Information about Talent Passports and Tech Visas

France has long been a popular destination for skilled and creative individuals from the four corners of the world. A global leader in various sectors, the country actively seeks experienced professionals and entrepreneurs to contribute to its continued economic growth and dynamism.

The country’s incredible culture and high quality of life make it an attractive place to live and work. The French government has introduced a residence permit called the France Talent Passport, designed to attract and retain the best talent across various sectors, including tech.

What is the France Talent Passport?

The France Talent Passport is a residence permit that allows highly skilled and talented people to live and work in France for up to four years, with the possibility of renewal. This permit is available to various categories of individuals, including entrepreneurs, innovators, investors, researchers, artists, and highly skilled workers. The France Talent Passport offers several benefits, including simplified residence permit procedures, the ability to bring family members to France, and access to social benefits and services.

Eligibility and Benefits

The France Talent Passport is a multi-year residence permit for highly qualified employees, researchers, artists and investors. Here’s a breakdown of the eligibility criteria and benefits:

Highly Qualified Employees

This category targets professionals with at least 3 years of experience and a salary exceeding 1.5 times the average gross reference salary in France. They can benefit from a residence permit valid for up to four years, renewable and offering streamlined work authorisation procedures.

Researchers

Foreign researchers who meet the required qualifications may obtain a residence permit valid for up to 4 years. This permit is designed to make it easier for researchers to work in various French research institutions or companies. With this permit, eligible researchers can focus on their work without worrying about the stress and uncertainty of visa issues, enabling them to make valuable contributions to research in France.

Artists and Cultural Professionals

France offers renowned artists and cultural professionals a unique opportunity to pursue their artistic careers through its Talent Passport program. This program allows them to obtain a residence permit and establish themselves in the country, where they can showcase their talent and collaborate with other professionals in the industry. With its unique cultural heritage and vibrant art scene, France is an ideal destination for creative people looking to develop their careers in the arts.

Entrepreneurs

The Talent Passport scheme offers an exciting opportunity for investors interested in investing at least €30,000 in an innovative business. To qualify for this program, investors must possess a Master’s degree or equivalent experience. Upon meeting both criteria, investors are granted a residence permit that enables them to live and work in the country. With this permit, investors can enjoy all the benefits of being residents of the country, including access to healthcare, education, and other social services.

The French Tech Visa for Professionals & Start-up Founders

One of the most exciting aspects of the France Talent Passport is the French Tech Visa, specifically designed for tech professionals and start-up founders. The French Tech Visa is part of the France Talent Passport and is intended to attract international tech talent and innovators to France. Many French start-ups are now working in English and actively recruiting foreign talent.

The French Tech Visa makes it easier for these companies to hire highly skilled workers from outside the EU. To be eligible for the French Tech Visa, applicants must have a job offer from a French start-up or be creating a start-up in France. They must also meet specific criteria, such as having a degree or professional experience in their field.

France’s Vibrant Tech Ecosystem

France boasts several world-class tech hubs, including Paris, Lyon, Toulouse, and Bordeaux, where start-ups and tech companies can thrive in dynamic, innovative environments. The French government is committed to supporting the tech industry’s growth and has introduced several initiatives to promote innovation and entrepreneurship. For example, the French Tech Ticket program offers funding and support to international start-ups that want to set up in France. The program includes a one-year residence permit, funding and mentorship.

How to Apply for the Talent Passport & Tech Visa

To apply for the France Talent Passport and French Tech Visa, applicants must submit their application to the French consulate in their country of residence. The application process includes providing various documents, such as a valid passport, proof of education and a job offer or a detailed business plan.

The application fee varies by permit type and the applicant’s country of origin. Processing times can vary and may be slow, so it’s essential to anticipate and apply well in advance of your intended travel date. You should also start researching how to convert and transfer funds, as well as your insurance requirements in France.

A Gateway to Working and Living in France

The France Talent Passport and the French Tech Visa are excellent opportunities for highly skilled and talented individuals to live and work in France, without having to worry too much about the EES and ETIAS rules for non-EU residents. With its vibrant tech ecosystem and commitment to supporting innovation, France is an ideal destination for tech professionals and start-up founders looking to take their careers to the next level. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, researcher, artist or highly skilled worker, the France Talent Passport offers a gateway to living and working in one of the world’s most dynamic and innovative countries.


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