Move to France as a Researcher: Talent Passport

Do Research in France With a Multi-Year Permit

France offers a Talent Passport for researchers for people who will carry out a research or higher-education mission under a hosting agreement. The permit can last up to four years, depending on your employment contract and agreement. For example, if you are a postdoctoral researcher or a professor-researcher joining a French laboratory, you can check whether this category fits you. Family members may accompany you and receive multi-year permits.

Requirements for the Researcher Category

You need at least a master's-level qualification and a hosting agreement from the institution that will receive you. It is an administrative document describing the nature and length of your work, your resources, and your accommodation and medical coverage. Doctoral students without a doctoral or work contract may be refused a hosting agreement, and would then need a student visa instead. Requirements can differ by nationality, so check the official pages for your situation.

How to Find a Position and Apply

First, look for research positions and funding on EURAXESS, the European database of research jobs, funding, and hosting offers. You can register to set up job alerts and save searches. Search with your field and role, such as Postdoctoral Researcher or Research Engineer, and use the contact details to reach the host institution. Once you have an offer, ask the institution for your hosting agreement. Then apply through France-Visas for the visa marked "researcher". Read each posting carefully, because eligibility, contract type, and funding vary by laboratory. Emig can also help you identify relevant opportunities, improve your CV, and prepare stronger applications.

Check if you qualify →