France has simplified the conditions for obtaining the EU Blue Card in 2025. Experience instead of a diploma, shorter contracts and easier relocation from other EU countries. Find out how the procedure for obtaining a permit for skilled workers in France will change

Order a consultation with a migration specialist to avoid unpleasant situations during the move

Buy

Since May 2025, France has significantly simplified the procedure for obtaining the EU Blue Card - a special residence and work permit for highly qualified specialists from outside the European Union. In particular, now not only graduates can apply, but also those with the necessary work experience.

These changes are part of the implementation of the updated European directive of 2021, which is aimed at creating a unified system for attracting foreign talent to EU countries.

In this article, we will consider the main innovations that have come into effect in France since May 2, 2025.

Planning a trip abroad? Choose a reliable health insurance policy on the Visit World portal.

What is the EU Blue Card?

The Blue Card is a permit that allows citizens of non-EU countries to legally work and reside in France (and other EU countries) if they hold a highly qualified position. Card holders also gain access to a number of benefits, including the possibility of family reunification, mobility within the EU and the prospect of permanent residence.

How has France simplified the Blue Card application process?

Key updates to the French Blue Card:

- Three years of experience instead of a diploma

Foreigners who do not have a higher education, but have at least three years of relevant work experience in the last 7 years, can now apply for the card. This will allow a wider range of professionals without an academic degree to work legally in France.

Note! This relaxation applies only to certain specialties - the full list will be determined separately by the government.

- Minimum contract period reduced

Previously, the contract between the specialist and the employer had to be signed for at least a year. Now a six-month contract is sufficient. Although most qualified vacancies are still offered for long periods, this opens the door to shorter projects.

- Simplification of conditions for moving from other EU countries

Professionals who already have a “Blue Card” from another EU country can now move more freely to France. If a person has legally resided in an EU member state for 12 months, they can enter France without a visa. The application for a French card must be submitted within a month of arrival.

- More flexible validity period of the card

For employment contracts of less than 2 years, the Blue Card can be valid for up to 3 months longer, but not more than 24 months. For longer contracts, the validity period of the card is equal to the duration of the contract, but not more than 4 years.

- Faster access to permanent residence in the EU

Time spent in France with other types of residence permits now counts towards the five-year period required to apply for long-term EU resident status. This makes the path to permanent residence much easier.

Why did France introduce these changes?

Like many other EU countries, France is facing a shortage of staff in the fields of IT, medicine, engineering and scientific research. The new rules aim to make the country more attractive to foreign professionals, increase mobility within the EU and facilitate the long-term integration of workers.

In 2023, France has already issued over 12,000 “Blue Cards”, and this number is likely to increase after the innovations.

How to apply for a Blue Card in France in 2025?

- Requirements for an applicant for a French Blue Card

1. A job offer in France with a contract of at least 6 months.

2. A salary at least 1.5 times higher than the average annual salary in the country (approximately €53,836 in 2025).

3. Education relevant to the vacancy or three years of relevant experience.

- Blue Card application procedure

1. Obtain an official job offer from a French employer.

2. The employer applies to the French employment authorities (DREETS).

3. After approval, you apply for a long-term stay visa (VLS-TS).

4. Upon arrival in France, confirm the visa online.

5. Apply for an EU Blue Card residence permit at the local prefecture.

- A package of documents for obtaining a French Blue Card

1. Passport with at least 2 blank pages.

2. Contract with a French employer.

3. Confirmation of the appropriate salary level.

4. Diploma or certificate of professional experience.

5. Resume.

6. Insurance policy.

7. Confirmation of residence.

8. Completed application form

9. Passport-sized photo

10. Payment of the fee

France is taking a serious step towards simplifying legal employment for foreign specialists. If you are a qualified specialist or an employer looking for talent, the updated Blue Card system opens up new opportunities.

Contact a migration lawyer to avoid delays or errors when applying for a French Blue Card.

Reminder! In 2025, France is actively addressing the problem of labor shortages, for which the list of in-demand professions has been expanded for the first time since 2021, and the procedure for obtaining work permits for undocumented foreigners has been simplified. We have already told you how the new rules will affect the employment of foreigners in France.

Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

We monitor the accuracy and relevance of our information, so if you notice any errors or inconsistencies, please contact our hotline.