France Sets New Salary Thresholds for EU Blue Card and Talent Permits

France has quietly changed the salary requirements for several categories of foreign workers. New thresholds will take effect this summer.

For professionals aiming for work in France under the country’s ‘Talent Passport’ system, these changes represent a major shift. They could affect who qualifies for long-term residence and work rights.

The New Salary Thresholds

1. Talent – Qualified Employee

Starting August 31, 2025, the required annual salary for a ‘Talent, Qualified Employee’ permit is EUR 39,582. This amount is a middle ground between the earlier thresholds: EUR 43,243.20 for new graduates and EUR 38,918.88 for employees on assignment.

Interestingly, earlier this year, when the rules were restructured, the threshold seemed connected to an old 2016 reference. It briefly set the bar at a much lower EUR 35,891.

This temporary figure caused confusion among employers and applicants, but it has now been clarified with this new standard.

2. Talent – EU Blue Card

The EU Blue Card, often the path of choice for highly skilled professionals, has seen its salary threshold increase. Starting August 31, 2025, applicants must earn at least EUR 59,373 per year, up from EUR 53,836.50.

This change makes the French Blue Card one of the more expensive options in Europe. However, it still offer many advantages such as mobility within the EU.

3. Talent – Medical and Pharmacy

For healthcare professionals applying under the medical and pharmacy category, the salary standard is now set at EUR 41,386.48 annually, starting June 16, 2025.

4. Talent – Legal Representative (Mandataire Social)

Executives and company representatives will face a higher expectation with a salary requirement of EUR 64,864.80 per year. This updated requirement is also in force since June 16, 2025

How Employers Must Comply

Employers need to be precise. France only allows benefits and allowances to count toward salary if they are:

• fixed amounts
• taxable
• subject to social security contributions
• and clearly shown on the payslip

Anything discretionary or variable will not help an applicant meet the threshold.

The rules apply to everyone. This means that current work permit holders, pending cases, and all new applicants must meet the updated requirements.

French authorities are expected to provide more clarification, especially for EU Blue Card holders, where enforcement can be stricter.

What This Means for Foreign Workers

The new salary requirement have mixed effects. They make it harder for mid-level professionals and recent graduates to enter the job market. Sectors like healthcare now have stricter hiring challenges.

Meanwhile, those who meet the qualifications may have better leverage in salary negotiations. France is clearly indicating it wants talented individuals who are highly skilled and well-paid.

The Bigger Picture

France is not alone. Salary thresholds for work and residence permits are rising across Europe. The aim is to attract top talent while discouraging applications from workers who might be underpaid or at risk of exploitation.

For people thinking about applying, the message is clear: check the numbers closely before applying, and ensure any job offer meets the new rules.