France: all programs

Highly qualified professionals and entrepreneurs: engineers, IT specialists, physicians, scientists and others — with an employment contract in the relevant field and sufficient income (typically at least €38,000 per year for qualified employees). Employees of innovative companies, EU Blue Card holders, startup founders, investors, and individuals in culture, science and sports with recognition can also apply. The program covers more than 10 categories of specialists.

A valid passport, a completed visa application on the France-Visas portal, two photographs and the visa fee. The key document is the employment contract or business plan indicating position and salary, plus diplomas, proof of experience and recommendation letters. A bank statement, proof of investment, health insurance and a police clearance certificate may also be requested.

Yes. A spouse and children under 18 automatically receive residence authorization under the talent-famille pathway without a separate family-reunification application. The spouse has the right to work in France on the same basis as the principal applicant.

The initial long-stay visa is issued for up to 4 years (or for the length of the employment contract, if shorter). It can be renewed repeatedly as long as the qualifying basis remains. After 5 years of residence you may be eligible for permanent residence, and after 10 years for French citizenship.