Welcome to France” website to get more information about this visa.

Further useful information

Digitalization of immigration procedures

France has significantly modernized its immigration system in recent years.
Most applications for residence permits, renewals and work authorizations are now processed online through dedicated government platform (ANEF).
In-person appointments at local authorities are generally scheduled only after an initial online review of your application.
This digitalization aims to streamline procedures and reduce processing times.

Conditions and Final tips

Before starting your application, make sure to:

• Check your eligibility based on your nationality and professional situation
• Prepare all required supporting documents in advance
• Anticipate processing times
• Refer to official government websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information

Relocating to the Paris Region is an exciting opportunity. Properly preparing your visa and work authorization is the first essential step toward a successful installation.

If you require assistance, specialized service providers can support you throughout your administrative procedures and help ensure a smooth transition.
Come for business, stay for life!

Read our related articles