France Introduces Immigration Law Changes

Key Points  

• France implemented new immigration reforms on 13 June 2025, aimed at streamlining key rules and improving clarity across multiple permit categories 

France Unveils Streamlined Talent Permit Rules to Boost Skilled Immigration 

On 13 June 2025, France issued Decree No. 2025-539, marking a significant update to the rules governing “talent” residence permits and other work authorization pathways. The changes include the following:  

Simplified Salary Requirements for Talent Permits 

• Talent – Qualified Employee applicants must earn at least €35,891 annually, based on the national average salary. This replaces the previous requirement of twice the minimum wage. 
• Medical and Pharmacy Talent applicants need a minimum salary of €41,386.48, matching Level 2 of France’s associate practitioner pay scale. 

Faster Processing for EU Blue Card Transfers 

• Applicants with an EU Blue Card from another EU country can now expect a decision within 30 days after arriving in France, instead of the previous 90-day timeline. 
  • If approved, applicants will be granted a Temporary Residence Permit that includes work authorization. 

New Rules for Entrepreneur and Job Seeker Permits 

• France has revised eligibility and application procedures for two key residence categories: “Entrepreneur/Liberal Profession” and “Job Search or Business Creation.” 

Permit Category Consolidation 

Several former residence permit types have been merged into broader categories to streamline processing. 

• The permits for Young Graduates, Employees on Assignment, and Employees of Young Innovative Companies are now grouped under a single category called ThTalent: Qualified Employee. 
• The permits for New Business Creators, French Tech Founders, and Investors now fall under the Talent: Project Holder category.