France Visa & Policy Updates
France confirmed that remote workers can legally reside under visitor permits if their work has no French economic ties. However, new regulations starting in 2026 mandate language proficiency up to B2 level and an 80% civic exam score for residency and naturalization. Additionally, the government must resolve ANEF portal failures and processing delays by late 2026, while all applicants must now use mandatory online booking for biometric capture.
France ends third-party Schengen visa filings for Russians in Russia
Russian citizens applying for French Schengen visas must now submit their applications in person or through immediate family members. The new rule eliminates the use of third-party agencies and representatives for the application process.
Huge win for Nomads: Foreign remote workers can legally use a visitor residence permit in France
The French government confirmed that remote workers can reside in France on a 'visitor' permit if their work has no connection to the French economy. However, those working with French clients or companies must obtain a specific work permit and appropriate residency status.
France requires 80% on civic exam and B2 French for naturalisation
From Jan. 1, 2026, France requires non-EU applicants for a first multi-year card, a first 10-year card or naturalisation to pass a civic exam and prove French at A2, B1 or B2.
France orders ANEF to fix residence portal within 6 months
France’s top administrative court has mandated the government to resolve technical failures on the ANEF digital platform. The ruling aims to end persistent outages that have blocked expats from submitting residence permit applications and work authorizations.
France orders 500 staff to cut Carte de Séjour delays by Nov. 5
The Conseil d'État has ordered the French government to resolve abnormal processing delays for residence permits within six months. This ruling aims to end the legal limbo for expats and digital nomads currently waiting on renewals or initial Carte de Séjour applications.
France Updates Visa Rules With Mandatory Online Booking
Effective February 2026, France has abolished walk-in visa applications, requiring all applicants to use the France-Visas portal for digital eligibility checks and biometric capture. This mandatory shift aims to reduce processing times by up to 20% and eliminate fraudulent bookings.
France Updates Residency Rules with Language and Civic Hurdles
France is implementing stricter immigration controls, including higher language proficiency standards for long-term residency and more rigorous integration interviews. Expats should prepare for enhanced background checks and stricter requirements when applying for or renewing multi-year permits.