France · Skilled Worker Visa

Carte de séjour temporaire « entrepreneur/profession libérale »

By António Mira, Founder · Member, Arab-Portuguese Chamber of Commerce & Industry (CCIAP) & Portuguese-Saudi Business Council (PSBC)
✓ Verified against the official government source · Last verified 2026-06-08 · Our methodology
4/10 diff
Moderate

Non-salaried-activity residence card (CESEDA L421-5), distinct from the talent-porteur de projet route (L421-16 / FR-I-0…

Min income
€1,867/mo
Processing
60+ days
Path to PR
No
Job offer
Not required
Direct answer

Non-salaried-activity residence card (CESEDA L421-5), distinct from the talent-porteur de projet route (L421-16 / FR-I-001): one-year temporary card for a foreigner carrying out an economically viable non-salaried activity from which they derive sufficient means of existence. Missed by the first drill.

At a Glance

Visa Duration
12 months
Processing Time
60+ days
Min Income
€1,867/mo
Path to PR
No
Difficulty
4/10 — Moderate

Eligibility Requirements

RequirementDetails
Age Range18–65
Job Offer RequiredNo
Sponsorship RequiredNo
Language RequiredA2
Health Insurance RequiredNo

Financial Requirements

ItemAmount
Minimum Income€1,867/mo

Family & Rights

RightDetails
Path to Permanent ResidencyNo

Related Pathways

Cost of Living

Paris
Single (monthly)€2,800
Family (monthly)€5,200
Rent 1BR (center)€1,500
Groceries€700
Transport pass€168
Lyon
Single (monthly)€2,000
Family (monthly)€3,800
Rent 1BR (center)€850
Groceries€500
Transport pass€120
Marseille
Single (monthly)€1,700
Family (monthly)€3,200
Rent 1BR (center)€700
Groceries€425
Transport pass€102

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Carte de séjour temporaire « entrepreneur/profession libérale »?

Non-salaried-activity residence card (CESEDA L421-5), distinct from the talent-porteur de projet route (L421-16 / FR-I-001): one-year temporary card for a foreigner carrying out an economically viable non-salaried activity from which they derive sufficient means of existence. Missed by the first drill.

What are the financial requirements for the Carte de séjour temporaire « entrepreneur/profession libérale »?

Applicants need minimum income of €1,867/mo. Additional costs may include relocation expenses, insurance, and document attestation.

Can the Carte de séjour temporaire « entrepreneur/profession libérale » lead to permanent residency?

No — this is a temporary pathway and does not itself lead to permanent residence. Holders often switch to a different route to pursue settlement.

Are there alternative pathways to France?

Yes. France offers 21 other immigration pathways. Compare all options on our France country page.

What is the cost of living in France?

Monthly costs for a single person in city center: Paris: €2,800/mo; Lyon: €2,000/mo; Marseille: €1,700/mo. These include rent, groceries, transport, and utilities.

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Official source

Requirements on this page are based on this official/primary source:

Data last verified: 2026-06-08 · See our methodology

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