Intra-Group Mobility and Secondment
Securing Employee Transfers
Transfers from a foreign entity, temporary secondment, Talent Passport — Employee on Assignment, ICT The firm supports international groups in procedures relating to the transfer of employees to France: work permits, visas, residence permits, and employer compliance obligations.
Transferring an Employee to France: A Demanding Legal Framework
Intra-group mobility is a strategic issue for international organisations. French law distinguishes between several situations - namely intra-group transfers (ICT), temporary secondment, and international assignments - each subject to its own rules.
An incorrect classification or an incomplete application may result in a refusal, delay the employee's arrival, or expose the company to legal risks.
The ICT framework (Intra-Corporate Transfer)
The ICT framework, introduced by EU Directive 2014/66/EU, allows non-EU companies to transfer employees to a related entity within the same group in France on a temporary basis. It applies to senior executives, specialists, and trainee employees.
- Assessment of eligibility of both the employee and the company under the ICT scheme
- Preparation of the visa application file, including evidence of intra-group links, employment contract, and proof of prior employment
- Submission of the ICT long-stay visa application to the French consulate
- Follow-up of the issuance of the residence permit upon arrival in France
- Handling renewals and any extensions of the assignment
Maximum duration: three years for executives and specialists, one year for trainees.
The Talent Passport - Employee on Assignment
The most commonly used scheme for transferring employees within international groups to France. It applies to employees assigned to a related entity in France, subject to meeting salary thresholds and a minimum period of prior employment within the group.
The firm assists with the preparation of the application, the visa process, and follow-up with the prefecture upon arrival in France. We also support family members in obtaining Talent Card for accompanying families.
Advantages: may be granted for up to four years, allows accompanying family members to obtain residence permits, and facilitates mobility within the European Union.
Comprehensive Support and International Coordination
- Coordination with HR and legal teams in France and abroad
- Liaison with French consulates in the employee's country of origin
- Monitoring of processing times with consulates and prefectures
- Management of complex situations: change of host entity, unexpected extensions, transition to a local employment contract, family reunification
- Advice on the most appropriate immigration strategy depending on the duration and nature of the assignment
The firm operates in both French and English, ensuring smooth communication with international teams and employees.
In Case of Administrative Difficulties or Refusal
Excessive processing times, lack of response from the prefecture, inability to secure an appointment, or visa refusals may jeopardise the continuity of the employee's assignment and create significant operational risks for the company.
The firm initiates the appropriate steps: formal notices, administrative appeals, référé mesures utiles before the administrative court, and judicial review proceedings in the event of unlawful decisions.
Are You Transferring an Employee to France?
An initial consultation allows us to determine the most appropriate scheme, anticipate timelines, and establish a clear procedural roadmap. The firm offers tailored fixed-fee packages for companies and international groups.