Great question! France offers attractive post-study residence and job-search options for international graduates. Here’s an overview:

1. Post-Study Work (Job Search) Visa

After completing your studies in France, you may be eligible for a temporary residence permit called the "Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour" (APS), also known as the temporary residence permit for job search or business creation.

Who can apply?

- Non-EU/EEA graduates who have earned a French higher education degree (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctorate).
- Most commonly granted to students who completed at least a Master’s-level qualification.

Duration:

- The APS is valid for 12 months (1 year), renewable once in certain cases (especially for those who have projects or are actively job-hunting).

What does it allow?

- You can stay in France to look for work or start your own business.
- You can take up a job related to your field of study or start a company.

During the APS:

- You may work in any job (not only those directly related to your diploma), but if you wish to continue working after the APS expires, you must find a job with a minimum salary threshold that allows you to change your status to an employee/residence permit (Carte de séjour salarié).
- For Master’s graduates, you must secure a job with a gross annual salary at least 1.5 times the French minimum wage (SMIC) to obtain a work permit.

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2. Change of Status (From Student to Employee)

- If you find a qualified job (CDI or CDD) with the required salary, you can apply to change your status from student/APS to employee (salarié).
- This grants you a residence permit for salaried work.

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3. Talent Passport

- For high-skilled graduates, entrepreneurs, or those with an employment contract with a French company meeting certain criteria, there is the "Passeport Talent" residence permit.
- Valid for up to 4 years and can be extended.
- Allows accompanying family members.

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4. PhD Graduates

- Special provisions for those who have completed a doctorate (PhD): they may be eligible for a researcher residence permit or the talent passport.

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5. EU Blue Card

- If you get a highly qualified job offer, you may also qualify for the EU Blue Card, which allows work and residence in France and can open options elsewhere in the EU.

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Summary Table

| Degree Level | Post-study work option | Validity | Next Step if Employed |
|---------------|-------------------------------|---------------|-------------------------|
| Bachelor’s | Limited, case-by-case basis | Up to 1 year | Apply for work permit |
| Master’s | APS (Job search permit) | 1 year | Change to employee card |
| PhD | APS/Researcher/Talent Passport| 1-4 years | Extend/convert status |

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Pollster Education Support

We at Pollster Education can help you:
- Understand eligibility for post-study visas in France
- Prepare your application for APS or other relevant permits
- Advise on career and job search strategies
- Guide you on document requirements and procedures

For tailored advice and support, book a free consultation with us!

Pollster Education
8, Alankar Building, 1st Floor, Balaram Street, Above Bank of India, Grant Road (E), Mumbai.
Contact: +919324480791 | Email: info@pollstereducation.com

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