Temporary Worker Permit (Travailleur Temporaire)
Workers on a fixed-term contract under 12 months or on assignment in France.
The Temporary Worker Permit (Travailleur Temporaire) is a French work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€99 visa + €225 OFII/residence tax) and processing time (~2-8 weeks (after work-authorisation approval)), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Temporary Worker Permit (Travailleur Temporaire) is for
Workers on a fixed-term contract under 12 months or on assignment in France.
Limited PR path; usually requires switching to a longer-term permit first.
Temporary Worker Permit (Travailleur Temporaire) - eligibility criteria
- Fixed-term French contract or assignment letter
- Approved work authorisation
- Salary at least equal to the minimum wage (SMIC)
- Defined end date to the work
- Valid passport and clean record
Temporary Worker Permit (Travailleur Temporaire) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Temporary Worker Permit (Travailleur Temporaire) (France) is ~€99 visa + €225 OFII/residence tax, with an indicative processing time of ~2-8 weeks (after work-authorisation approval). Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at France-Visas.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | At a French consulate abroad (VLS-TS), then prefecture |
| Length of stay | Matching the contract, up to 12 months |
| Work rights | Employment with the authorised fixed-term job |
| Study rights | Permitted alongside work |
| Government fee | ~€99 visa + €225 OFII/residence tax |
| Processing time | ~2-8 weeks (after work-authorisation approval) |
| Route to PR | Limited PR path; usually requires switching to a longer-term permit first. |
Pathway & next steps
Limited PR path; usually requires switching to a longer-term permit first.
Many applicants also compare Salarié · Employee Residence Permit (Carte de Séjour Salarié), Travailleur Saisonnier · Seasonal Worker Permit (Travailleur Saisonnier), ICT (Détaché) · Intra-Company Transfer Permit (Salarié Détaché ICT). 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 Temporary Worker Permit (Travailleur Temporaire) pitfalls we fix
Temporary Worker Permit (Travailleur Temporaire) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Temporary Worker Permit (Travailleur Temporaire) cost?
The Temporary Worker Permit (Travailleur Temporaire) government fee is ~€99 visa + €225 OFII/residence tax. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at France-Visas before applying.
How long does the Temporary Worker Permit (Travailleur Temporaire) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~2-8 weeks (after work-authorisation approval). Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Temporary Worker Permit (Travailleur Temporaire) lead to permanent residence?
Limited PR path; usually requires switching to a longer-term permit first.
Can I work on the Temporary Worker Permit (Travailleur Temporaire)?
Work rights: Employment with the authorised fixed-term job.
Who can apply for the Temporary Worker Permit (Travailleur Temporaire)?
Workers on a fixed-term contract under 12 months or on assignment in France.
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