The French digital nomad visa offers freelancers and remote workers the opportunity to live and work in one of the world’s most inspiring countries. Picture yourself starting your day with a café au lait in Paris or wrapping up your workday with a sunset walk along the Côte d’Azur. With this visa, you can turn the dream of living in France into a reality while continuing your professional activities.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to apply for the French digital nomad visa, meet the eligibility requirements, and settle into life in France. Whether it’s the culture, cuisine, or vibrant coworking scenes that attract you, this visa paves the way for a seamless transition to your new life.
What is the French digital nomad visa?
The French digital nomad visa allows remote workers and freelancers to live in France while working for clients or employers based outside the country. While France does not offer a visa specifically labeled for digital nomads, most remote workers apply for the long-stay visa (Visa de Long Séjour – VLS-TS) under the profession libérale or self-employed category. This visa provides temporary residence for up to one year, with the possibility of renewal.
Designed for non-EU citizens, the visa requires proof of financial stability, remote work or freelance contracts, and comprehensive health insurance. It is an attractive option for those seeking to experience France’s rich culture, high quality of life, and excellent infrastructure while continuing their remote careers.
🌟 Related resource: learn more about tax obligations for foreigners in France.
Who is eligible for the French digital nomad visa?
The French digital nomad visa is available to non-EU/EEA citizens who meet specific criteria. Applicants must prove their ability to work remotely, demonstrate financial stability, and provide necessary documentation to ensure compliance with French immigration laws.
Proof of remote work
To qualify, you must show that you work remotely for a company based outside France, operate an international freelance business, or run your own company with global clients. Providing contracts, invoices, or business registration documents can help strengthen your application.
Financial stability
France requires digital nomads to prove they can financially support themselves during their stay. The recommended income threshold is around €1,300 per month, ensuring applicants can cover living expenses without relying on local employment. Bank statements, tax returns, or consistent client payments can serve as proof of income.
Comprehensive health insurance
Health insurance is mandatory for visa approval and must cover the entire duration of your stay in France. The policy should include medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation coverage, ensuring access to healthcare without financial burden.
Clean criminal record
Applicants must submit a certificate of good conduct from their home country to prove they have no serious criminal offenses. This document reassures French authorities that the applicant meets the country’s legal and security standards.
How to apply for the French digital nomad visa
Applying for the French digital nomad visa is a straightforward process if you follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepare your documents
Ensure you have:
- A valid passport (with at least six months of validity).
- Proof of remote work (employment contract, freelance agreements, or business registration).
- Proof of income (bank statements, payslips, or tax returns).
- Health insurance covering medical and repatriation expenses.
- Accommodation details in France (rental agreement or hotel booking).
- A completed visa application form (available on the French consulate website).
Step 2: Schedule an appointment
Visit the website of your local French consulate or embassy to book an appointment. Appointments are required to submit your application in person.
Step 3: Attend your visa appointment
Bring all required documents to your consulate appointment, where you will need to pay the €99 application fee and provide biometric data, including fingerprints and a photo, as part of the visa process.
Step 4: Wait for approval
Processing times vary but generally take 2–4 weeks. Once approved, you’ll receive your visa, allowing you to enter France and begin your digital nomad adventure.
Setting up your digital life in France
Obtaining your French digital nomad visa is just the beginning of your journey. Establishing a reliable digital presence in France requires careful planning and understanding of local services. Here’s how to ensure a smooth transition into your new remote working lifestyle.
Mobile connectivity solutions
While France offers excellent telecommunications infrastructure, setting up traditional phone contracts can be challenging for visa holders due to lengthy commitments and complex paperwork. A practical solution for digital nomads is using Holafly’s eSIM, which provides immediate connectivity across France without the hassle of traditional contracts. With a Holafly eSIM, you can stay connected from the moment you arrive, ensuring seamless communication for both work and daily life.
Banking and financial services
Setting up your financial infrastructure is crucial for digital nomads in France. Many traditional banks require extensive documentation and in-person visits, but several online banks cater specifically to international professionals. These digital-first solutions often offer English-language support, competitive exchange rates, and simplified account opening procedures for visa holders.
🌟 Pro tip: some online banks accommodate visa holders with just your passport and proof of address, making them ideal for digital nomads.
Living and working in France as a digital nomad
Once you have your French digital nomad visa, settling into the right location, finding a productive workspace, and understanding local customs will help you make the most of your experience.
Find your ideal base
France offers diverse options for digital nomads. Paris is perfect for culture lovers and coworking opportunities, while Lyon provides a slower pace with an exceptional food scene. If you prefer nature and tranquility, Provence is an ideal escape with its picturesque landscapes.
Join coworking communities
Coworking spaces across France provide a productive environment and networking opportunities. WeWork Paris offers modern facilities in a dynamic setting, while Mama Works Lyon is a great option for freelancers looking to collaborate and connect.
Understand local etiquette
Adapting to French customs will make your stay smoother. Learning basic phrases like “Bonjour” (Hello) and “Merci” (Thank you) is essential, and acknowledging shopkeepers with a polite greeting upon entering stores is a common cultural practice.
Regional considerations for French digital nomad visa holders
France offers diverse opportunities for remote workers, with each region presenting unique advantages and considerations. Understanding these differences can help you choose the perfect base for your digital nomad journey.
Cost of living variations
While Paris remains the most popular destination for holders of the French digital nomad visa, other regions offer excellent quality of life at lower costs. Cities like Montpellier and Toulouse provide vibrant tech scenes and cultural richness while being significantly more affordable. Bordeaux combines historical charm with modern infrastructure, making it increasingly popular among international remote workers.
The south of France, particularly cities like Nice and Marseille, offers year-round mild weather and established digital nomad communities. These Mediterranean hubs provide excellent work-life balance opportunities while maintaining strong international connections.
💡 Did you know? Many French cities outside Paris offer special programs and incentives to attract digital professionals, including discounted coworking memberships and networking events.
Taxes for digital nomads in France
If you stay in France for more than 183 days in a year, you may be considered a tax resident, meaning you’ll be subject to French tax laws. This includes income tax, which ranges from 0% to 45%, depending on your earnings. Tax residency status is determined by your length of stay, primary residence, and economic ties to France.
In addition to income tax, social contributions may apply, covering healthcare and pension systems. These contributions can vary based on your income level and employment status. Understanding these obligations in advance can help you manage your finances effectively while living and working in France.
🌟 Pro tip: consult a local tax advisor to ensure compliance.
Tips for a seamless digital nomad experience in France
Stay connected
Reliable internet is essential for digital nomads in France. Coworking spaces provide high-speed connections and a productive work environment, making them a great option for remote professionals. Getting a local SIM card ensures affordable mobile data, keeping you connected while traveling across the country.
Explore the country
France offers incredible destinations beyond its major cities. Weekend trips to Bordeaux, Nice, or Strasbourg allow you to experience diverse landscapes, from vineyards to Mediterranean beaches. The high-speed TGV trains make travel between regions quick and convenient, perfect for exploring without disrupting your work schedule.
Start your digital nomad journey in France with Nomada!
The French digital nomad visa offers an incredible opportunity to work and live in one of Europe’s most inspiring countries. From the application process to settling into French life, this guide ensures you’re well-prepared for the adventure ahead.
🌟 Ready to make your dream of living in France a reality? Let Nomada help you navigate the process. Explore our resources on living in France or contact us for personalized advice.
Frequently asked questions about the French digital nomad visa
The French digital nomad visa, part of the Long-Stay Visa (Visa de Long Séjour) program, allows non-EU/EEA remote workers to live and work in France for up to 12 months, with the option to renew. It is ideal for freelancers, business owners, or employees working for foreign companies.
Applicants need proof of remote work (e.g., contracts or business registration), financial stability with a minimum income of around €1,300 per month, comprehensive health insurance, and a clean criminal record.
The process involves preparing documents like proof of work, income, and accommodation. Schedule an appointment at a French consulate, attend in person, and pay the €99 application fee. Processing typically takes 2–4 weeks.
If you stay in France for more than 183 days in a year, you may be considered a tax resident and subject to income tax (0%–45%) and social contributions. Consulting a local tax advisor is recommended to ensure compliance.
Costs include the €99 application fee, monthly health insurance premiums ranging from €50–€150, and proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses.
As a French digital nomad visa holder, you should keep documentation of your primary residence even when traveling internally. This includes rental agreements, utility bills, or official correspondence. Many digital nomads maintain a permanent address in their primary French city while exploring the country.
France hosts numerous tech meetups, creative industry events, and digital nomad gatherings across major cities. Organizations like La French Tech facilitate connections between international professionals and local business communities, offering regular workshops and networking sessions.
Yes, the visa allows you to operate an online business, but you’ll need to register as an auto-entrepreneur or create a French business entity if your operations become significant. Consider consulting with a business advisor to understand the best structure for your situation.
