In October 2026, France published Decree No. 2026-1001, which revises work and residence rules for foreign workers, including EU Blue Card holders. The decree generally took effect on October 30. Fragomen’s November 9 analysis notes that some measures still await implementation details.

Recheck transfer and exit procedures

For qualifying Blue Card holders moving from another EU member state, the prior holding period has been shortened from 18 to 12 months, according to Fragomen. Employers should confirm the individual’s eligibility and filing steps before bringing forward a French assignment. Work permission, social security affiliation and insurance eligibility should be checked separately.

The decree also changes protections for certain workers after loss of employment. Review exit communications so they distinguish a worker’s right to remain from the dates when payroll, insured benefits and assignment allowances end. The worker should know which issues require individual immigration advice and who to contact about any continuation of cover.

Wait for details on pending measures

New pay thresholds for certain intracompany transfers and a work authorisation exemption for qualifying UK employer postings still need implementation details. Identify cases that may qualify, but do not plan a posting on the basis of an exemption until the applicable conditions can be verified.

For mobility leaders, the immediate task is to classify cases by rule and effective date, and give immigration, payroll and benefits teams a common checklist. That lets eligible workers benefit from a shorter transfer timetable without making promises about start dates or cover that other parts of the process cannot meet.

Sources

Légifrance decree 2026-1001