What's the difference between 'salarié' and 'travailleur temporaire'?

'Salarié' is for open-ended contracts or fixed-term contracts of 12 months or more; 'travailleur temporaire' is for shorter fixed-term contracts, roughly 3 to 12 months, and the card matches the contract length.

Do I need a job offer before applying?

Yes. This route is employer-sponsored: the employer must secure a work permit before you can obtain the visa.

Can I switch employers?

Because the permit is tied to the authorised job, changing employer generally requires a new work authorisation; check the current rules at the prefecture.

Long-stay visas (Type D)

French Employee / Temporary Worker Visa (VLS-TS salarié / travailleur temporaire)

The standard employer-sponsored work visa for a French job that does not meet Talent criteria. It requires a work permit and is issued as either 'employee' for open-ended roles or 'temporary worker' for fixed-term ones.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced

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Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official France government website before you apply.

On this page

Who it's for
Requirements
What you can do
How to apply
Documents
Frequently asked questions

Issued by: French consulate abroad, after employer obtains a work permit
Route type: VLS-TS 'salarié' or 'travailleur temporaire'
Employee (salarié): For a CDI or fixed-term contract of 12 months or more
Temporary worker: For contracts of roughly 3 to 12 months; card matches contract length
Precondition: Employer must obtain a work permit before the visa is granted

Who it's for

Non-EU nationals with a concrete French job offer
Roles that are skilled but below Talent thresholds, or fixed-term assignments
Employers willing to sponsor and obtain a work permit

Requirements

A French employment contract (CDI or CDD)
A work permit obtained by the employer from the French authorities
Valid passport and completed France-Visas application
Proof of accommodation and, where required, health cover
Qualifications or experience appropriate to the role

What you can do

Work for the sponsoring employer in the authorised role
Renew the permit while the employment continues
Progress from a one-year to a multi-year card (employee route)
Apply later for a change of status or long-term residence

How to apply

The employer applies for a work permit through the French labour authorities. Once it is approved, you apply for the corresponding long-stay visa through France-Visas and your consulate.

On arrival you validate the VLS-TS online within three months. For a temporary-worker card the validity matches your contract; for the employee route you renew at the prefecture (ANEF) before expiry.

Documents

Valid passport and France-Visas application form
Signed employment contract
Approved work permit (autorisation de travail)
Proof of accommodation in France
Health insurance where required and proof of qualifications

Frequently asked questions

'Salarié' is for open-ended contracts or fixed-term contracts of 12 months or more; 'travailleur temporaire' is for shorter fixed-term contracts, roughly 3 to 12 months, and the card matches the contract length.

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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