L. 426-1 — 10-Year Resident Card (Carte de résident)

Skilled Migration PR PathwayThis visa can lead to permanent residency, the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa.

At a Glance

Processing Time

2-4 months

Estimated Cost

EUR €350

Stay Duration

10 years (renewable)

Not renewable

Renewal

Not renewable

Family

Not specified

PR Pathway

Yes

Sponsor

No job offer needed

Work

Remote not required

Apply Now Official Information

Living in France

Cost of Living

4% cheaper than United States

Avg Salary€31,000

Quality of Life

173/200

Full Country Guide

Overview

Ten-year renewable residence card for foreign nationals with established family ties or long-term residence in France, granting unrestricted work rights and a path to citizenship.

The Carte de résident is France's 10-year residence card for foreign nationals with established ties in France. qualifying groups include spouses of French citizens, parents of French children, refugees, and those with 3+ years of regular residence. It grants the right to live and work without a separate work permit.

The card costs €350 (€300 tax + €50 stamp duty), is valid for 10 years, and is renewable. Holders must prove B1-level French and pass a civic exam. Absence for more than 3 consecutive years can void the card. Spouses may work without restriction, and the card is a direct stepping stone to naturalization.

This visa is ideal for foreign nationals with a settled life in France who want long-term residency security, full work rights, and a path toward French citizenship.

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Cost Breakdown

Tax (Taxe)EUR €300

Stamp duty (Droit de timbre)EUR €50

TotalEUR €350

Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Proof of meeting the conditions of a qualifying category (e.g., spouse of a French citizen for 3 years, parent of a French child, refugee, or born in France)

Proof of integration into French society (including French language proficiency at level B1 and passing the civic exam)

Valid passport and current residence permit

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

Right to live and work in France without needing a separate work permit
Easier access to social benefits and family reunification
Path toward permanent residency or French citizenship

Worth Knowing

Absence from France for more than 3 consecutive years can lead to card withdrawal
Strict requirements for language proficiency and financial stability must be maintained
Not all types of temporary residence permits count toward the 5-year qualification period