Hiring Foreign Seasonal Workers: Immigration and Social Security Procedures in France

Every year, nearly 800,000 seasonal worker positions are available in France, yet around 300,000 remain unfilled at the start of the season.

The agricultural and tourism sectors (hospitality, catering, leisure, and culture) are the most affected by this labour shortage, but many other industries also face difficulties.

So why not consider seasonal workers from abroad?

In 2022, 26,000 applications for “seasonal work” authorisations were submitted to the authorities, with 22,000 ultimately approved. This represents a relatively low number given the potential abroad, and many applications were likely rejected due to incomplete or improperly submitted documentation.

Eligibility Criteria for Seasonal Worker Status

• Fixed-term contract (CDD) of 3 to 6 months maximum
• Annual remuneration at or above the French minimum wage (SMIC) and applicable sectoral minimums
• Labour market check required unless the occupation is classified as a shortage profession (see official list)
• Permanent residence abroad (minimum 6 months)
• Residence permit valid for 3 years, renewable
• No accompanying family procedure
• Not eligible for French nationality or long-term resident status

Required Procedure

• Labour market check via a job offer published on Pôle Emploi for 3 weeks (unless occupation is in shortage)
• Seasonal work authorisation obtained through the dedicated platform for each arrival
• Long-stay visa (VLS valid for 3 months) applied for at the French Consulate
• Residence permit, which can be multi-year, up to 3 years
• Medical examination at OFII (only one appointment required at first entry)

Social Security Obligations

Registration for French social security is mandatory for employees contributing in France, but processing times are generally too long for a seasonal worker to benefit before the end of their contract.

Additionally, since manual labour is statistically associated with a higher risk of accidents and injuries, ensuring adequate social coverage for employees is even more important.

Our experts can assist with opening social security rights for your seasonal employees within 6 to 8 weeks.

We can also support you with:

• Reactivation of rights
• Obtaining a Carte Vitale
• Creating an AMELI account
• Mandatory declaration upon departure from France