Should a non-European employee who settles in France know French?

Verified 17 February 2025 - Directorate for Legal and Administrative Information (Prime Minister)

To be able to work in France, a non-European employee must have obtained a work permit.

He must have sufficient knowledge of language French or commit to learning after its installation, if it shows the will of establish themselves on a sustainable basis in France.

With exceptions, a Republican Integration Contract (CIR) is concluded between France and any non-European foreigner admitted to France who wishes to settle there on a lasting basis.

The non-European foreigner passes a test of knowledge in French. This test is oral and written. It is organized by theOfiiOfii : French Office for Immigration and Integration.

Depending on the outcome, he or she receives or is given language training.

Please note

The employer may propose, within the framework of the skills development plan, to the employee allophone engaged in a language training pathway, training aimed at achieving the level A2.

The allophone employee can also use his personal training account to conduct this training.

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