France continues to attract digital nomads from around the world, but surprisingly, does not offer a specific France Digital Nomad Visa yet. But the French government is apparently developing its digital nomad visa program as we speak and it could be launched anytime soon.
For now, there are several France digital nomad visa alternatives like the long-stay visa (visa de long séjour) and talent passport visa (passeport talent) for long stays of 90 days up to one year.
There’s also a visa-free opportunity for remote workers and digital nomads who wish to explore France by taking advantage of a short-stay travel option.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the processes, requirements, and more on how digital nomads can stay and work in one of the world’s most enchanting destinations.
What is the France Digital Nomad Visa?
France does not have a specific visa program labeled as a “France Digital Nomad Visa.” However, the country offers alternative visa options that digital nomads and remote workers can use to legally reside and work in France. These include the long-stay visa and the talent passport visa.
The long-stay visa (visa de long séjour) is suitable for non-EU digital nomads intending to stay in France for more than 90 days. It requires standard documentation like a valid passport, proof of the purpose of the stay, financial means, health insurance, and a clean criminal record. The profession liberale falls under this category intended for self-employed individuals or those with liberal professions. The fee for this visa is approximately €99.
On the other hand, the talent passport visa (passeport talent) is aimed at highly skilled professionals and includes various subcategories, such as entrepreneurs and researchers, with specific eligibility criteria and documentation requirements.
While France is exploring options to attract remote workers and freelancers, the absence of a dedicated digital nomad visa means that digital nomads must navigate existing visa categories to find the most appropriate one for their situation.
It’s essential to stay informed about potential changes in visa policies and consult with professionals for the latest developments and guidance.
The Benefits of the France Digital Nomad Visa Alternatives
Even without a dedicated France Digital Nomad Visa, digital nomads can still benefit from the existing visa options such as the long-stay visa and the talent passport visa. These alternatives offer several advantages for digital nomads considering France as their next remote work destination:
- Long Stay Visa Flexibility: The long-stay visa allows non-EU citizens to stay in France for periods ranging from three months to one year. This flexibility is ideal for digital nomads who wish to spend significant time in France without committing to permanent residency.
- Talent Passport Visa Benefits: The talent passport visa is designed for highly skilled professionals and can be valid for up to four years. It caters to various subcategories, including entrepreneurs and researchers, making it suitable for digital nomads with specialized skills or business ventures.
- Access to French Culture and Lifestyle: France offers a rich cultural experience, renowned cuisine, and a diverse landscape ranging from urban cities like Paris to the scenic countryside. This variety provides an enriching environment for digital nomads to work and live.
- Networking Opportunities: France’s robust economy, particularly in tech and startups, presents networking opportunities for digital nomads. Cities like Paris and Lyon are hubs for innovation and business, ideal for building professional connections.
- Healthcare and Social Benefits: Holders of these visas have access to France’s healthcare system, known for its high quality. Additionally, they can experience the French work-life balance and social benefits.
- Travel Convenience within Europe: Being in France allows easy travel to other European countries, offering digital nomads the chance to explore multiple destinations conveniently.
- High-Quality Infrastructure: France’s infrastructure, including its transportation systems and internet connectivity, supports a comfortable and efficient remote working experience.
- Cultural and Language Immersion: Living in France provides an opportunity for immersion in the French language and culture, enhancing personal growth and global understanding.
France Digital Nomad Visa Alternatives – Requirements, Application & Costs
Digital nomads can consider the long-stay visa or the talent passport visa as alternatives. The requirements for these visas include:
Long-Stay Visa (Visa de Long Séjour)
- Valid Passport: Issued within the last 10 years with at least two blank pages and valid for at least three months beyond the visa’s expiry date.
- Visa Application Form: Fully completed and signed.
- Recent Passport-Sized Photographs: Typically two photos are required, adhering to visa photo requirements.
- Proof of Purpose: Documentation detailing the reason for the extended stay, such as an employment contract, business plan, or proof of activities as a freelancer.
- Proof of Financial Means: Evidence showing you can support yourself financially during your stay in France. This could include bank statements, income statements, or a letter of support from a sponsor.
- Health Insurance Coverage: Proof of a health insurance policy that covers the entire duration of your stay in France.
- Criminal Record Certificate: A clean criminal record from your home country.
- Visa Fee: Approximately €99, subject to change.
Talent Passport Visa (Passeport Talent)
- Qualifications or Achievements: Evidence of exceptional skills, expertise, or achievements relevant to the visa category you are applying for.
- Proof of Financial Means: To support the entire period of your stay in France.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage for the duration of the stay.
- Clean Criminal Record: Certificate confirming no criminal history.
- Supporting Documents: Depending on the subcategory, additional documents such as degrees, professional experience records, employment contracts, or business plans might be required.
- Visa Fee: Varies based on nationality and subcategory, averaging around €250.
For both visas, it is crucial to meet specific criteria depending on the category. The process typically involves submitting the application and documents to the French consulate or embassy in your country of residence.
After arriving in France, you must validate your visa online and complete any additional formalities as required.
French Visa Exemption Program
There are foreign nationals who can enter France without a visa, but the rules largely depend on your passport’s country of issue. Citizens from the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland enjoy the freedom to enter France without a visa for both short stays and long-term living, thanks to the right of free movement within the EU.
For short visits, typically up to 90 days within any 180-day period, travelers from several non-EU countries also benefit from visa-free entry. Here are the following areas:
- United States
- Canada
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Japan
- South Korea
- Albania (only for biometric passport holders)
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Argentina
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Bosnia and Herzegovina (only for biometric passport holders)
- Brazil
- Brunei
- Chile
- Colombia
- Costa Rica
- Dominica
- El Salvador
- Georgia (only for biometric passport holders)
- Grenada
- Guatemala
- Honduras
- Hong Kong (SAR passport)
- Israel
- Kiribati
- Macau (SAR passport)
- Malaysia
- Marshall Islands
- Mauritius
- Mexico
- Micronesia
- Moldova (only for biometric passport holders)
- Monaco
- Montenegro (only for biometric passport holders)
- Nauru
- Nicaragua
- North Macedonia (only for biometric passport holders)
- Palau
- Panama
- Paraguay
- Peru
- Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Saint Lucia
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Samoa
- San Marino
- Serbia (only for biometric passport holders, excludes Kosovo-issued passports)
- Seychelles
- Singapore
- Solomon Islands
- South Africa
- Taiwan (passport must contain identity card number)
- Timor-Leste
- Tonga
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Tuvalu
- Ukraine (only for biometric passport holders)
- United Arab Emirates
- Uruguay
- Vanuatu
- Vatican City
- Venezuela
Additionally, the Schengen Agreement enables citizens of Schengen Area countries to move freely between member states without undergoing border checks, thus simplifying travel across much of Europe.
However, it’s essential to note that these regulations can evolve, influenced by diplomatic relations, security concerns, and international agreements. Always check the latest information from official sources or the French consulate/embassy in your country before booking your trip.
Application Process
Applying for a long-stay visa or a talent passport visa in France involves a step-by-step process:
- Determine the Appropriate Visa Type: Choose between the long-stay visa or the talent passport visa based on your professional background, qualifications, and the purpose of your stay. The long-stay visa is suitable for stays longer than 90 days, while the talent passport visa caters to highly skilled professionals.
- Gather Required Documents: Collect all necessary documents, including a valid passport, recent passport-sized photographs, a completed visa application form, proof of financial means, a clean criminal record certificate, and health insurance coverage. For the talent passport visa, additional documents related to your qualifications and professional achievements may be required.
- Fill Out the Visa Application Form: Complete the relevant visa application form, which can be found on the official French visa website or obtained from the French consulate or embassy in your country.
- Submit the Application: Lodge your visa application along with all the required documents at the nearest French consulate or embassy. It’s advisable to check whether an appointment is needed and if so, schedule it in advance.
- Pay the Visa Fee: The application fee for the long-stay visa is approximately €99, while the talent passport visa fee varies but averages around €250. These fees are subject to change, so it’s best to confirm the current amount before applying.
- Attend the Visa Interview (if required): Some applicants may be required to attend an interview at the consulate or embassy. The interview is an opportunity to provide further information about your planned activities in France and your background.
- Wait for Visa Processing: The processing time varies depending on the specifics of the application. The long-stay visa typically takes about 15-20 days to process, but this can vary.
- Visa Validation After Arrival in France: Once in France, you must validate your visa online within three months of arrival. This process requires a valid email address, visa information, your date of arrival in France, your address in France, and payment for the issuance of your residence permit.
- Apply for a Residence Permit: After validating your visa, you’ll need to apply for a temporary residence permit, allowing you to legally stay and work in France.
- Renewal and Pathway to Permanent Residency: If you wish to extend your stay, you must apply for a visa renewal or residence permit extension well before your current visa or permit expires. After living continuously in France under these visas for a specific period, you may become eligible for permanent residency or citizenship.
Remember, visa requirements and processes can be complex and subject to change. Therefore, it’s important to consult the official French visa website or a professional visa service for the most current and detailed information.
Costs
The costs involved in applying for a long-stay visa or the talent passport visa in France, which serve as alternatives for digital nomads, can be categorized as basic application fees and incidental expenses:
Basic Visa Application Fees:
- Long-Stay Visa Fee: Approximately €99 (around $110 USD). This is the standard fee for processing the long-stay visa application.
- Talent Passport Visa Fee: The fee can vary based on nationality and subcategory, averaging around €250 (about $275 USD).
Incidental Expenses:
- Travel Insurance: Required for the duration of the stay. The cost varies based on coverage and duration but can start from around €30 to €50 ($33 to $55 USD) per month.
- Health Insurance: Mandatory for visa validation. The cost depends on the coverage but can range from €40 to €100 ($44 to $110 USD) per month.
- Document Translation and Certification Costs: If your documents are not in French, translation and certification costs may apply. Prices vary depending on the document type and length, but translations can cost around €30 to €50 ($33 to $55 USD) per page.
- Passport Photos: Required for the visa application. A set of passport photos can cost around €5 to €10 ($6 to $11 USD).
- Travel Costs for Visa Application: If you need to travel to a consulate or embassy for your visa application or interview, these travel costs will vary based on your location.
Costs After Arrival in France:
- Residence Permit Fee: After validating the visa, applying for a residence permit involves a fee, typically around €200 to €250 ($220 to $275 USD).
- Living Expenses: These are highly variable and depend on your lifestyle and the city you choose to live in.
Other Cost Considerations
The cost of living in France for digital nomads and expats can vary widely based on lifestyle, location, and personal preferences. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Housing: The monthly rent for an apartment in France ranges significantly depending on the city and size. For instance, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center may cost between €500 to €1,500, while outside the center, it could be around €400 to €968.33. In contrast, larger three-bedroom apartments can range from €972 to €3170.40 monthly.
- Utilities: Monthly utility costs (including electricity, heating, water, and garbage) for a standard apartment are around €100 to €297.50. For a smaller studio, it might be approximately €97.
- Food and Groceries: A budget for food and groceries can be estimated at about €260 to €371 per month. Dining out at a mid-range restaurant for two people might cost around €60, while a meal at an inexpensive restaurant is approximately €15.
- Transportation: Public transportation costs can vary, with monthly passes ranging from €54 to €123.75. Owning a car increases expenses due to costs like insurance, gas, and parking. However, renting a scooter could be a more affordable option.
- Healthcare: Health insurance costs are an essential factor. For basic coverage, it could be around €40 per month.
- Lifestyle and Leisure: Activities, leisure, and entertainment can add to your monthly expenses depending on your interests. Gym memberships, attending movies or concerts, and dining out are some of the factors to consider.
- Miscellaneous: Other costs include internet, mobile plans, and personal care items, which can add up based on usage and preferences.
On average, a single person’s estimated monthly costs are €953.7 (about $1,035.9) without rent. A family of four’s estimated monthly costs are €3,410.1 (about $3,704.1) without rent. Expats and digital nomads may spend around €1,097.50 to €2,080.00 (approximately $1,313.75 to $2,426.25) per month to maintain their living standards in France.
It’s important to note that these are average estimates and actual costs can vary based on individual circumstances and lifestyle choices. Additionally, it’s recommended to have some savings as a buffer for unexpected expenses or emergencies.
Resources to Stay Up to Date with Visa Changes
Official Visa Website for France
Do I Need a France Digital Nomad Visa?
Digital nomads who wish to live and work in France can consider the long-stay visa or the talent passport visa as viable alternatives. These options, while not tailored exclusively for digital nomads, provide legal pathways for staying and working in the country.
The long-stay visa, appropriate for stays longer than 90 days, is suitable for those who wish to experience living in France for an extended period. It requires proof of financial stability and health insurance, among other documentation.
The talent passport visa, targeting highly skilled professionals, offers up to four years of stay and is ideal for digital nomads with specific expertise or entrepreneurial ventures that could contribute to the French economy.
Both visa types involve a detailed application process, including the submission of necessary documents and potentially an interview at a French consulate or embassy.
For those still unsure about the prospect of France as their digital nomad destination, they can explore the country visa-free if they belong or hold passports from the countries listed above.
Staying informed about the latest developments in France’s visa policies and consulting with immigration experts is advisable for the most accurate and current information. This approach ensures that digital nomads can make well-informed decisions aligned with their lifestyle and professional goals while complying with legal requirements.
Best Places to Live or Explore In France for Digital Nomads
Paris – The Iconic Heart of France
As the capital city, Paris is a hub for digital nomads who seek a vibrant cultural scene and endless networking opportunities. With its rich history, iconic landmarks, and an abundance of coworking spaces, Paris is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in French culture. Though the cost of living is high, the city’s charm, coupled with the availability of various visa options like the long-stay visa and passport talent visa, makes it a top choice.
Paris offers digital nomads unique spots such as the tranquil Luxembourg Gardens for serene workdays outdoors, the bustling Café de Flore for networking over coffee in a historic setting, and the modern WeWork La Fayette, which provides state-of-the-art coworking spaces in the heart of the city.
Lyon – A Blend of Gastronomy and Technology
Known for its culinary excellence, Lyon is also a growing tech hub, attracting remote workers from the technology sector. The city offers a balance between a bustling urban life and a relaxed pace, ideal for digital nomads who want a taste of both worlds. The liberal profession visa category is an option for those in specific professions.
Lyon caters to digital nomads with La Cordée, offering a welcoming coworking community, the picturesque Parc de la Tête d’Or for outdoor work sessions amidst nature, and Le Simone, which combines a cozy café atmosphere with dedicated workspaces.
Bordeaux – Wine Country with a Digital Twist
Bordeaux, famous for its wine, is also becoming a digital nomad hotspot. The city’s relaxed lifestyle, combined with a growing startup scene, offers a unique environment for remote workers. Non-EU nationals can consider the professional liberale visa to settle here.
Bordeaux attracts digital nomads with Le Node, a dynamic coworking space fostering innovation and collaboration, Darwin Ecosystem, an eco-friendly hub for creativity and social impact projects, and La Guinguette Chez Alriq, offering a relaxed riverside setting for casual work and networking.
Nice – The Mediterranean Hub
Nice offers a stunning Mediterranean lifestyle, making it a prime location for digital nomads who love the sea. The city has a strong expat community and offers a variety of visa options, including the short-stay visa for shorter projects.
Nice welcomes digital nomads with Workhouse Café, combining a cozy coffee shop with efficient workspaces, the scenic Promenade des Anglais for inspiring seaside work sessions, and CoolWork, a modern coworking space that encourages creativity and collaboration in the heart of the city.
Strasbourg – The Crossroads of Europe
Strasbourg, located near the border with Germany, offers a unique blend of French and German influences. It’s a strategic location for digital nomads interested in exploring multiple European countries, as it’s well-connected to other EU countries. The city is home to several EU institutions and is perfect for those seeking to work remotely in a culturally diverse environment. Non-EU nationals can explore options like the Schengen visa for short stays or the long stay visa for longer projects.
The city offers digital nomads the vibrant Le Shadok, a creative digital culture center with coworking spaces, the tranquil Parc de l’Orangerie for serene work amidst nature, and Anticafé Strasbourg, where the blend of a café’s coziness and a workspace’s functionality fosters productivity and networking.
Marseille – The Mediterranean Gateway
As the second-largest city in France, Marseille offers a vibrant, multicultural environment with a picturesque Mediterranean coastline. It’s an attractive destination for digital nomads who enjoy a lively urban atmosphere combined with the tranquility of seaside living. Marseille stands out as a dynamic choice. The city’s proximity to other Mediterranean countries also makes it appealing for digital nomads interested in exploring Western Europe.
Marseille serves digital nomads with La Bo[a]te, offering a collaborative and innovative coworking environment, the historic Vieux Port for inspirational work sessions with a view of the Mediterranean, and Cowork’in Vieux Port, which combines the charm of the old city with modern, flexible workspaces.
Lille – The Northern Gem
Lille, known for its student-friendly vibe and historical architecture, is an excellent choice for young professionals and many digital nomads. Located in northern France, it offers a lower cost of living compared to other major French cities, making it a budget-friendly option for those looking to work remotely.
Check out Weréso Lille, featuring versatile coworking spaces in a central location, the charming Jardin des Géants for peaceful outdoor work sessions among greenery, and La Coroutine, a cozy and creative coworking space that nurtures community and collaboration.
Nantes – The Green Wonder
Nantes is renowned for its innovative projects and green initiatives. It’s an ideal place for digital nomads who prioritize sustainability and a high quality of life. The city’s numerous parks and cultural events, combined with a supportive environment for startups, make it a desirable location for remote workers.
The city offers digital nomads the dynamic La Cantine Numérique, a tech-focused coworking space fostering innovation, the lush Île de Versailles for tranquil work sessions by the river, and CO-work, a friendly and modern coworking space that encourages networking and productivity in the city center.
Aix-en-Provence – Where Artistic Flair Meets Relaxed Provençal Charm
Aix-en-Provence, with its picturesque streets and vibrant arts scene, is a haven for digital nomads seeking inspiration and a slower pace of life. It’s perfect for those who appreciate the arts and want to immerse themselves in the quintessential French lifestyle. The city’s relaxed atmosphere is complemented by its proximity to other major European destinations. With its blend of historical architecture and modern amenities, Aix-en-Provence offers a balanced lifestyle, conducive to creativity and productivity.
Digital nomads can check out L’Atelier des entrepreneurs, offering a supportive coworking community for startups and freelancers, the serene Parc Jourdan for those seeking an outdoor office amidst nature, and Anticafé Aix-en-Provence, blending the comfort of a café with the functionality of a workspace right in the historic heart of the city.
Annecy – The Alpine Paradise
Annecy, often referred to as the “Venice of the Alps,” offers breathtaking lake views and outdoor activities, ideal for digital nomads who love nature and adventure. The town’s proximity to Geneva makes it a strategic location for remote workers looking to explore both French and Swiss cultures. Annecy’s scenic beauty and peaceful environment make it an excellent spot for digital nomads seeking inspiration and a healthy work-life balance.
Among the top spots are; La Cordée Annecy, providing a cozy coworking space with a community vibe, the picturesque Lake Annecy for inspirational work sessions with breathtaking views, and Le Mug Annecy, a modern coworking space that fosters creativity and collaboration in the heart of the city.
Toulouse – The Pink City with a Space Edge
Toulouse is known for its aerospace industry and is ideal for digital nomads in related fields. The young professional visa (visa jeune professionnel) can be an option for those starting their careers in this dynamic city.
The city offers digital nomads HarryCow Coworking, with its vibrant community and central location, the lush Jardin des Plantes for peaceful work sessions in nature, and La Cantine Toulouse, a tech-focused coworking space that promotes innovation and networking among professionals.
Montpellier – A Fusion of Historical Charm and Youthful Energy
With its young population and vibrant student life, Montpellier is perfect for digital nomads seeking a lively atmosphere. The city’s cost of living is reasonable and digital nomads can check out Le Faubourg, offering a creative and collaborative coworking environment and Cowork’In Montpellier, a centrally located workspace designed to boost productivity and foster community.
France Digital Nomad Visa – Summary
As digital nomads and remote workers consider France as your next destination, understanding the current visa landscape is crucial. While France does not offer a dedicated digital nomad visa yet, there are practical alternatives that facilitate legal residence and work in this beautiful country.
The long-stay visa and the talent passport visa are notable options, each catering to different needs and durations of stay. The long-stay visa is ideal for those intending to stay for more than 90 days, while the talent passport visa, valid for up to four years, suits highly skilled professionals with specialized skills or business ventures.
Those belonging to countries with bilateral agreements with France, can go and explore the region visa-free for 90 days, then decide if France is a suitable destination for their digital nomad lifestyle.
Despite the absence of a specific visa for digital nomads, France’s existing visa categories provide a pathway for remote workers to immerse themselves in French culture and lifestyle, offering opportunities for personal growth, networking, and cultural exchange.
Want to explore more of the world for your next global address as a digital nomad? Check out our posts on top destinations and countries where you can acquire a digital nomad visa and more.
- 71 Countries With Digital Nomad Visas (or Similar) in 2024
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France Digital Nomad Visa – FAQs
Is it legal to work remotely from France?
Yes, it is legal to work remotely from France. Foreign nationals intending to work remotely in this beautiful country can do so legally, provided they adhere to the French government’s visa regulations. The most common way to legally work remotely is through visas like the long-stay visa or the profession liberale visa, which cater to self-employed individuals or those engaged in liberal professions.
Applicants must meet the documents required, including a valid passport, proof of financial means, and health insurance. It’s important to consult with the French authorities or a visa application center to ensure all the details are in order, especially regarding the duration of stay and work permit conditions.
Is France good for digital nomads?
France is an excellent destination for digital nomads, offering a blend of rich history, culture, and modern amenities. As a digital nomad in France, you’ll experience the country’s diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to serene countryside. However, digital nomads must consider the absence of a new digital nomad visa and opt for other available visas.
France provides a conducive environment for remote working, with good internet connectivity, a variety of coworking spaces, and a vibrant expat community. Additionally, being an EU country in the Schengen area, France offers ease of travel to other European Union countries.
What is the easiest digital nomad visa in Europe?
In terms of accessibility and requirements, countries like Portugal and Spain are often considered to have some of the easiest digital nomad visas in Europe. They provide specific visa categories that cater to remote workers and freelancers.
These visas generally require proof of sufficient financial resources, a clean criminal record, and health insurance. The EU Blue Card visa, another option available in some EU countries, is designed for highly skilled non-EU nationals, although it’s more suited for employment with a specific company rather than for digital nomads.
Does France have a freelance visa?
France offers a visa category that can be used by freelancers – the profession liberale visa. This visa allows freelancers to live and work in France, provided they meet certain criteria, such as demonstrating sufficient financial resources and the viability of their freelance business.
The process involves submitting necessary documents to the French consulate, including recent ID pictures, a valid passport, and proof of professional plans. It’s vital to ensure that you’re registered with the local registration hall and understand your obligations to pay taxes in France.
How does France support non-EU digital nomads?
For non-EU digital nomads, France offers visa options such as the long-stay visa and the profession liberal visa. While there is no dedicated nomad visa for France, these alternatives allow non-EU nationals to stay and work in France for up to a year, and sometimes longer. Applicants must provide proof of sufficient financial resources, a valid passport, and other supporting documents.
Additionally, non-EU digital nomads in France under these visas need to navigate the tax treaty agreements between their home country and France to understand their tax liabilities. Working with a French company or as a freelancer, digital nomads must align with the regulations set by the French government and the European Union regarding work permits and residence permits.
