Moving to France for a research project or academic mission? We handle the entire Talent Passport visa process, so you can stay focused on your work, not the paperwork.
Over 1,200 professionals have relocated to France with our support, including researchers just like you. No guesswork, no visa headaches. Just expert help from day one.
Start your research career in France, without wasting weeks trying to navigate the French visa process alone.
Gain clarity, avoid delays, and get expert support from day one.
The Talent Passport – Researcher is a multi-year residence permit created for international researchers who have been invited by a public or private research body in France. It provides a streamlined path to living and working in France while continuing your scientific work. This visa is part of France's broader effort to attract top global research talent, offering access to world-class institutions, long-term career opportunities, and a supportive ecosystem committed to academic freedom and scientific excellence.
To qualify, researchers must have at least a master's degree.
Applicants should come to France to conduct research or provide university-level education. This can be indicated in a summary of the project and cover letter.
Researchers should have a hosting agreement signed with an approved public or private organization with a research or higher education mission. The agreement must indicate that they are a researcher and the purpose and duration of stay in France.
Amid growing political tensions around research funding and academic freedom, France is emerging as a strong hold for independent, well-supported science. National initiatives like Choose France for Science (led by the ANR) and Safe Place for Science (launched by Aix-Marseille Universite) in April 2025 reflect a broader commitment to welcoming international researchers, with dedicated programs, institutional backing, and long-term opportunities.
If you're a researcher concerned about the shifting landscape, this may be a pivotal moment to consider France, not just as an alternative, but as a country actively investing in the future of global science.
Begin with a focused consultation to evaluate your eligibility. Our expert advisors will analyze your situation and outline the most suitable legal pathways for researchers.
We'll present a detailed overview of the visa process along with a clear, fixed-price proposal with no hidden costs, specifically designed for researchers.
From document preparation to submission and follow-up, we handle every detail of your application to ensure a smooth and successful process for your research visa.
We'll help you gather, prepare and translate all required documents, including research credentials, hosting agreements, cover letters, and proof of accommodation.
We'll submit your visa application online and schedule your appointment at the French consulate, ensuring all research-specific requirements are properly addressed.
Once approved, we'll assist with collecting your visa and reviewing it for accuracy, ensuring it properly reflects your researcher status.
After arriving in France, we'll help you apply for your residence permit (carte de sejour) within the required timeframe, with special attention to researcher-specific requirements.
We provide support for bank accounts, housing, and other essentials to help you settle comfortably in France and focus on your research work.
When it's time to renew your visa, we'll guide you through the process to ensure continuous legal residency for your ongoing research projects.
The process typically takes 2-3 months from start to finish. This includes document preparation (2-3 weeks), application processing (3-6 weeks), and visa issuance (1-2 weeks). With our support, we can help optimize this timeline and avoid common delays.
No, there is no French language requirement for the Talent Passport - Researcher visa. Many research institutions in France operate in English, especially in scientific fields. However, learning some basic French will be helpful for daily life in France.
Yes, your spouse and dependent children can accompany you under the "Talent Visa - Family" procedure.
Yes, the Talent Passport can be renewed as long as you continue to meet the eligibility requirements. The renewal process should be initiated 2-3 months before your current visa expires. We can assist with this process to ensure continuous legal residency for your ongoing research work.