• MMC

Between talent attraction and new regulatory constraints, the framework for professional immigration in France is evolving. EU Blue Card, shortage occupations, naturalization, border controls—here’s what HR and international mobility professionals need to know to anticipate and secure their policies.

The landscape of professional immigration in France is undergoing significant changes. Some recent measures aim to boost the country’s attractiveness and simplify the onboarding of international talent, while others impose stricter controls on certain procedures. Several developments deserve close attention from HR departments involved in mobility management.

Increase in Residence Permit Applications and More Complex Procedures
In 2024, the number of residence permits issued in France continued to rise, particularly for economic reasons (+10.5%) and student purposes (+5.7%). This growth reflects a heightened interest from international talent in the French labor market.

At the same time, processing times remain lengthy in many prefectures, averaging two months for a residence permit renewal. Some prefectures—such as Bordeaux, Antony, Lille, and Lyon—are experiencing heavy backlogs, which can result in complex situations for affected employees.

New List of Shortage Occupations Expected
A new list of shortage occupations is expected in the coming weeks. It is likely to include home care workers, cooks, and several construction-related jobs, addressing the urgent recruitment needs of these struggling sectors. For employers, this list simplifies the process of obtaining work authorization for foreign nationals in these positions.

Relaxed Conditions for the EU Blue Card
Access to the EU Blue Card, a scheme aimed at attracting highly qualified workers, has recently been made more flexible:

• The minimum contract duration has been reduced from 12 to 6 months;
• The scheme is now open to candidates holding a bachelor’s degree or with 5 years of experience, or 3 years of experience within the past 7 years in certain professions;
• The permit can be granted for up to 4 years, with a minimum gross annual salary of €53,836.50.

The EU Blue Card also allows family members to move to France, with the spouse benefiting from a right to work.

New Provisions for Non-EU Healthcare Professionals
To address the shortage of healthcare workers, a new "Talent – Medical and Pharmaceutical Professions" residence permit has been introduced. It targets doctors, dentists, midwives, and pharmacists who graduated outside the EU and hold a practice authorization in France. This permit facilitates their integration and offers greater mobility, especially in underserved areas.

Stricter Naturalization Requirements
As of spring 2025, the criteria for acquiring French nationality have been tightened. Applicants must now provide proof of:

• French language proficiency at level B2;
• Successful completion of an exam on French history and culture;
• A stable financial situation (a permanent contract of at least one year, or fixed-term contracts totaling two years);
• A clean criminal record with no serious convictions.

New Border Control Procedures
Two new European systems will soon enhance border controls:

• The Entry/Exit System (EES), which will digitally record entries and exits in the Schengen Area, is set to launch in 2025;
• The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), an online travel authorization for third-country nationals exempt from short-stay visas, is expected to be implemented in 2027.

These developments will affect short-term mobility tracking and improve the traceability of stays.

Management Mobility Consulting supports companies in anticipating and integrating these changes to secure their HR practices and optimize their international mobility processes.