Job-Search or Business-Creation Permit (Recherche d'Emploi / Création d'Entreprise)
Recent graduates of French institutions seeking a job or launching a business after studies.
The Job-Search or Business-Creation Permit (Recherche d'Emploi / Création d'Entreprise) is a French work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€225 residence-permit tax (€200 + €25 stamp)) and processing time (~2-8 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Job-Search or Business-Creation Permit (Recherche d'Emploi / Création d'Entreprise) is for
Recent graduates of French institutions seeking a job or launching a business after studies.
Bridge to a salarié or Talent permit, which then lead to long-term residence.
Job-Search or Business-Creation Permit (Recherche d'Emploi / Création d'Entreprise) - eligibility criteria
- French Master's-level diploma (or equivalent listed qualification)
- Genuine plan to find work or create a business linked to your studies
- Held a student residence permit in France
- Sufficient resources to support yourself
- Application within set time after graduating
Job-Search or Business-Creation Permit (Recherche d'Emploi / Création d'Entreprise) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Job-Search or Business-Creation Permit (Recherche d'Emploi / Création d'Entreprise) (France) is ~€225 residence-permit tax (€200 + €25 stamp), with an indicative processing time of ~2-8 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at France-Visas.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | At the prefecture in France (or consulate to return within 4 years) |
| Length of stay | Up to 12 months, non-renewable |
| Work rights | Work freely while job-seeking, or run the planned business |
| Study rights | Not the primary purpose |
| Government fee | ~€225 residence-permit tax (€200 + €25 stamp) |
| Processing time | ~2-8 weeks |
| Route to PR | Bridge to a salarié or Talent permit, which then lead to long-term residence. |
Pathway & next steps
Bridge to a salarié or Talent permit, which then lead to long-term residence.
Many applicants also compare Étudiant · Student Long-Stay Visa (VLS-TS Étudiant), Salarié · Employee Residence Permit (Carte de Séjour Salarié), Talent (Salarié Qualifié) · Passeport Talent - Qualified Employee (Master's or Young Graduate). Run a free VisaChief check to see which French route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Job-Search or Business-Creation Permit (Recherche d'Emploi / Création d'Entreprise) pitfalls we fix
Job-Search or Business-Creation Permit (Recherche d'Emploi / Création d'Entreprise) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Job-Search or Business-Creation Permit (Recherche d'Emploi / Création d'Entreprise) cost?
The Job-Search or Business-Creation Permit (Recherche d'Emploi / Création d'Entreprise) government fee is ~€225 residence-permit tax (€200 + €25 stamp). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at France-Visas before applying.
How long does the Job-Search or Business-Creation Permit (Recherche d'Emploi / Création d'Entreprise) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~2-8 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Job-Search or Business-Creation Permit (Recherche d'Emploi / Création d'Entreprise) lead to permanent residence?
Bridge to a salarié or Talent permit, which then lead to long-term residence.
Can I work on the Job-Search or Business-Creation Permit (Recherche d'Emploi / Création d'Entreprise)?
Work rights: Work freely while job-seeking, or run the planned business.
Who can apply for the Job-Search or Business-Creation Permit (Recherche d'Emploi / Création d'Entreprise)?
Recent graduates of French institutions seeking a job or launching a business after studies.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official France government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- France-Visas - official France immigration authority