Working after graduation

Étudiants, Chercheurs

Pays concerné(s)

Afrique du Sud

Students from member countries of the European Union may work in France without restriction after they graduate.

For students from outside the EU, here are the options open to you.

Students with a degree equivalent to a master's or higher

Students who hold a master's degree or the equivalent may apply for a temporary, non-renewable residency permit valid for 12 months following the expiration of the student residency permit.

The permit allows you to work in a job of your choice at up to 60% of full employment hours.

If you obtain an employment contract related to your educational program and providing remuneration of at least 150% of the SMIC (minimum wage in France), then you are authorized to work full-time and must submit a request for change of residency status (from student to employee) at the prefecture with jurisdiction over your place of residence.

Other students

After graduation, you may receive and accept an offer of employment, even if you are not a citizen of an EU member country.

You will have to submit a request to have your status changed from student to employee following a special procedure. This procedure includes, among other things, presenting an employment contract or an offer of employment from a French firm.

In reviewing your application, the government will assess a number of factors, including the motives of the hiring firm, your background, and the duration of your studies in France.

The "Compétence et talent" permit

The purpose of the "skills and talents" permit (3 years, renewable) is to facilitate the entry into France of foreigners who are likely to contribute in a significant and sustained way to the economic development or intellectual, scientific, cultural, humanitarian, or athletic advancement of France or their country of origin.

The permit is granted in view of the content, nature, and interest of the applicant's plans. Holders of the permit may engage in any form of professional activity that is consistent with the plans stated in the application.