Simplified access to the “Talent – EU Blue Card” status
As of 3 May 2025, the so-called “DDADUE” law (Law on various provisions for adapting to EU law) has come into force.
Its goal: to align French law with European Union regulations. One of its main provisions is the relaxation of the conditions for obtaining the Talent – EU Blue Card status.
What’s changing
- Shorter employment contract accepted:
Previously, a minimum one-year employment contract was required to qualify for this status. Now, a contract of at least six months is sufficient.
- Card duration aligned with the contract:
The validity of the card depends on the length of the employment contract:
- If the contract lasts more than two years, the card will be valid for the full duration of the contract, up to a maximum of four years.
- If the contract is less than two years, the card will be issued for the duration of the contract plus an additional three months.
Facilitated mobility within the European Union
Another major advancement is the easier entry into France for individuals who already hold an EU Blue Card in another EU country.
- Easier relocation to France after an EU stay:
If the applicant has already held an EU Blue Card for at least one year in another EU country, they can apply for a French Talent – EU Blue Card residence permit within one month of arrival in France, without needing a long-stay visa.
This period is extended to six months if the applicant has already completed at least two EU mobility periods. Previously, an 18-month stay was required.
- Wider access to the EU Long-Term Resident status:
This status can now be obtained after two years under a Blue Card in France, provided the individual has lawfully and continuously resided for at least three years in France or the EU under one of the following statuses:
- EU Blue Card;
- National residence permit for highly qualified employment;
- Researcher status;
- Refugee or subsidiary protection status.
Stricter access to French nationality
On 5 May 2025, the Minister of the Interior issued a circular to regional prefects outlining the new rules for acquiring French nationality through naturalisation. These changes are based on Law No. 2024-42 of 26 January 2024, titled “Law to control immigration and improve integration”, which will come into force on 1 January 2026.
The circular clarifies the conditions that future applicants for naturalisation will need to meet.
Key changes
- Higher level of French required: A B2 level in both spoken and written French will now be required (previously B1).
- Mandatory civic knowledge exam
- Refocused assimilation interview: The interview will place greater emphasis on adherence to the Charter of Rights and Duties of the French Citizen.
- Higher standards of conduct in the applicant’s background, especially professionally.
Regarding professional integration, candidates must demonstrate financial independence based on sufficient and stable income over the past five years.
For employees, this means:
- Holding a permanent contract (CDI) of more than one year at the time of application review,
- Or providing proof of several fixed-term contracts (CDD) covering a 24-month period.
Our French immigration experts are available to answer any questions you may have, please do not hesitate to contact us.
