🇫🇷

France

Europe

France is one of the world's most visited countries, offering rich culture, excellent infrastructure, and a high quality of life. While France does not have a dedicated Digital Nomad Visa, remote workers can use alternatives like the Long-Stay Visitor Visa, Profession Libérale (Freelancer) Visa, or the Talent Residence Permit. As of June 2025, remote work on a visitor visa is officially prohibited, making the freelancer or talent routes essential for legal long-term stays. France is part of the Schengen Area, allowing visa-free travel across 29 European countries.

8
Visa Types
187
Nationalities visa-free
🪪Your Passport:

Visa requirements vary by nationality

🎫 Available Visa Types

Recommended for Digital Nomads
Work

Profession Libérale / Freelancer Visa

For self-employed professionals and freelancers. The main legal option for digital nomads wanting to work remotely in France long-term.

365 days
Duration
€324
$352 fee
+€1,200 additional

💰 Income Requirement

Minimum $1,800/per_month

Alternative: Must demonstrate viable professional project and sufficient resources. Bank statements showing €1,800-2,000 minimum monthly income or savings recommended.

Key Benefits

Legal self-employment in France
Work for French and international clients
Access to French social security and healthcare
Can hire employees
Path to permanent residency and citizenship
Bring spouse and dependents
📋 Requirements (8)
  • Valid passport
  • Business plan or proof of freelance activity
  • Proof of professional qualifications or experience
  • Proof of sufficient financial resources
  • Proof of accommodation in France
  • Health insurance coverage
  • Criminal record certificate
  • Registration as auto-entrepreneur or company (or commitment to register)
📝 Application Process
✓ Online Application4 to 8 weeks
  1. 1Prepare detailed business plan demonstrating viability
  2. 2Complete application on France-Visas website
  3. 3Register or prepare to register as auto-entrepreneur
  4. 4Gather all supporting documents
  5. 5Book appointment at French consulate
  6. 6Attend appointment with complete dossier
  7. 7Wait for visa processing (4-8 weeks)
  8. 8Travel to France and validate visa within 3 months
  9. 9Complete business registration if not done already
  10. 10Apply for multi-year residence permit at prefecture
Apply Online
🔄 Extension & Renewal

Extension: 1460 days (max x)

Cost: €225

Process: Apply for renewal 2-4 months before expiry. Must show continued professional activity and income. Can obtain multi-year residence permit (up to 4 years) after initial year.

Renewal: After successful first year, can apply for 4-year multi-year residence permit. After 5 years, eligible for 10-year resident card or citizenship.

💡 Pro Tips

  • This is the recommended visa for digital nomads wanting to stay long-term in France
  • Auto-entrepreneur status has simplified accounting but revenue caps (€77,700 for services in 2025)
  • Consider working with a French accountant familiar with expat situations
  • Learn basic French to navigate administrative procedures
Recommended for Digital Nomads
Work

Talent Residence Permit - Qualified Employee

For highly skilled employees with a French employment contract. Requires Master's degree or equivalent and minimum salary of €39,582/year.

1460 days
Duration
€324
$352 fee

💰 Income Requirement

Minimum $39,582/per_year

Alternative: Must have employment contract with French company. Salary requirement is €39,582 minimum gross annual (as of August 2025). Master's degree or 5 years professional experience required.

Key Benefits

Up to 4-year residence permit
Open work permit after obtaining residence card
Spouse receives "Talent - Family" permit with work rights
Children can accompany
Enrolled in French social security
Exempt from language requirements
Path to permanent residency
Can work immediately upon arrival
📋 Requirements (8)
  • Valid passport
  • Employment contract of at least 3 months duration
  • Proof of qualification (Master's degree or equivalent)
  • OR 5 years professional experience
  • Salary meeting minimum threshold (€39,582/year)
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Health insurance (until enrolled in French social security)
  • Passport photos
📝 Application Process
✓ Online Application4 to 8 weeks (can be up to 60 days)
  1. 1Secure job offer from French employer meeting salary requirements
  2. 2Employer may need to complete specific forms
  3. 3Create account on France-Visas website
  4. 4Complete visa application online
  5. 5Book appointment at French consulate
  6. 6Submit application with all documents
  7. 7Wait for processing (up to 60 days)
  8. 8Collect visa and travel to France
  9. 9Validate VLS-TS online within 3 months
  10. 10Apply for Talent residence permit at prefecture
Apply Online
🔄 Extension & Renewal

Extension: 1460 days (max x)

Cost: €225

Process: Apply for renewal 2-4 months before expiry. Permit valid for up to 4 years, renewable as long as you continue to meet conditions.

Renewal: Talent Residence Permit holders are exempt from French language requirements. After 5 years of continuous residence, can apply for permanent residency or citizenship.

💡 Pro Tips

  • This is ideal for tech professionals with job offers in France
  • The "Economy" category under Ministry of Economic Affairs is popular
  • Keep all qualification documents ready and translated if needed
  • Your spouse can work without additional authorization
Recommended for Digital Nomads
Work

Talent Residence Permit - EU Blue Card

For highly qualified non-EU professionals with a French job offer. Requires higher salary threshold (€59,373/year) but offers EU-wide mobility after 12 months.

1460 days
Duration
€324
$352 fee

💰 Income Requirement

Minimum $59,373/per_year

Alternative: Minimum salary of €59,373 gross annual (1.5x average reference salary as of August 2025). Must have 3 years higher education or 5 years professional experience.

Key Benefits

EU-wide mobility after 12 months in France
Up to 4-year residence permit
Spouse and children can accompany with work rights
Enrolled in French social security
Exempt from language requirements
Path to EU permanent residency
Recognized across all EU countries
📋 Requirements (7)
  • Valid passport
  • Employment contract of at least 6 months
  • University degree (3+ years) or 5 years professional experience
  • Salary meeting minimum threshold (€59,373/year)
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Health insurance
  • Passport photos
📝 Application Process
✓ Online Application4 to 8 weeks
  1. 1Secure qualifying job offer from French employer
  2. 2Complete France-Visas application online
  3. 3Book consulate appointment
  4. 4Submit application with all documents
  5. 5Wait for processing
  6. 6Collect visa and travel to France
  7. 7Validate visa online within 3 months
  8. 8Receive Talent - EU Blue Card residence permit
Apply Online
🔄 Extension & Renewal

Extension: 1460 days (max x)

Cost: €225

Process: Renewal 2-4 months before expiry. After 12 months in France, can move to another EU country with Blue Card mobility rights.

Renewal: EU Blue Card holders can relocate to other EU countries after 12 months (6 months for second mobility). Contributes to permanent residency in any EU country.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Ideal if you plan to eventually work in other EU countries
  • Blue Card holders from other EU countries can transfer after 12 months
  • Consider this for long-term EU mobility strategy

Schengen Visa-Free Entry

TouristPopular

Citizens of 60+ countries can enter France and the Schengen Area without a visa for up to 90 days within any 180-day period for tourism and business.

90d
Duration
€0
<$1 fee
+€7 additional
📍Apply: On Arrival
Immediate upon arrival
🔄No extension
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
EURUSD
Required
Entry feeNo visa fee for visa-exempt nationals
€0<$1
Additional (estimated)
ETIAS authorization (from 2025/2026)Electronic travel authorization will be required
€7$8
Required Total
€0<$1
+ Additional (estimated)
€7$8
Estimated Total
€7$8
💱1 USD = 0.92 EURUpdated Nov 28, 2025
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • Passport valid at least 3 months beyond planned departure
  • Passport issued within the last 10 years
  • At least 2 blank pages in passport
  • Return or onward ticket
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Proof of sufficient funds
  • Travel insurance (recommended)

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Ensure your passport meets validity requirements
  2. 2Prepare proof of accommodation and onward travel
  3. 3Arrive at French airport or border
  4. 4Present passport and answer any questions from border officials
  5. 5Receive entry stamp in passport
  6. 6ETIAS registration will be required from late 2025/2026 (apply online before travel)

⚠️ Restrictions

  • Remote work officially NOT permitted (as of June 2025)
  • Cannot work for French employers
  • Maximum 90 days in any 180-day period across all Schengen countries
  • Cannot be extended or converted to long-stay visa

💡 Tips

  • Use a Schengen calculator to track your days across all Schengen countries
  • Keep proof of entry/exit dates
  • Register for ETIAS before it becomes mandatory
  • For longer stays or remote work, apply for appropriate long-stay visa before arrival

Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C)

Tourist

For nationals who require a visa to enter the Schengen Area. Valid for stays up to 90 days within 180 days for tourism, business, or family visits.

90d
Duration
€90
$98 fee
+€50 additional
📍Apply: Embassy
15 calendar days (up to 45 days in complex cases)
🔄No extension
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
EURUSD
Required
Schengen visa feeStandard adult fee as of 2024
€90$98
Additional (estimated)
Travel insuranceMinimum €30,000 coverage required
€50$54
Required Total
€90$98
+ Additional (estimated)
€50$54
Estimated Total
€140$152
💱1 USD = 0.92 EURUpdated Nov 28, 2025
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • Valid passport (3 months beyond departure, issued within 10 years)
  • Completed visa application form
  • Two recent passport photos
  • Travel medical insurance (€30,000 minimum coverage)
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Return flight ticket
  • Proof of sufficient financial means
  • Purpose of travel documentation
  • Employment/study proof from home country

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Create account on France-Visas website
  2. 2Complete online visa application form
  3. 3Book appointment at French consulate or visa center
  4. 4Gather all required documents
  5. 5Attend appointment with biometrics collection
  6. 6Pay visa fee
  7. 7Wait for processing (typically 15 calendar days)
  8. 8Collect passport with visa

⚠️ Restrictions

  • Remote work NOT permitted
  • Cannot work in France
  • Maximum 90 days per 180-day period
  • Cannot be converted to residence permit

💡 Tips

  • Apply at least 15 days but no more than 6 months before travel
  • Apply at the consulate of your main destination country
  • Build visa history with single-entry before applying for multiple-entry
  • Insurance must cover all Schengen countries

Long-Stay Visitor Visa (VLS-TS Visiteur)

Special Program

For individuals wishing to stay in France for more than 90 days without working. As of June 2025, remote work is NOT permitted on this visa.

365d
Duration
€324
$352 fee
+€1,500 additional
📍Apply: Embassy
4 to 8 weeks
🔄Extendable +365d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
EURUSD
Required
Long-stay visa feeStandard visa application fee
€99$107
OFII validation feeTo be paid upon arrival for visa validation
€225$244
Additional (estimated)
Private health insurance (annual)Required if not eligible for French healthcare
€1,500$1.6K
Required Total
€324$352
+ Additional (estimated)
€1,500$1.6K
Estimated Total
€1,824$2.0K
💱1 USD = 0.92 EURUpdated Nov 28, 2025
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • Valid passport
  • Completed long-stay visa application
  • Proof of sufficient financial resources (passive income)
  • Proof of accommodation in France
  • Comprehensive health insurance
  • Criminal record certificate
  • Commitment not to work in France
  • Passport photos

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Complete application on France-Visas website
  2. 2Gather all required documents
  3. 3Book appointment at French consulate
  4. 4Attend appointment with biometrics
  5. 5Pay visa fee (€99)
  6. 6Wait for processing (several weeks)
  7. 7Collect visa and travel to France
  8. 8Validate visa online within 3 months of arrival
  9. 9Pay OFII validation fee (€225)

⚠️ Restrictions

  • CANNOT work, including remote work for foreign employers (as of June 2025)
  • Must prove financial self-sufficiency
  • Years may not count toward citizenship if no French economic activity
  • Must validate visa upon arrival

💡 Tips

  • This visa is NOT suitable for digital nomads who work remotely
  • Consider Profession Libérale visa if you need to work
  • Keep detailed records of your income sources
  • Consult a French tax advisor about your obligations

Talent Residence Permit - Business Creator

Special ProgramPopular

For entrepreneurs starting or acquiring a business in France. Requires viable business plan, Master's degree or 5 years experience, and €30,000 minimum investment.

1460d
Duration
€30,324
$32.9K fee
+€2,000 additional
📍Apply: Embassy
6 to 12 weeks (due to pre-approval step)
🔄Extendable +1460d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
EURUSD
Required
Visa feeLong-stay visa application
€99$107
Residence permit taxTax + stamp duty
€225$244
Minimum business investmentRequired capital for business
€30,000$32.5K
Additional (estimated)
Company formation costsLegal and registration fees
€2,000$2.2K
Required Total
€30,324$32.9K
+ Additional (estimated)
€2,000$2.2K
Estimated Total
€32,324$35.1K
💱1 USD = 0.92 EURUpdated Nov 28, 2025
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • Valid passport
  • Detailed business plan demonstrating viability
  • Proof of €30,000 minimum investment
  • Master's degree or 5 years professional experience
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Health insurance
  • Criminal record certificate
  • Pre-approval from Ministry of Economy (as of 2024)

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Develop comprehensive business plan
  2. 2Secure €30,000 minimum investment capital
  3. 3Submit business plan to Ministry of Economy for pre-approval (new requirement 2024)
  4. 4Receive pre-approval notification
  5. 5Complete France-Visas application online
  6. 6Book consulate appointment
  7. 7Submit full application with pre-approval
  8. 8Wait for processing
  9. 9Collect visa and travel to France
  10. 10Register business and begin operations

⚠️ Restrictions

  • Requires pre-approval from Ministry of Economy (since 2024)
  • Must maintain active business operations
  • Subject to French corporate and personal taxation
  • Higher investment requirement than freelancer route

💡 Tips

  • Work with a French business lawyer to prepare your plan
  • The pre-approval process adds time - start early
  • Consider joining French Tech or startup incubators for support
  • Paris, Lyon, and French Tech hubs offer vibrant ecosystems

Working Holiday Visa (PVT)

Special Program

For young adults (18-30/35) from partner countries to live and work in France for up to one year. 18 eligible nationalities.

365d
Duration
€99
$107 fee
+€600 additional
📍Apply: Embassy
2 to 4 weeks
🔄No extension
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
EURUSD
Required
Visa feeStandard long-stay visa fee
€99$107
Additional (estimated)
Health insurance (1 year)Comprehensive coverage required
€600$651
Required Total
€99$107
+ Additional (estimated)
€600$651
Estimated Total
€699$758
💱1 USD = 0.92 EURUpdated Nov 28, 2025
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • Citizen of eligible country (Australia, Canada, Japan, South Korea, etc.)
  • Age 18-30 (35 for some countries)
  • Valid passport
  • Health insurance for entire stay
  • Proof of sufficient funds (€2,500+ minimum)
  • Return ticket or funds for return
  • No previous Working Holiday Visa for France
  • No dependent children

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Verify your country has Working Holiday agreement with France
  2. 2Check age and other eligibility requirements
  3. 3Complete visa application at French consulate
  4. 4Submit required documents
  5. 5Wait for processing (2-4 weeks)
  6. 6Collect visa and travel to France within specified period
  7. 7Visa valid for 12 months from entry

⚠️ Restrictions

  • Age restricted (18-30 or 35 depending on nationality)
  • Limited to specific nationalities (18 countries)
  • One-time only, cannot be renewed
  • Maximum 12 months duration
  • Cannot be extended in France

💡 Tips

  • Popular for hospitality, agriculture, tourism, and au pair work
  • Apply early as some countries have annual quotas
  • Consider using this to explore before committing to long-term visa
  • Network and look for employer sponsors during your stay

📊 Quick Facts

CapitalParis
CurrencyEUR (€)
LanguageFrench
TimezoneUTC+1 (CET)
Last UpdatedDec 3, 2025

🔗 Official Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

Does France have a Digital Nomad Visa?
No, France does not have a dedicated Digital Nomad Visa. However, remote workers can use the Profession Libérale (Freelancer) Visa to work legally in France long-term. As of June 2025, remote work is officially prohibited on visitor visas, even for foreign employers. The Profession Libérale visa allows you to register as a self-employed professional (auto-entrepreneur) and work for clients worldwide while living in France.
Can I work remotely in France on a tourist visa?
No. As of June 2025, the French tax authorities have officially clarified that remote work is NOT permitted on visitor visas, even if working for foreign employers or clients. This ruling ends previous ambiguity. If you want to work remotely in France, you must obtain a Profession Libérale visa, Talent Residence Permit, or other work authorization.
What is the Talent Residence Permit (formerly Talent Passport)?
The Talent Residence Permit is a multi-year residence card (up to 4 years) for highly qualified professionals, entrepreneurs, investors, researchers, and artists. It replaced the Talent Passport terminology in 2025. There are 10 categories including Qualified Employee (€39,582/year salary), EU Blue Card (€59,373/year), Business Creator (€30,000 investment), and others. Holders are exempt from French language requirements and can bring family members with work rights.
How long can I stay in France without a visa?
Citizens of visa-exempt countries (US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, etc.) can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This is a Schengen-wide limit - time spent in any Schengen country counts toward your 90 days. From late 2025/2026, you will also need ETIAS authorization (€7) before travel. EU/EEA citizens have unlimited stay rights.
What is ETIAS and when does it start?
ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is an electronic authorization required for visa-exempt travelers to the Schengen Area. It costs €7 and is valid for 3 years. Originally planned for 2024, it has been delayed and is now expected to launch in late 2025 or 2026. Once active, you must obtain ETIAS before traveling to France or any Schengen country.
How do I open a bank account in France as a foreigner?
Residents have an automatic right to a bank account under French law. You will need: valid passport/ID, proof of French address (justificatif de domicile), residence permit (if non-EU), and proof of income. Traditional banks like BNP Paribas, Crédit Agricole, and Société Générale require in-person visits. Digital banks like N26, Boursorama, and Wise offer easier alternatives. Non-residents face stricter requirements but can open compte non-résident accounts at some banks like HSBC.
Do I need to register my address in France?
There is no mandatory address registration for tourists. However, foreigners with residence permits longer than 1 year must declare any change of address within 3 months via the ANEF online platform. You will always need a justificatif de domicile (proof of address less than 3 months old) for administrative procedures. Accepted documents include utility bills, rental contracts, or attestation dhébergement from a host.
What are the income requirements for freelancer visa?
For the Profession Libérale (freelancer) visa, you should demonstrate approximately €1,800-2,000/month minimum in income or savings, though there is no strict official threshold. The key is proving your professional project is viable and you can support yourself. For Talent Residence Permits, specific salary thresholds apply: €39,582/year for Qualified Employee, €59,373/year for EU Blue Card, €30,000 investment for Business Creator.
How do I access French healthcare as a foreign resident?
After 3 months of stable residence in France, you can register for PUMa (Protection Universelle Maladie), the French public healthcare system. This applies regardless of employment status. Until then, you need private health insurance. Talent Permit holders are enrolled in French social security upon arrival through their employment. Healthcare costs are based on your income - those earning over €21,996 pay 6.5% annually.
Which cities are best for digital nomads in France?
Paris offers the most coworking spaces, networking events, and startup ecosystem (Station F is the world's largest startup campus). Lyon and Bordeaux have growing tech scenes with lower costs. Montpellier combines Mediterranean lifestyle with university vibrancy. Nice and the French Riviera offer warm weather but higher costs. Toulouse has aerospace and tech industries. Marseille is emerging as a creative hub. All major cities have good internet infrastructure and coworking options.
⚠️

Important Disclaimer

Visa requirements can change frequently. This information is provided for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or immigration authorities before making travel plans. Last updated: December 3, 2025