In the context of professional immigration, work permits are an essential step in many foreign employee recruitment processes. However, over the past several months, processing times have increased significantly, forcing employers and candidates to rethink their schedules and practices.

 

Significant increase in processing times

 

The current processing time for obtaining a work permit is 10 to 12 weeks, or nearly three months from the date of application, compared to approximately eight weeks previously, or even four weeks for students.

 

This change has a direct impact on recruitment plans, whether they involve:

 

·    recruitment abroad, prior to applying for an ‘Salarié visa;

·    or hiring in France requiring the issuance of a work permit before taking up a position (change of status to ‘Salarié or change of employer for holders of ‘Salarié status).

 

In both cases, the administrative timetable becomes a key factor in recruitment.

More stringent examination of applications

 

The longer processing times are due in particular to a more thorough analysis of applications by the foreign labour authorities.

The review is no longer limited to the submission of mandatory documents: greater attention is now paid to the overall consistency of the application, the reality of the position, the need for recruitment and the employer’s situation.

 

In practice, requests for additional documents or information have become frequent, which significantly lengthens processing times when these elements have not been anticipated.

 

Anticipate every situation to secure recruitment

 

Faced with this new reality, anticipation is no longer an option, but a necessity.

 

 Factor in delays before hiring

 

When a work permit is required, it is now essential to allow for a period of approximately three months, even four months if a prior labour market test is required, before the target start date.

 

This anticipation allows the recruitment schedule to be adapted and avoids situations of deadlock or postponement.

 

 Submit a consolidated file

 

Simply complying with the list of mandatory documents is often no longer sufficient. It is recommended that you compile a comprehensive application, adding supporting evidence when you submit your application: justification for the position, recruitment context, consistency of the employee’s profile, etc.

 

Anticipating additional requests from the authorities helps to limit interruptions to the procedure and ensure that deadlines are met.

 

Key points to remember:

 

•     Work permit processing times are now longer and must be taken into account during the recruitment phase.

•     The application review process is more rigorous, with files being examined in greater detail.

•     Careful planning and a solid application file are now essential for securing the hiring of foreign employees.

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