Last updated 10 September 2026, 00:00 (UTC+0)
Highly qualified employee - EU Blue Card D France
Highly qualified employee - EU Blue Card — what you need to know
This is the official pathway for talented professionals from around the world to legally work and live in France with an employment contract from a local employer. The visa grants the right to long-term residence, access to the labor market, and the possibility of family reunification.
A job offer or contract for at least 6 months
A higher education qualification based on a programme of at least 3 years, or 5 years of professional experience
For IT professionals: 3 years of professional experience within the past 7 years
Salary: from €59,373 gross per year in 2026
Application process: long-stay visa → entry → VLS-TS validation or application for a multi-year residence permit, depending on the contract duration
The permit is not cancelled immediately if employment is lost
Relocation for work to another EU country after 12 months
Eligibility for long-term residence after 5 years of legal residence
Relocation with family, and family members are allowed to work
No separate work permit is required, and the French labor market test does not apply
Eligible individuals:
- Highly qualified employee
- EU Blue Card holder
- Talent
How does this visa work?
Don’t postpone the application
The visa is processed from 15 days to 1 month. Many people contact us 3–5 days before their trip, so start the process in advance
How can you prove the basis for the visa?
They clarify the purpose of the visit and future activities in the country
What must be prepared?
Basic package — always required, regardless of the application conditions
What additional documents may be required?
Documents required vary depending on individual circumstances, specific visa conditions, the place, and the method of application.
*Foreign official documents must be apostilled and legalized in accordance with the regulations of the country whose consular or diplomatic mission they are being submitted to. Additionally, they must be accompanied by a certified translation into the official language of that country or into English, unless otherwise specified by the mission's requirements.
**Prior to submitting the documents, it is strongly advised to verify the specific procedures and requirements with the relevant mission.
Are you eligible for this visa?
Clear purposes of the visit and documents confirming them, in accordance with the visa conditions.
Sufficient means to support oneself and their dependents for the duration of their stay in the country.
The applicant does not pose a threat to public order, internal security, public health or international relations of one or more member states.
Insurance policy for the entire period of stay, meeting the minimum mandatory or recommended requirements for the country.
Valid permanent resident status or proof thereof; all preliminary procedures for visa application have been completed.
Official visa information
English international
Category code
D
Type of visa
Long-term/national visa
Category
EU Blue Card - Talent Passport