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France work permit for foreign workers
In France you do not apply for a work authorisation yourself. The employer applies online, and the job must pass a shortage or job posting test.
Ask us on WhatsAppUpdated 6 November 2026. Figures checked on 6 November 2026. Rules change, so confirm them with the official source.
The rules at a glance
| Who applies | The employer or its agent, online |
|---|---|
| Where it goes | The prefect of the department where the employer is based |
| Job test | On the shortage list, or posted 3 weeks in a row with France Travail in the 6 months before, with no valid applicant |
| Minimum pay | The SMIC, or the collective agreement rate if higher |
| Per contract | A new authorisation for each new contract on 'employee' and 'temporary worker' cards |
What the employer must show
- It meets its social obligations and has a recent social security certificate.
- It has no relevant criminal or administrative convictions.
- Regulated professions follow their own practice rules.
- It pays a tax on first admission, which depends on contract length and salary.
Who does not need one
Some residence cards already allow work, such as talent, resident and private and family life cards. Students can work up to 964 hours a year without one. Visitor and trainee cards do not allow work at all.
For Algerian nationals
Different rules apply to Algerian nationals. Check the French government page for your case.
Questions
Who applies for a French work permit?
The employer or its agent applies online.
What is the shortage list?
A list of jobs where the employer does not need to post the job first. It is updated by decree.
What is the minimum pay?
The SMIC, or the collective agreement rate if it is higher.
Can I work in France on a visitor card?
No. Visitor cards do not allow work.
Official sources
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