GUIDE TO PROFESSIONAL VISA SERVICES AND PERMITS IN FRANCE

France is a center of business and innovation within Europe and hence many of the foreign professionals are able to find jobs there. It is necessary to obtain a particular type of work visa, first to start working and take advantage of all the perks that come with living in this vibrant country. Depending on your qualifications, profession, along job offer, France has a wide range of work visas tailored to different professional needs.

TYPES OF WORK VISAS AND PERMITS AVAILABLE

France offers several categories of work visas and permits, each catering to different skill levels and professions. Here are some of the main types:

1. Short-stay Visa: Short-stay visas are valid for up to 90 days within any 180 days and are issued for temporary work assignments like tourism, business trips, or family visits.
2. Long-stay Visa: This visa ensures a long stay between 3 months and 1 year, suitable for senior management employees, innovative workers, and medical professionals.
3. Seasonal Work Visa: This visa authorizes non-EU citizens to work in France temporarily for 3 to 6 months, mainly for the agricultural sector or for tourism.
4. Talent Passport Permit: Designed for highly skilled professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs which allows them to live and work in France for up to four years.
5. Intra-Company Transfer (ICT): It is a combination of a visa and residence permit in France which is valid for 3 years and is non-renewable.

HOW TO OBTAIN A WORK PERMIT?

For most work visas, firstly there is a need for a work permit, which is typically applied by a French employer proving that the position cannot be filled by a French or EU citizen.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS:

• Valid Passport: A passport issued within the last ten years and valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended stay.
• Photographs: Submit three recent passport-size photos that meet the French consulate’s specifications
• Other Important documents: Proof of accommodation, health insurance, academic qualifications, and financial support should be attached.
• Job Description: A detailed description of work going to be done in France, a valid job offer or employment contract, or an original work permit issued by French authorities.
• Proof of payment: Provide proof that the visa fee has been paid.

PREPARE VISA APPLICATION

Once the work permit is issued, one can proceed with the visa application at their nearest French consulate or embassy.

APPLICATION PROCESS

1. Determine if a visa is required to enter France. 
2. Gather information about the current situation. 
3. Fill out the application form online on the France-Visas website. 
4. Book an appointment to apply to a VFS Global Visa Application Center (VAC). 
5. Submit the application in person at the VAC. 
6. Track the status of the application. 

Navigating the visa process in France can be complex, but by understanding the requirements and preparing the necessary documents, one can ensure a smoother application experience.

SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION

After collecting all the necessary documents, submit a visa application to the French embassy or consulate.