France continues to be a top destination for entrepreneurs, remote workers, skilled professionals, and families seeking a new life in Europe. But navigating its visa system—especially for long-term stays—can be confusing. This updated guide simplifies the key visa categories that international residents are using to relocate to France in 2025.

Whether you’re coming for work, to join a loved one, or simply to live in France, we break down the most common options below.

1. The Long-Stay Visitor Visa (Visa de Long Séjour)

Who it’s for:
Non-EU nationals planning to live in France for more than 90 days without engaging in employment. Ideal for retirees, digital nomads (not officially recognized yet, but still viable), or those taking a sabbatical.

Requirements:

• Proof of sufficient income (typically €1,500–€2,000/month)
• French address or lease agreement
• Private health insurance
• Signed declaration not to work in France
• France-Visas application + consular appointment

Key 2025 Update:
Some French consulates are requiring additional justification for how applicants will support themselves—especially for remote workers. Be prepared to explain how you’ll work for a foreign employer without breaching French labor law.

Next Steps:
After arriving in France, you must validate your visa online within 3 months via the OFII portal.

Need help navigating this visa? Connect with a French immigration advisor for step-by-step support.

2. Talent Passport (Passeport Talent) — For Skilled Workers & Entrepreneurs

Who it’s for:
Foreign professionals, entrepreneurs, researchers, and tech workers who have a job offer, funding, or business plan aligned with France’s economic priorities.

Popular Talent Passport categories:

• Skilled employees with a French employment contract and high salary
• Founders with an innovative project supported by a public body (like Bpifrance or French Tech)
• Investors or entrepreneurs launching a French entity
• Researchers or artists

Requirements:

• Valid passport
• Employment contract or business plan
• Proof of sufficient resources (salary thresholds vary)
• French degree or recognized foreign qualification (for some categories)
• Health insurance + housing

Key 2025 Update:
The French government has launched new regional support hubs for startup founders and tech visa holders, making it easier to connect with accelerators and obtain fast-track approvals.

Why it matters:
This multi-year residence permit (up to 4 years) allows spouses and children to join you under a Talent Passport – Family visa.

Read more about Tech & Entrepreneur relocation to France.

3. Family Reunification Visa (Regroupement Familial)

Who it’s for:
Non-EU residents living legally in France who wish to bring their spouse and/or children to join them long-term.

Important distinction:
There are two primary routes:

• Regroupement Familial (for foreign nationals with a residence permit)
• Family Visa under EU/EEA citizen rights (simpler if your partner is an EU citizen)

Requirements:

• Proof of legal residence in France (minimum 18 months for Regroupement Familial)
• Adequate housing that meets French standards
• Stable income
• Marriage or birth certificates translated into French
• Application through OFII before the family can apply at a consulate

Key 2025 Update:
Processing times have improved in some prefectures, but housing inspections are stricter—especially in urban areas. It’s recommended to work with a relocation professional to ensure all property documentation is compliant.

Find a relocation expert who understands French family reunification.

Which Visa Is Right for You?

Each path to France comes with its own legal framework, timeline, and paperwork. Your choice depends on your personal goals—whether that’s building a company, reuniting with family, or simply living in France for an extended period.

Relocate.world connects you with trusted, bilingual immigration advisors in France who can help you:

• Choose the right visa path
• Prepare compliant documentation
• Avoid delays or rejections
• Register with prefectures, health systems, and tax authorities

Browse advisors in France now or start your journey by reading our full France Immigration Overview.