4 Steps to Apply for the French Tech Visa for Founders

The world now runs differently in 2025. With remote work no longer a novelty but the norm globally, more business founders are thinking beyond borders when starting up or expanding their businesses.

France, boasting over 5,000 startups and being one of the fastest-growing technology hubs in Europe, is rolling out the red carpet to the globe's innovators via the French Tech Visa for Founders.

If you've ever fantasised about pitching investors in Lyon or growing your team in Marseille, this visa could be your ticket. But before you begin rolling out the suitcases, it pays to know precisely what it is, who it's for, and how to apply.

What is the French Tech Visa for Founders?

French Tech Visa for Entrepreneurs is part of France's "Talent Passport" programme for non-EU startup founders of innovative business plans. It offers the right to remain and work in France for up to four years, with the possibility of renewal if their project prevails.

Unlike traditional work visas, this program specifically targets entrepreneurs whose projects have been recognised by a French public body for their innovation and economic potential.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, you should:

• Be a non-EU/EEA or Swiss citizen (with special arrangements for Algerian citizens).
• Have an innovative startup project you want to carry out in France.
• Receive official recognition from a French public body or an endorsed incubator/accelerator.
• Show proof of personal funds equivalent to France's minimum wage (around €21,621.60/year in 2024).

4 Steps to Apply for the French Tech Visa for Founders

Step 1: Join an Approved Incubator or Receive Support from the Ecosystem

Your journey starts with applying to one or more incubators or accelerators that are partnered with the French Tech Visa program. You can also apply to an incubator or accelerator supported by the French Tech Capital.

Alternatively, if you already have strong connections in France’s startup ecosystem, you can request backing from two recognised members, such as research organisations, laboratories, established entrepreneurs, or companies, each of whom must issue you a formal letter of support. These endorsements are crucial, as they validate your potential in the eyes of the French startup community.

Step 2: Request Official Recognition of Your Project’s Innovation

Once you’ve been accepted by an incubator, accelerator, or have obtained two letters of support, the next step is to apply for formal recognition of your project’s innovative nature. This is done via the official platform at demarches-simplifiees.fr/french-tech-visa-for-founders.

Your application will be reviewed by the DRIEETS IDF (Direction générale interdépartementale de l’économie, de l’emploi, du travail et des solidarités Ile-de-France). If your project meets their innovation criteria, it will move to the next stage.

Step 3: Receive the Ministry’s Acknowledgement Letter

If your project is approved, the DRIEETS IDF will issue an official letter confirming its innovative status. This letter is an essential document for your visa or residence permit application.

Step 4: Apply for the Visa or Residence Permit

With the acknowledgement letter in hand, you can now submit your application for one of two options:

• A long-stay visa marked “Talent – innovative economic project,” submitted to the French consulate in your country of residence if you are applying from abroad.
• A residence permit marked “Talent – innovative economic project,” submitted online at administration-etrangers-en-france.interieur.gouv.fr and processed by the Prefecture if you are already living in France with a valid permit.

After your approval, you will legally be authorised to work and live in France as you bring your innovative idea of a startup into life.

Conclusion

The French Tech Visa Founders is a golden opportunity to one of the most vibrant startup ecosystems in Europe. With access to top-tier talents, a thriving tech ecosystem and the European market, founders can set up their business to scale exponentially.

In an era where lots of professionals say they’d relocate for better career opportunities, this visa offers a chance to live in one of the world’s most culturally rich countries while building your business on a global stage.

If your startup dream involves innovation and international expansion, this program could be your gateway to making it happen.

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TechloyLouis Eriakha