France Intra-Company
transfer visa
Deploy your global talent in France
France’s Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) visa is designed to facilitate the relocation of employees within multinational corporations, enabling the seamless transfer of essential personnel. This visa is ideal for managers, executives, and specialists who are being relocated to a French branch or subsidiary of their company.
Eligibility requirements
The Intra-Company Transfer permit is designed for non-EU citizens employed by a foreign company who are temporarily seconded to or employed by a company belonging to the same group in France.
To be eligible, the applicant must be able to demonstrate the following:
- Current Employment: Applicants must be currently employed by the company and have worked there for at least three months.
- Proof of Expertise: Applicants must provide documentation to prove the specialized skills or key positions held by the employee.
- Employment Contract: Applicants must have a valid employment contract from the French branch or subsidiary.
Benefits
The ICT visa is a strategic tool for businesses looking to efficiently deploy their global talent to France, ensuring compliance with French immigration laws while supporting the company’s operational needs.
The scheme offers many benefits, including:
- Family Inclusion: Family members can join the visa holder under the same status.
- Validity: Typically valid for up to three years, with the possibility of extension.
- Streamlined Process: Designed to facilitate easy transitions for essential personnel within multinational companies.
How to apply
The application process for a French Intra-Company Transfer visa consists of the following steps:
- Application Submission: Submit the application along with the required documents to the French consulate or embassy in your country of origin.
- Supporting Documents: Provide proof of continued employment, the employment contract, and evidence of specialized skills.
- Approval: Once approved, the visa allows for entry and residence in France for work purposes.
How much it costs
The applicable fee for each permit is 260 EUR. Please note, visa and immigration fees in France and the EU are subject to change at short notice. Please speak to Smith Stone Walters for more information on the latest fees.
How long you can stay
An ICT permit is typically valid for up to three years, with the possibility of extension.
For stays of less than 12 months, you are issued with a long-stay visa equivalent to a residence permit (visa de long séjour valant titre de séjour – VLS-TS) which you need to register online on the official dedicated website, within the first 3 months of your arrival in France.
For stays of one year or more, you are issued a long-stay visa and within the first 2 months of your arrival in France, you must go to the prefecture of your place of residence to apply for a residence permit. Non-compliance with this requirement may lead to the withdrawal of your permit.
How we can help
Understanding the ICT visa requirements and process can significantly ease the transition, allowing both businesses and employees to focus on their growth and success in the French market.
If you have questions about this scheme, the global immigration team at Smith Stone Walters can help. To speak to an advisor, please contact us today.