Wondering about the France digital nomad visa? France doesn’t have a specific visa for digital nomads, but you can still work remotely with options like the long-stay visa or Talent Passport. While there is no specific nomad visa for France, there are several alternatives, such as the long-stay visa and Talent Passport. This article guides you through these alternatives and how to apply.
France offers a variety of visa options for individuals who wish to live and work in the country, including digital nomads. The French government provides several types of visas, such as the long-stay visa, Talent Passport Visa, and EU Blue Card Visa, which can be suitable for remote workers.
The long-stay visa, also known as the visa de long séjour, allows non-EU citizens to stay in France for an extended period, typically ranging from one to four years. This visa requires applicants to demonstrate financial stability and have health insurance coverage. The visa fee for a long-stay visa is approximately €99.
The Talent Passport Visa is designed for highly skilled professionals, researchers, and entrepreneurs. This visa offers numerous benefits, including the ability to bring family members and access to social services in France. Applicants must provide proof of their qualifications and a job offer from a French employer.
The EU Blue Card Visa is another excellent option for highly qualified non-EU nationals. It allows for residence in France and other EU countries, making it a versatile choice for those looking to work across European borders. Applicants must meet specific educational and salary requirements to be eligible.
To apply for a French visa, individuals typically need to submit required documents, including a valid passport, proof of financial resources, and health insurance coverage. Understanding these options and requirements can help digital nomads choose the best visa for their needs.
France doesn’t have a dedicated digital nomad visa, but remote workers can legally live and work there using alternatives like the Long-Stay Visa, Talent Passport, or EU Blue Card. The Long-Stay Visa allows non-EU citizens to stay up to a year (renewable) and work under certain categories like Profession Libérale. The Talent Passport and EU Blue Card cater to highly skilled professionals with job offers or business plans. Each visa requires proof of financial stability, health insurance, and proper documentation. These options offer practical pathways for digital nomads seeking to live and work in France.
Contrary to what many might hope, France does not offer a dedicated digital nomad visa. However, this doesn’t mean that remote work enthusiasts are out of options. France offers an array of visa alternatives that can accommodate digital nomads, including the French digital nomad visa. The long-stay visa and the Talent Passport visa are two prominent options for those looking to stay in France for longer than the standard tourist visa allows.
For non-EU citizens, the long-stay visa permits a stay ranging from 1 to 4 years, providing ample time to explore and work legally in this beautiful country. Digital nomads can also consider the EU Blue Card and Talent Passport visas, which cater to highly skilled workers and provide additional benefits such as family inclusion. Another viable option for digital nomads is the profession liberale status, which allows non-EU individuals to stay and work in France.
While the absence of a dedicated digital nomad visa program might seem like a hurdle, these existing visa categories offer feasible alternatives for remote workers, including digital nomad visas. For those who want to visit France for a limited time, the short stay visa allows stays of up to 90 days but comes with limitations such as the inability to renew it and restrictions on taking employment with a French employer.
Digital nomads often choose the long-stay visa, also known as visa de long séjour. This option is ideal for those planning to remain in France for over 90 days. This visa caters to non-EU citizens, allowing them to live and work in France for up to a year. The Profession Liberale status and Blue Card visa are specific categories under the long-stay visa, each designed for different professional circumstances.
When applying for the long-stay visa, it is essential to include recent ID pictures along with other necessary paperwork. While the long-stay visa is not explicitly a digital nomad visa, it serves the purpose well by allowing remote workers to legally work and enjoy their time in France. Whether you’re a freelancer or an entrepreneur, the long-stay visa offers a gateway to immerse yourself in French culture and lifestyle, making it an ideal option for those seeking a freelance visa.
The long-stay visitor visa specifically prohibits working with French clients or companies. Only some long-stay visas, like Profession Libérale, allow legal work.
Eligibility for a long-stay visa for foreign nationals involves meeting certain criteria, primarily proving financial stability. Applicants need to show that they have sufficient financial resources to support themselves during their stay. This often means proving that your income meets or exceeds the French minimum wage, particularly for the Profession Liberale status.
Freelancers under Profession Libérale must register their business with URSSAF and potentially INSEE, and may need to declare taxes and contribute to French social security.
Health insurance is another critical requirement. Applicants must have a private travel health insurance policy that covers them throughout their stay in France. Additionally, a valid passport and other supporting documents such as proof of accommodation are necessary to complete the application.
Applying for a long-stay visa involves several steps. First, check your eligibility and gather all necessary documents, including a valid passport, proof of accommodation, and financial stability. All documents should be in French or English, or notarized if they are in another language. It is recommended that you submit your application in advance at the nearest French consulate. Aim for a timeframe of three months to two weeks prior to your intended entry into France.
Next, fill out the application form and make an appointment with the visa application center. During your appointment, bring all required documents, pay the visa fee, and provide biometric data. The entire submission process at the visa center typically takes around 20 minutes, but it’s wise to book your appointment well in advance to avoid delays, especially during peak tourist seasons. Additionally, applicants must register at the local registration hall to comply with French regulations.
After submission, the approval process can take up to 14 days. Staying updated on the latest requirements and processes by consulting the official French visa website or a professional visa service is advisable.
The total cost of applying for a long-stay visa can vary. For instance, the Profession Liberale status costs approximately €324, which includes application fees and other associated costs. There’s also a stamp duty of €25 and an additional tax of €200. Additional expenses may include fees for document translation and potential attorney fees.
Having sufficient financial resources to cover these costs is vital when planning a move to enter France, as France depends on various factors.
The Talent Passport Visa presents a compelling option for highly skilled professionals seeking to live and work in France. This visa is particularly suited for researchers, entrepreneurs, and professionals with specific qualifications, offering them an opportunity to contribute to the French economy while enjoying the rich cultural landscape. For those working as freelancers or self-employed individuals, aligning their work activities with regulations set by the French government, including potentially collaborating with a French company, is essential.
Eligible applicants for the Talent Passport Visa include skilled professionals, researchers, and entrepreneurs who can demonstrate specific qualifications and investment plans. For instance, non-EU citizens looking to apply must invest at least €30,000 in their business. Additionally, they need to show financial documentation that supports their investment plans and their potential impact on the French economy.
Researchers can apply if they have a hosting agreement with a recognized research institution in France.
This visa category also caters to artists, performers, and other creative professionals who wish to work in France on a long-term basis, including those applying for a French freelance visa at the French consulate.
Freelancer with a minimum salary is about €41,933/year (2025), or 1.5x the French minimum wage. The EU Blue Card requires an even higher salary threshold.
The application process for the Talent Passport Visa involves several steps:
Applicants must submit documentation that demonstrates their professional qualifications.
Applicants must provide a job offer from a French employer.
For those applying as researchers, a hosting agreement with a recognized research institution is required.
Once in France, visa holders must validate their Talent Passport Visa online and complete any additional formalities for visa validation. This ensures that their stay is legally recognized and allows them to access various social services in France.
The Talent Passport Visa offers several benefits, including residency in France for up to four years, with the option to extend for an additional year. Holders can bring family members with them and access healthcare and other social services in France immigration.
This makes it an attractive option for highly skilled professionals looking to make France their home.
The EU Blue Card is another excellent option for highly qualified non-EU nationals seeking to live and work in France within the European Union. Designed to attract skilled workers, the Blue Card allows for residence in France and other EU countries, making it a versatile choice for those looking to work across European borders.
To be eligible for the EU Blue Card Visa, applicants must be highly skilled non-EU citizens with proof of educational qualifications and a job offer that meets specific salary requirements. The job offer must align with high-skilled labor criteria, ensuring that the applicant’s skills are in demand in France.
The eligibility requirements are often updated, making it essential to stay informed about the latest criteria. Meeting these requirements is crucial for non-EU citizens seeking employment and residency in France.
Applying for the EU Blue Card Visa involves securing a job offer from a French employer with a contract lasting at least 12 months. The minimum salary required is set at 1.5 times the average gross salary in France. Additionally, applicants must provide proof of relevant higher education qualifications.
The application process can take up to 90 days, so it’s important to plan accordingly and ensure all documents required, including the clean criminal record certificate, are prepared in advance. The entire process can be completed online, making it convenient for applicants.
Holders of the EU Blue Card can travel freely within the Schengen Area for short stays, providing flexibility for those who wish to explore other European countries and an EU country. Additionally, the Blue Card offers access to various social benefits, including healthcare in France, making it a comprehensive option for highly skilled workers with a Schengen visa.
The Working Holiday Visa, known as Visa jeune professionnel, is designed for young professionals looking to live and work in France for up to a year without establishing permanent residency. Situated in Western Europe, France offers a rich cultural experience for young professionals. This young professional visa provides an excellent opportunity for young individuals to gain work experience while exploring French culture.
Applicants for the Working Holiday Visa must be between 18 and 30 years old, with a higher age limit of 35 for Canadians. This visa is available only to citizens of countries that have a bilateral agreement with France.
Applicants must not have previously participated in the program and cannot have any dependent children.
Applicants must submit their specific visa application to the appropriate visa center in their home country. Certain nationalities, such as Australians and Canadians, can apply from their country of residence rather than their nationality. Required documents include identification, proof of sufficient funds, and health insurance coverage.
The Working Holiday Visa is valid for up to one year and is typically not renewable, except for Canadian citizens under a specific agreement. This limitation means that applicants should plan their stay carefully to make the most of their time in France.
The French freelance visa, also known as the “profession liberale” status, is a type of long-stay visa that allows self-employed individuals to work in France. This visa is particularly suitable for digital nomads who want to offer their services as freelancers in France.
To be eligible for the French freelance visa, applicants must meet certain requirements. These include having a valid passport, proof of financial resources, and health insurance coverage. Additionally, applicants may need to provide a business plan or proof of qualifications relevant to their freelance work.
The application process involves submitting the required documents to the nearest French consulate. It’s essential to gather all necessary paperwork, including a valid passport, proof of financial stability, and health insurance coverage. Applicants will also need to pay the visa fee, which varies depending on the consulate.
Once the application is submitted, it may take several weeks to process. Therefore, it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your planned move to France.
The French freelance visa offers several benefits for digital nomads. It allows them to work in France for up to one year, with the possibility of renewal. This visa also provides access to the European Union’s single market, enabling digital nomads to work with clients across EU countries.
Additionally, digital nomads can immerse themselves in France’s rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant cities. From the bustling streets of Paris to the serene vineyards of Bordeaux, France offers a diverse and inspiring environment for remote workers.
To be eligible for the French freelance visa, applicants must meet certain requirements. These include having a valid passport, proof of financial resources, and health insurance coverage. Additionally, applicants may need to provide a business plan or proof of qualifications relevant to their freelance work.
The application process involves submitting the required documents to the nearest French consulate. It’s essential to gather all necessary paperwork, including a valid passport, proof of financial stability, and health insurance coverage. Applicants will also need to pay the visa fee, which varies depending on the consulate.
Once the application is submitted, it may take several weeks to process. Therefore, it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your planned move to France.
The French freelance visa, also known as the “profession liberale” status, is a type of long-stay visa that allows self-employed individuals to work in France. This visa is particularly suitable for digital nomads who want to offer their services as freelancers in France.
To be eligible for the French freelance visa, applicants must meet certain requirements. These include having a valid passport, proof of financial resources, and health insurance coverage. Additionally, applicants may need to provide a business plan or proof of qualifications relevant to their freelance work.
The application process involves submitting the required documents to the nearest French consulate. It’s essential to gather all necessary paperwork, including a valid passport, proof of financial stability, and health insurance coverage. Applicants will also need to pay the visa fee, which varies depending on the consulate.
Freelancer with a minimum salary is about €41,933/year (2025), or 1.5x the French minimum wage. The EU Blue Card requires an even higher salary threshold.
Once the application is submitted, it may take several weeks to process. Therefore, it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your planned move to France.
The French freelance visa offers several benefits for digital nomads. It allows them to work in France for up to one year, with the possibility of renewal. This visa also provides access to the European Union’s single market, enabling digital nomads to work with clients across EU countries.
Additionally, digital nomads can immerse themselves in France’s rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant cities. From the bustling streets of Paris to the serene vineyards of Bordeaux, France offers a diverse and inspiring environment for remote workers.
Digital nomads planning to stay in France for over a year are required to pay taxes based on their residency status, and must register their stay with the French authorities to comply with legal requirements. A digital nomad is classified as a tax resident if they spend at least 183 days in France during a calendar year. Non eu digital nomads may find that tax obligations can be influenced by international agreements and the individual’s income level.
Under a tax treaty, residents may receive credits for taxes paid in one country against tax liabilities in another. Seeking professional tax advice before establishing long-term residency in France helps in understanding specific obligations.
Digital nomads may become tax residents in France if they spend over 183 days per year, and must pay French taxes and social contributions if working locally.
Living costs in France can vary significantly depending on the city. For an individual, the estimated monthly expenses total approximately €953.7. This amount is equivalent to around $1,035.9 and does not include rent. Major cities like Paris and Lyon are more expensive, with Paris averaging $2,937/month for a larger apartment, while Lyon costs around $1,588/month. These costs can add up, so budgeting is crucial for digital nomads.
Food and transport are other significant expenses. Digital nomads should budget approximately €400-€500 monthly for groceries and food. Transportation costs can be managed with a monthly pass costing around €80. Planning and understanding these costs helps digital nomads enjoy their stay in France without financial strain.
France is home to several cities that are popular among digital nomads for their unique cultures and work environments. Paris and Lyon are notable for their vibrant communities and coworking spaces, while Bordeaux offers a more relaxed atmosphere with excellent wine culture, making it an ideal spot for a digital nomad in France.
Paris, though expensive, is a magnet for many digital nomads due to its rich artistic heritage, fashion scene, and history. The city boasts numerous coworking spaces, modern amenities, and community events, making it a hub for remote workers.
Despite high living costs, the unique cultural and professional opportunities make Paris an inspiring work environment.
Lyon is known for its culinary excellence and is emerging as a growing tech hub, appealing to tech-savvy digital nomads. The city offers lower living costs compared to Paris and a community-oriented atmosphere with vibrant neighborhoods and numerous events that engage remote workers.
Bordeaux is renowned for its wine culture and relaxed work settings, making it an attractive digital nomad destination. The city also has a growing number of coworking spaces that cater to remote workers, providing a perfect blend of work and leisure.
France is recognized for its strong internet infrastructure, ranking highly among European nations for connectivity. Primary mobile service providers include Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom, and Free Mobile, offering various SIM-only plans suitable for remote workers, featuring options for high-speed data and unlimited calls.
Acquiring a SIM card in France generally requires presenting a valid form of identification and proof of residence. Some mobile operators might also require a local bank account or credit card for transactions related to SIM card purchases. Additionally, certain transactions might necessitate registration with the French Office of Immigration and Integration (OFII).
Ensuring reliable internet connectivity is crucial for digital nomads to stay connected and productive.
Applying for a visa to work remotely in France requires careful preparation and documentation. For a long-stay visa, essential documents include a valid passport, proof of purpose, financial means, health insurance, and a clean criminal record. Non-EU nationals are required to show proof of adequate financial resources. Additionally, they must submit other supporting documents.
For the Talent Passport Visa, applicants need to gather documentation such as proof of professional qualifications and employment contracts. The EU Blue Card visa application can be completed online, requiring proof of educational qualifications and a job offer that meets salary requirements. Knowing the required documents is crucial for a smooth application process.
Digital nomads who plan to live and work in France must have health insurance coverage that meets the requirements of the French government. This can be obtained through a private health insurance provider or a French health insurance company.
The cost of health insurance varies depending on the provider and the level of coverage, but it typically ranges from €50 to €100 per month. While travel insurance that includes health coverage can be an option, it may not be sufficient for long-term stays in France. Therefore, it’s crucial for digital nomads to have comprehensive health insurance that covers their entire stay.
When choosing a health insurance plan, digital nomads should consider factors such as coverage limits, network of healthcare providers, and additional benefits like dental or vision care. Comparing different health insurance options can help digital nomads find the best plan for their needs and budget.
Having adequate health insurance not only ensures compliance with French regulations but also provides peace of mind, allowing digital nomads to focus on their work and enjoy their time in France.
After obtaining a long-stay visa, applicants must validate it online within 90 days of arrival in France to receive their temporary residence permit. Holders must submit a residence permit application two months before their permit expires for renewal. The validity of a temporary residence permit can range from one to four years.
To qualify for permanent residency, a foreigner must have held a resident card for at least ten years. Permanent residents do not face requirements when renewing their residency status. Additionally, a foreign citizen can apply for French citizenship after living in the country with residency status for five years.
Before making any decisions regarding visa applications or long-term stays in France, it's essential to understand that immigration laws and requirements can be complex and subject to change. This article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. We strongly recommend consulting a qualified immigration lawyer or visa specialist to assess your personal situation and ensure compliance with French regulations. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, refer to official sources such as the France-Visas official site, Service-Public.fr, and the Office Français de l’Immigration et de l’Intégration (OFII). These platforms provide authoritative guidance on visa categories, application procedures, residency obligations, and other legal requirements.
Navigating the visa options and requirements as a digital nomad in France may seem daunting, but with the right information, it becomes a manageable process. From long-stay visas to the EU Blue Card and Talent Passport Visa, France offers several pathways for remote workers to live and work legally in this beautiful country. Understanding taxation, cost of living, and internet connectivity will further enhance your experience, making France a desirable destination for digital nomads.
While the France Digital Nomad Visa offers access to a rich cultural experience and excellent infrastructure, the Malta Digital Nomad Visa is a strong contender for those craving year-round sunshine and a slower-paced island lifestyle. With over 300 days of sun, crystal-clear warm waters, and a thriving expat scene, Malta appeals to digital nomads looking to blend work with wellbeing. It’s also home to Evolve Coliving, a vibrant community hub tailored specifically for remote workers seeking connection, creativity, and balance. Curious, you can also check out the 'Living In Malta Guide' for more info!
And if you want to see a full list of 70+ countries that provide digital nomad visas, please check out 'The Ultimate Guide to Digital Nomad Visas Worldwide 2025'
To conclude, here is the full list of countries, where you can get a Digital Nomad Visa in 2025:
| Andorra* | Dominica | Mexico |
| Anguilla | Dubai | Montenegro* |
| Antigua and Barbuda | Dominica | Mexico |
| Argentina* | Estonia | North Macedonia |
| Aruba | Georgia | Norway |
| Bagamas | Germany | Panama |
| Barbados | Greece | Romania |
| Belize | Hungary | Saint Lucia |
| Bermuda | Iceland | Seychelles |
| Cabo Verde | Indonesia | South Africa* |
| Cayman Islands | Italy* | Spain |
| Croatia | Latvia | Sri Lanka* |
| Curaçao | Malta | Taiwan |
| Cyprus | Mauritius | Czech Republic |
| Abu Dhabi | Dubai | Mexico |
| Albania | Ecuador | Montenegro* |
| Andorra* | Egypt* | Montserrat |
| Anguilla | El Salvador | Namibia |
| Antigua and Barbuda | Estonia | New Zealand |
| Argentina* | Finland | North Macedonia |
| Armenia | France | Norway |
| Aruba | Georgia | Panama |
| Australia | Germany | Peru |
| Bahamas | Greece | Philippines* |
| Barbados | Grenada | Portugal/Lisbon |
| Belize | Hungary | Romania |
| Bermuda | Iceland | Saint Lucia |
| Brazil | India | Seychelles |
| Cabo Verde | Indonesia/Bali | South Africa* |
| Canada | Italy* | South Korea |
| Cayman Islands | Japan | Spain |
| Colombia | Kazakhstan | Sri Lanka* |
| Costa Rica | Kenya | Taiwan |
| Croatia | Kyrgyzstan | Thailand* |
| Curaçao | Latvia | Turkey |
| Cyprus | Malaysia | Uruguay |
| Czech Republic | Malta | Vietnam* |
| Dominica | Mauritius |
*Digital Nomad Visa introduced but not yet implemented
Typically replies within an hour
I will be back soon
