France

Business visit visa / Work visa

The business immigration system of France has separate processes for business visitors and foreign nationals seeking to work in the country.

Business visitors to France typically use a local version of the "Schengen C Visa", unless they are visa exempt based on their nationality. The Schengen Area generally limits stays to 90 days within a 180-day period.

France's immigration and labour laws establish several employment authorization schemes depending on the contract location, transfer arrangements, foreign national's skills and salary. For most highly skilled workers, foreign nationals apply for a suitable visa at a French consular post. The visa authorizes the holder to enter and work in France. Work authorization is generally issued for three to four years. Secondments are firmly limited to three years with no possibility of extension. Once in France, foreign nationals apply for a residence permit.

Note that the level of scrutiny applied to work authorization applications can vary based on the political climate and perceived state of the French labour market. In-country change of status from business visitor to work authorized or from temporary to long-term status is complex with a high degree of discretion and requires case-by-case assessment.

European Union

Business visit visa / Work visa

Business visitors to the European Union typically use a local version of the "Schengen C Visa" (granted by the country to visit / work in) unless they are visa exempt. The Schengen Area limits stays for visitors to 90 days in any 180-day period, counted cumulatively across the Schengen Area. Depending on the nature of the activities, stays may be limited to 90 days in a 12-month period.

EU Blue Card

The EU Blue Card is Europe's answer to the US Green Card. The EU Blue Card is a work- and residence permit for non-EU/EEA nationals. The European Blue Card provides comprehensive socio-economic rights and a path towards permanent residence and EU citizenship. It is suitable for highly skilled employees who meet a minimum salary requirement, sign an employee contract and are paid via payroll, typically granted for up to four years. Apply here.

EU Intracompany Transferee (ICT) Work and Residence Permit

The "EU ICT Permit" (locally called "ICT Card") is suitable for highly skilled managers, specialists and trainees on assignment within a company group and typically granted for up to three years. The EU-ICT permit is a preferred option for companies who need the best solutions available for intra-corporate mobility of their workforce in Europe.

European Economic Area/EU/Swiss nationals are generally visa and work permit exempt.