The majority of students who choose to study abroad in France decide to return home and find employment. The post-study employment opportunities are a key deciding consideration when picking a location to study abroad. The students who pursue a postgraduate degree in France are qualified for a post-study work visa.
After completing their studies, they can remain and work in France for two years. Students with post-study work visas can pay their student loans and have time to apply for permanent residency.
However, given France’s restrictive immigration laws and fierce labor market rivalry, international students can find employment and relocation difficult. If you plan to continue studying in France after earning a master’s, this article will assist you in learning the procedures. Let’s now look closer to understanding why study abroad in France and see the post-study employment opportunities.
What Is a Post-Study Visa In France?
Study in France for Indian students seeking professional opportunities to repay their loans or locate a permanent residence. The problem is that there are few job chances, the world is extremely competitive, and every country has a different system. Understanding the laws and guidelines governing post-study and job licenses in France is crucial.
Postgraduate students can apply for and be given a temporary residency permit for 12 to 24 months in France, unlike undergraduate graduates who can only do so if they have a paid job. If you can’t find a permanent job there after these two years, you must leave France. However, due to PM Modi’s statement, Indian students seeking master’s degrees in France would now be granted lengthy post-study visas of up to five years.
Different Work Visa Options For Students In France
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Short stay visa
Students who want to study in France for a program longer than three months are eligible for a short-stay student visa. There are several prominent institutions like the University of Paris, the University of Nantes, etc.
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Temporary long-stay visa
This visa is the best option for students who want to enroll in a degree lasting longer than three months. The long-stay visa’ validity spans between three and six months.
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Long stay visa
Those Indian students who study in France for longer than three or six months get the long stay student visa. This visa has additional requirements, like the candidate’s arrival in France, and is seen as similar to a residence permit. The duration of the study program influences the validity of the visa. You need three years to complete a bachelor’s degree program, two years for a master’s, and four years for a doctorate. According to the Indian Prime Minister, master’s students now access five-year post-study employment visas.
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Permit for temporary residence.
For people participating in master’s degrees, a temporary residency permit, frequently referred to as an APS, is offered. This temporary visa cannot be extended in any way. The amount of time you can work each week is limited while you have this visa. The jobs you get with the Temporary residence permit are also temporary. You must leave the country if you cannot find permanent employment later.
Students will have more time to get jobs and permanent residence, which is an advantage of acquiring this work visa. While you are still on this visa, you can convert it to a permanent work permit if offered full-time work. But, you must earn 1.5 times the minimum wage or more.
Before requesting authorization, you should know the rules and regulations because they vary. It depends on the nation you belong to and the post-study work visa.
Eligibility for France Work Visa
The applicant must meet the following requirements to be qualified for a France Work Visa:
- The candidate must possess a current passport;
- The candidate has received a job offer from France;
- Must possess all the paperwork required for the application;
- Applicants are permitted to work for at most the allotted time specified in their work licenses.
Documents Required to Apply For a France Work Visa
- A valid passport that expires at least three months after the anticipated length of stay, a photocopy of the passport’s first and final page
- Finished out France visa application
- The employee’s resume
- Copies of all academic credentials
- References from prior employers
- Most recent color pictures
- Appointment letter from the business
- Reference letter from the employer
- A thorough outline of the kind of work the candidate will do in France
In addition to the documents listed below, you could be asked to submit additional paperwork to meet the Embassy’s or Consulate’s criteria for a France work visa.
What Justifies Studying in France?
Like PSL Research University, France is among the most appealing nations for students pursuing postgraduate degrees. There are several opportunities for expansion and growth in Paris, the hub for start-ups. France has 33 universities, making it one of the best countries worldwide for international students to study at universities.
The average base salary in France is around 49,000 euros annually, making it an attractive destination for people worldwide. Study in France for Indian students to experience the world-class education system at an affordable price.
Students who have completed an MSc or higher degree in France can work part-time for up to 2 years. Your route to stay in France will be much easier once you have completed your MSc or MSc in France.
In 2013, the Indian Embassy in France facilitated travel for Indian students with French degrees. All French university Indian graduates are eligible for a four-year tourist and business visa.
Stay Back Option in France After Masters
While Pursuing a Master’s
Master’s students who remain in France have an advantage because their long-stay visa also doubles their residency permit. Consequently, they are exempt from needing a separate work visa. This residence permit enables students to work up to 964 (or roughly 20 hours per week) of part-time employment. Students are qualified for a work permit part-time and get a minimum wage of EUR 53,836.50 annually.
Post-completion of Master’s
You can apply for a temporary residence permit in France after completing a master’s program that is good for two years. If you find work during these two years, you might request that your employer support your application for a work permit.
For graduates who leave France after earning a master’s degree, the long-stay visa also has another benefit. After graduating, these people may return within four years to look for work or start a business. Their long-stay visa that doubles as a residence permit (VLS-TS) is therefore designated as “Job Search/Business Creation.”
French Post-Study Visa Benefits
The advantages you will receive if you manage to obtain a post-study visa are numerous:
- Since you won’t need a separate Schengen visa, there will be no limits on going to nations for five years.
- For any issues relating to immigration and visas, you can consult VISALE, the regional visa office, free of charge.
- You’ll be qualified for home rental subsidies.
- You can renew your work visa, which is a benefit because it is worry-free to stay in France after getting degrees.
Career Possibilities in France After a Master’s
France has a 68.60% employment rate as of the 2023 forecast, giving you various professional opportunities. You may expect an annual base salary of EUR 43,000 after completing a Master’s program in France. Whether you have a Master’s degree in engineering or hospitality, several options exist to advance your career in France. If you have a degree from a French university, your resume will be stronger, and prospective employers will be impressed.
Conclusion
Every student aims to stay in France after receiving their master’s degree on a post-study work permit. They need to work toward acquiring a permanent work visa. While finishing your degree, you can show potential employers your skills by working 20 part-time hours with potential employers. Get in touch with expert counselors at Gateways Overseas to start your journey today!