France to Raise Immigration and Citizenship Fees

France will increase several immigration-related fees starting May 1, 2026, affecting foreign workers, international students, job seekers, and applicants for residence permits and citizenship.

Under the new policy, the fee for first-time residence permits will rise from €200 to €300. Applicants eligible for reduced rates,  including seasonal workers, international students, job seekers, and family reunification permit holders, will also see the fee increase from €50 to €100.

However, some categories will remain exempt from the price hike, including refugees and holders of retiree residence cards. Authorities confirmed that renewal fees for residence permits will remain unchanged at €200, or €50 for reduced-rate applicants.

The government will also raise the long-stay visa regularization fee from €200 to €300. This applies to foreign nationals who adjust their visa status after arriving in France.

In addition, the cost for replacing or updating residence permit cards, such as changes of address, lost permits, or duplicate requests, will increase from €25 to €50.

One of the most significant increases will affect citizenship applications, with the fee jumping from €55 to €255.

Authorities will also introduce a €100 fee for the Authorization Provisoire de Séjour (APS) temporary residence permit, which is currently free. The charge will not apply to certain groups, including victims of human trafficking or individuals under temporary protection.

Another new measure will require residents to pay €40 to exchange a foreign driving license for a French one, a process that is currently free.

Officials say the fee increases aim to boost public revenue and reduce the national deficit, while shifting more administrative costs to applicants instead of relying solely on public funds.

Experts note that the changes will raise the overall cost of living and working in France for many foreign nationals, particularly for employers who sponsor international workers and professionals planning to relocate to the country.