Popular job sectors for international students

For international students, there are different opportunities for jobs in France. Usually, Management jobs such as Consulting, Marketing, and service industries, Engineering such as aerospace, mechanical, automobile and metallurgy; tutor jobs such as English language teachers, Electricians, and IT professionals; and hospitality industry jobs provide a great scope of employment in France for the skilled workers. 

But for those who are studying and want to work also, there are other part-time jobs for international students, not just 9 to 5. Camp Counsellor, Pub promoter, Real estate employee, ski resort employee, and tour guide are some jobs that can help them earn while working part-time. These jobs can also fulfill the job requirements of international students who need a job while studying. Some students can work at University's marketing and international office and in shops and stores. 

Further, let's learn more about the popular job sector and opportunities for jobs in France for International Students. 

Popular Job Sectors for International Students in France 

Some popular job sectors in France for international students are: 

  • STEM specialists (science, technology, engineering, and math) 
  • Electricians 
  • Veterinarians and medical professionals 
  • Construction workers carpenters 
  • Surveyors 
  • IT specialists 
  • There are also several work opportunities in tourism, retail, agriculture, and the care industry. 

Staying in France and Working After Graduation 

Suppose you are an international graduate student looking to stay and find a job in France. There are a few requirements: 

Students from European Union 

International students from the European Union, the European Economic Area, or Switzerland may stay in France after graduation to hunt for a job. They are welcome to remain as long as they choose. They can also work as an international volunteer in a French governmental agency or firm overseas if they are under 28. 

Students from outside Europe 

Non-European students must have a job offer or a work contract and be paid at least one and a half times the minimum salary to stay in France after graduation (2,220 euros grossed per month in 2017). A foreign, non-European graduate may apply for an Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour (APS - temporary residency visa) valid for twelve months and non-renewable while looking for work in France. They must hold a professional Bachelor's or Master's degree or be in the process of founding a business to do so. 

Note: Students from countries having bilateral agreements with France benefit from unique criteria for obtaining a provisional residence permit (APS). 

Finding a job in France for international student 

Some factors to consider before commencing your search for a job in France are: 

  • Determine the sort of employment you want.  
  • To fulfill French expectations, compose your CV and cover letter. 
  • Keep an eye out for job posting sites and set up email notifications by preserving your search criteria. Pôle Emploi (Employment Centre) aggregates job postings from all areas. 
  • Take the time to update your resume and tailor it to the job that you're looking for. 
  • Send spontaneous applications to firms that interest you so that they may get to know you. 
  • Be cautious of your online reputation and the details about you that anybody may access.  
  • Recruiters are increasingly embracing social media to learn more about the candidates they are considering calling in. 
  • Attend job fairs to network with recruiters. With your CV and cover letter, they will interview you numerous times in one day. Because you won't have much time to persuade them, ensure you're prepared. 
  • An internship is an excellent method to supplement your CV and build a professional network you may use later. 
  • Professional social networks, such as LinkedIn, will let you put your CV online, maintain and develop a professional network and respond to job offers. 

Things to know for the students working a job in France 

Things you need to know as a student working a job in France are: 

  • It isn't easy to find work in France. 
  • France has a very high rate of youth unemployment. 
  • Short-term contracts are becoming more frequent. 
  • It's preferable if you speak French. 
  • However, only some employment requires fluency in French. 
  • Do things in the French manner. 
  • The French labor market is evolving. 

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Job in France 

To apply for a post-study job in France, students must first get a Post-Study Work Permit. Several qualifying conditions must be met to obtain a work visa in France. Only once the validity of your student visa has expired will you be permitted to remain in France. 

There are many sorts of France work permits available to international students. They are as follows: 

  • Permit for Temporary Residence 
  • Talent Passports Temporary Residence Permits 
  • EU Resident Identity Card 

The list of papers necessary to secure a France work permit for overseas students is provided below: 

  • A passport valid for at least three months after the desired stay is required. 
  • Form for requesting a visa 
  • All educational transcripts must be copied. 
  • Health insurance Birth certificate 
  • Previous employers' references 
  • Photos in passport size 
  • Letter of appointment from the company 
  • Employer recommendation letter 
  • A full description of the task you will be doing in France 

Working hours for international student  

Students who are outside European Union membership can work for a maximum period of 964 hours with temporary employment authorization and a residence permit. Students working part-time can earn 7900 Euros per yearAll international students are permitted to work while studying in France. It's a right that all students in France have. Students who are not citizens of the European Union must get a student residency permit. 

According to French legislation, international students may work up to 964 hours yearly, or 60% of the maximum working hours authorized. (50% for Algerian students whose status is still specified by the Franco-Algerian Agreement signed on December 27, 1968). The money earned from such labor is a bonus. 

Work law in France 

The Labor Code (Code du Travail) of 2016 governs most French labor law (amended as of 2021). The Labor Code oversees job circumstances such as working hours, holidays and rest periods, salaries, overtime, and employment relationships. 

Minimum wages 

Whether as a student or not, those working in France are legally required to pay a minimum salary. This statutory minimum salary is generally referred to as the Smic (salaire minimum interprofessional de croissance or guaranteed minimum wage). This minimum salary is €10.25 as of January 1, 2021. It is a gross wage; required social security contributions (about 20%) must be subtracted to establish actual earnings (i.e., €8.20/hour). A student working 10 hours per week at minimum wage will earn €82 net.