Visa and Work Permits for Foreign Founders in France
Expanding to France often requires more than just incorporating a company. Foreign founders and key employees need the right visa or work permit to live and operate in the country legally. France has created several options specifically designed for entrepreneurs and tech talent, making it easier to relocate and build a business. This guide explains the main visa types, eligibility requirements, timelines, and how international founders can secure the right status.
Why Visa Strategy Matters
Without a proper visa, you cannot sign contracts, access healthcare, or even open certain accounts.
Delays in obtaining a permit can block your company launch.
Choosing the wrong visa type can limit flexibility for future hires or fundraising.
A clear visa plan is as critical as incorporation.
Main Options for Founders
1. Talent Passport (Passeport Talent)
This is the most common option for foreign founders and highly skilled professionals.
Duration: up to 4 years, renewable.
Includes family members (spouse and children).
Multiple categories, including:
Entrepreneur or investor.
Innovative business project recognized by a public body (such as Bpifrance or French Tech).
Employee on assignment within an international group.
Eligibility:
For entrepreneurs: proof of company creation in France, viable business plan, and sufficient financial resources.
For innovative projects: endorsement from an incubator or recognized authority.
Advantages:
Long duration compared to standard visas.
Family included under the same status.
Access to healthcare and benefits in France.
2. Entrepreneur Visa (Visa Entrepreneur Profession Libérale)
Targeted at self-employed individuals who want to create and operate a business in France.
Duration: usually 1 year, renewable.
Requires proof of financial resources (at least equivalent to minimum wage).
Requires a viable business plan.
Best for: small-scale founders or consultants who do not qualify for Talent Passport.
3. Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Visa
For founders or employees who already work for a parent company abroad and need to relocate temporarily to the French subsidiary.
Duration: up to 3 years.
Proof of employment with the foreign parent company is required.
Best suited for executives, managers, or technical experts.
Best for: companies expanding into France that want to move existing staff.
4. EU Blue Card
For highly qualified employees from outside the EU.
Duration: 1 to 4 years.
Requires an employment contract of at least 1 year and a salary above a defined threshold (currently ~€54,000).
Provides mobility within EU countries that recognize the Blue Card.
Best for: technical hires such as engineers or data scientists.
Application Process
Prepare documents: business plan, financial resources, proof of incorporation or project endorsement, identity documents.
Apply at French consulate in home country or at the prefecture in France if already residing under another visa.
Approval and issuance: processing times vary from 6 to 12 weeks.
Residence permit card: upon arrival, applicants must validate the visa and obtain a residence permit card.
Timelines
Talent Passport: 2 to 3 months.
Entrepreneur visa: 1 to 2 months.
Intra-company transfer: 2 to 3 months.
Blue Card: 2 to 3 months.
Costs
Consular fees: ~€100–€200.
Residence permit card: ~€250.
Additional costs for translations, legalizations, or endorsements.
Common Pitfalls
Insufficient documentation: incomplete applications are rejected.
Underestimating financial requirements: applicants must prove they can sustain themselves in France.
Late applications: processing delays can block company launch.
Wrong visa type: can restrict ability to fundraise, hire, or stay long-term.
Case Example
A US founder applied for an Entrepreneur visa with a vague business plan. The application was rejected. Six months later, the same founder applied for a Talent Passport after incorporating a French SAS and obtaining support from a French Tech incubator. The application was approved, with a 4-year permit that included his spouse and children.
How morn Helps
morn makes visa strategy part of the overall market entry plan. We:
Identify the best visa option based on your situation.
Coordinate business plan preparation in French and English.
Secure endorsements from recognized incubators or institutions.
Manage all paperwork and interactions with consulates or prefectures.
Align visa strategy with company incorporation and hiring.
Conclusion
For foreign founders, obtaining the right visa is essential for launching and scaling in France. With options like the Talent Passport and JEI-compatible structures, France provides a clear pathway for entrepreneurs and tech talent.
Choosing the correct status and preparing documentation properly ensures smooth relocation, full legal compliance, and the ability to focus on growth.
