EU Blue Card for non-EU citizens

The EU Blue Card is a work and residence permit designed for highly qualified non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals who wish to live and work in an EU member state, including France. The Blue Card aims to attract skilled professionals by offering a streamlined process for obtaining a residence permit and facilitating intra-EU mobility. In France, the Blue Card is known as the “Carte Bleue Européenne.”

Key Features

• Highly Qualified Employment: Targeted at highly skilled professionals with a higher education degree or equivalent experience.
• Work and Residence Permit: Combines a work permit and a residence permit, allowing holders to live and work in France.
• Family Reunification: Allows the visa holder’s spouse and minor children to join them in France with immediate access to the labor market.
• Intra-EU Mobility: After 18 months, Blue Card holders can move to another EU country and apply for a Blue Card there, making it easier to work across the EU.
• Pathway to Permanent Residency: After five years of continuous residence in the EU, Blue Card holders may apply for permanent residency.

Eligibility Criteria

1. Higher Education Qualification: The applicant must hold a higher education degree (at least three years of study) or possess at least five years of relevant professional experience in their field.
2. Employment Contract: The applicant must have a binding job offer or an employment contract in France for at least one year.
3. Minimum Salary Requirement: The applicant’s gross annual salary must be at least 1.5 times the average gross annual salary in France. This amount is adjusted annually and varies depending on the occupation and sector.
4. Professional Qualifications: For regulated professions, the applicant must meet the specific professional requirements set by French law.
5. Health Insurance: The applicant must have valid health insurance coverage for the duration of their stay in France.
6. Accommodation: Proof of accommodation in France, such as a rental agreement or property deed.

Required Documents

• Completed Application Form: The official application form for the EU Blue Card.
• Valid Passport: A passport with a validity period extending at least three months beyond the intended stay.
• Higher Education Diplomas: Copies of diplomas or certificates proving higher education qualifications.
• Employment Contract: A binding job offer or employment contract for a minimum of one year, specifying the role and salary.
• Proof of Salary: Documentation proving that the salary meets the minimum threshold (e.g., employment contract, salary slips).
• Proof of Professional Experience: If applicable, evidence of at least five years of professional experience in the relevant field.
• Accommodation Proof: Rental contract, property deed, or similar proof of accommodation in France.
• Health Insurance: Proof of comprehensive health insurance coverage.
• Two Passport Photos: Recent passport-sized photographs.
• Criminal Record Certificate: Police clearance certificate from the applicant’s country of residence.

Application Process

1. Secure Employment: Obtain a binding job offer or employment contract from a French employer.
2. Prepare Documentation: Gather all required documents, ensuring they meet the specific criteria.
3. Submit Application: Apply for the EU Blue Card at the French consulate or embassy in your country of residence.
4. Visa Interview: Attend an interview at the consulate or embassy if required.
5. Receive Visa: If approved, the EU Blue Card will be issued, allowing entry into France.
6. Obtain Residence Permit: Upon arrival in France, apply for a residence permit at the local prefecture.

Cost

Visa Type	Application Fee
EU Blue Card	EUR 99
Residence Permit Fee	EUR 200 – 300

Note: Fees are subject to change and may vary depending on the consulate.

Visa Processing Time

• Processing Time: Typically 2 to 3 months, but this can vary depending on the application volume and individual circumstances.

Key Points to Remember

• Salary Threshold: Ensure that your salary meets the required minimum threshold for the EU Blue Card.
• Professional Qualifications: If your profession is regulated, verify that you meet the necessary qualifications and obtain the required authorization to practice in France.
• Intra-EU Mobility: After 18 months, you can move to another EU member state with your Blue Card and continue your professional activity there.
• Family Benefits: Your family members can join you in France and have immediate access to the labor market.

Conclusion

The EU Blue Card is an attractive option for highly skilled professionals seeking to live and work in France. With benefits such as family reunification, intra-EU mobility, and a pathway to permanent residency, the Blue Card provides a stable and flexible environment for career growth in Europe. By meeting the eligibility criteria and completing the application process, you can take advantage of the opportunities available under the EU Blue Card in France.

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