France Job Seeker Visa 2023 (Process, Requirements)
Key Takeaways:
- The France Job Seeker Visa allows you to look for work or start a business in France for 1 year.
- You must have a Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral, or professional degree to qualify.
- The visa costs 75 EUR for job seekers, 225 EUR for researchers.
- Documents like passport, diploma, health insurance required.
- Apply at French consulate or prefecture within 4 years of graduating.
- Can work legally during visa validity, then must get new permit.
Looking for exciting job opportunities or want to start your own business in France? The France Job Seeker Visa 2023 allows you to do exactly that for a period of one year.
This in-depth guide will cover everything you need to know about the France Job Seeker Visa including eligibility criteria, required documents, application process, validity period, work rights and more. We’ll also provide tips and secrets to boost your chances of success.
So if you want to live and work legally in France, keep reading!
Overview of the France Job Seeker Visa
Also known as the “Job seeker/new business creator” residence permit, the France Job Seeker Visa enables you to look for employment or set up your own company in France.
It is issued for a duration of 12 months and is a temporary residence permit that does not lead to permanent settlement. But it does allow you to stay in France legally during the visa validity and work in any position.
Let’s look at the key details of this visa:
- Issuing Authority: French consulate or prefecture
- Validity: 1 year (non-renewable)
- Eligibility: Recent graduates, researchers
- Cost: 75 EUR (job seeker), 225 EUR (researcher)
Some citizens like those of EU, Switzerland, Algeria etc. do not need this visa. Check with your local French consulate to confirm.
What Activities Are Allowed on This Visa?
With the France Job Seeker Visa, you can:
- Search for jobs and work legally during the visa validity period.
- Set up your own company in France in your field of study/expertise.
- Stay in France for one year while you grow your business or search for the right job.
So it offers excellent opportunities for budding entrepreneurs and job seekers who want to experience living and working in France temporarily.
Who is Eligible to Apply for the France Job Seeker Visa?
To apply for the France Job Seeker Visa, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Recent graduates from French universities who have resided in France previously on a student visa. Your degree must be less than 4 years old.
- Eligible degrees include Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral, professional/vocational degrees etc.
- Researchers who lived in France previously on a researcher talent passport and have completed their research mission.
So in summary, the visa targets former students and researchers to aid their search for jobs or entrepreneurial ambitions in France.
Maximum Time Limit to Apply After Graduation
Note that you must apply within 4 years of obtaining your eligible degree from France. This window gives you sufficient time to plan your next career steps in the country.
Meeting the education and residency criteria is essential for a successful visa application.
Document Checklist for the France Job Seeker Visa
When applying for the France Job Seeker Visa, you must submit certain documents as proof of eligibility.
The required documents include:
For Recent Graduates:
- Valid passport
- Birth certificate
- 3 passport-size photos
- Previous student residence permit
- Bachelor’s/Master’s/Doctoral degree certificate
- Proof of health insurance
- Business plan (if relevant)
- Accommodation proof in France
For Researchers:
- Valid passport
- Birth certificate
- 3 passport photos
- Previous researcher talent passport
- Proof of completed research project
- Proof of health insurance
- Business plan (if applicable)
- Accommodation proof
Having these documents ready in advance will help avoid delays or rejections. Also get any required translations or notarizations done before submitting the visa application.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for the France Job Seeker Visa
Where to Apply:
You can submit the France Job Seeker Visa application either within France at the local prefecture or at the French consulate in your home country.
Application Process:
Follow these steps to apply for the visa smoothly:
- Determine your eligibility and prepare all required documents beforehand.
- Complete the visa application form accurately with all relevant details.
- Pay the visa fees – 75 EUR (job seeker) or 225 EUR (researcher).
- Schedule an appointment and submit the form along with your documentation to the French consulate/prefecture.
- Attend the interview and provide any additional information requested.
- Wait for processing and await the visa decision – approval or rejection.
- If approved, make travel arrangements and prepare to begin your job search or business in France.
Pro Tip: Apply in Advance
Submit your France Job Seeker Visa application well in advance of your planned travel date. Processing can take 2-3 months during peak seasons. Avoid delays by applying early.
What Happens After the Expiry of the France Job Seeker Visa?
The France Job Seeker Visa allows you to live and work in France for one year only. It is not extendable or renewable beyond this duration.
But you can apply for a new residence permit if you have found employment or set up a business within the visa validity period. This new permit will let you continue staying in France.
However, if you fail to find a job or your business plans don’t work out, you will have to return to your home country once the Job Seeker Visa expires.
So maximize your 1 year duration to achieve your career or entrepreneurship goals in France through diligent efforts.
Official Visa Website and Contacts
For complete information and updates about the France Job Seeker Visa 2023, visit the Campus France website at:
or contact your nearest French consulate.
You can also schedule an appointment with a visa expert for guidance on preparing your application.
With thorough planning and preparation, getting a France Job Seeker Visa is an achievable goal. Use this guide to make your application process smooth and successful.
Commence an exciting new life chapter in France once you obtain the golden visa! Bonne chance!
