Lori Meadows
International students in France are allowed to work during their studies, regardless of their nationality and degree level. Students from outside the EU/EEA have slightly different rules, with a limit of 964 hours of work per year, which is approximately 60% of a full-time job. Algerian students are allowed to work up to 50% of the maximum full-time hours. To work longer hours, international students will need to obtain a French work permit. While studying, international students can work on or off-campus in various sectors, including hospitality, tourism, retail, and administration. After graduation, international students can apply for a post-study work visa for up to a year and must change their status from student to employee if they secure a job offering 1.5 times the minimum wage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Work rights for international students in France | All international students with a valid student visa are allowed to work during their studies, regardless of their nationality, level of education, or area of origin. |
| Work hours allowed for international students | International students can work up to 964 hours per year or 60% of the standard working week. Algerian students can work up to 50% of the standard working week. |
| Work permit requirements for international students | Non-EU international students whose work contract exceeds 964 hours per year must obtain a temporary work permit. Algerian students must obtain a provisional work permit (APT) regardless of the number of hours worked. |
| Income and minimum wage | International students are guaranteed a minimum wage, commonly known as the Smic (salaire minimum interprofessionnel de croissance). The hourly rate is €11.52. |
| Types of jobs available for international students | International students can take up part-time jobs in cafes, restaurants, retail, museums, bartending, administration, tutoring, cultural events, and many other areas. |
| Language requirements | Fluency in French is essential for most jobs, especially in the luxury sector. However, speaking English is considered an asset. |
| Post-graduation work opportunities | International graduates must have a job offer with a salary of at least 1.5 times the minimum wage or apply for a temporary residence permit to continue working while job searching. |
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What You'll Learn
International students' working rights in France
International students with a valid visa are allowed to work during their studies in France, regardless of their degree level or nationality. However, there are some rules and restrictions that international students should be aware of regarding working in France.
Working Hours
International students in France are allowed to work up to 964 hours per year, which equates to 60% of the maximum working hours permitted. This is the standard for most international students, but there are exceptions. For example, students from Algeria are allowed to work up to 803 hours per year, which is 50% of the standard working week. Additionally, internships completed as part of a degree course do not count toward the 964-hour limit.
Wage
In France, a minimum wage is guaranteed by law for all workers, including students. The minimum wage, known as the Smic (salaire minimum interprofessionnel de croissance), is currently €11.52 per hour.
Types of Work
International students in France can take on various part-time jobs, such as working in cafes, restaurants, retail, museums, bartending, administration, and more. They also have the option to work at their host university, with roles such as tutoring, event support, marketing, and administration. These university jobs usually last from September to August and are scheduled around class and study times to not interfere with academics.
Visas
There are several types of visas that international students may need depending on their specific situation. Here are some common visa types:
- Student trainee visa for work placements with French companies or organizations
- Internship visa for internships lasting more than 90 days
- Working holiday visa for young people (18-30) wanting to work and travel in France (specific nationalities only)
- Residence permit for non-EU/EFTA students with a Master's degree from a French university who wish to stay and look for work
- Temporary resident permit for students who have obtained a degree from a French university and want to search for work or start a company (specific nationalities only)
Language
While not a legal requirement, language skills can impact job opportunities for international students in France. Fluency in French is often expected, especially in certain sectors like tourism and luxury. However, speaking English can also be an asset, and some business schools in France may be more accessible to foreign students than to French citizens.
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Work visas for international students
International students with a valid visa are allowed to work during their studies in France, regardless of their degree level or nationality. The law in France permits international students to work up to 964 hours annually, which equates to 60% of a standard working week. Algerian students are subject to different rules, allowing them to work up to 50% of a standard working week, or 803 hours per year. All employees in France are guaranteed a minimum wage of €11.52 per hour.
International students can take on part-time jobs in cafes, restaurants, retail, museums, art galleries, bartending, administration, and many other sectors. They can also work at their host university, with roles including tutoring, event support, marketing, administration, and student support. These roles are typically scheduled around class and study times, with a limit on working hours based on the time of year.
After graduation, international students can apply for a post-study work visa for up to one year. If they secure a permanent job, they must apply for a work permit and provide a letter from their future employer. For those who have completed a master's degree, a level 1 degree, or a professional license, a non-renewable temporary residence permit can be obtained, allowing them to work at 60% of a regular working week while seeking full-time employment.
Additionally, France offers specific visas for internships, volunteering, and au pair jobs. The internship visa is for paid internships and is valid for the duration of the training. The volunteering visa is for voluntary work and is typically valid for one year, but can be extended. The Au Pair visa is a two-year visa for individuals staying with a host family to learn French and assist with childcare.
It is important to note that international students from non-EU countries may require their employer to apply for a temporary work permit if their work exceeds 964 hours per year. This is also the case for Algerian students, who must have a provisional work permit regardless of the number of hours worked.
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Language requirements for international students
International students intending to study in France should be aware of the language requirements for admission to French universities. While France offers many programmes taught in English, French is the primary language of instruction in most universities. Thus, international students must meet the required language proficiency standards in either English or French.
For English-taught programmes, international students whose first language is not English may be required to take an English language test such as IELTS or TOEFL to demonstrate their proficiency. The minimum scores expected vary for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, with postgraduate programmes typically requiring higher scores.
French-taught programmes, on the other hand, require international students to have a certain level of French language proficiency. A B2 level of French is often necessary for enrolment in a French university. This requirement can sometimes be waived for international programmes, which are rare exceptions. To enrol in a French-taught programme, students should aim to attain at least a B2 level of French before commencing their studies and work towards fluency during their time in France.
In addition to language proficiency, international students should be mindful of other application requirements. These may include providing a completed application form, a secondary school diploma (translated into French), CV/résumé, proof of financial support, and a French student visa. Non-EU/EEA students must apply through the 'Studying in France' procedure, previously known as CEF, and may need to provide additional documents such as birth certificates.
Furthermore, international students should note that working while studying in France is possible, regardless of nationality and level of education. All students have the right to work on or off-campus, with a limit of 964 hours per year (60% of the maximum working hours) for non-EU students and 50% for Algerian students. French law guarantees a minimum wage, commonly known as the Smic, for all employees, including students.
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Internships and apprenticeships for international students
International students in France can undertake internships and apprenticeships, which can be a great way to gain work experience and immerse themselves in the country's culture. Here are some key points to consider regarding internships and apprenticeships for international students in France:
Internships
Internships are a popular option for international students in France, offering valuable opportunities in various sectors, including business, fashion, marketing, tourism, hospitality, and the creative industries. These can be part of a degree course or separate arrangements with companies. If an internship is part of a degree course, it does not count towards the 964 hours of permitted work per year for international students.
Students can find internships through their universities or by applying directly to companies. Some internships may require a signed agreement between the university and the internship host. For internships lasting more than two months, students must be compensated, with a minimum wage of €11.52 per hour guaranteed by law. As of January 1, 2024, this minimum wage increased to €11.65 per hour, although mandatory deductions may reduce the net earnings.
For non-EU nationals, a valid student visa or residence permit is typically required to undertake an internship in France. Additionally, if the internship exceeds 964 hours per year, the employer may need to apply for a temporary work permit.
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships in France are employment contracts between an apprentice and an employer, allowing the apprentice to gain on-the-job training while studying. Apprenticeships were previously only accessible to international students who had completed a year of training in France. However, they are now also open to first-year master's students or those enrolled in specific training programs approved by the Conférence des Grandes Écoles.
Like internships, apprenticeships usually require a signed agreement between the apprentice and the employer, outlining the terms and conditions of the arrangement. Apprentices are considered employees and are paid a salary, with the amount varying based on factors such as the field, contract length, and the apprentice's experience.
Non-EU national students interested in apprenticeships in France will need a valid residence permit, a temporary work permit if they are over 18, and other relevant documentation, such as a CERFA form signed by their employer.
Language Requirements
It is important to note that while internships and apprenticeships in France are open to international students, language requirements may apply. A good level of French is often expected, especially in sectors like tourism and hospitality. However, speaking English can also be an asset, as many teams in French companies may also speak English.
Overall, internships and apprenticeships offer international students in France valuable opportunities to gain work experience, improve their language skills, and enhance their employability. By understanding the requirements and regulations, students can make the most of these opportunities during their studies in France.
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Post-graduation employment for international students
International students in France can work during their studies, and there are also opportunities for them to stay and work after graduation. The steps to doing so differ depending on the type of degree completed and the student's nationality.
For undergraduate students
Undergraduate international students can apply for a post-study work visa for up to one year after graduation. During this time, they can search for a permanent job. Once they have secured a permanent job, they must apply for a work permit and attach a letter from their future employer to the application.
For graduate students
If you have completed a master's degree, a level 1 degree (according to the Conférence des Grandes Écoles) or a professional licence, you can apply for a non-renewable temporary residence permit. This allows graduates to continue working at 60% of a regular working week while they search for a full-time job.
For all international students
Regardless of the type of degree completed, international students must have the promise of employment or a work contract in place at the end of their course to stay in France. The job must offer at least one and a half times the minimum wage. If graduates do not have a promise of employment, they will need to request an Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour (APS) or a temporary resident permit. The APS is valid for 12 months and is non-renewable. During this time, graduates will only be authorised to work the same hours as students, which is approximately 20 hours a week.
Finding a job
The best way to find and apply for jobs in France is through your university's student services. There are also job opportunities listed on international student sites, such as Erasmusu, or French student job boards like Letudiant. Some common ways to find permanent full-time jobs in France are through the Pôle Emploi (Employment Centre), which lists job ads from all major sites.
Language requirements
French language skills are important for finding employment in France, especially outside of the tourism industry. Fluency in French is expected for jobs in the luxury sector, for example. However, speaking English is an asset for many roles.
Visa requirements
To work in France, international students will need to change their status from student to employee. This involves obtaining a work permit and attaching a letter from their future employer to the application.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, all international students with a valid student visa are allowed to work during their studies, regardless of their nationality or degree level.
International students are allowed to work up to 964 hours per year, which is equivalent to 60% of a full-time job. Algerian students are allowed to work up to 482 hours per year (50% of a full-time job).
International students can take on most part-time jobs, including working in cafes, restaurants, retail, museums, bartending, administration, tutoring, and more. However, internships and apprenticeships may require additional paperwork and do not count toward the annual hour restriction.
Fluency in French is often expected, especially in the luxury sector. A valid visa, French diploma, and industry-relevant CV are also important. Networking and targeting French business schools can increase your chances of employment.
