France is implementing strict rules for migrant workers, providing for the application of fines for employers. Learn more about the procedure for obtaining a work permit in France
On September 1, 2024, a new immigration law aimed at tightening requirements for foreign workers will come into force in France. According to this law, when granting a work permit, the French authorities will take into account all three parties: the employer, the client and the host company, as reported by Schengen.News.
According to the new rules, employers wishing to hire foreign workers must meet certain criteria. In particular, the employer must not have criminal records or administrative sanctions related to providing assistance in illegally entering or staying in France, harming people or using forged documents. This law is intended to ensure greater transparency and responsibility in the employment of foreigners in France, as well as strengthen control over compliance with immigration regulations.
According to statistics, the largest number of migrant workers arrive in France from Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia and Romania.
To learn more about the important nuances of the employment procedure in France, follow the link.
France’s new immigration rules for vulnerable workers
Since September, the French authorities will refuse to issue work permits if the hiring project does not correspond to the main economic activity of the employer. This innovation is aimed at ensuring consistency between the tasks that an employee will perform and the activities of the company that hires him.
There is now an additional requirement for seasonal workers: applicants must confirm that the employee will be provided with housing with appropriate living conditions. This measure was introduced in response to reports of unacceptable living conditions experienced by seasonal workers from third countries in the past.
Failure to comply with the rules on the renewal of a work permit can lead to significant fines exceeding 20,000 euros. In addition, host companies that hire apprentices or interns from foreign employers are responsible for ensuring that the process of obtaining a work permit takes place within the framework of legislation.
Employers who do not comply with these new requirements may face a refusal to issue a work permit, as well as fines of up to 20,750 euros per employee.
Which countries’ citizens most often immigrate to France?
Algerians were among the main recipients of residence permits in France in 2023. Together with Moroccans and Tunisians, they have received a significant number of first residence permits this year. Algerians also occupy one of the leading places among those who have obtained French citizenship.
In total, France issued 336,954 residence permits in 2023. Moroccans received the largest number – 36,648, which is 11.2% of the total number of permits issued. Algerians took second place, receiving 31,943 permits, or 9.7% of the total. In addition, it was the citizens of Morocco who received the most French citizenship – 8,017 people, although this is 18.3% less than in 2022.
Among the citizens of the Maghreb countries, Algerians also stand out in obtaining French citizenship. In 2023, 6,737 Algerians became French citizens, and Tunisians ranked third among the most common nationalities who received citizenship – 3,841 people. These data indicate the significant role of Maghreb citizens in the demographic and social processes of France.
You will need health insurance to move, travel, or find employment in a new country safely. An extended policy can be issued on our website at the link.
Types of permits for work in France
Obtaining a work permit in France requires careful preparation of documents and compliance with established procedures. It is important to familiarize yourself with all the requirements in advance and seek the advice of specialists in order to avoid mistakes and delays in the process.
If you are planning to find a job in France and need help with obtaining a work permit, our experienced lawyers will provide the necessary support and advice at all stages of this process.
Short-term visa to work in France
A work visa for up to 90 days allows you not only to work seasonal jobs, but also to engage in professional activities in France. After the end of this period, you must leave the country and apply for a new permit. In this case, the employer assumes responsibility for obtaining a work permit through the local Office of Entrepreneurship, Competition, Consumption, Work and Employment (DIRECCTE). It is impossible to apply for a work visa without a positive decision of this body.
To apply for a short-term work visa, you must prepare the following set of documents:
– Two photos measuring 35×45 mm. The face should occupy at least 70% of the image, and the eyes should be clearly visible. It is forbidden to take photos in hats and headphones.
– Completed application form in French and English.
– A work contract. It is necessary to provide the original and a certified copy of the contract under which the applicant will work in France.
– A work permit issued by the DIRECCTE authority.
– Passports. You need a national and foreign passport along with copies of all completed pages.
– Income statement to confirm financial viability.
– Marriage or divorce certificate (if available).
– Information about booking tickets to France and back, indicating the date of return before the expiration of the visa.
– An insurance policy valid in the territory of the Schengen area.
– A certificate from the place of work with a detailed description of the work activity for the last 6 months (position, duties, tax reporting).
– Documents for private entrepreneurs: an extract from the Unified State Register of Legal Entities and Individual Entrepreneurs and a tax return.
Long-term visa to work in France
To legally stay in France for more than 90 days, you must obtain a long-term work visa. This type of visa belongs to the national category and is intended primarily for highly qualified employees. The visa application process begins with the employer contacting the Office of Immigration and Integration of France (OFII) or the local DIRECCTE authority to obtain the appropriate permit. After obtaining the permit, the applicant can start preparing the necessary documents.
Here are the main documents that need to be prepared:
– Three photos;
– Two questionnaires filled out in French and English;
– Permission from OFII or DIRECCTE obtained by the employer;
– Work record from the previous place of work;
– A certificate from the last place of work, a copy of the employment contract and a resume;
– A working contract signed by the host country in France;
– National and foreign passports with copies of all completed pages;
– The results of a full medical examination;
– A certificate from a doctor at the French Embassy.
This package of documents is mandatory for the successful issuance of a long-term work visa, which will allow you to legally work and live in France.
EU Blue Card for employment in France 2024
Highly qualified workers from non-EU countries have the opportunity to receive an EU Blue Card (Carte Bleue Européenne). This permission is granted in cases where the applicant meets the following requirements:
1. Education or work experience. The applicant must have completed higher education, lasting at least three years, at an accredited educational institution in his country or have confirmed work experience in the specialty for at least five years.
2. Wages. According to the terms of the employment contract, which must be signed for a period of at least one year, wages must exceed the average wage in France (about 53,000 euros) by at least 1.5 times.
The EU Blue Card is issued for a period of one to three years at the first registration. In the future, it can be extended for up to 10 years, which provides the owner with stability and the opportunity to work and live in France for a long time.
Let’s remind you!France is included in the list of countries that are the most desirable for obtaining citizenship among foreigners. The country attracts with comfortable conditions of stay. Read more about what is necessary to obtain French citizenship.
Igor Usyk – Head of Migration Department at VisitWorld
To ensure a safe move to a new country, I advise you to contact specialists. My colleagues, qualified specialists with legal education, will help you avoid unpleasant situations during migration.
Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:
Checklist for obtaining a visa and necessary documents in France;
Legal advice from a local specialist on visa and migration issues;
Travel insurance for foreigners in France;
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