France’s 2025 Shortage Occupation List: In-Demand Jobs Available for Foreign Workers

France has unveiled its 2025 shortage occupation list, creating opportunities for foreign workers in over 80 in-demand roles. This update spans various sectors, including hospitality, healthcare, and technology. The aim is to address labor shortages and simplify work permit processes for qualified migrants.

This new list, published in the Official Journal, is vital for regularizing undocumented workers while meeting France’s growing workforce demands. It provides a clear pathway for foreign professionals to find legal employment and residency in the country.

Why This Update Matters

This initiative is part of France’s strategy to fill gaps in key sectors facing persistent labor shortages. By simplifying work permit procedures, the 2025 shortage list offers foreign workers a clearer route to employment and residency. The list highlights high-demand jobs in the following sectors:

• Construction
• Agriculture and Forestry
• Hospitality and Food Services
• Transportation and Logistics
• Healthcare and Home Care
• Information Technology (IT)
• Manufacturing and Industry
• Renewable Energy
• Domestic Services

Key Sectors and In-Demand Occupations

Here’s a breakdown of major industries and key roles featured in the 2025 shortage occupation list:

Construction & Building Trades

• Construction Engineers
• Carpenters
• Plumbers
• Electricians
• Heavy Equipment Operators

Hospitality & Food Services

• Chefs
• Kitchen Assistants
• Hotel Staff
• Restaurant Servers

Healthcare & Home Care

• Nurses
• Caregivers
• Physiotherapists
• Veterinarians

Agriculture & Forestry

• Agricultural Labourers
• Horticulturists
• Livestock Farmers

Manufacturing & Industry

• Machine Operators
• Maintenance Mechanics
• Industrial Quality Technicians

Transportation & Logistics

• Truck Drivers
• Logistics Handlers
• Packaging Workers

IT & Digital Professions

• Software Developers
• Data Analysts
• IT Security Experts

Other Skilled Trades

• Refrigeration Technicians
• Automotive Repairers
• Elevator Installers

A Step Towards the Legalization of Foreign Workers

This updated list not only addresses labor shortages but also allows certain undocumented workers in these roles to apply for legal residency. This “regularization” process will benefit many, especially in hospitality, agriculture, and domestic support.

Work in France Made Easier

If you have experience in any of the listed occupations, 2025 could be your chance to:

• Apply for a France Work Permit through a simplified process
• Transition from undocumented status to legal worker status
• Enjoy faster approvals for residence permits
• Secure long-term employment in high-demand sectors

Tip: Ensure your qualifications meet French labor market standards. Consulting a legal expert or immigration advisor can enhance your application.

Final Thoughts

France’s 2025 shortage occupation list is more than just an update; it’s a vital resource for industries under pressure. It presents a golden opportunity for foreign professionals seeking stability and legal employment in one of Europe’s largest economies. With more than 80 occupations available, foreign workers now have a streamlined pathway to work and live in France.