How to get a work visa in France as a Kenyan citizen
Complete guide to all available work permit pathways, requirements, costs, and processing times.
Why Kenyans choose France
France offers Kenyan workers 7 distinct visa pathways to live and work legally. Kenyans are valued for English-medium education, a fast-growing tech sector, and a strong nursing pipeline. Applications are made at the France diplomatic mission serving Nairobi.
Who this is best for
- ✓Qualified professionals eligible for the Talent Passport
- ✓Researchers and academics
- ✓Tech and startup talent in the Paris ecosystem
- ✓Aerospace, energy and luxury-sector specialists
- ✓Professionals who value work-life balance and healthcare
Available visa pathways
Talent Passport (Passeport Talent)
Passeport Talent
The Talent Passport (Passeport Talent) is France's premium immigration pathway for highly skilled professionals. The most common category is for salaried employees holding at least a master's degree (or equivalent) and earning at least 1.5 times the French minimum wage (SMIC), which translates to approximately €40,290 annually. This visa is designed to attract international talent by offering a streamlined process with no labor market test requirement.
EU Blue Card (France)
Carte bleue européenne
The EU Blue Card France (Carte Bleue Europeenne) is the French implementation of the EU-wide Blue Card directive for highly qualified workers. Its primary advantage over the French Talent Passport is EU mobility: after 12 months of legal residence in France on a Blue Card, you can move to work in another EU member state under simplified procedures.
Seasonal Worker Visa
Travailleur saisonnier
The French Seasonal Worker visa (travailleur saisonnier) is designed for foreign workers employed in industries with seasonal demand, primarily agriculture, tourism, and hospitality. It allows you to work in France for a maximum of six months within any twelve-month period, after which you must return to your home country.
Researcher Visa (Passeport Talent — Chercheur)
Passeport Talent — Chercheur
The French Researcher visa (Chercheur/Scientifique, part of the Talent Passport family) provides a streamlined pathway for scientists and academics to conduct research at French institutions. It is based on the EU REST Directive and requires a hosting agreement (convention d'accueil) from a French research organization approved by the French government.
Salaried Worker Visa
Salarié
The French Salaried Worker visa (Salarie) is the standard employment-based residence permit for foreign nationals who do not qualify for the more advantageous Talent Passport or EU Blue Card. It is the catch-all route for workers with a job offer from a French employer, covering a wide range of occupations and salary levels.
Entrepreneur/Investor Visa
Passeport Talent — Création d'entreprise
The French Entrepreneur visa (part of the Talent Passport family for business creators) allows foreign nationals to establish and run a business in France. It targets entrepreneurs who commit to investing at least EUR 30,000 in a viable French business venture or who can demonstrate that their project will create or preserve jobs in France.
Intra-Company Transfer (ICT)
Salarié détaché ICT
The French ICT visa (Salarie detache ICT) implements the EU Intra-Corporate Transfer Directive and allows multinational companies to temporarily transfer managers, specialists, and trainee employees from a non-EU branch to their French operations. It provides a structured framework for internal mobility within corporate groups.
💡 Tip for Kenyans applicants: Have your Nairobi police clearance certificate ready, and check whether your degree and supporting documents need to be apostilled or legalised for use in France.
Application timeline for France
Secure a job offer meeting salary requirements
Obtain an employment contract or promise of employment from a French company. For Talent Passport, the salary must be at least 1.5x SMIC.
VariesEmployer obtains work authorization
Your employer files the work authorization request with DREETS (formerly DIRECCTE). Required for salaried worker visas; not for Talent Passport.
2-6 weeksApply at the French consulate
Submit your visa application through France-Visas online, then attend your appointment at the nearest French consulate.
1-4 weeksSubmit documents & biometrics
Provide all required documents in person at the consulate. Biometric data (fingerprints) is collected at this stage.
1 dayVisa issued & travel to France
Processing typically takes 4-8 weeks. Once issued, you must validate your long-stay visa online within 3 months of arrival.
4-8 weeksCommon required documents
Document requirements may vary by visa type.
Cost estimate in Kenyan Shilling (KES)
Approximate conversions for Kenyans. Currency rates are indicative - check current rates before applying.
| Item | Amount | In KES |
|---|---|---|
| Visa application fee | €99-225 | KSh13,882 |
| Minimum salary threshold (per year) | €40,290 | KSh5,649,359/yr |
Embassy and application centres
Apply at the France diplomatic mission serving Nairobi. Check the official embassy or visa application centre website for appointment booking, fees and current document requirements.
Related guides
Working and living in France
Key industries hiring
France hires international talent in technology and startups, aerospace (Toulouse), nuclear and renewable energy, luxury goods and fashion, and tourism and hospitality. The Talent Passport route is designed to attract qualified employees and entrepreneurs.
Cost of living and quality of life
Paris rents average around €1,200 a month for a one-bedroom, with cities like Lyon, Nantes and Bordeaux offering better value. A 35-hour standard work week, universal healthcare and five weeks of statutory paid leave make France's quality of life a genuine draw.
Next steps for Kenyan applicants
Ready to start your France visa application? Here is what to do next:
- Check which visa you qualify for
- Gather your documents
- Apply through the official portal
How to apply for a France visa from Kenyan
Applications for France are processed through TLS Contact. Here is how to apply, step by step:
- 1Prepare your documents
Cover letter, bank statements, photos, and supporting evidence.
- 2Book your appointment at TLS Contact
Processing time: 10-15 business days. Service fee: €35-40.
- 3Attend your appointment with all documents and passport
Biometrics: 10 fingerprints + photo at the centre.
- 4Track your application after submission
Use your reference number on the tracking portal.
- 5Collect your passport when notified
You will receive an SMS or email when your passport is ready. Collect within 30 days.
Frequently asked questions
What salary is needed for a Talent Passport (Passeport Talent) in France?
The minimum salary is €40,290 per year.
How long does it take to get a work visa in France?
Processing times range from 2 to 12 weeks.
Do I need a job offer for a France work visa?
Not always. Entrepreneur/Investor Visa does not require one.
Can I bring my family on a France work visa?
Yes. 6 of 7 visa types allow dependants.
How much does a France work visa cost for Kenyans?
Visa application fees start at €99 - approximately KSh13,882. Budget extra for medical checks, document authentication, and travel to the embassy.
Can Kenyans apply for a France work visa from Nairobi?
Yes. Kenyans apply through the France diplomatic mission serving Nairobi. Processing takes 2-12 weeks.
Is there a path to permanent residency in France?
Yes. 5 of the 7 visa pathways on this page can lead to permanent residency in France.
What documents do Kenyans need for a France work visa?
Required documents typically include a valid passport, passport-sized photos, proof of qualifications, employment contract, financial evidence, and health insurance. Requirements vary by visa type.