How to get a Working Holiday Visa to France (for all nationalities)

Introduction to the France Working Holiday Visa

France’s Working Holiday Visa is an excellent option for young adults to explore and earn money in France. This international youth mobility program was born from bilateral agreements between France and other countries with the goal of fostering greater understanding of French culture, language, and society.

Participants can stay for up to 1 year (2 years for Canadians), during which they can travel around France and even work to fund their experiences.

Eligible candidates are young adults between:

• 18-30 years old (inclusive) from Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Hong Kong, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, South Korea, Taiwan, and Uruguay.
• 18-35 years old (inclusive) from Argentina, Australia, and Canada.

Applicants must also hold a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the end of their intended stay in France.

Program description and rules

• The Working Holiday Visa is considered a “long stay” visa.
• Your Working Holiday Visa will be granted for a maximum of 12 months and cannot be renewed (exception for Canadians).
• You have open work authorization in France, but employment should not be the primary motive of your working holiday.
• During the validity period of the visa, you can freely leave and re-enter France.
• If you have dependents or a partner who wishes to travel with you, they will need to apply separately.
• There are no formal French language requirements.
• You must provide proof of private medical insurance covering medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation for the duration of your stay. More details in chapter 3.

If you meet the eligibility criteria and can commit to respecting the rules of the program, then read the next chapter for an overview of the application process.