Minimum wage increases, annual gross salary remains unchanged
Minimum Wage (SMIC) as of June 1, 2026: €12.31/hour – €1,867.02 gross/month
Annual gross salary for Talent – Qualified Employee: €39,582
| Status | Number of Times the Minimum Wage | Required Gross Monthly Salary | Required Annual Gross Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Employee – International Hire | 1 × SMIC | 1 867,02 € | 22 404,24 € |
| Change from Student / Temporary Residence Permit / Job Search or Business Creation status to Employee status, labour market test required. | 1 × SMIC | 1 867,02 € | 22 404,24 € |
| Change from Student / Temporary Residence Permit / Job Search or Business Creation status to Employee status, labour market test exempt. | 1.5 × SMIC | 2 800,53 € | 33 606,36 € |
| Seconded ICT Employee / Seconded ICT Intern | 1 × SMIC | 1 867,02 € | 22 404,24 € |
| Talent – Contract Employee | 1 × Average Annual Gross Salary | 3 298,50 € | 39 582 € |
| Talent – Qualified Employee | 1 × Average Annual Gross Salary | 3 298,50 € | 39 582 € |
| Talent – EU Blue Card | 1.5 × Average Annual Gross Salary | 4 947,75 € | 59 373 € |
June is a key period for international students changing their immigration status – plan your hiring in advance
Every year, the June-September period is an important time for companies recruiting young international graduates. As they approach the end of their studies, many international students begin the process of changing their immigration status to continue their careers in France.
This often-critical step requires employers’ careful attention. Selecting the appropriate status (RECE, Talent – Skilled Employee, or Employee), meeting salary requirements, ensuring that the candidate’s degree aligns with the position’s requirements, and complying with application deadlines are all key factors that can influence the success of this process.
Planning ahead is essential to ensure recruitment goes smoothly and to prevent gaps in employment rights, especially while prefectures continue to adapt their procedures and processing times remain lengthy.
Furthermore, recent announcements by the Ministry of the Interior, aimed at reducing processing times and simplifying certain procedures, demonstrate the government’s commitment to helping international talents access their rights. However, these changes must be assessed according to the specific practices and requirements of each prefecture.
Are you planning to hire a foreign student or support an employee with a change of status?
Our Executive Immigration teams are on hand help you analyse each case, anticipate potential risks, and ensure the successful completion of your corporate immigration applications.
📩immigration@executive-relocations.com
🌐www.executive-relocations.com