What the Researcher Route Is
The carte talent chercheur is for scientists and academics coming to conduct research or teach at university level in France. Its defining feature is the convention d'accueil — a hosting agreement issued by an approved French research organisation or university that confirms your research project and status.
The Convention d'Accueil
The hosting agreement is the heart of the application. The French institution that will host you issues it, setting out your research, duration and conditions. With a convention d'accueil in hand, the residence permit process is comparatively straightforward, because the institution has already validated the substance of your stay.
Who Qualifies
- Researchers with a doctorate or an appropriate higher-education level.
- Post-doctoral fellows and established scientists with a hosting institution.
- Academics invited to teach or research at French universities.
Duration and Family
The permit is issued for the length of the hosting agreement, up to 4 years, and is renewable. Talent-famille applies, so your spouse receives a permit with the right to work and your children are covered — a significant advantage for researchers relocating with a family.
Free Eligibility Check
Not sure which category fits? Send your profile — our team and the avocat will map you to a realistic track within 1 business day. No charge, no obligation.
FAQ
Do I need the hosting agreement before applying?
Yes. The convention d'accueil from an approved French institution is the foundation of the carte talent chercheur. It is issued by the organisation that will host your research.
Can PhD students use this route?
The route is aimed at researchers at doctoral level and above with a hosting agreement. Doctoral candidates are often hosted under it; the institution's agreement defines eligibility in each case.
Can I teach as well as research?
Yes. The category covers research and associated university teaching. The hosting agreement sets out the scope of your activity.
Does my family get to work?
Yes, through talent-famille your spouse receives a permit with the right to work, valid for the same duration as yours.
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Tell us about your profession, citizenship and goal. We reply within 1 business day with the track we see, the gaps to close and a written quote.