How to get a residence permit in France: cost and opportunities

Obtaining a residence permit in France is not just an opportunity to live in a country with a rich historical and cultural heritage and a high standard of living; it is also a chance to become part of the European community with all its advantages and amenities. France attracts people who value stability, quality of life and broad prospects for development in the areas of business, education and personal growth. In this piece, we'll take a closer look at the key aspects of the process, including costs, available programs and steps to help you obtain a residence permit and discover France from a new perspective.

Obtaining a French residence permit

There are various ways of obtaining residence permits in France, each of which is suitable for different categories of citizens and depends on the individual goals and plans of the applicants. The French residence permit procedure allows foreigners to reside legally in France and access the rights and opportunities available to residents, including health care, education, and the labor market.

The main categories under which a residence permit can be obtained in France include:

• Employment. Designed for qualified professionals who have been offered a job. To obtain a residence permit under an employment contract, you must obtain the consent of a French employer and apply for a work visa. This type of residence permit is especially attractive for those who intend to build a long-term career in Europe.
• Education. France is famous for its high quality educational institutions, and students from all over the world have the opportunity to obtain a residence permit for the duration of their studies. After completing their studies, students can apply for a residence permit extension if they plan to stay in France for an internship, job search or to continue their education.
• Investments and business. It is possible to obtain a residence permit through a business visa, which gives the right to reside in France. This option is especially attractive for company owners and large investors who are ready to develop their business or invest in the French economy.
• Family Reunification. The program allows resident family members to obtain a residence permit and join their loved ones. Family reunification is available to married persons, children and other relatives.

France offers special programs for persons who have distinguished themselves in the fields of culture, sport or science. These programs are designed to attract specialists who can make a significant contribution to the development of culture and science of the country. For each category there are different requirements, application procedures and deadlines for consideration. To successfully obtain a residence permit, you must submit a package of documents, including the purpose of stay, financial solvency and medical insurance. The process itself may differ depending on the method of obtaining it.

Also, the residence permit status can be temporary or permanent. Usually, a temporary permit is valid for one year with the possibility of renewal. With a temporary residence permit, you can apply for a permanent residence permit by changing to another type of residence permit (Work Visa, Family Residence Permit, etc.). For those thinking of moving to France, the choice of the right program depends on personal goals, opportunities and long-term plans.

French residence permit for investment

France provides an opportunity for foreign investors to obtain a residence permit by investing in the country's economy. The minimum investment amount is 300,000 euros and must be directed to the assets of a French company. Ownership of at least 10% of the capital of the company in which the investment is made is required, as well as a commitment to create or maintain jobs in France for four years.

Investors who meet these requirements are able to obtain a residence permit for up to four years, renewable. After five years of residence in France under this program, it is possible to apply for permanent residence or citizenship. In addition to the mandatory government fees for the registration of residence permits, including tax and stamp duty, you should consider the possible costs of buying real estate, if it is part of an investment strategy. When buying a property, you should also take into account transfer taxes, notary fees and agency fees.

It should be noted that the purchase of real estate itself does not guarantee a residence permit, but can serve as proof of residence, which is one of the key conditions when applying for a residence permit.

Basic investment requirements:

• Minimum investment amount: To participate in the program, the investor must contribute at least 300,000 euros in the assets of a French company. These investments can be both tangible assets (equipment, real estate, etc.) and intangible assets (brands, licenses, intellectual property). This approach allows investors to choose the most convenient way to invest depending on their interests and strategy.
• Share in the company's capital: The investor must have at least a 10% stake in the capital of the company in which the funds are invested. This mandatory condition promotes the investor's participation in the management and development of the company. It is possible to invest both in existing companies and in new projects.

Job creation is a key aspect of this program, it implies a commitment to create or maintain jobs in France for at least four years. The investment must contribute to business development and support the French economy through employment and job creation. When starting their own business, the investor also needs to demonstrate that their company will benefit the local economy. Once all conditions have been met, the investor can apply for a residence permit in France for up to four years with the possibility of renewal.

The investment allows the investor and his family (spouse and minor children) to live in France with access to health care and education as residents. After five years of residence in France, the investor can apply for permanent residence or citizenship, which gives the full set of rights available to citizens of the country. To obtain a residence permit through investment in France, it is necessary to take into account the additional costs of mandatory fees and taxes, in addition to the investment amount itself.

• Registration of a residence permit implies payment of state fees, which amount to about 225 euros and include taxes and stamp duty. The amount may vary according to the legislation.
• When buying real estate, the investor needs to take into account the property transfer tax (5%-7%), notary fees (1%-2%) and agency fees (up to 8%). The costs depend on the region and the terms of the transaction.
• To maintain a business in France, additional operating expenses such as salaries, rent, income taxes and other costs may be required depending on the type of activity and investment of the company.

It is important to remember that simply buying real estate in France does not guarantee a residence permit. However, the presence of real estate can additionally confirm the place of residence, which is sometimes necessary for the registration of temporary residence. The purchase of real estate as an asset of the company or to prove financial stability may be a positive factor in considering the application.

Participation in the program of obtaining residence permits through investment provides the investor with many prospects: from the possibility of residence and employment in France to the education of children in European educational institutions. This status also allows the investor to travel to Schengen countries without the need for additional visas.

List of required documents and references

In order to apply for residence permits in France through the investment program, it is necessary to collect a large package of documents. Although this list may vary slightly depending on the type of investment, the personal status of the applicant and the specific requirements of the consulate or migration authorities, the basic documents include the following items:

• When applying for a visa to France, a foreign passport with a valid validity period longer than the planned period of stay is required. It is important to have free pages for visas and marks.
• The residence permit requires a completed application form with basic information about the applicant, his family, goals and motivations.
• Provide several color photographs that meet the requirements for visa documents (size, background, etc.).
• Written materials supporting the investment.
• Investment Agreement - an official document certifying the amount and terms of the investment in a company in France.
• Shareholding documents - documents confirming that the applicant owns at least 10% of the company's shares.
• Business development plan - if investing in a new business, a business plan describing the objectives, expected profits and economic benefits for France may be required.
• Proof of job creation - if the program requires an employment commitment, documents (e.g. employment contracts or an employment plan) must be provided.
• Documents proving that you have sufficient financial means to live and do business in France are mandatory proof of financial solvency. Such documents may include bank statements, income statements and other financial documents.
• It is mandatory for all family members applying for a residence permit to have health insurance valid in France and covering the main risks. A health insurance policy must be provided.
• Documents proving ownership or rental of a home in France are required to prove residency. These documents must demonstrate the applicant's stable place of residence, such as a lease agreement, property purchase documents or an invitation from the owners.
• A criminal record certificate is an official document that is authenticated in the country of citizenship and countries where the applicant has resided for the past five years, and confirms the absence of criminal records.
• Additional documents are required when planning for family entry:
• Marriage certificate to confirm marital status if a residence permit is requested for a spouse as well.
• Children's birth certificates to prove the relationship to the minor children included in the residence permit application.

Upon request, migration services may ask for additional documents, including letters of recommendation, character references from previous jobs or studies, language certificates, and other materials. The need to collect and prepare all required documents requires careful attention, as any mistake or missing document may slow down the application process.

Assistance in obtaining a residence permit

Obtaining a French residence permit through investment is a quick and convenient way for foreign nationals and their families to become EU residents. One World Migration provides assistance in investing in real estate, business or securities to obtain a residence permit. This program allows visa-free travel to Schengen countries without the need for permanent residence in France.