France will introduce substantial fee increases across several immigration categories beginning May 1, 2026, marking one of the most notable pricing changes in recent years. The updated schedule affects first‑time residence permit applicants, individuals regularizing their stay, citizenship applicants, and holders of certain temporary authorizations. Renewal fees for most standard residence permits remain unchanged.
The revised fees are part of the French government’s broader measures to increase public revenue and address the national budget deficit. Foreign nationals and employers sponsoring talent for assignments in France should prepare for higher administrative costs in the year ahead.
Key Fee Changes Starting May 1, 2026
Residence Permits & Visa-Related Fees
- First-time residence permit issuance:
€300 (increased from €200)
Reduced rate categories (students, seasonal workers, job seekers, family reunification, etc.) increase to €100 (from €50).
Certain groups — including refugees and retirees with long‑term residence cards — remain exempt. - Visa regularization fee / Long‑stay visas serving as residence permits (VLS‑TS):
€300 (up from €200) - Replacement residence permit cards (duplicate or card reissued for changes such as address updates):
€50 (up from €25)
Citizenship
- Naturalization (citizenship) application fee:€255 (up from €55) – nearly a five‑fold increase
Newly Introduced Fees
- APS – Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour (temporary residence permit):
€100 (previously no fee)
Exemptions apply to APS permits issued to victims of human trafficking and temporary protection beneficiaries. - Exchange of foreign driver’s license for a French license:
€40 (previously free)
Fees Remaining Unchanged
- Standard residence permit renewals:€200, or €50 for reduced‑rate categories
Impacts
Individuals
- First-time applicants and status changers will face approximately 50% higher fees, affecting students, seasonal workers, newly arrived professionals, and family‑based applicants.
- Citizenship applicants will see the most significant financial impact due to the steep increase in naturalization fees.
Employers
- Companies sponsoring foreign talent — especially new hires or employees entering under APS or first‑time permits — will encounter higher upfront costs.
- Budget adjustments are recommended for organizations planning workforce mobility into France for 2026–2027.
Short-Term and Medical Visitors
- Travelers relying on APS for short stays or medical reasons will now incur a €100 processing fee, increasing overall travel costs.
These changes collectively shift administrative expenses more directly onto applicants and sponsoring organizations.
Practical Guidance for Applicants and Employers
- Submit before May 1, 2026, if eligible, to avoid higher fees — especially for first‑time permits or naturalization.
- Review budget allocations for assignments beginning in late 2026 or 2027.
- Check eligibility for reduced rates or exemptions based on your specific permit type.
- Seek professional advice, particularly when filing complex applications or coordinating multiple immigration processes.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue monitoring developments and sharing updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.