Skip to content
The France Talent Passport is one of the most attractive residence options for non-EU professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors who want to live and work in France long-term. Designed to draw international talent, this visa offers a streamlined pathway to residency for those who bring valuable skills, innovation, or investment to the French economy.
In 2025, the Talent Passport remains a key route for highly qualified individuals and their families. Whether you’re planning to launch a startup, invest in a French business, or join a local company as a skilled professional, this guide explains everything you need to know.
Here, you’ll find a clear overview of all 10 categories of the France Talent Passport, their eligibility criteria, benefits, and how to apply. The goal is to help you understand which category best fits your professional profile and how to begin your journey to France with confidence.
(Article Updated November 2025)
Table of Contents
What is the France Talent Passport?
The France Talent Passport is a long-term residence permit designed to attract highly skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors from outside the European Union. It allows qualified individuals who contribute expertise, innovation, or investment to build a stable life and career in France.
This multi-year residence card simplifies the process for international professionals and their families. It offers several categories tailored to different profiles, from researchers and company directors to startup founders and business investors.
Key Benefits of the France Talent Passport
- Long-Term Stability: Valid for up to four years and renewable if eligibility continues.
- Family Inclusion: Spouses and dependent children can live and work freely in France under a “Talent – Family” permit.
- Freedom of Movement: Travel easily within the Schengen Area.
- Public Benefits: Access France’s high-quality healthcare and education systems.
- Pathway to Citizenship: After five years of legal residence, applicants may qualify for permanent residency or French citizenship.
- Simplified Process: Combines several professional visa categories into one program for international talent.
The Talent Passport balances professional opportunity with personal stability, making it one of France’s most flexible and valuable residence options.
The 10 Categories of the France Talent Passport
The France Talent Passport offers ten different routes, each tailored to a specific professional profile. Whether you are an employee, entrepreneur, researcher, or investor, there is likely a category that fits your background and goals.
Each option comes with its own eligibility criteria, educational requirements, and income or investment thresholds. Below is a detailed breakdown of every category.
1. Highly Qualified Employee (EU Blue Card)
Ideal for skilled professionals joining a French company in a qualified role.
Requirements:
- A higher education diploma (at least three years of study) or at least five years of professional experience.
- A valid employment contract of at least one year.
- Minimum gross annual salary: €59,373.
Best for: Experienced professionals hired for high-level positions.
2. Employee of a Young Innovative Company
Designed for professionals working in France’s fast-growing innovation and tech sectors.
Requirements:
- A master’s degree or equivalent qualification.
- Employment in a role directly linked to research and development (R&D).
- Minimum gross annual salary: €39,582.
Best for: Researchers, engineers, or developers joining startups recognized as “Young Innovative Companies.”
3. Employee on Assignment (Intra-Company Transfer)
For employees of a company abroad being temporarily transferred to a French branch within the same corporate group.
Requirements:
- Minimum of three months of prior employment with the parent company.
- Employment contract or assignment letter from the French entity.
- Minimum gross annual salary: €39,582.
Best for: Multinational employees transferring to a French subsidiary or affiliate.
4. Qualified Employee (with French Degree)
For graduates who obtained their master’s degree in France and now wish to work for a French company.
Requirements:
- Master’s degree obtained in France.
- Valid job offer related to your studies.
- Minimum gross annual salary: €39,582.
Best for: International students who have completed graduate studies in France and want to continue their careers locally.
5. New Business Creator (Entrepreneur)
One of the most popular Talent Passport routes for entrepreneurs.
Requirements:
- A viable and credible business project in France.
- A master’s degree or at least five years of professional experience.
- Minimum investment of €30,000 in business capital.
Best for: Entrepreneurs launching or acquiring a French business.
6. Innovative Economic Project
For founders or professionals leading innovative ventures recognized by a French public body.
Requirements:
- Proof that the project is recognized as “innovative” by a relevant public organization.
- Sufficient financial resources to support the project.
Best for: Startup founders or business leaders introducing new technologies or business models in France.
7. Business Investor
Reserved for those investing significant capital in the French economy.
Requirements:
- Minimum investment of €300,000 in tangible or intangible assets.
- A commitment to create or protect jobs within four years.
- At least 10% ownership in the target company.
Best for: Investors and entrepreneurs looking to contribute financially to the French market.
8. Researcher
For academics, scientists, or research professionals coming to France for research or teaching activities.
Requirements:
- A hosting agreement from a recognized French research institution or university.
- Proof of sufficient income to support living expenses.
Best for: Researchers and scholars working on academic or scientific projects.
9. Artist or Performer
For artists, musicians, and cultural professionals planning to work or perform in France.
Requirements:
- Proof of professional activity in the arts or entertainment sector.
- Valid contracts or invitations from French organizations or venues.
Best for: Artists and performers pursuing creative projects or cultural collaborations in France.
10. International Renown
For individuals recognized internationally in fields such as science, education, arts, literature, or sports.
Requirements:
- Proof of international recognition or outstanding achievements.
- Evidence of planned activity in France aligned with your field of expertise.
Best for: High-achieving professionals or public figures contributing to France’s global influence.
Each category under the France Talent Passport offers a tailored route to residency, ensuring that both individuals and their families can thrive in France while pursuing professional and personal goals.
Not sure which category you qualify for? Our team of experienced Immigration Lawyers in France is here to help you understand the requirements and ensure your application is set up for success.
The France Talent Passport Application Process: Step-by-Step
Applying for the France Talent Passport follows a structured process that begins in your home country and continues once you arrive in France. While each category has its own specific requirements, the general procedure remains consistent for all applicants.
Below is a clear breakdown of each stage so you can plan your move with confidence.
Step 1: Start Your Online Application
Begin the process through the official France-Visas portal. You’ll need to create an account, complete the online application form, and select the appropriate category of the Talent Passport visa.
Make sure the details you provide match your supporting documents exactly to avoid delays.
Step 2: Gather the Required Documents
Prepare all the general and category-specific documents before booking your appointment.
Common documents include:
- A valid passport (covering the full period of stay)
- Completed visa application form
- Recent passport-sized photos
- Proof of financial means (bank statements or employment contract)
- Proof of accommodation in France
- Clean criminal record certificate
- Medical insurance covering your stay
- Documents related to your Talent Passport category (e.g., employment contract, investment proof, or business plan)
Having your documents organized and translated into French (if required) can significantly speed up processing times.
Step 3: Schedule Your Consular Appointment
Once your documents are ready, book an appointment at the French consulate or visa application center in your country of residence. During this visit, you’ll submit your paperwork, provide biometric data (photo and fingerprints), and pay the applicable visa fees.
Step 4: Receive Your Long-Stay Visa
If your application is approved, you’ll receive a long-stay visa (VLS-TS) marked with “Talent Passport.” This visa allows you to enter France and live there for up to 12 months before obtaining your multi-year residence permit.
Step 5: Validate Your Visa or Apply for the Residence Permit
After arriving in France, it’s essential to validate your long-stay visa online within three months of entry.
For some categories, you’ll instead need to visit your local prefecture to apply for the multi-year residence permit tied to your Talent Passport.
Failure to complete this step can affect your legal status in France, so plan this early.
Step 6: Processing Timeline
Processing times for the Talent Passport visa vary depending on your country of application and category. In most cases, expect:
- 2 to 8 weeks for consular processing
- Residence permit issuance in France usually takes around 3 months, but processing can often take significantly longer depending on the prefecture and workload.
To avoid unnecessary delays, submit a complete application with accurate information and all supporting documents from the start.
The Talent Passport for Family Members
One of the biggest advantages of the France Talent Passport is that it allows your family to join you in France under simplified conditions. Spouses and dependent children under 18 can apply for a special residence permit called the “Talent – Family” permit.
This option helps families stay together and enjoy the same freedom to live, study, and work in France.
Who Can Apply
The Talent – Family permit is available to:
- Spouses of Talent Passport holders
- Dependent children (under 18 years old)
Each family member must submit their own application, but their eligibility is directly tied to the main applicant’s Talent Passport.
Administrative Costs
The Talent – Family permit typically carries a stamp duty of €225 per person, which includes a residence permit fee and tax. Minor variations may occur depending on local prefecture rules.
Having your family by your side can make settling in France smoother and more fulfilling. The Talent Passport ensures that both professional and personal lives can thrive together in one of Europe’s most welcoming countries for international talent.
Ready to Apply for the France Talent Passport?
The France Talent Passport is a leading route for skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors who want to live and work in France. With multiple categories available, it helps international talent build a long-term future in one of Europe’s most dynamic economies.
The process can be complex, and missing key details may delay your approval. Getting expert legal guidance ensures your application is accurate and complete.
Need support with your France Talent Passport application? Speak with a France immigration lawyer to find the right category for your profile and apply with confidence.