France: 'Skills' work permits to be issued

Following the publication of decree no.2007-372 on 21 March 2007 in the French official journal, a special “skills residence permit” (carte de séjour “compétences et talents”) may now be issued to foreign nationals from outside the European Economic Area. To qualify, foreign nationals will be expected to contribute to France’s standing in the world or the country’s economic development, particularly in the intellectual, scientific, cultural, humanitarian or sporting spheres.