France Increases Residence Permit and Citizenship Fees
Starting May 1, 2026, France will implement a new fee structure for various visa and residence permit categories. Expats and digital nomads should prepare for higher administrative costs when applying for or renewing their legal stay in the country.
France Increases Residence Permit and Citizenship Fees
France is updating its fee structure for immigration and residence permits to align with European Union averages and fund the modernization of its prefecture systems. These changes, finalized in the most recent finance law, represent a significant jump in costs for those looking to establish themselves in the country.
The most notable change is the hike for first-time residence permits, which will rise from €200 to €300. This applies to popular categories for remote workers and expats, including the Talent Passport and various long-stay work visas. Citizenship applications are seeing the steepest increase, jumping from €55 to €255.
Who is impacted
Digital nomads, long-term expats, and those transitioning from a tourist status to a residency permit face the highest costs. While renewal fees remain stable at €200, several other services now carry a price tag:
- Reduced-rate permits for students, job seekers, and seasonal workers are increasing from €50 to €100.
- The APS temporary permit will now cost €100.
- Foreign driver’s license exchanges will require a €40 fee.
- Duplicate permits or changes to personal details on a card will double from €25 to €50.
Short-term tourists on Schengen visas are not affected by these specific hikes. Additionally, exemptions remain in place for refugees, British citizens covered by the Withdrawal Agreement, and those under temporary protection.
What to do next
The new fee structure officially takes effect on May 1, 2026. If you are currently eligible for a first-time permit or citizenship, filing your application before this deadline allows you to pay the current, lower rates.
Applications continue to be processed through the ANEF online portal, though nomads should budget for additional expenses. When factoring in certified translations and required language tests, the total cost of securing residency can now exceed €1,000. Stay informed on nomad news to track how these administrative changes might affect your relocation budget.
Read our full France guide for the complete picture.