France•EuropeEU Blue Card
At a Glance
1–3 months
EUR €449
4 years
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
Dependents allowed
PR Pathway
Yes
Sponsor
Job offer required
Work
Remote not required

Living in France
Overview
Highly skilled employment with a recognized degree and salary above the member state threshold. Portable across EU after 12 months.
The EU Blue Card (Passeport Talent Carte Bleue UE) is France's permit for highly qualified non-EU workers with a recognized degree of at least three years — or five years of comparable professional experience — and a job contract of six months or more paying at least EUR 59,373 per year.
The permit lasts up to four years (matching contract length), is renewable, and leads to long-term EU residence. Spouses receive a residence permit and may work without restriction. After 12 months in France, holders may transfer to another EU state under simplified rules. Dual intent is permitted.
This visa is ideal for non-EU professionals with a recognized degree and a high-skilled French job offer who want a renewable work pathway with EU mobility and a route to permanent residence.

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Cost Breakdown
Stay & Extensions
| Initial grant | 4 years |
Conversion Paths
Visas you can typically switch to from this status.
FranceL. 426-1 — 10-Year Resident Card (Carte de résident)
FranceRequirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
Higher education qualification
Employment contract 6+ months
Salary above member state threshold
KEY CRITERIA
Education
bachelor or higher
Min. Income
59,373 EUR/yr
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Passport
Degree credentials
Employment contract
Salary evidence
Health insurance
Advantages & Considerations
Worth Knowing
- Algerian nationality (subject to Franco-Algerian agreement)
Related visas
More visas in France
Work visas in other countries
- Mission Visa (Work Assignment)
United Arab Emirates
- Designated Activities (EPA Nurse / Care Worker Candidate)
Japan
- Self-Employment Visa
Austria

Living in France
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