For people considering a move to France, the ability to continue working remotely for an overseas employer can be an important part of their plans. Until recently, however, there had been considerable uncertainty about whether remote working was compatible with France’s visitor immigration status.
New guidance published by the French Ministry of the Interior in June 2026 has now provided some much-needed clarification.
Why was there uncertainty?
The French visitor residence status is intended for people who are not entering the French employment market. Applicants are generally required to confirm that they will not undertake a professional activity in France.
This created an obvious question for remote workers: does working from a home in France for a company based abroad count as undertaking professional activity in France?
Different interpretations had emerged. Some applicants were able to use payslips from overseas employers as evidence of their financial resources, while other guidance suggested that work could be considered to take place in France simply because the individual was physically present there.
The uncertainty prompted French MP François Gernigon to submit a written question to the French Ministry of the Interior.
What has the French Government said?
The Ministry’s response was published in the French Official Journal on 23 June 2026.
It explained that a professional residence permit normally relates to work carried out in France as part of the French economy or labour market. By contrast, someone living in France who works remotely for an employer governed by foreign law, without being employed in France or working for a business based in France, should be considered “non-active” under French immigration law.
This means that remote work carried out exclusively for an overseas employer may be compatible with visitor residence status, provided that the individual is not entering the French labour market or undertaking work that requires French work authorisation.
Does this mean all remote work is permitted?
The clarification is helpful, but it should not be interpreted as blanket permission for every type of remote working arrangement.
The Ministry’s response specifically refers to someone working for an employer established under foreign law. The position may be different if the individual:
The response also relates primarily to immigration and residence status. It does not provide a complete answer on French income tax, social security contributions, employment law or the obligations of the overseas employer.
Living and working remotely in France could still create French tax or social security responsibilities, depending on the individual’s circumstances and the length and nature of their stay. Professional advice should therefore be obtained before relying on the visitor route.
Planning a move to France
For prospective residents who intend to remain employed by a company outside France, the June 2026 response provides greater clarity than was previously available. However, every application and working arrangement should still be considered individually.
Visa and residence requirements can change and applicants should check the latest official French guidance or speak to a qualified immigration and tax adviser before making firm plans.
Once the legal and practical arrangements are in place, Burke Bros Moving Group can assist with every stage of moving your household effects to France. With regular services throughout the country and more than 40 years of experience, our team can provide support with packing, transportation, customs documentation and delivery to your new French home.
This article is intended as general information and does not constitute immigration, legal or tax advice.
