France - Work Skills & Ancestry - Skills & Talents Permit

A recent reform also seeks to integrate exceptional persons recognized for their skills and talents who are likely to participate significantly, and in the long term, in the economic development or intellectual, cultural, or athletic achievement of France in the world or in the economic development of the alien’s home country. Under this status, the individual is able to perform the professional activity of his or her choice, whether independently or in a salaried capacity. This reform is consistent with previous reforms since 2003, which have facilitated transfers of group executives to France and facilitated obtaining independent professional (merchant) status. This status allows the alien to immediately obtain a three year residency card, as opposed to the standard, one year renewable residency card. This new visa is a significant advance for entrepreneurs, who can apply directly for such a visa at the Consulate and hereby bypass French labor office (DDTEFP) and French Immigration Office (ANAEM) formalities and receive a visa that is valid for three years instead of the standard one year, renewable term and related administrative hurdles at the Prfecture. It has been established as a manner to give the Consulates the discretion to choose persons and projects which are favorable to the economic and cultural development of France. Furthermore, under this status, the family will receive the Private and Family Life permit, which will enable them to accompany you to France and seek employment themselves.