France Implements Minimum Wage Increase and Adjusts Talent Passport Salary Thresholds for 2026

Minimum Wage Sees January 2026 Increase

France has officially raised its monthly statutory minimum wage, known as the SMIC (Salaire Minimum Interprofessionnel de Croissance), by 1.18%. Effective January 1, 2026, the gross monthly SMIC now stands at €1,823.03. This marks an increase of €21.23 gross per month from the previous rate of €1,801.80. The net monthly SMIC is now €1,443.11, while the gross hourly rate has risen to €12.02 from €11.88.

This adjustment is a standard annual revaluation designed to preserve the purchasing power of employees, taking into account inflation and wage developments. Approximately 2.2 million individuals, representing 12.4% of the French workforce, are directly affected by this minimum wage increase.

Revised 'Talent Passport' Salary Thresholds

In parallel with the minimum wage adjustment, France has also revised the salary thresholds for its 'Talent Passport' residence permit categories. These changes, which took effect on August 29, 2025, for new applications, are part of a broader strategy to enhance France's economic attractiveness and draw highly skilled international professionals.

The 'Talent Passport' is a multi-year residence permit, valid for up to four years and renewable, designed to facilitate the residency of foreign employees, entrepreneurs, and qualified individuals who can contribute significantly to the French economy.

Key Threshold Adjustments:

• For the EU Blue Card, the minimum annual salary threshold has increased to €59,373. This represents a 10% rise and is set at 1.5 times the average annual gross salary.
• The 'Talent – Qualified Employee' category now has a flat annual salary threshold of €39,582. This particular threshold was notably reduced by 8% compared to its previous level, a move aimed at making this pathway more appealing.
• Executives applying under the 'Talent – Legal Representative' route must now earn at least €65,629.08 annually.

These revisions necessitate that employers review existing assignee compensation packages and adjust new job offers to ensure compliance, as only fixed and taxable salary elements are considered towards these thresholds.

Strategic Implications

These dual adjustments reflect President Macron's strategic approach to balancing social protection with economic competitiveness. The aim is to continue attracting top international talent while also ensuring fair compensation and integration into the French economy.