New decree reshapes France’s immigration rules for skilled workers
Corporate Immigration update — website
On 13 June 2025, France published a decree that overhauls its “Passeport Talent” residence-permit scheme. Rebranded simply “Talent,” the framework is streamlined to speed up processing, tighten compliance checks and align France with the latest EU rules for highly skilled workers. Three main tracks now dominate the category—qualified employees, project holders and (new) medical & pharmacy professionals—while the EU Blue Card receives an upgraded legal framework.
Who will be affected?
Highly Qualified Employees.
Anyone holding a long-term (≥ 12 months) job offer that meets the skills and salary requirements can now apply under the new “Talent – Qualified Employee” track. Eligibility criteria have been harmonised nationwide, and the decree imposes statutory deadlines on prefectures including in particular a maximum of 90 days to give its decision. This provides employers and recruits with far greater predictability.
Project Holders and Business Founders.
Entrepreneurs, start-up founders and buyers of existing businesses (trade, industry or crafts) shift to the single “Talent – Project Holder” label. They must now supply a robust business plan and financial evidence demonstrating economic viability. Prefectures will reject applications that lack credible funding or market prospects—raising the bar but also clarifying expectations.
Medical & Pharmacy Professionals.
Doctors, dentists, midwives and pharmacists gain a dedicated multi-year permit: “Talent – Medical and Pharmacy Professions.” Consolidating what was previously scattered across several authorisations, this track offers a clearer pathway and longer validity, making France more attractive to foreign healthcare talent.
Recent Graduates.
For alumni seeking the “Job Search or Business Creation” permit, the decree formally reinstates a regulatory condition: candidates must prove either a realistic job-search plan in their field of study or a funded entrepreneurial project. The rule had been quietly dropped in recent years; its return signals stricter scrutiny but also better alignment with labour-market needs.
EU-Wide Employers.
Companies that second staff across EU Member States benefit from a new temporary authorisation (APS) granted during intra-EU mobility procedures. This stop-gap permission prevents work interruptions while Blue-Card mobility is processed, smoothing cross-border assignments.
Background
- EU convergence – The decree transposes Directive (EU) 2021/1883 on highly qualified workers, setting common salary minima, mobility rights and fixed processing timelines.
- Regulatory clarity – The 11 sub-categories created in 2016 proved cumbersome; the new “Talent” label groups and simplifies them.
- Global talent race – Amid worldwide skills shortages, France aims to stay attractive while reinforcing professional-practice safeguards.
Impact
Stronger prefectural powers: From now, the Immigration will have a systematic verification that applicants meet conditions for regulated professions (doctors, lawyers, chartered accountants, etc.), and will have the ability to pause a file if recognition of qualifications or professional registration is in doubt.
Conclusion
The 13 June 2025 decree is a pivotal step toward simplification, tighter safeguards and EU-friendly mobility. Companies must adjust their mobility policies and salary benchmarks; applicants should prepare deeper financial documentation. Over time, the reforms aim to cut delays, facilitate intra-EU movement and attract more strategic talent to France.
For tailored guidance or case-specific questions:
Immigration by Santa Fe
immigration.france@staging.santaferelo.com
About our Immigration Services
Our distinguished immigration services oversee a substantial volume of visa applications annually, catering to a diverse array of international corporations. Our seasoned team of immigration experts and accredited migration agents are entrusted with the meticulous management of the entire immigration process on your behalf. We are committed to delivering streamlined reporting and offering comprehensive guidance on all immigration-related affairs, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience for our valued clients.
