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Traveling Inside Schengen with a French Residence Permit: Rules and Tips

Posted on August 4, 2025 by loris

Traveling freely across borders is one of the biggest quality-of-life improvements that comes with holding a valid French residence permit. Yet many newcomers discover only at the airport check-in desk that “free movement” inside the Schengen Area is not unconditional. Below is a practical, 2025-updated overview of the rules that apply to third-country nationals residing in France, plus field-tested tips to keep your weekends in Barcelona or work trips to Berlin worry-free.

1. What the law actually says

Under Article 21 of the Schengen Borders Code, a third-country national who holds either :

a long-stay visa marked “Visa D – valid as residence permit” (VLS-TS) issued by France, or
a French residence permit (carte de séjour pluriannuelle, carte de résident, talent passport, family card, etc.)

may enter and circulate within the territories of the 26 Schengen member states for up to 90 days in any 180-day period, without applying for an additional visa.

The European Commission confirms this interpretation in its consolidated guidance of November 2023. Airlines and border guards are instructed to treat a residence permit exactly like a Schengen multi-entry visa for the purpose of short stays.

Key takeaway: think of your permit as a 90-day tourist visa that automatically renews as long as the card itself remains valid.

2. The 90/180 rule, demystified

The famous 90-day limit is cumulative across all Schengen countries. Day trips count as one full day, and the 180-day reference window is a rolling period counted backwards from each day of stay.

Example :

1–15 March 2025: vacation in Greece (15 days)
10–20 May 2025: conference in Germany (11 days)
1–20 July 2025: family visit in Spain (20 days)

Total used by 20 July 2025: 46 days. You would therefore still have 44 days available anywhere in Schengen until 27 August 2025.

Online calculators such as the EU’s official Schengen Calculator can help you avoid mistakes.

3. Countries you can and cannot visit on a French residence permit

Category	Countries (August 2025)	Status for permit holders
Schengen members	Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland	Free travel ≤ 90/180
EU but not Schengen	Bulgaria (partial checks), Cyprus, Ireland, Romania (partial checks)	French residence permit not enough – short-stay visa may be required¹
European microstates	Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, Vatican	Accessible through neighboring Schengen state, but passport checks possible
French overseas territories	Guadeloupe, Martinique, Réunion, etc.	Not in Schengen – your card alone does not exempt you from local visa formalities

¹Romania and Bulgaria joined Schengen for air and sea borders only on 31 March 2024. Land crossings still involve controls, and airlines may demand a short-stay visa until full accession is completed.

4. Document checklist before you leave France

Passport – must be valid at least 3 months beyond your planned return date and issued within the last 10 years.
Original residence permit or VLS-TS sticker. Photocopies are not sufficient at the gate.
Proof of French address (utility bill or digital attestation). Not mandatory, but often requested on budget airlines.
Travel insurance covering medical emergencies up to €30 000. Many Schengen states still perform spot checks.
Ongoing renewal receipt (récépissé) or prolongation sticker if your card expires during the trip.

Flying soon after filing for a renewal? French law grants an automatic 3-month extension, but only if the prefecture has given you a récépissé that expressly mentions international travel (“autorise le franchissement des frontières”). Without that wording, land routes are safer.

5. Common pain points – and how to avoid them

Airline desk ignorance
Some low-cost carriers train staff only on passports and classic Schengen visas. Bring a print-out of the French Interior Ministry’s FAQs or the EU Commission guidance (links below). It can save you a last-minute argument.
Expired passport but valid permit
Your residence card does not replace a passport. Renew it first – most consulates in Paris now issue fast-track appointments for this reason.
Lost or stolen card abroad
File a police report immediately, then contact the nearest French consulate for a return visa (visa de retour). ImmiFrance can coordinate the paperwork remotely if you have an active case file with us.
Studying or working remotely outside France for more than 90 days
You will need either a local long-stay visa or an intra-EU mobility permit (directive 2016/801 for students and researchers, ICT for workers). Consult our work-permit guide early.

6. ETIAS and Entry/Exit System – will they change the game?

The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) is expected to go live in October 2025, followed by ETIAS in mid-2026. Both regulations explicitly exempt holders of long-stay visas and residence permits issued by a Schengen state. You will simply be registered automatically when crossing an external border; no online application or fee is foreseen for residents.

That said, digital kiosks may replace human stamping. Keep your card handy and allow extra time for the first trip after implementation.

7. Practical itinerary tips from 500 + client cases

Choose direct flights whenever possible. Connecting in the UK or Ireland triggers a separate visa regime and additional border checks.
Book with a French IBAN linked to your home address. Some hotels in Poland and Hungary still refuse third-country cards that lack embossed names.
Travel in the first six months after card issuance if you plan to explore multiple destinations. Once you have accumulated more than 12 months of absences from France over a rolling three-year period, you risk issues at prefecture renewal time.
Keep digital copies (encrypted cloud) of your residence card, passport, and proof of income. Consular help is faster when you can email documents.
Leverage train travel. The Paris-Barcelona TGV, Paris-Milan Frecciarossa, and new Berlin Nightjet lines all cross Schengen internal borders without identity controls onboard, reducing the stress of unclear airline policies.

8. If your situation is less than straightforward

Pending asylum or OQTF status: An OQTF (“obligation de quitter le territoire français”) suspends your right to re-enter France. Leaving the country can be considered voluntary departure and may bar you from returning. Seek legal advice first.
Family members with different status: Your non-EU spouse or child who does not hold their own French permit must either 1) apply for a visa for each trip or 2) secure a carte de séjour « vie privée et familiale » before departure. Mixed-status families account for 18 percent of the last year’s refusals at Schengen entry points, according to Frontex.

ImmiFrance can review the whole household’s documents and book joint prefecture appointments, sparing you hours of queueing.

9. Sources you can cite at the border

European Commission, Handbook on Travel for Residence Permit Holders (rev. 11/2023)
French Ministry of the Interior, Questions-réponses sur le droit au séjour (updated 03/2025)
Regulation (EU) 2016/399, Schengen Borders Code (consolidated 01/2024)

Having these PDFs on your phone can be persuasive when an airline supervisor is unfamiliar with third-country rules.

10. Ready for take-off? How ImmiFrance can help

Whether you need a last-minute récépissé for your Croatian beach holiday or long-term planning for a pan-European work schedule, our team of immigration attorneys and former prefecture officers is a click away.

Personalized document audits within 48 hours
Live chat while you are at the border
Full representation for residence-permit renewals if cumulative travel days raise red flags

Visit our residence-permit hub or schedule a free 15-minute call today. Your French address may be fixed, but your horizons don’t have to be.

Carte de Séjour for EU Family Members: Application Guide and Common Snags

Posted on August 3, 2025 by loris

Moving to France with Your EU Partner? Read This First

If you are the spouse, child, or dependent parent of an EU or EEA citizen who plans to settle in France for more than three months, French law says you are entitled to a carte de séjour “membre de famille d’un citoyen de l’Union”. In practice, however, getting that little plastic card can feel like running an obstacle course: appointments vanish in seconds, document lists differ from one prefecture to another, and small mistakes can push you back to square one.

This guide walks you through the 2025 rules, step-by-step requirements, and the most common snags applicants report to ImmiFrance. By the end, you will know exactly what to prepare and how to react if the prefecture’s answer is “incomplete file — come back later”.

1. Legal Basis and Key Benefits

Directive 2004/38/EC (often called the Free Movement Directive) requires France to facilitate residence for qualifying family members of EU citizens.
Articles L421-1 to L421-22 of the French immigration code (CESEDA) transpose those rights into national law.

With a valid EU-family carte de séjour you can:

Live and work in France without needing a separate work permit.
Travel in and out of the Schengen Area with fewer checks.
After five continuous years, apply for a permanent 10-year card or even French citizenship if you meet integration criteria.

2. Who Qualifies in 2025?

Relationship	Age or Status Condition	Must Be Dependent?
Spouse (married)	Marriage must be legally recognized in France	No
Registered partner (PACS)	Must prove durable relationship and joint residence	Depends on prefecture
Unmarried partner (durable relationship)	Documentary proof of at least 12 months cohabitation	Yes – treated case-by-case
Child of EU citizen	Under 21 or financially dependent	No if <21
Step-child	Same as above plus consent from other biological parent	–
Dependent parent or grandparent of EU citizen	Any age	Yes
Dependent parent of EU spouse	Allowed if financial dependence proved	Yes

Note: Since January 2024, UK nationals are no longer considered “EU citizens” for this procedure. Their non-EU family members must apply under the Withdrawal Agreement rules.

3. Required Documents Checklist

Every prefecture publishes its own PDF, but the core list is harmonized by the Ministry of Interior. Gather originals and one set of copies:

Document	Tips to Avoid Refusal
Passport of applicant	Full-page copy, including blank pages with stamps
Passport or national ID of EU citizen	Must be valid for duration of stay
Proof of family link (marriage certificate, birth certificate, PACS)	Provide certified translation if not in French
Proof EU citizen has moved to France	Lease, property deed, or recent utility bill
Proof of sufficient resources	Last 3 payslips or work contract of EU citizen; entrepreneurs add K-bis extract
Proof of comprehensive health insurance	EU citizen working in France covers family via Assurance Maladie; otherwise, private policy or EHIC plus attestation
Proof of applicant’s entry date into France	Entry stamp, transport ticket, or sworn statement if arriving from Schengen
Three standard ID photos	35×45 mm, neutral background
Cerfa form n° 14597*03	Fill out in blue ink, no digital signature

ImmiFrance tracking data shows that 84 % of file rejections in 2024 were due to missing resource proof or outdated translations.

4. The Application Process Explained

Book an appointment online
- Most prefectures now use the Démarches Simplifiées portal. Slots open 30 to 60 days in advance, typically at 8:30 AM on weekdays.
- No slots? Take screenshots of the unavailable calendar. They can help defend your case if you later receive an OQTF (obligation to leave France) for “no residence title”.
Prepare two physical files
- One complete set for the officer.
- One identical set for your records, stamped and dated at submission.
Attend the interview
- Both you and the EU citizen must be present unless exempted. Bring originals for inspection.
- Fingerprints and a digital photo are collected on site.
Receive the récépissé
- If the file is accepted, you get a 6-month temporary receipt allowing you to work.
- If documents are missing, you will receive a lettre de complément with 30 days to supply the items.
Pick up the carte de séjour
- Average processing time in 2025 is 7 to 10 weeks, according to the Ministry’s June 2025 dashboard.
- A 269 € tax stamp is due upon issuance.

5. Common Snags and How to Fix Them

Impossible to get an appointment
- Email the prefecture’s dedicated EU family address with proof of attempts.
- Send a registered letter (LRAR) requesting an appointment. Prefectures must answer within one month per Article R421-19 CESEDA.
Officer demands “proof of language level”
- Politely cite Article L421-5: no integration assessment is required for EU family cards. Provide a printed copy.
Questioning the financial resources
- The threshold equals the French minimum wage net (1 460 €/month in 2025). If the EU citizen is job-seeking, show savings statements covering six months.
PACS or unmarried partners treated as tourists
- Produce joint bank statements, joint lease, and photos proving at least one year of shared life. If refused, request a written decision to appeal.
Spouse entered France without visa
- Under Article 5(4) of Directive 2004/38/EC, a visa may be obtained at the border or afterwards. Prefectures cannot refuse the application solely on that ground.
Prefecture issues a short-stay “visitor” sticker instead
- File a complaint to the Défenseur des droits and seek interim relief (référé) at the administrative tribunal.

6. Renewals and Upgrades

First renewal: apply two months before expiry. Bring updated proof of cohabitation and resources.
Permanent 10-year card: available after five years of continuous residence alongside the EU citizen.
Switch to carte de résident (non-EU route): possible if the EU citizen leaves France but you have already spent five years on French soil.

Failure to renew on time can trigger an OQTF. If this happens, contact a specialized lawyer immediately. ImmiFrance can put you in touch within 24 hours through our prefecture-appointment assistance page.

7. Costs and Timelines at a Glance

Item	2025 Fee	Average Delay
Tax stamp at card pickup	269 €	–
Certified translation (per page)	30–45 €	2–3 days
Apostille (if required)	20 €	1 week
Private health insurance (if needed)	40–90 €/month	Immediate
Prefecture processing	–	7–10 weeks

Source: Ministry of Interior data, June 2025; market averages compiled by ImmiFrance network translators.

8. How ImmiFrance Can Help

Document pre-check: an immigration advisor reviews scans of your file and flags missing items within 48 hours.
Appointment monitoring: our bot tracks slot releases across 74 prefectures and sends a real-time SMS when a seat opens.
Legal intervention: if your file is rejected or you receive an OQTF, we connect you to a vetted lawyer who can file an emergency appeal.
Case tracking dashboard: follow each milestone, upload additional documents securely, and chat with your assigned expert.

ImmiFrance clients obtained their first EU-family carte de séjour in 93 % of cases on the first try in 2024, compared with the national average of 76 % reported by the Défenseur des droits.

For personalized guidance, visit our residence permit section or start your application directly from the contact page.

Key Takeaways

The right to a carte de séjour for EU family members is grounded in both EU and French law.
Perfect documentation and early appointment booking are the two biggest success factors.
Common snags include resource proof, appointment scarcity, and misunderstandings about partner status—each has a legal remedy.
Professional assistance can shave weeks off processing and prevent costly refusals.

Moving to France with your EU partner should be exciting, not exhausting. Start organized, know your rights, and do not hesitate to leverage expert help when the prefecture maze seems endless.

How to Exchange Your Foreign Driver’s License for a French One Stress-Free

Posted on August 3, 2025 by loris

Moving to France comes with a never-ending list of forms and acronyms – and your driver’s license is no exception. Whether you plan to commute to work, travel on weekends, or simply keep driving legally after your first year in the country, exchanging your foreign license is a critical step. The good news? With the right strategy you can complete the process online through the ANTS portal and avoid the dreaded prefecture queues. Below is a practical, up-to-date roadmap that will take the stress out of turning your foreign credential into a shiny, photocard French license.

1. Do You Actually Need to Exchange Your License?

Before you start collecting documents, confirm whether an exchange is mandatory.

EU / EEA / Swiss licenses: As long as your license is valid and you meet medical requirements, you may drive indefinitely in France. However, an exchange becomes obligatory if the license expires, if you commit a traffic offence that leads to points being deducted, or if you want categories added (e.g., motorcycle).
Non-EU licenses with reciprocity agreement: Citizens of roughly 60 countries ranging from Canada to Japan must exchange their license within 12 months of obtaining “normal residence” (generally the date your first residence permit is issued).
Non-EU licenses without reciprocity: You can drive for one year on your foreign license, but after that you must obtain a French license by passing the theory (code) and practical tests.

Sources: Directive 2006/126/EC; French Transport Code, art. R222-1 to R222-3; Service-Public.fr (2025 update).

2. Eligibility Table: Is Your Country on the List?

France updates its reciprocity lists every year. Below is a non-exhaustive snapshot (May 2025). Always verify the latest decree on Legifrance.

Region	Eligible Countries	Deadline to Apply
North America	Canada, USA (limited states: NY, CA, FL, SC, GA, PA, CT, VA, MD, IL)	12 months from residence
Latin America	Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Uruguay	12 months
Europe (non-EU)	UK, Andorra, Monaco	12 months
Africa	South Africa, Senegal, Morocco, Tunisia	12 months
Asia-Pacific	Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand	12 months

If your state or country is not listed (e.g., Texas, India, Philippines), prepare for the French driving tests after your first year.

3. Document Checklist (2025 Requirements)

Scanned color copy of the front and back of your foreign license (PDF or JPEG, ≤1 Mo each).
Certified translation by a sworn translator (if the license is not in French).
Proof of identity: passport or national ID, plus your current residence permit or long-stay visa.
Proof of address: electricity bill, lease contract, or attestation d’hébergement (≤6 months old).
Driving record or abstract from the issuing authority, dated within three months (required for many U.S. states, Canada, Australia, etc.).
Passport-style photo in digital format (you’ll receive a code from an approved photo booth or photographer).
Payment method for the €25 “timbre fiscal électronique” (credit card or online tax stamp).

Tip: Scan each document separately, name files clearly (e.g., “Passport_Jane_Doe.pdf”), and keep sizes under 4 Mo to avoid ANTS upload errors.

4. Step-by-Step Guide to the ANTS Online Procedure

Create or log in to your ANTS account at ants.gouv.fr. If you have the FranceConnect digital identity, use it for faster access.
Select “Permis de conduire – Echange de permis étranger (EEA ou hors EEA)” and click “Commencer la démarche.”
Fill in personal data exactly as on your residence permit (spelling, accents, hyphens). Minor mismatches trigger delays.
Upload documents: follow the checklist above; the portal will reject blurry uploads or files larger than specified limits.
Pay the tax stamp directly online or enter a code if you bought it at a tobacconist.
Submit and download the confirmation PDF. This contains your dossier number, essential for tracking.
Track your case through the ANTS dashboard. Average processing time in 2025 is 4–6 months, though high-volume prefectures (Île-de-France, Rhône) can take longer.
Send your original license by registered mail when ANTS requests it. You will receive an “attestation de dépôt sécurisée” allowing you to drive for four months, renewable once.
Receive your French license by Lettre Expert (signed-for postal delivery). The issued categories will match those on your original license, subject to French equivalences.

5. Five Frequent Pitfalls — and How to Avoid Them

Missing the 12-month deadline: ANTS counts from the start date of your first residence permit, not your arrival stamp. If you’re already beyond 12 months, seek professional advice before applying.
License expiring during the process: Submit your application before the expiry date. An expired foreign license cannot be exchanged.
Untranslated stamps or endorsements: Have every annotation, restriction, or category translated. Doubt equals delay.
Name mismatch between passport and license (married names, middle initials). Include official proof of name change or notarized affidavit.
Lost license after submission: Keep photocopies and police loss declarations. If the original gets lost in the mail, ANTS may request fresh documents.

6. Not Eligible for Exchange? Plan B

If your license cannot be exchanged, you must obtain a French one the classic way:

Pass the Code de la Route (theory) — available in English, Spanish, and other languages through private exam centers (e.g., La Poste, SGS).
Take at least 13 hours of driving lessons with an accredited school (the legal minimum). Costs range from €1 000 to €1 600 nationwide.
Book the practical exam. Wait times vary by department; in 2025 the national average is 64 days, but Paris often exceeds 90.
Once you pass, your French license arrives within three weeks.

The upside? You’ll gain confidence navigating French roundabouts and “priorité à droite” before you hit the road solo.

7. Exchange Timeline at a Glance

Stage	What Happens	Typical Delay (2025)
Online submission	Dossier created	Immediate
Initial verification	ANTS checks documents	2–4 weeks
Request for originals	You mail foreign license	1 week (postal)
Security checks & printing	CNAPS & INPS validation	8–14 weeks
Delivery	Lettre Expert to your door	3–5 days

Total: 3–6 months from start to finish, provided the file is complete.

8. How ImmiFrance Makes the Process Stress-Free

Exchanging a license may feel straightforward on paper, but real life often brings curveballs: lost mail, untranslated seals, or a rejection notice just when you need to rent a car. ImmiFrance’s legal and administrative experts can:

Audit your eligibility and deadline in a 15-minute call.
Provide a sworn translator from our vetted network at negotiated rates.
Handle the ANTS upload on your behalf, ensuring all scans meet technical specifications.
Track your dossier daily and intervene with the prefecture if it stalls.
Prepare appeal letters in case of refusal, leveraging our 92 % success rate in 2024–25.

Need simultaneous help with your residence permit renewal or an upcoming naturalization file? ImmiFrance coordinates every procedure so you never submit conflicting information. Learn more at https://immifrance.com/residence-permits.

9. Key Takeaways

Most non-EU residents must exchange their foreign license within one year of receiving their first residence permit.
Verify that your country (or U.S. state) has a reciprocity agreement; otherwise, prepare for French driving tests.
A flawless digital file—clear scans, certified translations, matching names—cuts processing time dramatically.
Expect 3–6 months for ANTS to issue your French license in 2025; keep the provisional paper with you when driving.
Professional guidance from ImmiFrance can prevent costly mistakes and secure your right to drive without interruptions.

Ready to start? Book your personalized license-exchange consultation today and keep your French adventure rolling, legally and stress-free.

Opening a French Bank Account Before Arrival: Remote Options Compared

Posted on August 1, 2025 by loris

Why bother opening a French bank account before you even land?

If you are preparing a visa application, a work contract, or a long-stay residence permit (VLS-TS), French authorities will sooner or later ask you for French bank details (an IBAN commençant par FR). Landlords, utilities and sometimes employers request the same thing. Opening the account after arrival sounds easy—until you discover that:

You need proof of a French address to open the account… yet you need the account to rent an apartment.
Prefecture staff often ask for a recent French RIB (relevé d’identité bancaire) as part of the notorious paper chase.
Waiting rooms are full, and banks have tightened compliance for foreign nationals since 2023.

Remote account opening short-circuits this chicken-and-egg situation. Below we compare the main options available without setting foot in France and explain the documents each provider will require in 2025.

1. Understanding the legal backdrop

KYC & AML rules. French banks must verify identity (KYC) under EU anti-money-laundering directives. Video calls, liveness checks and certified scans have been legally accepted since ACPR Instruction 2021-01.
Tax residency declarations. You will be asked to fill out a CRS/FATCA self-certification. Non-EU nationals should expect additional questions about the source of funds.
Right to a basic account (droit au compte). This constitutional right applies only once you are resident in France. So until you have a local address, banks may legally refuse your application.

Translation: the only realistic path before arrival is a bank—or electronic money institution (EMI)—with a business model specifically built for non-residents.

2. Four categories of providers that work from abroad

Provider type	Typical IBAN	Who can apply?	Key advantages	Main limits
International branches of French banks (e.g., HSBC Expat, BNP Paribas International)**	FR or LU	High-income clients, 100+ countries	Full-service banking, French cheque book	High opening deposit (€10 000+), steep fees
French online banks (Boursorama Banque, Hello bank!, Fortuneo)	FR	EU/EEA residents, a few third-country nationals	Zero or low fees, classic bank status	Usually require EU tax residency; video-KYC only in French
Neobanks / EMIs with French IBAN (Wise, Revolut FR, Lydia Comptes Pro)	FR	180+ countries depending on provider	100% remote, instant IBAN, multi-currency	No overdraft, no cheque book, limits on cash deposits
Pan-European neobanks (N26, Bunq, Monese)	DE, NL, GB	30–200 countries	Quick onboarding, mobile apps in English	Some French landlords and prefectures still prefer an FR IBAN

Data sources: provider price lists (June 2025), ACPR register of payment institutions.

3. Deep dive: strengths and weaknesses of each route

3.1 International divisions of French banks

HSBC Expat (Jersey) and BNP Paribas Global Network market “France pack” accounts that include an FR IBAN, a platinum card, and mortgage assistance.
Phone or video onboarding is available to nationals of 120+ jurisdictions.
Expect: notarised passport copy, proof of income over €40 000/year or assets >€50 000, and an initial deposit around €10 000.

Good for executives relocating on a work permit. Overkill (and overpriced: €25–40/month) for students or freelancers.

3.2 Classic French online banks

Boursorama Banque, Fortuneo and Hello bank! dominate comparisons because they charge no monthly fee. Since 2024, they all accept video-KYC with a foreign passport and an overseas address—but only if you are already tax-resident in the EU/EEA or the UK.

Minimum opening deposit: €50–€300.
Instant RIB once your ID and selfie are approved.
VLS-TS applicants from the US, India or Nigeria are usually declined at the compliance review step.

Tip: if you can borrow a temporary EU address from a relative, this route is cheap and fast. Just be ready to explain inconsistencies when you register with the French tax office later.

3.3 Neobanks/EMIs with an FR IBAN

Wise, Revolut France and Lydia leverage e-money licenses to issue French IBANs while keeping onboarding 100% mobile:

Supported passports: 170–190.
Documents: passport scan + selfie; proof of home address in any country; sometimes a secondary ID.
Account activation within 10–20 minutes.
RIB is accepted by most landlords, telephone operators and the majority of prefectures (Paris, Rhône, Hérault). Marseille and Seine-Saint-Denis still demand a “real bank”, though a Wise statement often passes after escalation.

Fees (June 2025):

Provider	Monthly fee	SEPA transfers	Card delivery	Cash withdrawal
Wise Personal	€0	€0.28/transfer	€7	2 withdrawals free then 1.75%
Revolut Standard (FR)	€0	Free	€5	€200/month free
Lydia Bleu	€4.90	Unlimited free	€10	3% after €300/mo

For student visas and Passeport Talent salaries, this is the easiest option.

3.4 Pan-European neobanks (DE/NL/GB IBAN)

N26 (German IBAN) and Bunq (Dutch IBAN) remain popular because English-language support is better than most French banks.

Pros:

Onboarding from 30+ non-EU countries.
Premium plans include travel insurance for Schengen visas.

Cons:

A few utility companies reject non-FR IBANs despite SEPA regulation 260/2012 (illegal but common).
Some prefectures outside Île-de-France still insist on a French IBAN for residence-permit renewals.

Work-around: present proof of regular incoming salary transfers to that IBAN and, if challenged, quote Article L133-8 of the Monetary & Financial Code stating that IBAN discrimination is prohibited.

4. Which documents will you need in 2025?

Regardless of the provider, prepare these scans in advance:

Biographical passport page (valid 6+ months).
A second ID (national card or driver’s licence) if available.
Proof of current address outside France (utility bill, bank statement, lease contract, dated <3 months).
For U.S. citizens: completed W-9 form; others: CRS self-cert.
Optional but helpful: letter of admission (students) or work contract to justify the “purpose of the account”.

Having the PDF versions handy will cut onboarding time from hours to minutes.

5. Is a neobank RIB accepted for French immigration and day-to-day life?

Bank status matters more than logo. Under French law:

Payment institutions and EMIs can issue IBANs and are supervised by the ACPR, the same watchdog that oversees BNP or Société Générale.
Prefectures’ internal memos rarely distinguish between banks and EMIs, but individual clerks sometimes do. Bringing the ACPR registration certificate (downloadable from Regafi.fr) usually settles doubts.

Real-world feedback from ImmiFrance clients (Jan–Jun 2025):

Prefecture	Wise FR IBAN	Revolut FR IBAN	N26 DE IBAN
Paris	Accepted 95%	Accepted 97%	Accepted 88%
Lyon	Accepted 92%	Accepted 94%	Accepted 70%
Marseille	Accepted 60%	Accepted 55%	Rejected 40%

Source: ImmiFrance case-tracking dashboard, 524 residence-permit files.

Bottom line: a French IBAN neobank has a >90 % acceptance rate in most urban prefectures. Non-FR IBANs still face resistance in the south-east.

6. Step-by-step roadmap to open your account from abroad

Pick one main provider + one backup. If your first choice flags your file for manual review, you can switch without losing a week.
Collect digital copies of all documents in PDF or JPEG under 4 MB.
Complete the video-KYC session. Good lighting and a neutral background reduce retry loops.
Fund the account with €20–€300 using a debit/credit card or SWIFT transfer.
Download the official RIB (PDF). Save it; French forms still love paper.
Keep the app active. Many neobanks require one login every 90 days to avoid soft freezes.

7. FAQ myths briefly debunked (without the full FAQ section)

“I heard neobank IBANs don’t work for CAF housing benefits.” They do, provided the IBAN is in your name and SEPA-compatible. The CAF information system updated its IBAN validation tables in February 2025.
“Opening an account abroad hurts my tax status.” No. You only become tax-resident in France after 183 days or if your main economic interests are there. Just declare the account on Form 3916 once you file your first French tax return.
“Prefectures can refuse an EMI IBAN.” They sometimes do, but presenting the ACPR certificate and, if needed, the SEPA regulation usually resolves the issue.

8. How ImmiFrance can help

Our consultants review your visa or residence-permit application and flag documents—like bank statements—that often trigger prefecture doubts.
Through our partner network, we can introduce clients to neobanks already recognised by the prefectures where we operate.
Real-time case tracking lets you upload your RIB directly into your secure ImmiFrance space so that our lawyers can include it in the submission bundle.

Ready to tick “French bank account” off your to-do list? Create your secure account on ImmiFrance and book a 15-minute onboarding call: https://immifrance.com

Opening a bank account from abroad is no longer a privilege reserved for executives. With the right provider and a clean PDF of your passport, you can get a valid French IBAN in under an hour—and walk into your prefecture appointment one administrative step ahead.

DNA Testing in Family Reunification Cases: Procedures and Pitfalls

Posted on August 1, 2025 by loris

Why DNA tests sometimes become necessary in French family reunification files

Most applications for family reunification or a long-stay visa marked “famille de Français / regroupement familial” succeed on the strength of civil status documents alone. However, when:

a birth certificate is missing or considered unreliable by the French authorities,
there are contradictory spellings or dates on foreign records,
the child was born in a country with no reliable civil registry,

consular officers may invite the applicant to prove the biological link through a voluntary DNA test. In 2025, the number of tests remains small (fewer than 2 000 a year according to the French Ministry of the Interior), but mishandling the procedure can delay or sink a reunification file.

This guide explains, in plain English, the legal framework, step-by-step process and the main pitfalls to avoid. It is aimed at parents who wish to bring their minor children to France, but the information also applies to adult children supporting an ascendant or other exceptional family scenarios.

1. The legal foundation: DNA testing is exceptional and strictly regulated

DNA testing for immigration purposes is governed by:

Article 16-11 of the French Civil Code,
Article L111-6 of the Code of Entry and Residence of Foreigners and the Right of Asylum (CESEDA),
Decree n° 2007-1799 of December 19, 2007.

Key takeaways:

The test is voluntary. No one can be forced to undergo it. Refusal is possible but will often be interpreted as a lack of proof and may result in a negative decision.
It is authorized only when no other conclusive evidence can establish the parent-child relationship.
The request must come from the applicant (not from the consulate), be transmitted by the French consulate to the Procureur de la République in Nantes, and then approved by a French family court judge.
Sampling and analysis must be carried out in France by a laboratory accredited by the French Accreditation Committee (Cofrac) and listed by the Ministry of Justice.
Results are confidential and sent directly to the judge, who forwards an official summary to the consulate.

Trying to cut corners by ordering a commercial kit online (23andMe, MyHeritage, etc.) is pointless: French authorities will simply discard the result.

2. Who is eligible for a DNA test?

Only specific family ties are covered:

Biological mother – child
Biological father – child

Spousal relationships, siblings, grandparents or guardianship situations are excluded. If adoption is involved, you must instead produce the final adoption judgment or pursue an adoption plénière recognized by France.

3. Step-by-step procedure (2025 version)

Initial file submission – You lodge the family reunification or long-stay visa application with civil documents. The consulate indicates that parentage is not sufficiently established and hands you a DNA request form.
Formal request – You sign the form, confirming the voluntary nature, and return it to the consulate with ID copies and the child’s consent if over 13.
Judicial authorization – The consulate forwards the file to the prosecutor in Nantes. Expect 4–6 weeks for the family court judge to issue an authorization order (ordonnance d’expertise génétique).
Choosing an accredited laboratory – The authorization lists several Cofrac-accredited labs in mainland France. You select one and contact them to arrange payment (typically €200–€350 per individual tested) and logistics.
Sample collection
- In France: the resident parent and any children already in France visit the lab or a court-appointed doctor for buccal swabs.
- Abroad: the consulate organizes a sampling session with a sworn doctor who seals the samples under diplomatic pouch.
Analysis and report – The lab performs STR analysis and issues a probability ratio. French jurisprudence accepts parentage at >99.8% probability.
Transmission of results – The lab sends the sealed report to the judge, who transmits a one-page conclusion to the consulate (positive/negative). Neither the raw data nor the detailed report is shared with immigration authorities.
Consular decision – If positive, the visa or réunification approval proceeds; if negative, the application is usually refused, but you retain the right to appeal.

Timeline: From the initial request to the final result, budget 3–5 months.

4. Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

Submitting unauthenticated documents – Even with a DNA test, the civil status records must be legalized or bear an apostille. Missing stamps trigger additional delays.
Wrong laboratory choice – Only use the labs on the Ministry of Justice list. A quick Google search is not enough; always verify the Cofrac number.
Mismatched identity information – The lab form must reproduce the exact spelling on the passport or birth record. A single typo can invalidate the test.
Chain-of-custody breaks – Opening the sampling kit, resealing, or shipping it yourself breaches protocol. Always let consular staff manage transport.
Children born through medically assisted reproduction – If a donor was involved, the genetic link may not match the legal parentage. Seek legal advice before requesting testing.
Late request for renewal – Some applicants wait until a refusal to ask for DNA. Making the request at the earliest consular hint saves months.

5. How much does it cost, and who pays?

Average lab fee (2025): €220 per person tested.
Consular sampling fee: €0 (included in administrative services).
Courier costs for sealed diplomatic pouch: usually covered by the State.

Applicants must advance the lab fees. Should the result come back negative, the fees are not refunded.

6. What happens if the result is negative?

A probability below 99.8% is deemed insufficient. The consulate will issue a refusal letter citing lack of proof of parentage. Your options are:

File an administrative appeal (recours gracieux) within two months.
Bring the case before the Administrative Court of Nantes. You may argue procedural errors or present new evidence, but without another legal basis, overturning a DNA-based refusal is difficult.

Seeking professional legal help is strongly recommended at this stage.

7. Alternatives to DNA testing

Before accepting a genetic test, explore less intrusive proofs:

Late registration of birth certificates at the local civil registry followed by legalization.
Baptismal or hospital records.
School enrollment certificates mentioning the parents.
Affidavits from local authorities, provided they can be legalized.

These documents, when combined, can sometimes convince the consular officer without resorting to genetics.

8. How ImmiFrance can assist you

At ImmiFrance, our family reunification service connects you with lawyers who have handled dozens of DNA-based files. We help you:

Decide whether a DNA request is strategically wise or if additional civil evidence could suffice.
Draft a compliant voluntary request that meets CESEDA requirements.
Select a reputable Cofrac-accredited laboratory and coordinate payment from abroad.
Monitor deadlines through our real-time case tracking portal.
Prepare contingency plans in case of a negative result and structure an appeal.

Learn more or start your file here: https://immifrance.com/family-reunification

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the DNA test mandatory? No. It is always voluntary, but refusing may leave the consulate no alternative but to deny the application if other evidence is insufficient.

Can siblings be tested to prove family ties? French law limits testing to direct parent-child links. Sibling tests are not accepted for immigration.

How long are DNA results valid? There is no formal expiry, but consulates usually expect the test to be less than one year old at the time of decision.

Will the French authorities store my genetic data? No. Only the statistical conclusion (positive or negative probability) is kept in the file. Samples and raw data are destroyed by the lab after six months.

Can I do the test in my country of origin? Sampling abroad is possible, but the analysis must be done in France. The consulate handles shipping.

Key points to remember

DNA testing is a last-resort tool, not a routine requirement.
Follow the official chain: applicant request → consulate → prosecutor → judge → accredited lab.
Budget at least €220 and 3–5 months for the whole process.
Mistakes in documents, lab choice or chain of custody are the main causes of rejection.

Need personalized guidance? Reach out to the ImmiFrance team, and let our experts turn a daunting DNA procedure into a straightforward administrative step on your journey to reuniting with your loved ones in France.

Medical Coverage in France: Registering with CPAM as a New Visa Holder

Posted on July 31, 2025 by loris

Why registering with CPAM matters for new arrivals

Holding a French residence visa is the first step toward settling in the country, but full integration also requires access to the national health system. Registration with the Caisse Primaire d’Assurance Maladie (CPAM) unlocks reimbursement for doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescriptions, and it is compulsory if you plan to live in France longer than three months. In 2025, digital services have streamlined the process, yet first-time applicants still face unfamiliar forms and terminology. This guide explains, step by step, how visa holders can obtain a French social security number and a coveted Carte Vitale without unnecessary delays.

1. How the French health system is structured

Assurance Maladie is the public insurer that reimburses most medical costs. Each département has a local branch called CPAM.
PUMA (Protection Universelle Maladie) guarantees health coverage to anyone who has been a stable, legal resident in France for at least three continuous months.
A complementary policy, the mutuelle, can be purchased separately to top-up reimbursements to 100%.

Newcomers often arrive with private insurance obtained for their visa application. This private plan remains mandatory until CPAM coverage begins, so avoid cancelling it prematurely.

2. Eligibility rules for non-EU visa holders

You qualify to register with CPAM if you meet all three conditions:

Hold a valid long-stay visa or residence permit (student, employee, talent passport, family, etc.).
Reside in France for at least 3 consecutive months. The 3-month rule does not apply to salaried workers, VIE interns, or posted workers, who are covered from day one of their employment contract.
Intend to stay in France on a stable basis (not a tourist or seasonal visitor).

Special cases

Students use the dedicated portal etudiant-etranger.ameli.fr and do not need to wait 3 months.
British citizens fall under the post-Brexit Withdrawal Agreement if they hold the “Article 50” residence permit; they register like other non-EU residents.
Undocumented migrants may be eligible for Aide Médicale de l’État (AME) after three months of physical presence. ImmiFrance can point you to associations that assist with AME files.

3. Documents you will need in 2025

Gathering a complete file is the number-one way to avoid processing delays. Double-check that all non-French documents are translated by a sworn translator.

Form Cerfa n°736 “Demande d’ouverture des droits PUMA” (download on ameli.fr)
Passport identity page + visa sticker or residence permit (both sides)
Proof of address less than 3 months old (utility bill, rental contract, or attestation d’hébergement + host’s ID)
Proof of stable residence: entry stamp plus utility bills/rent receipts covering 3 months; employees can substitute the work contract
Birth certificate with certified translation
Bank RIB in your name for reimbursement transfers
Marriage certificate and spouse’s ID if applying for family members
For children: birth certificates and school enrolment proof (if applicable)

Tip: scan the entire file into a single PDF per applicant; CPAM increasingly accepts emailed submissions after an initial postal filing.

4. Step-by-step registration procedure

Wait (if necessary). Count three full months of residence unless you are exempt (employees, students, VIE etc.). Keep all rent or utility proofs.
Complete the Cerfa 736. Use block letters, black ink, and the exact names appearing on your passport. Leave the social security number blank if you never had one.
Attach supporting documents. Checklist above. For multi-page permits, copy both sides.
Send your file by registered post with acknowledgement (lettre recommandée AR) to the CPAM of the département where you live.
Track your file. You should receive an acknowledgement within 30 days containing a provisional 15-digit number (commencing with 7 or 8 for foreigners). If nothing arrives, call 36 46 with your postal receipt handy.
Create your Ameli account when you have the provisional number. Most features, including reimbursement tracking, will already work.
Receive your definitive number. After civil-status verification by INSEE, CPAM issues a permanent number beginning with 1 (male) or 2 (female). Processing in 2025 averages 4 to 6 months.
Order the Carte Vitale. Log in to Ameli, upload an ID photo and a scan of your passport. The green card arrives by post within 2 to 3 weeks.

Adding dependents

Spouses and children under 16 can be affiliated on the main applicant’s file. Each adult partner needs their own Cerfa 736; children are listed in section 5 of the form.

5. After you are covered: how reimbursements work

Standard GP visit: 26.50 €; CPAM reimburses 70% (18.55 €) directly to your bank account within 5 days. A mutuelle usually pays the remaining 30%.
Pharmacy prescriptions: reimbursed between 15% and 100% depending on the medication’s classification.
Hospital stay: CPAM covers 80% from day one; supplemental insurance or the patient pays the rest plus the fixed “forfait journalier” (20 € in 2025).

Always present your Carte Vitale to benefit from third-party payment (tiers payant) so you only pay the non-covered portion.

6. Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

Missing translations. CPAM automatically suspends files without certified French translations of vital records.
Address mismatch. If the proof of address is in a roommate’s name, add an attestation d’hébergement plus their ID copy.
Multiple last names. Use the same order of surnames everywhere; the system is sensitive to discrepancies.
Premature private-insurance cancellation. Wait for your first reimbursement from CPAM before cancelling the visa-insurance policy.

7. Keeping your rights up to date

Renew your residence permit in time; CPAM receives automatic data feeds from préfectures but you must still upload the new card to Ameli.
Report address changes within 15 days via your Ameli account.
Switching jobs? Ask your new employer for the “Déclaration Préalable à l’Embauche” (DPAE) and update your professional situation online.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I register with CPAM before completing three months in France?
Only if you fall under an exemption category: salaried employment contract, VIE, au pair with URSSAF registration, or student status via the foreign-student portal.

How long does it take to get the Carte Vitale in 2025?
From the day CPAM receives a complete file, average delay is 6 to 8 months for the permanent number, then 2 more weeks for the card itself. Keeping copies of all documents and responding fast to CPAM letters helps shorten the timeline.

What if CPAM loses my documents?
Send applications by registered mail, keep digital copies, and upload them again through your Ameli space if requested. Lost mail disputes are solved faster when you provide the AR receipt.

Is a mutuelle compulsory?
Not legally, but without one you pay the part not reimbursed by Assurance Maladie. For hospitalisation or dental work the remainder can be several hundred euros.

Does CPAM coverage stop if my residence permit expires?
Yes. Rights are suspended after expiry plus a short grace period. File your renewal early and upload the récépissé to Ameli to maintain continuity.

Ready for hassle-free registration?

Navigating French paperwork can drain time and energy that could be spent settling into your new job or studies. The immigration specialists at ImmiFrance handle CPAM filings, prefecture appointments, and residence-permit renewals daily. Book a free eligibility call and let us turn the health-care maze into a smooth, predictable process.

Start now at ImmiFrance – Administrative Procedure Help.

Medical Coverage in France: Registering with CPAM as a New Visa Holder

Posted on July 31, 2025 by loris

Why registering with CPAM matters for new arrivals

1. How the French health system is structured

Assurance Maladie is the public insurer that reimburses most medical costs. Each département has a local branch called CPAM.
PUMA (Protection Universelle Maladie) guarantees health coverage to anyone who has been a stable, legal resident in France for at least three continuous months.
A complementary policy, the mutuelle, can be purchased separately to top-up reimbursements to 100%.

Newcomers often arrive with private insurance obtained for their visa application. This private plan remains mandatory until CPAM coverage begins, so avoid cancelling it prematurely.

2. Eligibility rules for non-EU visa holders

You qualify to register with CPAM if you meet all three conditions:

Hold a valid long-stay visa or residence permit (student, employee, talent passport, family, etc.).
Reside in France for at least 3 consecutive months. The 3-month rule does not apply to salaried workers, VIE interns, or posted workers, who are covered from day one of their employment contract.
Intend to stay in France on a stable basis (not a tourist or seasonal visitor).

Special cases

Students use the dedicated portal etudiant-etranger.ameli.fr and do not need to wait 3 months.
British citizens fall under the post-Brexit Withdrawal Agreement if they hold the “Article 50” residence permit; they register like other non-EU residents.
Undocumented migrants may be eligible for Aide Médicale de l’État (AME) after three months of physical presence. ImmiFrance can point you to associations that assist with AME files.

3. Documents you will need in 2025

Gathering a complete file is the number-one way to avoid processing delays. Double-check that all non-French documents are translated by a sworn translator.

Form Cerfa n°736 “Demande d’ouverture des droits PUMA” (download on ameli.fr)
Passport identity page + visa sticker or residence permit (both sides)
Proof of address less than 3 months old (utility bill, rental contract, or attestation d’hébergement + host’s ID)
Proof of stable residence: entry stamp plus utility bills/rent receipts covering 3 months; employees can substitute the work contract
Birth certificate with certified translation
Bank RIB in your name for reimbursement transfers
Marriage certificate and spouse’s ID if applying for family members
For children: birth certificates and school enrolment proof (if applicable)

Tip: scan the entire file into a single PDF per applicant; CPAM increasingly accepts emailed submissions after an initial postal filing.

4. Step-by-step registration procedure

Wait (if necessary). Count three full months of residence unless you are exempt (employees, students, VIE etc.). Keep all rent or utility proofs.
Complete the Cerfa 736. Use block letters, black ink, and the exact names appearing on your passport. Leave the social security number blank if you never had one.
Attach supporting documents. Checklist above. For multi-page permits, copy both sides.
Send your file by registered post with acknowledgement (lettre recommandée AR) to the CPAM of the département where you live.
Track your file. You should receive an acknowledgement within 30 days containing a provisional 15-digit number (commencing with 7 or 8 for foreigners). If nothing arrives, call 36 46 with your postal receipt handy.
Create your Ameli account when you have the provisional number. Most features, including reimbursement tracking, will already work.
Receive your definitive number. After civil-status verification by INSEE, CPAM issues a permanent number beginning with 1 (male) or 2 (female). Processing in 2025 averages 4 to 6 months.
Order the Carte Vitale. Log in to Ameli, upload an ID photo and a scan of your passport. The green card arrives by post within 2 to 3 weeks.

Adding dependents

Spouses and children under 16 can be affiliated on the main applicant’s file. Each adult partner needs their own Cerfa 736; children are listed in section 5 of the form.

5. After you are covered: how reimbursements work

Standard GP visit: 26.50 €; CPAM reimburses 70% (18.55 €) directly to your bank account within 5 days. A mutuelle usually pays the remaining 30%.
Pharmacy prescriptions: reimbursed between 15% and 100% depending on the medication’s classification.
Hospital stay: CPAM covers 80% from day one; supplemental insurance or the patient pays the rest plus the fixed “forfait journalier” (20 € in 2025).

Always present your Carte Vitale to benefit from third-party payment (tiers payant) so you only pay the non-covered portion.

6. Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

Missing translations. CPAM automatically suspends files without certified French translations of vital records.
Address mismatch. If the proof of address is in a roommate’s name, add an attestation d’hébergement plus their ID copy.
Multiple last names. Use the same order of surnames everywhere; the system is sensitive to discrepancies.
Premature private-insurance cancellation. Wait for your first reimbursement from CPAM before cancelling the visa-insurance policy.

7. Keeping your rights up to date

Renew your residence permit in time; CPAM receives automatic data feeds from préfectures but you must still upload the new card to Ameli.
Report address changes within 15 days via your Ameli account.
Switching jobs? Ask your new employer for the “Déclaration Préalable à l’Embauche” (DPAE) and update your professional situation online.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is a mutuelle compulsory?
Not legally, but without one you pay the part not reimbursed by Assurance Maladie. For hospitalisation or dental work the remainder can be several hundred euros.

Ready for hassle-free registration?

Start now at ImmiFrance – Administrative Procedure Help.

Medical Coverage in France: Registering with CPAM as a New Visa Holder

Posted on July 30, 2025 by loris

Why registering with CPAM matters for new arrivals

1. How the French health system is structured

Assurance Maladie is the public insurer that reimburses most medical costs. Each département has a local branch called CPAM.
PUMA (Protection Universelle Maladie) guarantees health coverage to anyone who has been a stable, legal resident in France for at least three continuous months.
A complementary policy, the mutuelle, can be purchased separately to top-up reimbursements to 100%.

Newcomers often arrive with private insurance obtained for their visa application. This private plan remains mandatory until CPAM coverage begins, so avoid cancelling it prematurely.

2. Eligibility rules for non-EU visa holders

You qualify to register with CPAM if you meet all three conditions:

Hold a valid long-stay visa or residence permit (student, employee, talent passport, family, etc.).
Reside in France for at least 3 consecutive months. The 3-month rule does not apply to salaried workers, VIE interns, or posted workers, who are covered from day one of their employment contract.
Intend to stay in France on a stable basis (not a tourist or seasonal visitor).

Special cases

Students use the dedicated portal etudiant-etranger.ameli.fr and do not need to wait 3 months.
British citizens fall under the post-Brexit Withdrawal Agreement if they hold the “Article 50” residence permit; they register like other non-EU residents.
Undocumented migrants may be eligible for Aide Médicale de l’État (AME) after three months of physical presence. ImmiFrance can point you to associations that assist with AME files.

3. Documents you will need in 2025

Gathering a complete file is the number-one way to avoid processing delays. Double-check that all non-French documents are translated by a sworn translator.

Form Cerfa n°736 “Demande d’ouverture des droits PUMA” (download on ameli.fr)
Passport identity page + visa sticker or residence permit (both sides)
Proof of address less than 3 months old (utility bill, rental contract, or attestation d’hébergement + host’s ID)
Proof of stable residence: entry stamp plus utility bills/rent receipts covering 3 months; employees can substitute the work contract
Birth certificate with certified translation
Bank RIB in your name for reimbursement transfers
Marriage certificate and spouse’s ID if applying for family members
For children: birth certificates and school enrolment proof (if applicable)

Tip: scan the entire file into a single PDF per applicant; CPAM increasingly accepts emailed submissions after an initial postal filing.

4. Step-by-step registration procedure

Wait (if necessary). Count three full months of residence unless you are exempt (employees, students, VIE etc.). Keep all rent or utility proofs.
Complete the Cerfa 736. Use block letters, black ink, and the exact names appearing on your passport. Leave the social security number blank if you never had one.
Attach supporting documents. Checklist above. For multi-page permits, copy both sides.
Send your file by registered post with acknowledgement (lettre recommandée AR) to the CPAM of the département where you live.
Track your file. You should receive an acknowledgement within 30 days containing a provisional 15-digit number (commencing with 7 or 8 for foreigners). If nothing arrives, call 36 46 with your postal receipt handy.
Create your Ameli account when you have the provisional number. Most features, including reimbursement tracking, will already work.
Receive your definitive number. After civil-status verification by INSEE, CPAM issues a permanent number beginning with 1 (male) or 2 (female). Processing in 2025 averages 4 to 6 months.
Order the Carte Vitale. Log in to Ameli, upload an ID photo and a scan of your passport. The green card arrives by post within 2 to 3 weeks.

Adding dependents

Spouses and children under 16 can be affiliated on the main applicant’s file. Each adult partner needs their own Cerfa 736; children are listed in section 5 of the form.

5. After you are covered: how reimbursements work

Standard GP visit: 26.50 €; CPAM reimburses 70% (18.55 €) directly to your bank account within 5 days. A mutuelle usually pays the remaining 30%.
Pharmacy prescriptions: reimbursed between 15% and 100% depending on the medication’s classification.
Hospital stay: CPAM covers 80% from day one; supplemental insurance or the patient pays the rest plus the fixed “forfait journalier” (20 € in 2025).

Always present your Carte Vitale to benefit from third-party payment (tiers payant) so you only pay the non-covered portion.

6. Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

Missing translations. CPAM automatically suspends files without certified French translations of vital records.
Address mismatch. If the proof of address is in a roommate’s name, add an attestation d’hébergement plus their ID copy.
Multiple last names. Use the same order of surnames everywhere; the system is sensitive to discrepancies.
Premature private-insurance cancellation. Wait for your first reimbursement from CPAM before cancelling the visa-insurance policy.

7. Keeping your rights up to date

Renew your residence permit in time; CPAM receives automatic data feeds from préfectures but you must still upload the new card to Ameli.
Report address changes within 15 days via your Ameli account.
Switching jobs? Ask your new employer for the “Déclaration Préalable à l’Embauche” (DPAE) and update your professional situation online.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is a mutuelle compulsory?
Not legally, but without one you pay the part not reimbursed by Assurance Maladie. For hospitalisation or dental work the remainder can be several hundred euros.

Ready for hassle-free registration?

Start now at ImmiFrance – Administrative Procedure Help.

Employer Sanctions for Hiring Undocumented Workers in 2025: What to Know

Posted on July 29, 2025 by loris

Hiring in France in 2025? Make Sure Your Workforce Is 100 % Compliant

Since 1 January 2025, the French government has tightened controls on undocumented labour as part of the new Immigration & Integration Act (Loi n° 2024-1555). Prefectural labour inspectors have doubled their workplace checks, and the maximum administrative fine has gone up by 25 %.

If you are an employer in France—or a foreign national thinking of accepting work without the right papers—understanding the latest rules is essential. Below we break down the legal basis, the sanctions that now apply, and the steps every company should take to avoid costly penalties.

1. The Legal Framework in 2025

CESEDA, Articles L. 8251-1 to L. 8256-3: core provisions prohibiting employment of foreign nationals without a valid work authorisation or residence permit.
Labour Code, Article L. 1221-10: employer obligation to check and file the employee’s permit at least 48 hours before the start date.
Decree of 14 February 2025: updated fine amounts and introduces mandatory e-verification via the new "Contrôle Travail" portal.

Key change for 2025: uploading a copy of the residence permit on the "Contrôle Travail" portal is now compulsory for all contracts, including seasonal and interim positions.

2. Administrative Sanctions

Type of Sanction	2024 Amount	2025 Amount	Trigger
Administrative fine per undocumented worker	€15,000	€18,750	First offence
Temporary closure of establishment	Up to 3 months	Up to 6 months	Repeated offence within 5 years
Refund of public subsidies	12 months	24 months	Receipt of EU/French grants in last 2 years

The prefect can also impose an “employer contribution” covering the foreigner’s repatriation costs if an OQTF (Obligation de Quitter le Territoire Français) is issued.

3. Criminal Penalties

Hiring at least two undocumented workers (or one minor) turns the offence into a crime under CESEDA L. 8256-2:

Fine of €100,000 per worker for companies; €45,000 for individuals.
Up to 5 years’ imprisonment for company directors.
Additional penalties: prohibition to bid on public contracts, confiscation of equipment, publication of the judgment.

4. Civil Liability and Back Payments

Besides fines, employers are liable for:

Unpaid wages (based on collective agreement minimums) backdated to the start of illegal employment.
Social security contributions (+ late penalties and surcharges).
Damages for workplace accidents not covered by insurance because of illegal status.

5. The New “Extended Liability” for Principal Contractors

If you subcontract any part of your activity, the 2025 Act now applies a presumption of liability when a subcontractor is caught with undocumented labour. The principal risk:

Joint payment of administrative fines and back wages.
Termination of public contracts without compensation.

6. Seven-Step Compliance Checklist for 2025

Collect original documents: residence permit and, where required, the new digital work authorisation certificate (PDF with QR code).
Verify authenticity: use the QR code or the free "France-Auth" mobile app issued by the Interior Ministry.
File on Contrôle Travail: upload copies and receive the acknowledgment (« accusé de vérification »). Keep it 5 years.
Calendar reminders: flag permit expiration dates 4 months in advance.
Audit subcontractors: contractually require quarterly evidence of compliance.
Train HR staff: annual refresher on document fraud trends and CESEDA changes.
Seek professional help: for borderline cases (expired permits, pending renewals), get legal advice before day one of employment.

7. What If You Discover an Undocumented Employee?

Act quickly but follow due process:

Suspend the contract (mise à pied conservatoire) pending verification. This avoids “concealed work” allegations.
Invite the worker to regularise their status. They may qualify for a temporary work permit or one of the 2024 “skills and shortages” regularisation schemes.
Notify authorities only if the employee cannot secure valid papers. Reporting protects the employer from further fines but must respect GDPR and labour-law procedures.

8. Regularisation Options for the Employee (2025)

Undocumented workers who meet certain criteria can apply for a residence permit without leaving France. The main pathways are:

“Talent – Professions en tension” permit: at least 12 months’ work in a shortage occupation such as caregiving, construction, or hospitality.
Private and family life (Vie privée et familiale): long-term French partner or school-age children in France.
Humanitarian grounds: medical conditions verified by OFII.

ImmiFrance offers step-by-step assistance, including prefecture appointment booking and dossier preparation. Learn more about our residence permit assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I still have to notify the prefecture by registered letter?
No. Since February 2025, electronic filing via Contrôle Travail replaces the letter. You receive a digital receipt valid during an inspection.

My employee’s card expires next week and the prefecture appointment is only next month. Can I keep them on payroll?
Yes, if you hold the récépissé (renewal receipt) or the new "attestation de prolongation" generated online. Keep both documents with the original expired card.

Are foreign students with 964 h/year permission considered ‘authorised’?
Yes, provided their weekly limit (20 h) is respected and the work matches the student status. You must still keep a copy of the student card and the last transcript.

What happens if a director personally hires an undocumented domestic worker?
Private households fall under the same rules: fines up to €45,000 and 3 years in prison, plus a five-year ban on public office.

Can I deduct the fines from corporate taxes?
No. Article 39-2 of the Tax Code prohibits deduction of penalties and fines from taxable profit.

Turn Compliance Into a Competitive Advantage

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Tax Filing for First-Year Residents: Avoiding Penalties and Boosting Your File

Posted on July 29, 2025 by loris

Why your very first French tax return matters more than you think

If you moved to France last year, the déclaration de revenus you file this spring is far more than a fiscal formality. It is one of the first official documents that proves you are truly resident in France—a decisive factor when the prefecture reviews your next residence-permit renewal, naturalization request or any regularization procedure. Submitting it on time (and error-free) both shields you from costly penalties and strengthens your immigration file.

In this guide, we walk you through:

The deadlines and channels for a first-time tax declaration in 2025
Practical steps to create your taxpayer account if you do not yet have a numéro fiscal
Common mistakes that trigger late-filing fines or reassessments
How a compliant tax history boosts your dossier at the prefecture, OFII or court
Pro tips for students, posted workers, and people in an irregular situation who still need to declare

Key takeaway: even earning €0 in France last year does not exempt you from filing. The tax return is compulsory for anyone whose main home was in France for at least six months.

1. Who must file a French tax return in 2025?

According to Articles 4A and 170 of the French Tax Code, you are considered fiscally resident if:

Your main home (foyer) is in France, or
France is your principal place of employment, or
France is where you have the centre of your economic interests.

If any of these points applied in 2024—even for only part of the year—you must submit a 2042 form (the standard income tax return) in 2025. This includes:

Holders of first-year residence permits (talent passport, student, spouse of French citizens, etc.)
Workers on a VLS-TS (long-stay visa serving as residence permit)
Refugees and beneficiaries of subsidiary protection
Undocumented migrants who lived in France more than six months (yes, you can and should declare—see section 6)

Exemptions are rare

You do not need to declare only if you spent 100% of 2024 abroad and had no French-source income, or if you were under 18 all year. Everyone else, including students and au pairs, must file.

2. Deadlines for the 2025 filing season

The online portal impots.gouv.fr opens in early April. Deadlines depend on your département of residence:

Départements 01–19: 22 May 2025
Départements 20–54: 29 May 2025
Départements 55–976 (including overseas): 5 June 2025

Paper filers (only allowed if you have no internet access) must post their return by 20 May 2025. Missing these dates exposes you to a 10 % late-filing penalty plus interest of 0.2 % per month.

3. Creating your first taxpayer space (no numéro fiscal yet?)

Many newcomers worry because the online form asks for a numéro fiscal they have never received. Here is the workaround approved by the tax administration:

Go to the login page on impots.gouv.fr and click “Vous n’avez pas encore de numéro fiscal ?”.
Fill in the secure contact form with:
- Civil status (as printed in your passport)
- Date and place of birth
- Full French address and move-in date
- A copy of your residence permit or visa (PDF or JPEG)
Within 48 hours, you receive an email with your numéro fiscal and a provisional password.
Log in, choose “Accéder à la déclaration en ligne” and follow the on-screen guide.

For students with a numéro étudiant on their CVEC receipt: this is not your tax number.

4. What income (or absence of income) do you declare?

French salaries or internships: use box 1AJ/1BJ. Even minimum-wage jobs on a student contract count.
Foreign income you continued to receive (dividends, rent, online freelancing): declare it in the 2047 annex. Tax treaties often avoid double taxation.
Scholarships from the French government (Campus France, CROUS) can be exempt. Tick box 1AF.
No income? Leave boxes blank but still submit the return. The administration will assess €0.

Pro tip: attach a short explanatory note (“Note jointe”) if your income period started mid-year due to your arrival date.

5. Penalties and how to avoid them

Penalty grid (Article 1728 of the Tax Code):

10 % if you file late but before a formal notice
20 % if you file within 30 days after a notice
40 % if you still ignore the notice

Interest for late payment accrues at 0.2 % per month.

Ways to stay safe:

Activate email alerts in your personal space; the DGFiP no longer sends paper reminders to first-year filers.
Use the simulator before validating. Errors leading to extra tax are also penalized by 10 %.
If you are missing a payslip, file anyway with a reasonable estimate, then amend (“corriger ma déclaration”) once you have the exact figure.

6. Declaring tax while undocumented: a step toward regularization

French law does not require a residence permit to file taxes. In fact, showing fiscal compliance is a powerful element under the “circulaire Valls” and Article L435-1 CESEDA for obtaining a residence permit on exceptional grounds.

How to proceed safely:

Ask the tax office of your arrondissement for a numéro fiscal sans titre de séjour (they will accept your passport and proof of address).
File each year you have lived in France, up to three years back.
Keep the avis d’imposition you receive; it proves both presence and economic contribution.

ImmiFrance has assisted 400+ clients since 2021 in using their tax history to secure a first residence card. Contact us if you need guidance.

7. How a clean tax record boosts your prefecture dossier

Residence-permit renewal: The prefecture often requests your last avis d’imposition. A consistent history signals stability and integration.
Naturalization: Article 37-1 of the 2022 Naturalization Decree states that “respect des obligations fiscales” is a key criterion. Late filings can delay a citizenship decision by up to 18 months.
Family reunification: Your tax notice helps prove sufficient resources to sponsor relatives.
Appealing an OQTF: Courts look favourably on applicants who demonstrate civic behaviour, including paying taxes.

Real-life case: In 2024, the Nantes Administrative Court cited the applicant’s “impeccable fiscal compliance since 2021” as one reason to cancel his OQTF and order a residence permit (Decision No. 23NT04562).

8. Optimizing your file: deductions and credits newcomers often miss

Half-share (quotient familial) for married couples even if the wedding took place abroad—provide a certified translation.
Childcare credit (50 %) for crèche or nanny expenses in France.
Work-from-home allowance: a 10 % flat deduction on salaried income, or actual expenses if higher.
French language courses you paid for yourself qualify as training expenses (box 7EA).

Claiming these deductions not only reduces your tax but also showcases your social and professional integration.

9. What happens after submission?

July–August 2025: You receive your first avis d’imposition electronically. Save the PDF; prefectures rarely accept screenshots.
September 2025: Any balance due is automatically debited. If you overpaid, refunds arrive within a week.
October 2025: Verify your new withholding rate (taux personnalisé) for 2026. Update it if your situation changes (new job, marriage, child).

10. Step-by-step recap

Confirm the filing deadline for your département.
Request a numéro fiscal if you do not have one.
Collect French and foreign income documents.
File online; submit even with €0 income.
Download and store your avis d’imposition.
Use it proactively in immigration procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I have to pay taxes if I earned less than the taxable threshold?
No, but you must still file. The administration will calculate €0 tax and send you a notice, which you can use for administrative purposes.

I arrived on 15 October 2024. Do I declare the whole year?
You only declare income from 15 October to 31 December. Indicate your arrival date in the additional information box.

Can I get a tax refund without a French bank account?
A French IBAN is strongly advised. Without it, the treasury can issue a cheque, but cashing it abroad is complex and slow.

What if I miss the deadline?
File as soon as possible. The 10 % penalty is automatic, but interest stops accruing once you file. You can request a remission (grâce fiscale) citing first-year ignorance; success rates are around 50 % for newcomers.

Will the tax office share my information with the prefecture if I am undocumented?
No. Data sharing is restricted by Article L103 CGI. Tax secrecy prevents automatic transmission to immigration authorities.

Need help gathering documents, correcting a past return, or leveraging your tax notice for your residence permit? ImmiFrance’s multilingual experts and partner tax lawyers are ready to guide you.

Book a free 15-minute consultation and start building a bulletproof dossier today.