New French immigration law: what changes for the passeport talent?
On June 15, 2025, a new decree was published in the Official Journal, modifying the passeport talent residence permit schemes in France. As an experienced immigration law firm based in Puteaux, near Paris, Boulogne-Billancourt and Courbevoie, we closely follow these legal developments to best advise our clients on their professional immigration projects.
This decree broadly imposes greater restrictions on certain passeport talent visa categories. It changes the designation of these residence permits to "Talent Residence Permit" and consolidates various types of permits under common labels, such as the Talent residence permit for project holders. These changes may raise questions and concerns for foreign professionals seeking to work and live in France.
Stricter eligibility conditions for certain permits
The decree modifies eligibility conditions for several specific residence permits:
- For the Entrepreneur / Self-Employed permit, an opinion on the economic viability of the activity is now required from the department in charge of foreign labor.
- The annual salary threshold for the EU Blue Card has been increased by approximately 10K€, from 54K€ to 65K€.
- A minimum salary threshold has been set for the Talent residence permit for medical and pharmaceutical professionals.
- The "Job Search or Business Creation" residence permit (RECE) now only applies to foreigners holding a student residence permit who have obtained a French master's degree within the past 12 months, instead of 4 years previously.
Failing to meet these new criteria could lead to the rejection of the residence permit application. It is therefore crucial to carefully prepare your application file, ensuring that all conditions are fulfilled.
Streamlined framework for EU Blue Card issuance
The decree establishes a clearer framework for issuing the EU Blue Card residence permit. The administration must notify its decision within 90 days following the complete submission of the application, reduced to 30 days if the foreign national already holds an EU Blue Card from another EU member state.
This streamlined procedure is good news for qualified professionals seeking to work in France under the EU Blue Card scheme. However, given the increased salary threshold, it is important to negotiate your compensation package accordingly.
Harmonized residence permits for family members
The decree also harmonizes the residence permits for family members of Talent residence permit holders. They will benefit from the same validity period and will also lose their residence permit if the main permit holder loses theirs.
This provision highlights the importance of maintaining compliance with the conditions of your Talent residence permit. Any breach could not only jeopardize your own stay but also that of your family members.
Expert advice for your professional immigration project
At Maître Haywood Martin Wise, our American and French qualified lawyers have a deep understanding of immigration laws and procedures on both sides of the Atlantic. We provide personalized assistance to guide you through the complexities of the French immigration system.
While this new decree may not reduce your opportunities for professional immigration to France, it does create a stricter framework for passeport talent categories. Consulting an experienced immigration lawyer is key to putting together a strong application that meets all the legal requirements.
Our law firm, conveniently located in Puteaux and serving clients throughout the Paris region, offers a wide range of immigration law services. From visa applications to citizenship procedures, we are here to help you navigate the process with confidence. Contact us today to discuss your specific situation and let us assist you in making your professional immigration project a success.
