I’ve been getting several emails on this topic already and I guess it’s about time that I share this stuff to people who are interested in applying for this program.
First of all, the French Competence and Talent Visa is intended for people who hold a good degree of education – Master’s or Doctorate’s degree, with several years of work experience in their chosen field. The program allows chosen candidates to work and live in France for a period of 3 years (but extendable to 6). After this period, the candidate comes back to the Philippines, rich from his or her experience abroad, contributing to the Philippine economy.
Anyhoo, I for one, don’t have a Masteral’s Degree – so cross out Phd as well. But I still tried, and another friend of mine is coming here next year, holding this visa as well, but her field is more interesting – Chef!
Ok, enough already…here are the papers I submitted to the French Embassy to get into this program:
- CV (list down all education and work history)
- Cover letter stating my career plans in France (this has to be really convincing)
- Business card
- Name of companies I am in touch with (and who took an interest in my application)
- Transcript of Records
- Diploma
- Certificate from Alliance Francaise de Manille (number of hours of French language study)
Make photocopies because they don’t accept the originals. Submit the papers to the French Consulate.
I didn’t have to wait long for their reply. They called me the next business day and before I knew it, I was filling up the long stay visa forms and submitting my visa photos and NBI – this was a hassle because they got my birthday wrong in my clearance so I had to wait a week to have this corrected.
3 weeks after I got approved, I was on a plane to Paris.
I applied for this program during the time wherein only a few people were applying. I think I was the 13th person to get into this program. As for my work, I started to submit online applications to all companies who are in need of an English Tech Writer or Editor when I was still in Manila.
Best of luck to those who will apply for this program. By the way, this visa is totally free of charge, but bear in mind that it’s totally up to the candidate to do what he or she needs to do after the approval of the visa application. The French Embassy will not help the approved candidates look for employment and a place to live.
Hi timi, I always enjoy reading your blogs, stories about paris
I just want to ask if you were interviewed right away after you submitted your application for the competence and talent visa or was it done when they asked you to go back to submit addtl requirements? Thanks!!!
Hey there! No I was not interviewed right away. I submitted all the other requirements first (by dropping it to the embassy) then I had to wait 3 days for the embassy to call me. When I met with the head of the visa section, he asked me to fill up the long stay visa application and I had to go back the next day for the photos. I asked him then if I got approved after filling up those application forms and then he said yes. It was a really fast procedure.
Hey- Im an american looking seriously into this card. I have a few questions:
1. you mentioned that you were one of the first (13th) to get this card…..when was that exactly, i didn’t see a date for some reason on the post.
2. I fit well, I believe, all the criteria (international business in fashion degree) spent time volunteering in france, excellent GPA, etc) except the most important which is a project and moreover, proof I can complete it. My goals are to find a job in france, I have spent several 3 month visas in france looking for jobs (since a contract is required before a work visa is given) but have been rejected on the terms of not having a work visa! The competences et talents card seems like the only other options. So my question: how convincing is ‘really convincing’ in terms of a clear project. What was your project? There are many international fashion companies in the area I want to live that I have been in contact with……but my project is essentially to find a job and therefore contribute to the economic and cultural growth/understanding of France and the US.
Help! Thanks so much if you have any advice!
Hi there. Yes I was the 13th person to get this card. It was fairly new in the Philippines that time. I got it around August 2008. I didn’t have a project when I got here – I didn’t even have work. I got a job once I was here. I’m in Information Technology but I have a friend who got the same visa and she’s in fashion as well. The card is a resident and work permit in one, so you don’t have to worry about being tied up in one company. You can explore different possibilities for work once you’re here. The thing is – the card is only 3 years (renewable once only) and you have to go back to your own country after that to start a project (or business) that will help the economic growth of your country. I suggest you look in the website of the French Embassy in the US or call them and ask the procedure on how to do it there. It might be different from how it’s done in the Philippines.
As for convincing – your cover letter has to be clear. State your objectives, your achievements before, why you chose France, and how you think you can contribute to their economy. Once you’re here, it’s easy to get job interviews – I’m sure you will succeed. Goodluck to you.
HI Timi! Thanks for answering my queries. Btw, the competence visa was put on hold but recently, it just resumed again. I really wanna go back to EU! Thanks again!
Thank you so much, I appreciate your help! I was mainly worried about not having a project such as a business i want to start or something super complicated along those lines. Nice to know there are people who received the visa without an unltra-incredible project/goal. Thanks again and goodluck to you as well!
hi leah, sure i will give her your email address. good luck with your application. i just know you will get approved
Hi Timi
nice to know abt u..im Arjun from India..Today only i got to know about this program.Actually im into Fine Arts(photo&Visual Communications)and presently in Photo journalism,advertising and Media field.Can i apply for this program -even though i dont’ve a masters degree.I am mainly focused towards Documentaries,film making(I know France is the art/cinema capital of the world-and give inspirations to all art lovers across the world.)and looking forward to make award winning films for India.Living in France will definitely helpful in understanding the culture and stydying the cinema and aquiring the necessity skills in film-making(especially the OSCAR winner “Slumdog Millionaire”-effect may fall on Indians who are talented enough in Creative fields)..Meanwhile for the survival part i may took up Journalism/advertising/Photography.What would u suggest..?Ur comments are most valued and apprerciated.
Hi Arjun,
I don’t have a master’s degree as well. And I don’t know much about you – like if you’re working, a student? I think you can apply as long as you have enough experience to prove that you can contribute to the French economy and society. When you said that you were in the field of media, should i assume that you’re working in media or that you’re studying? If you think you have what it takes, then go ahead and apply. And yes, there are lots of art museums here and the country itself will inspire you to create art.
I am planning to apply for the the T&C card as well. I have master degrees and am an expert in PCI DSS. My plan is to apply when I apply for my long term visa (the consulate is in Atlanta & I live in Charleston.)
Dis anyone lese do this?
Thanks,
Bucky
Hello,
I saw your blog, I am in Florida and am interested in applying for that Visa. I have read that it is for 3 years and can only be renewed once. What happens if you go to France and find a permanent job? Can you apply for a Work Visa or Residency once you are there?
Thanks,
Hope to her from you soon!
yes, after you get the visa, you go to the prefecture and file for residency. the residency is just for 3 years though (renewable once only). after that, it’s up to you where to go and what to do next.
Hi timi! I’m really enjoying your blog entries and travel pictures. :’) I dream of going to France some day, too, hopefully with this visa as well. I just have a couple of questions, 1)how many years of work experience is required (i almost have 3 years work experience as design engineer for circuit boards, do you suppose i’m already qualified to apply?) 2) how long have you taken French classes in AFM? I plan to start taking up the extensive course beginning October this year… Did you take it for like, a year? 3) Which travel agency arranged your flight to Paris after your visa got approved? By the way, I’m in the Philippines and I’m 25 years old.
I don’t know how many years of experience is required, but I think 3 is good enough. I had 5 years of of writing experience when I applied, and just 3 years in tech writing, and 2 years in lifestyle and advertising. I think as long as you show real motivation in your cover letter, everything will work out fine. I took 2 years of French classes, but believe me, it didn’t help me at all when I arrived in France. It took me another 6 months to fully understand the French when they talk. And they talk very fast! You will also encounter different French accents in which you will be lost and charmed at the same time. I forgot the name of the travel agency who handled my flight last year, but it was somewhere in Makati. Go ahead and apply for the visa. It will be an adventure. Good luck.
HI timi, how r ya??
i resently came to know about skills & talent visa and planning to apply for it. I am an indian ,IT professional & stayed in uk for 4 years. presently in india and use to work till 4 months back. I have couple of queries plz do clarify them.
1.Is it mandatory to be working at present.
2.I understood nearly every thing except about Covering letter, if you have copy of your covering latter please do forword me on my mail id.
3.Do we need ta have any offer from french companys?
Please do respond thank you
Shaan
(shaan_ajnab@yahoo.in)
Hi, to answer all your questions:
1. I don’t think it’s mandatory to be working at the present time when you apply for the visa. It’s all about your experiences and how you carry and present yourself.
2. I can’t send you my cover letter, you have to do your own. I don’t think it’s even polite to ask me to send you my own cover letter just so you can copy it. You gotta be original and base it on your own skills and experience.
3. You don’t need an offer from French companies, but it would help if you start applying for work and then they reply back at you. The good thing about this visa, is that it doesn’t tie you down to just one company.
HI Timi,
Thanks for the responce. I asked your covering letter not to copy but to get an idea of how to produce it my way. As you are senior and succeded person in here, thought of following you for succeding. Sorry, if annoied timi.
One more thing timi, i was checking all the sites for info on skills & talent visa and found every where a word “PROJECT”. for instence what dus it mean in below frase–
- ” A description of project specifying its advantages for both France and the country of origin. ”
I am aplying as a person seeking employement in france, but no as a person establishing bussiness, so what do they mean by project for my case.
I Appretiate you for your guidence for all the members in here.
Thank you
Shaan
Dear Timi,
I am Praveen, and Indian 28 years old. I have just enrolled with Y-Axis an International consultant for “Skills & Talents” Visa catagory. My field is Human Resources…. which I call as Human Capital. Pls do reply with your perception in this and it’s scope. My mail id is depicted below. I trust u come back which would strenghten my confidence. Cheers
Praveen Gangadharan
praveenmsw@yahoo.com
Hello Timi
I am Praseeda Reddy and I have been planning to apply for a ‘Skills and Talent Permit’ to France. I had some questions about this Visa program. Could you please answer my questions, which are mentioned below;
I am a salaried employee& moreover a married women and all my questions would be pertaining to salaried activities.
We need to make a project for the “Skills & Talent Visa, Could you elaborate on the Project for the Salaried activity?
If I need to obtain this Visa, would it be compulsory to have a ‘Contract of Employment’ from a company located in France?
Since I am married, I would be applying for the permit along with my spouse. Should we be maintaining some amount of funds in order to manage the initial period of stay? If yes, how much fund should be mainitained?
Please provide the entire list of documents that need to be submitted (Applicant and Dependant)
Your response would be appreciated! Please guide us
Dear Timi,
Please reply to the above querry. Your response would be really helpful for us.
Hi, can you please read some of the comments also because it actually covered this “project” thing? I think you have to make that once your visa expires and you can make a project in your country that can help your economy by applying what you learned in France. I already told everything about the process I made – I didn’t have work when I applied for the visa. And yes, you will need money when you get here because you will have to pay the rent and the food. I don’t really know how much you should bring because when I came here, I was not with my family. I was with my boyfriend so we each have our own savings and we stayed with his family while we were looking for apartments. I already wrote down the list of requirements that I submitted. I do not know about the requirements of the dependents because I did not have dependents when I applied for the visa. What I know is that if you get approved, it’s automatic that your family comes with you and they will be given a residence and working permit as well (hubby, kids). If I were you, try to look for it in the site of the French Embassy where you live. Another useful website about living in France (apartment hunting, writing a CV in French, etc) is Tres French
Hi Timi,
I am Rakesh from india..I hold a Bachelor degree in Electronics and have 2 years of IT experience…I am planning to apply but just a bit confused as I could not find much information about this visa online…Could you just let me know if my profile suits for this visa..
Hi Rakesh,
I am not the one to judge if your profile is good or not. Maybe there is some information in the French Embassy in India? Basically, the info I got on their website (Philippines) is that you gotta have a master’s degree or a PHD but I for one don’t have either of those, and I still tried. I guess experience counts. IT is a good field and I think it will be OK. Goodluck!
Yeah even I saw the same thing on the website..but yeah I’m gonna give it a try though…thanks a lot for the information
…
Thanks Timi. I would definetley go through in detail in the embassy site. Thanks for your time.
Is French is mandatory to get a job in france?
It depends on the position, but it would help a lot if you speak french. It makes things easier.
Hi Timi,
I am planning to apply for skills and talent visa (France) i have 2 doubts
1)Do we need to fill the application form in french(Since the application is in french) or can we do it in english language itself.
2)Is police clearence certificate mandatory
Eagerly waiting for your reply.
You can also mail me at shivaece_ksk@yahoo.co.in
the visa form, i think, has a translation in english. you can download it in the french embassy’s website. yes, police clearance is mandatory, but they will ask that from you when you get approved.
Thanks Timi.
You have shared a lot of information. I got all my questions answered after going through all the comments and your response.
You have done a good job.
Thanks again!!!
~Manish
Dear Timi,
Thanks alot for your information about this visa. I am AN iNDIAN CURRENTLY WORKING IN U.K . I have done diploma in hotel management & I have almost 6 yrs of experience from U.S.A, U.K, India, in hotel industry. Could you please tell me my chances of getting it? also could you tell what project report should I make & how many pages it should be?
Also how long does whole process takes place?
Thanks once again, waiting for the reply
Prashant Nilakh.
Hi Timi,
Thanks for all the information. It was really helpful. I am also into IT domain. I am a bit confused about what to write in the project report one has to submit to the embassy. If possible, could you please share your project report with me at sajal.puri@gmail.com. It would be really helpful.
Thanks again
~Sajal
Hi,
Im Karthik from India. I was working for Satyam Hyderabad as a Senior Lead. I was in Belgium for about 2 yrs for a project deputed through Satyam & 2 weeks in france. I have learned French Level 2 when I was in Belgium but I dont have a certificate for that. Im thinking to apply for this but Im not working now due to Satyam issue. Kindly help me with the details. You can send me the details to karthikeyan.subramanian80@yahoo.com, else leave your france contact no if you dont mind I will call you for details.
Thanks
Karthik
If you would all read the article and the comments, all the details are there including the project. As I’ve said before I dont have a project coming here. It’s all about finding work in your field.
Hi Timi,
Firstly, u r doing a great job….!
My name is Keisha and i am from India. I have recently got myself registered with Y-axis for the Skills and Talents Visa.
I am a free-lance professional translator for French, English and Spanish and I have around 5 years of experience. It would be great if you can tell me as to what are the chances for a person like me.
Futher, you mentioned that you were done with the formalities and procedures in just 3 weeks….But here Y-axis is saying that it’ll take them 2 months (6 weeks) for the Visa.
Its like they will help us with the Project/Covering Letter/various documents….and this shall take them 1 month….Then 1 month for the visa….and another 1 month for the Job. So 3 months in all…..
Can you please tell me if i am on the right track and whether it tkes this long….
Also, you mentioned about the project…that it is to be submitted later…But here Y-axis says that it is mandatory and that it form an integral part for the visa to be granted…..Can you please clear this confusion?
Awaaiting your reply!
Many Thanks
Keisha
Hi Timi,
Thanks for all your efforts.
Just one point that hasn’t been covered in all these posts.
How descriptive was your project information ?
I guess it would vary from field to field and person to person but still would be good to have a brief idea about it.
Approximately how many words ?
Thanks and Regards,
Nisan Chee .
as ive said the visa is only good for 6 years. and after that you have to return to your own country to create a project. its your choice. i cannot think of any project that i wanna do in 6 years – as ive said before.
keisha – what is y-axis? is it an agency or something? why do u need help for your cover letter – if you know what motivates you, then it’s easy to do your cover letter. i went straight to the embassy thats why its faster and as ive said before, i was the 13th person to get approved in the program so it was fairly new that time and not a lot know a lot about it so it took faster time for me.
i suggest you call the french embassy in your home country to inquire about the requirements. it differs from country to country.
Hi Timi,
Thanks for replying….And what can you say about the scope for me as I am a Translator (French-English-Spanish) with a good 5 year experience?
Thanks
Keisha
i think it’s already good. you speak good french so that will already take you a long way. you can even be independent.
Hi Timi,
Thanks for sharing your success story with us, it was very encouraging.
Iam interested in the skills and talent visa of France, request you to please guide me.
Professionally Iam an accountant with over 8 years experience. I hold a Bachelors degree in Commerce and Diploma in Software Management.
Please let me know if I should apply because I do not have a Masters degree and also if you could tell me a bit more about the Project we have to prepare.
Looking forward to hear from you
Thanks
Pankaj
solomonpankaj@gmail.com
hi pankaj,
please read the post and the comments first. everything you’re asking was already discussed. thanks.
Does any know of “OCCUPATIONS” that are currently on the skills shortage list in France?
Hi Timmi
Myself bhavesh .I am in IT domain.I am also interested for skilled and talent visa .I know the document list except cover letter or project .Please send me the format of cover letter.
How can we show that we have sufficient fund to go to france?
what is document for that require?
I appreciate your guidance for that.
Emailid :bhavesh_beit@yahoo.com
Thanks,
Bhavesh
msi_geek>>occupations? i think it’s in the website of the French embassy. I was in IT when i applied for the visa. I have friends who were in fashion and culinary. Other than that, I don’t know – i guess being a nurse or a doctor is good too, but you might have to take a different exam here to practice being a doctor/nurse here.
bhavesh>>format of the cover letter, just make it like you’re applying for work – state your experiences and why you want to work in France.
Hi,Timmi
Thanks for your prompt reply.
I didn’t get the long stay visa form in english.It’s in french.
Can please send the softcopy of longstay visa form in english on
bhavesh_beit@yahoo.com
Is it necessary to have Alliance Francaise certificate ?
Alliance Francaise coaching will start in January.I can’t wait so long time
I am learning french from one of my friend.Is it ok?
Thanks,
bhavesh
i dont have the long stay visa form in english with me here. i got mine in the french embassy and filled it up there. Alliance Francaise certificate is not really necessary but it can help.
Hi,Timmi
Thanks a lot for your suggestion.
Timmi Have u shown any Bank balance or fixed asset ?
Is it required ?
Thanks,
Bhavesh
Hi Timi,
I adore ur patience in replying to each and every query!
Even I am going to apply for this visa. And I am confident of getting the visa but my only fear is whether I can find ‘Java Developer’ job in France with only English knowledge. I am ZERO in French!
Are there English speaking software jobs available without needing to know French?
It should not happen like I resign from my existing company and come there after spending money and ultimately return home empty handed!
Thanks in advance!
bhavesh >> i did not show any bank statement. i would have written it in the requirements if i did.
raj >> well, it’s time you start taking french lessons. it’s hard to work as a java developer without speaking french because all the company meetings, project plans, and data specifications are in french. they won’t speak english just for one person. trust me, i’ve experienced this. i was the only one who did not speak french when i started working in france. i was an english tech writer so my job was to write in english, but most developers i’ve worked with spoke very little english so i had to use whatever french i know. well, i did resign from my old company in the philippines and i didn’t have a job waiting for me in france when i got here. it’s all about taking risks. if you don’t take a risk, do you really wanna look back in the past and ask yourself what could’ve been if you just took a risk?
Hi Timi,
What is your highest qualification? And total numbers of years of work experience?
I have a bachelor’s degree in media communications. Here in France, it is equivalent to BAC+2. A master’s degree here is equivalent to BAC+4. But my writing experience – newspaper, publicity, and software is 7 years.
Hi Timi,
Thanks for the reply. I have already started taking French basics from websites
Well, but while issuing the visa and initially getting a job there, is it ok to get in with only English?
If I just demonstrate that I am keen in learning French in the coming future, will I get the visa and the job?
Does the French consulate reject the applications if the candidate is ZERO in French?(This is a very IMP Question for me)
Thanks in advance!!
hi raj, i didn’t speak french when i went to france and i got by by speaking english for the first 2 months, but of course, i made an effort to speak french. they appreciate that here. it depends really what kind of job you’re looking for. if you don’t wanna learn french, then teach english. i learned that when you live in france, you need to speak french. you don’t have a choice. i don’t know about your french consulate, but in the philippines, it’s ok if you don’t speak french. maybe you should ask the french embassy there all the requirements. it differs from country to country.
Thanks a ton dear Timi!
U r a very helpful person. God bless u!!
Please let me know if you have any Java developer requirements coming up in the company where you are working!
I am going to submit my application on 17th sept and I am planning to come to Paris by december.
Cheers!
Raj
Sorry I am going to submit my application on 17th Nov not sept!
hey raj, i don’t live in paris anymore. i relocated in strasbourg since june 2009 and shifted career paths. i’m doing photography now
but let me know when you’re in france. wish you goodluck. as for me, i’ll be travelling next year and india will be one of my stops. again, wishing the best for you.
Hi Timi,
Thanks for all your help!
Well, pls let me know if there are any openings for Java/J2EE in your company so that I can try my luck there as soon as I get my visa!
Oh I am sorry, I dint read ur last comment! Oh so u changed ur profession!
Even I love photography!!
So you can change your profession easily there is it?
Thats great!! Wish u a very gud luck for your new career!
God will always bless people like you who are very helpful to others.
Take care and is possible be in touch with me on http://www.rajiv.com@gmail.com
hey my email address is “www.rajiv.com@gmail.com”
Hi Timmi
Thanks a Lot Timi for your guideline!
I am also planning to put file this month end.
U r a very helpful person. God bless u!!
Take care & keep in touch with me.
My emailid id bhavesh_beit@yahoo.com
Cheers!
Bhaveh
Is a Police certificate needed for ALL countries that an applicant has ever visited even if for a few weeks? or only country of residence/nationality?
no, i don’t think so. just the country of your residence is enough. at least, that’s what i did. i didn’t ask the countries i’ve visited to make me one. that would be too much hassle.
Police Certificate is required for the past 3 years.
So you will require PCC from all those countries whereever you had been for more than 6 months.
Hi Raj,
Can you provide source for your comment:
Police Certificate is required for the past 3 years.
So you will require PCC from all those countries whereever you had been for more than 6 months.
Hi msi_geek,
This information is given by French consulate, Mumbai
Hi All,
Could any one of you plz share the covering letter format or the project plan details to apply for SKILL and TALENT visa for FRANCE….
Hi Timi,
How is the attitude of French people towards Asians? How are you finding it so far?
Hi,
Do we need prepare some kind of project as such to the embassy,
I see this in the requirement on the embassy website.
A description of project specifying its advantages for both France and the country of origin,
This is one of the best places to look up in the internet for Skills and talents permit information.
I am astounded by the sheer commitment timi is showing in replying to all the questions, prospective applicants are having.
Three cheers and kudos for that.
Apart from congratulating you from the bottom of my heart i really don’t have anything else to ask you here. Keep up the good work as long as you feel to do so.
I am trying to put some information specific to India
Regarding PCC yes you need to provide PCC for all the countries youve been in the past 3 years and stayed more than 6 months
The below information is specific to US PCC only. For other countries i dont have an idea
If you had been to the US then you don’t need to provide local state police certificates but you need to provide FBI clearance. For that you can approach your local police station with FBI record Request (Search Google for FBI Record Request and you have loads of information) finger print card and request them to help you taking your finger prints. They did that for me without asking a penny. I myself was surprised. In addition to the FBi form they would give you Indian Police Finger print papers too. After that you have to send everything by speed post or courier to the FBI CJIS Division, clarksburg, West Virginia USA. They would get back to you in 6-8 weeks.
In addition you have to get PCC for your stay in india too. For example i was in US in the last 2.5 years and in india for last 6 months then i need to provide FBI certificate for that 2.5 years and indian PCC for the recent 6 months. Again you need to approach the commisioners office in your jurisdiction and believe me or not for this also i was not asked a single penny. All this happened in chennai if you want to know.
Regarding the project its not fair to ask other’s projects to know about the presentation or content. It has to come from within.
Regarding Y Axis, it is charging 50k for this and promising some fee refund too if yor case is rejected. But till now Y Axis does not have a history of even one success case w.r.t france. I discussed with them for several days and what i feel is that even i am having more information on skills and talents permit than them. If you have lots of money then you can go for a gamble with Y Axis.
One more guy gcvisas.com also proclaims that he can get your skills and talents permit. The fee is same 50k and there is no fee refund guarantee. Y Axis atleast refunds 12.5% of fees if your case is not approved.
Please post comments if you need some more information
PS: I am yet to apply for this
To msi_geek >> I find French people actually nice. They’re a bit reserved at first, but once you get to know them, it’s fine. If you ask for directions, they actually stop and point you to the right direction, as long as you start your sentence with, “Parlez-vous anglais?” Because it’s a bit forward if you ask them immediately in plain english for something (according to my French friend) and they like it when you make an effort to speak french. I don’t know how French people actually find Asians. My bf says he finds the majority of Asians to be cute and a bit reserved, but I don’t really know. I guess, to each his own. Let me ask some of my French friends and I’ll get back to you on that.
Hi Shankar,
Please let us know something more about Y-Axis. Have you gone thru them?
As far as I know about Y-Axis, the first batch of 6 candidates were sent only some 10 days back, so how can you say about the history of success rates here when all the applications are still in the process. Are you trying to say that all the cases have been unsuccessful?
Hi Sudy, I didn’t have this type of project description when I applied for the visa. All the things I’ve submitted are the requirements that I’ve written above. Maybe someone else has ideas?
Timi,
There is a slight confusion here. The project here is nothing but the Cover letter which is to be submitted which states your future plans and the effect on French and your home country economies.
The immigration consultants like Y-Axis etc. they actually term it as a ‘PROJECT’ just to make us believe that they are going to do some wonders which we can’t do so that you will pay them huge amount as fees dats it…
Hi raj
What you say about Y axis (the first batch of 6 candidates were sent only some 10 days back,) is very true. I didnt intend to say that they have unsuccesful cases. My message is a bit misleading. I am sorry about it.
What i tried to tell is this. They dont have big experience in representing cases for france like they have for canada or other counties. If you visit their office they have a huge list of photocopied visas, work permits of other countries but not for france and we know why. If you talk to them the confidence with which they are taking up discussions for canada, australia is not seen in their faces and voice when they discuss about france. Thats natural as they dont have a history for france. But at the same time that casts a shadow of doubt on them about their service capability for france.
I would wait and watch until they have one successful case.. More over the price tag is very high if you ask me. The actual visa fees is only 7500 rupees. So you would need to pay 7500 + 50000 + courier fees, attestation charges, some other charges too etc etc. They would ask you to sign some service aggreement which looks more biased on their side. But their explanation is different for that. They say that we are investing for our life and not for a specific pay and get service. That seems plausible and acceptable too.Since they ve started this program new for france ven they are having starting troubles.
I am not specifically marketing them or stopping some one from going there. Just putting my the pros and cons. If you take their service for other countries for example canada. here also they are telling lie (every overseas consulting guy tells the same way) that you can be in canada in 6-12 months. Thats impossible if you ask me as there are already 100000 applications waiting to be processed by candian high commision.
If you are confident of writing a good project then you can give it a shot as timi did.
Also i see some mixed reviews about Y Axis here.
A BAd One – http://www.mouthshut.com/review/Applying_for_a_Visa-166895-1.html
A Better One – http://www.mouthshut.com/review/Applying_for_a_Visa-169729-1.html
Lets discuss more.
Here’s what I put in the cover letter (or at least, the general idea) – I wrote why I wanted to live and work in France, how the technology they use impresses me (because my field was IT and new technology), which companies I kept in touch with and who showed an interest in my profile, where I would stay when I go to France, and also, I talked about which school I came from, my experience and competence, and the love I have for French culture and the language (coz I was studying French as well when I applied for the visa). They like this kind of motivation. That’s all.
I just think that paying for a service to help you get this visa is a little bit of a ripoff. It’s supposed to be a competence and talent visa, so should be an effort coming from the candidate. Besides, agencies like these – they have their hands full already. And if I were someone who works in the French embassy, then this kind of application will turn me off. Anyway, these are just my thoughts. You should do what your gut tells you to do. Good luck to all
Hi,
I had a few queries regarding the french visa form .
There’s particular field in the visa form :
22. QUELLE SERA VOTRE ADRESSE EN FRANCE PENDANT VOTRE SÉJOUR ?
which roughly translated into English means :
22. WHAT WILL BE YOUR ADDRESS IN FRANCE DURING YOUR STAY?
Is this field mandatory ?
Because I find this sort of illogical in the context of “Skills and Talent” visa considering that the applicant will consider going to France only when he has obtained a visa.
Maybe this is because the French have a common long & short stay visa forms for all purposes and this field would definitely
be applicable in other scenarios .
There’s a doubt with another field :
28. AVEZ-VOUS DES RÉPONDANTS EN FRANCE ? (*) OUI NON
SI OUI, INDIQUEZ LEUR NOM, NATIONALITÉ, QUALITÉ, ADRESSE ET TÉLÉPHONE :
which roughly translated into English means (atleast that’s what I’m assuming) :
28. DO YOU HAVE ANY RESPONDENTS IN FRANCE? (*) YES NO
IF YES, INDICATE THEIR NAME, NATIONALITY, QUALITY, ADDRESS AND TELEPHONE:
In this case , what exactly does the term ‘repondent’ mean ?
Does it mean a sponsor ?
Wondering if anybody could help with this.
Thanks,
Shai .
Hi Guys,
I am also looking for more information about the project portion of this visa.
I used to live in France for 2 years as a visitor, I’ve been programming computers in the US for about 12 years and I seriously intend to come back. I also agree with Timi when it comes to showing enthusiasm. Whenever I went to the prefectures in Strasbourg and Toulouse, they were stunned at my persistence and enthusiasm. I usually had copies of every document they asked for. I’ll provide some of this information in my folder just to show my enthusiasm for wanting to live and work in France. Thank God I’ve done quite a bit of legwork on the subject.
One thing that helped me through the document hell was the fact that I made electronic copies of all my important information. Whenever they needed a copy of something, I’d just to to my thumb drive or email account and retrieve the document. It couldn’t be any easier.
Good luck to you guys,
Chris
hi timi,
I read all your comments, it is so nice that you have shared all you experiences, which is rare to find at all. hope you doing well there.
1.I want to know any bank balance is required or not.
Hi timi,
I am a graphic Designer, would I be able to find a job in my field in france. How is the demand of a graphic designer there in france. Though i visited paris some 5 years back while my stay in UK but didnt had chance to go around places.
Please answer me.
Regards
Sumeet
Currently i m in India planning to go to FRANCE, I have a total of 7 -8 years of experience as a graphic designer, with loads of work samples. Please answer my query.
Thanks
Hi Shai, I put the address of my bf’s in France. But if you don’t have an address, you can leave it blank. A friend of mine left it blank and it was OK, as long as it is clear to the applicant that the French embassy will not help the applicant look for an apartment and job after being approved. The head of the visa section told me before that it’s better if the applicant has a friend in France because some applicants who went to France without knowing anyone were expecting the embassy to help them, and actually it’s not their job to do that. It’s up to the applicant to do his affairs/business after getting the visa.
Repondant is a guarantor. I left it blank since I have my own savings and I find it uncool to put my bf as my guarantor.
Hi Sumeet, I think graphic design is a good field. You can look in the internet for jobs in France and you can see if there’s a lot of demand for a graphic designer. Try monster or other job sites in France. Google is powerful – you can search and learn a lot.
HI timi….I want to know, if any bank balance is required or not for the application…
All the requirements that I submitted are already written in the post. Please refer to the info and the comments for all the details that you need. Thanks.
Hi Timi,
Your blog is the best source on the Skills and Talent Program:
But I am still confused on the ‘Project’. Is it only a letter of intent stating how both India and France will benefit from my working there?
I am 32 Male, Single. an MBA with 8 yrs experience, Currently work with an IBM company. My area of work is corporate communications, which has primarily got to do with command over a language (mine is English with an IELTS score of 8.5).
What are the chances of finding work in France only with the merit of knowing English. Ofc ourse, I can start learning the French language, it still may not be sufficient beyond common daily use. I can demonstrate that I know multiple Indian languages and I can pick up French quite quickly. I know 4 other Indian languages.
Thanks again and keep up the good work.
Mickey,
India
Hi. When you’re in France, you don’t have a choice but to speak French. You have to learn – when you get here, you should take French courses. Even me whose work was mainly in English had to learn French to understand what’s going on at work. Our R&D director before hardly speaks English and I had to communicate with him all the time. Maybe look for a company here who makes business with India, that way your knowledge of the other 4 Indian languages will be useful. Or an English company can be good too. But just one thing – if they set up their office in France, then they are making business with the French and speaking their language here is really important.
hi timi
can u tell me is there any school fees for children if i cm on skill & talent permit and what r the charges for medical insurance
waiting for ur reply
thanks
samit
i don’t know for the school fees coz i don’t have kids yet, but you can search it in google. for the medical insurance, you have to work 60 hours first before you are qualified for their social security and then you have to wait a month to get the carte vitale (card) and then once you have it, you have like 70% of reimbursements for your doctor’s fees, but not all for the medicine. it depends what your health issues are. see more on my other posts please.
Hi
Is it mandatory to give the salaried bank statement as proof of employment?
Kumar – not in the Philippines, but kindly check the requirements in your own country. Maybe it differs.
hi timi,
thanks a lot timi for ur response, can u pls send me the cover letter (project)on my email id for just an idea. i want to know what it contains.
thanks
samit
can u please read the comments samit? i already gave an outline of my cover letter. i’m sorry but i can’t send you the exact one that i used.
Hi,
This is Ashok, I need Work Permit France Visa, I have Electriacal Project /Design Management Experience in 8 years, How can i get this good oppertunity? please send me a reply by mail: selva.ashokkumar@gmail.com
Hi Ashok,
You can get this good opportunity by applying to the French embassy and by not posting your resume here. Thanks.
Hi Timi,
Thanks for your open hearted responses. I wish to know how elaborate the covering letter/ project should be, i mean, in terms of number of pages.
Thanks,
Munna.
Hi Timi,
This is a requirement stipulated by the french embassy in India.
“The criteria are defined by the “Commission Nationale des Compétences et Talents” (National Commission for Skills and Talents) which meets at least twice a year in France.
- The applicant must present a credible professional project meeting the criteria announced by the National Commission;
- The applicant must prove, in all manner, that he/she is capable of realizing his/her personal project. The application will be treated with respect to: • the interest and quality of the project; • the intent and commitment of the candidate; • the candidate’s ability and qualifications for conducting the project; • the means available to the candidate for carrying out the project.”
Now, is a project equivalent to a covering letter? how to justify the use of means to achieve the project? This looks like a reference to funds. Is this liquid funds alone or any fixed assets which can be shown at the time of application or both?
Thanks,
Murali.
Hi Timi,
This is Ravi from India. I dont know about any consultancy as Y-Axis, But i feel that the information itself is very vague & i came to know about this when i spoke to the Mumbai Consulate.
Hope you are giving Ample information about Skills & talent visa. Thanks a lot for the same. Can you please answer the below quetions.
1. Apart from IT & Fashion Desining, is there any Preference for Customer care & other Operations?
2. Is it require to show the Maintance funds to the consulate, if yes how much should be maintain?
Thanks,
Ravi.
Ravi>> I am giving info based on my experiences. I am not from India, I am from the Philippines so please, for the nth time, can u please check with the French Embassy in India? And please read all the comments first and the post because your question number 2 has been answered several times already.
Btw, I don’t know about Customer care and operations. I was in IT, 2 of my friends are in fashion, and one is in culinary. That’s all the info I can give you based on my experience. I don’t anyone in Customer care or is it call centers?
Insurance
Kindly note that no visa will be issued, if not accompanied by a medical insurance : hospitalisation and repatriation cover of a minimum amount of 30 000 Euros (Thirty thousand Euros) and which is valid for 30 days.
IS iT COMPULSARY TO HAVE THE INSURANCE OF THAT AMOUNT……..
Hi Timi,
Although I’m taking lessons ,I’m not very fluent in French as of now.
Is it mandatory for the visa form and the project to be in French ?
Which language did you choose for these when you submitted your application to the consulate?
(I’ve read your earlier comment that you got an English version of visa form at the embassy which you filled in English, but believe me I’ve searched all across and there is no English version available on the Internet)
Cheers,
Mark.
The head of the visa section gave me a translated version in english.
I think that’s for the tourist visa. I didn’t get any travel/medical insurance before leaving. Maybe the requirements vary for every country. Did you ask the French Embassy about the requirements?
is there any extension after 3 + 3 years of visa..or you have to come back….
read the post.
Many thanks for the information you’ve posted here regarding the “Competence et Talent” Visa!
I have today received my letter of approval and provisional Visa in my Passport!!
My question is, once arrived in France, how long did it take from the time you submitted your application to the Prefecture de Police until you received your Carte de Sejour?
Many thanks for any information!
Best wishes,
Dominique
hi dominique, cngratulations! you’re gonna be in in a lot of adventure. i got mine after 7 months. but i think it depends which prefecture you submit your application to. i did mine in strasbourg, but my friend did hers in paris and it took her around 4 months only i think. have fn in france!
Hi Timi,Iam Dheeraj and a brief Introduction,i Just Came to know About Skill ,talent Visa can i apply to it.
I earned my college degree from Almeda University ,Diploma From AH LA and Hospitality Management.Presently Pursuing MBA From ICFAI University Hyderabad . I have been working in the hospitality industry since 2004. I started working in Leela Palace Bangalore,India.as an Intern for an year, I moved to Rambagh Palace Hotel Jaipur India, as Butler Team Member/Front Desk. After that I started to work in The Imperial Hotel as Catering Executive. I continued my career in the Law Firm as Admin Executive , New Delhi. I mainly worked in the front desk as front desk supervisor as well as facilities Management and concierge, beside other departments like housekeeping, executive level, revenue maximization and finance Monthly Audits.I have an excellent training background which over time has given me very good interpersonal skills, for training change,
inter company communications, and guest relationships. I gained valuable experience about large scale operations, staffing, coordination, crisis management, maintaining guest satisfaction and loyalty.
Hi Timi,
I’ve submitted my documents @ d Embassy 2 months ago. Do u think it was disapproved because it’s been 2 months and there is no feedback yet. I am wondering when did Dominique submitted the reqts & how soon did he receive the letter of approval? I emailed the embassy asking for a feedback but there was no reply. Am hoping that they will at least give a feedback either positive or negative. What can u suggest?
Try calling the embassy. I don’t know how long Dominique has waited for the approval. I think before, it used to be really fast, like 3 weeks is the longest you have to wait. But now, I think the waiting time is 1 month. I’m not sure. The best is to call the embassy.
Hi Timi,
I am from India & am interested in applying for the France skills visa. I am very thankful to you and others who have posted useful advice regarding this visa. I just have one doubt regarding the visa:
Suppose my visa gets approved, how soon should I leave for France? Is there a deadline like within 1 month or 3 months? How much was it in your case? Why I’m asking is because if I resign from my existing job (after getting the visa), I have to serve 2 months notice period – so I may not be able to leave for France immediately – will that be a problem?
Your advice will be appreciated in this regard.
Tell the embassy when your departure date will be. My friend got her visa October 2008 and she left April 2009. She just advised the embassy when her departure date will be. Because the visa lasts 3 months. In that 3 months, you have to go to the prefecture and then apply for residency.
TO EVERYONE WHO ARE TRYING TO APPLY FROM INDIA:
After giving some incubation time i contacted Y Axis consultants in Chennai to check out how they are doing? I was shocked to hear that they have put that program on hold. because…..
They had arranged all paper work for 2 candidates, fixed appointments through VFS and sent them to the French Consulate in Pondicherry. The moment the consular officer heard that the person is applying for ‘Skills and Talents Permit’ he had asked for
1)copy of employment contract from a french company
2)foreign employee authorization request – simplified contract
These 2 people (Like all of us) have thought that we never need a job offer to apply for this permit. But looks like we need one, at least that’s the case in India as i see. Perhaps we have to be lucky enough like Timi.
In the below URL i see very clear information about this visa. Perhaps this is having the best official information about this visa.
http://www.consulfrance-chicago.org/spip.php?article831
What do you guys think? Has any body else from India applied for this and succeeded getting visa without a job offer. I am not misleading any body. Just posting the information I got from Y Axis. Forgive me if it’s otherwise.
Maybe it differs from country to country. I was one of the 1st who applied for this visa. And in the requirements, they said no need for a contract because that would be like a normal working visa. This is a Skills and Talent visa and all my friends who got it have the same situation as me. We didn’t have problems like this.
Regarding the posting for those applying in India.
I have no official information specifically related to India.
Unrelated to the Competence et Talents Visa, I have recently viewed reports issued by the UK Immigration that all “student visa” applications have been stopped for applicants in certain areas of India. The action has been taken to stop those who have abused the system.
Perhaps there is some similar policy being taken up in France related to applicants applying for Visa’s of long stay.
Again, this is only speculation, but I would imagine that dependent upon your country of origin, the requirements will differ.
Best wishes,
Dominique
Hey Timi- woah, looks like you get a lot of hits on this page, obviously not enough info on the net about this. I was just wondering if you could remove my post way in the beginning that has my email on it…..didn’t think about all the emails I would get by putting it on here…I appreciate it! P.S. I was rejected the visa last year because I have a bac +4 and not a Bac +5 plus I didn’t have a contract. So any American’s trying I would still apply but don’t get your hopes up if you don’t have a Bac +5 (US bachelors degree plus masters) or dont already have a contract. I gave them a list of potential employers who were interested in me but that wasnt enough. The only catch is if your metier is on the list of 30 that are recruted to france which you can find on the Ministre of Immigration website. For other countries….the same rules really dont apply and it also varies by consulate in your country. There is no official rule, like all administration in france…..so dont count on any info from anybody being the right one that will get you the visa…..all you can do is follow what YOUR consulate tells you and hope for the best. Also- the laws are changing very quickly every year thanks to besson, unless your married its a long trek to peacefully living in france as a foreigner. Goodluck Everyone!
Hi Guys,
Does anyone know how about getting medical insurance once you receive this competence and talents visa?
I saw this on another blog but I need more details “3. As a visa-holder, you are protected by French Laws. You are entitled to social and health insurance.”
http://parisforfree.blogspot.com/2008/12/french-competence-and-talent-visa.html
Does anyone know if we can purchase insurance from a French plan even if we don’t have a job yet? Although I’m an American, I would rather find a French insurance plan.
Thanks,
Chris
Yes you can. There are a lot of insurance companies in France and I think you just have to pay 20 euros or something. I’m not really sure. I will have to get more info about this. But for the french social security, you have to work at least 60 hours in order to be qualified and covered. Usually, they pay 75% of your medical fees, but in Alsace, it’s different coz they cover 90% of your fees.
Thanks for the tip Timi. I used to have international insurance but I don’t want to deal with multiple processes/companies to get things done. That insurance was about $500 US per year.
@Leah – Thanks for your comment. Can you tell us what your degree and profession was in? I’ll be getting my Bac +4 in June of this year and It will be in Computer Information Systems. I hope I won’t have the same problems.
Fyi… Here is the list of jobs/metiers that you can exercise in certain regions.
http://www.immigration.gouv.fr/spip.php?page=dossiers_det_imm&numrubrique=286&numarticle=1409
Good luck guys,
Chris
Dear TIMI,
hi,
I m Thomas form India and planning to go to France through this Visa (Skill & talent). I am an electrical engineer with complete 3 years of work experience in Steel industries as an electrical planning engineer, please suggest weather from this background i m able to build a meaningful “PROJECT”, kindly explore the possiblity of getting a job in france with electrical engineering stream. what should be the major contents for submission of project. I m having my two uncle in france, both got their natationality & living there since last 20 years. plaese suggest how they can help me for getting this Visa?. & weather any medical examination we have to give during Visa application.
please do reply….
Your advice will be appreciated in this regard.
Hi Thomas
You have every information in the above comments and posts.
First thing is a job offer. Ask any or both of your 2 uncles to arrange a job offer for you. w.r.t. india this visa carries no significant difference to a work permit except that you are free to work for any employer. But.. But you need a job offer upfront. Once u get this visa using that job offer u dont need to take up that job. u r free to enter france and do anything u want. U need not be a electrical engineer. even pick fruits for example. Nobody cares.This is not a HSMP sort of thing at least w.r.t. india. So a french employer need to give u offer with adequate insurance coverage also. employer wud need to provide u with a cerfa (google cerfa if you dont hav an idea) form.
I am not sure abt medical exams. But it shud not be a problem for u unless u have dreaded diseases like TB, Malaria, AIDS etc etc.
The project blah blah blah everything else is secondary and can be done by urself. What ur project must contain is given in all these comments above. Exploring the job market is ur job. Nobody can help u in that.
please provide the details for getting job in france
Just apply over the internet, just like everything else.
Hi tami,
You mention that after 6 year you have to go back to your home country. In the servicepublic it mentions that you canapply for a résident de longue durée – CE wich is valid for 10 year . Do you have any idea about this?
Can you overcome the 6 year limit?
http://vosdroits.service-public.fr/F17359.xhtml
Hi Timi,
I hope you have provided information about permits. I have probably 2 doubts. One is, should we provide frequent report about the project we proposed to, any authorities to make them sure that we are working on the same?
Second one is, can we move to some other european countries like U.K., as it is a English speaking country?
Regards
Thanigaivel
Thanigaivel>>> Reports on projects? To who will you provide that? As I’ve said in the post, I didn’t have a project when I came to France. I had to look for work since the visa comes with a work and resident permit. You are not tied to a company whatsoever. If you get this visa, you are on your own after and it’s up to you how you would use that opportunity. If you want to move to the UK, then you should probably not look at the French Competence et Talent Visa. You should go to the embassy of the UK website to check the requirements on how to move there. After all, the skills and talent visa is provided by the French embassy, not the UK. If you want to speak English all the time, moving to France won’t probably be a good idea.