France Salary Rules 2025: New Requirements for Foreign Professionals

France is changing the rules for foreign professionals who want to live and work in the country. Starting in the summer of 2025, new salary thresholds will come into force for different categories of work permits under the Talent Passport system.

The French government says the aim of these changes is to attract highly skilled professionals who can contribute to the economy, innovation, and long-term growth. However, while the move is meant to strengthen France’s labor market, it could also limit opportunities for mid-level workers, new graduates, and professionals in fields where salaries are lower.

Salary Updates by Category

1. Talent – Qualified Employee

From August 31, 2025, anyone applying for the Talent, Qualified Employee residence permit will need to earn at least €39,582 per year.

This number was carefully chosen as a middle ground between earlier figures:

• €43,243.20 was the previous requirement for fresh graduates.
• €38,918.88 was the level set for workers on assignment.

Earlier in 2025, the government briefly introduced a lower temporary threshold of €35,891, which caused confusion among employers and applicants. Many companies were unsure which figure applied, and foreign workers worried about their eligibility. The new benchmark of €39,582 finally provides clarity and a stable standard.

This adjustment shows that France is trying to balance between making the country competitive for international talent while still ensuring that workers are well-paid and protected.

2. Talent – EU Blue Card

The EU Blue Card is one of the most prestigious work permits in Europe, designed for highly qualified professionals. France has now raised its salary requirement to €59,373 per year, starting August 31, 2025.

Previously, the requirement was €53,836.50. This jump of more than €5,500 makes France one of the most expensive countries in the EU for Blue Card applicants.

Despite the higher cost, the Blue Card remains attractive because it offers unique benefits, such as:

• The right to move and work freely in other EU countries.
• A pathway to permanent residency in Europe.
• Recognition as a top-tier professional across the EU.

This means that while the bar has been raised, those who qualify gain access to a powerful tool for career growth and mobility across Europe.

3. Talent – Medical and Pharmacy

Healthcare professionals, particularly doctors and pharmacists, will also need to meet higher salary standards. From June 16, 2025, the minimum salary for this category will be €41,386.48 annually.

This change could be challenging for France’s healthcare system. Many hospitals and pharmacies are already facing a shortage of qualified staff, especially in rural areas. With the new rule, it may become harder to attract foreign doctors and pharmacists unless employers are willing to raise salaries.

Healthcare experts warn that while the rule aims to attract the best professionals, it might create gaps in areas where urgent medical support is needed.

4. Talent – Legal Representative

Executives and senior company representatives will face the highest salary increase. Since June 16, 2025, applicants in this category must earn at least €64,864.80 per year.

This rule targets CEOs, managing directors, and corporate leaders who represent international companies in France. By setting such a high bar, the French government is signaling that it wants to prioritize top-level executives who can bring in major investments, create jobs, and strengthen France’s global business reputation.

Strict Salary Rules for Employers

French law is very strict when it comes to how these salaries are calculated. Only fixed, taxable income that appears clearly on an employee’s payslip will be counted toward the requirement.

This means that:

• Bonuses, performance-based pay, or allowances will not be included.
• Perks such as housing, transport, or meal vouchers cannot be considered part of the salary.

Importantly, these rules apply not only to new applicants but also to people who already hold a permit or are waiting for a decision. Employers must carefully review employment contracts to avoid mistakes, since even a small gap in salary calculations could lead to permit rejection.

Impact on Foreign Workers

For many young professionals and mid-level workers, these changes could make it much harder to work in France. Fresh graduates often earn less than the new threshold, which means they may have to look for opportunities elsewhere in Europe or delay their move until they gain more experience.

In the healthcare sector, where many foreign workers play a vital role, stricter rules could make hiring more difficult. France already faces a shortage of doctors, nurses, and pharmacists, and higher thresholds may discourage international professionals from applying.

However, for those who do meet the new salary levels, the situation could be positive. They may have greater bargaining power during salary negotiations, as employers will be under pressure to meet government standards and secure top talent.

A Broader European Trend

France is not acting alone in tightening its immigration policies. Several other European countries are also raising salary thresholds for foreign workers. The goals are similar across the continent:

1. Attract highly skilled professionals who can strengthen national economies.
2. Ensure fair wages so that migrant workers are not exploited.
3. Protect local workers from unfair competition in the job market.

This trend shows that Europe as a whole is becoming more selective, aiming to create a labor market filled with well-paid, highly skilled, and stable professionals.

The new French salary requirements mark a major shift in the country’s immigration and labor policies. On one hand, they help ensure that France attracts the best and brightest talent from around the world. On the other, they reduce opportunities for entry-level workers and graduates, which could limit diversity in the workforce.

For professionals who meet the new standards, France still offers exciting opportunities, from a strong economy to the chance of building a career in one of Europe’s most influential countries. But for many others, the rising salary thresholds may push them to consider alternative destinations within the EU where requirements are less strict.

READ MORE: Ireland Opens Seasonal Work Visa 2025 for Pakistanis: Salary, Jobs, Benefits