November 2026
Work in France in a Shortage Occupation Job
Last updated
Jobs That France Struggles to Fill May Open a Door for You
France publishes a list of occupations facing recruitment difficulties, called the list of jobs in tension. The list is set by region and is based on how hard it is for employers to recruit and on the share of non-EU foreign workers in each trade. For jobs on the list, non-EU workers can be recruited without the usual obligation to publish a job offer first. The list is updated annually, and the most recent order covered by Service-Public is dated 21 May 2025.
How the Work Permit Process Works
In most cases, the employer applies online for the work permit before you can receive a work visa. A shortage-occupation job does not guarantee approval, because the employer must still meet social obligations and pay at least the minimum wage or the collective agreement rate if higher. Without a listed job, the position must generally have been published for three consecutive weeks with the public employment service, France Travail. The prefecture has two months to decide, and silence after two months counts as a refusal that can be appealed. Regulated professions must also meet their own practice conditions.
How to Find a Job and Get Started
First, check the regional list for the occupation and region where you want to work, because each region has its own list. Next, search for roles on trusted sites:
France Travail — The public employment service, with a search form by job title and location.
Welcome to the Jungle — A job platform where you can explore companies and roles in France.
Search using the exact job title as written on the regional list, together with the city or region, and read each offer to see whether the employer recruits from abroad. Once an employer agrees to hire you, they apply for the work permit and you then apply for a visa. Fixed-term contracts lead to a visa marked "travailleur temporaire", while permanent contracts lead to one marked "salarié". Emig can also help you identify relevant opportunities, improve your resume, and prepare stronger job applications.
Is There a Route for Workers Already in France?
There is a separate track for non-European workers already living in France without legal status. For jobs on the shortage list, it requires at least 3 years of continuous residence and at least 12 months of paid work in the last 24 months, in a listed job and area. It is available until 31 December 2026 and is decided case by case. This is an exceptional route, not a guaranteed right, so check the official page and your prefecture before applying.
What Visa Do You Receive and How Long Does It Last?
A permanent contract leads to a "salarié" visa, and a fixed-term contract leads to a "travailleur temporaire" visa. For stays longer than 90 days, you receive a long-stay visa that works as a residence permit, valid for up to 12 months, and you must validate it within three months of arrival. Check the details printed on your visa and the instructions that come with it.
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