All routes: France
France · checked 04.08.2026
Employment
For an employment contract of more than three months a long-stay VLS-TS visa is normally issued: salarié for a permanent contract, travailleur temporaire for a fixed-term one.
Official guidance
Check the requirements before applying
Who it is for
- A signed employment contract with a French employer
- A prior work authorisation unless a legal exemption applies
- Professional qualifications and compliance with the employment conditions
Documents
A basic preparation list. The competent authority creates the personal checklist based on citizenship and place of application.
- A valid passport and copies of its pages
- A completed application form and recent photographs
- The employment contract, the work authorisation, your qualification and evidence of professional experience
- Proof of funds, accommodation and health insurance — where required
- A police clearance certificate, medical documents, translation and legalisation — if listed for the chosen category
Application steps
- 1The employer requests the work authorisation
- 2Complete the form and get your personal document list on France-Visas
- 3Submit your passport, biometrics and documents at the designated centre
- 4After arrival, validate the VLS-TS online
After arrival
- Validate the VLS-TS within three months
- Arrange your health and social security cover
- Apply for renewal in good time if the job continues
FileLama Templates
Prepare your document package
You can type, save, and print these supporting documents in your account. They do not replace the country's official application form.