18/06/2024
Question that inspired this post:
I would like to know the benefits of having a blue card over a passport talent. I received my passport talent card yesterday but a month ago I got a new job which makes me eligible for a blue card. I wanted to know if it is worth converting it by paying 225 euros again.
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Introduction
Deciding between the EU Blue Card and the French "Passeport Talent" residence permit can significantly impact your professional and personal life in Europe. Both options offer distinct advantages tailored to different needs and career goals. Here's a detailed comparison to help you make an informed choice.
Intra-EU Mobility
EU Blue Card
One of the standout benefits of the EU Blue Card is its allowance for easier movement and employment across EU member states. After holding an EU Blue Card for 18 months, you can move to another EU country and take up highly qualified employment without undergoing the full visa process again.
Passeport Talent
In contrast, the Passeport Talent restricts you to working only in France for the first two years. This can limit opportunities if you foresee career moves within the EU.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
EU Blue Card
The EU Blue Card provides a faster route to permanent residency in the EU country where you reside. You can apply for permanent residency after holding the card for 21-33 months, provided you meet certain conditions like language proficiency.
Passeport Talent
The Passeport Talent does not offer an accelerated path to permanent residency. If permanent residency is a priority, the EU Blue Card may be the better option.
Family Reunification Benefits
EU Blue Card
Family members of EU Blue Card holders enjoy more favorable conditions for family reunification. They can obtain work permits more easily, making it simpler for families to settle and integrate.
Passeport Talent
Family members need separate "Talent Passport - Family" permits to work in France. This adds an extra layer of complexity compared to the EU Blue Card.
Recognition as a Highly-Skilled Worker
EU Blue Card
The EU Blue Card is specifically designed to attract and retain highly-skilled non-EU workers. It offers recognition across the EU, which can be beneficial for career development and job security.
Passeport Talent
The Passeport Talent has different categories, some of which do not necessarily signify high skills. However, it offers more tailored support and benefits within specific sectors such as art, science, and entrepreneurship.
Cost Considerations
Converting to an EU Blue Card requires an application fee (€269) and meeting a specific salary threshold (1.5 times the average French gross salary, approximately €53,836.50 in 2022). This is a key factor to consider if you are contemplating a switch from the Passeport Talent.
Flexibility in Job Changes
Passeport Talent
The Passeport Talent allows more flexibility in changing jobs or employers without needing to apply for a new visa, provided the new job is in a related field. This can offer more stability and security for professionals with evolving career paths.
EU Blue Card
While the EU Blue Card offers broad recognition, job changes may require meeting specific criteria and processes, especially if moving to another EU country.
Key Considerations
Professional Goals
If you foresee moving to another EU country for work, the EU Blue Card's mobility benefits may be more advantageous. However, if your focus is on your current position in France, the Passeport Talent could provide sufficient benefits.
Family Situation
For families, the EU Blue Card could simplify the process of moving and working together in different EU countries. The Passeport Talent, while beneficial, requires separate permits for family members to work.
Current Employment
Since you already have a Passeport Talent card and a new job, consider whether the immediate benefits of the EU Blue Card justify the cost and effort of switching.
Conclusion
The decision between retaining your Passeport Talent card and switching to an EU Blue Card depends on your personal and professional priorities. If you value the flexibility to work across different EU countries and the associated family benefits, converting to the EU Blue Card might be worthwhile.
However, if you are focused on your current position in France and the Passeport Talent meets your needs, retaining it could be the better choice.
Assess your goals, family needs, and professional plans to make the best decision for your circumstances.
Reach out for more questions.
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