The French government has officially published an updated list of occupations experiencing labor shortages, paving the way for the regularisation of foreign workers across various critical sectors. The list, released in the Journal Officiel, includes approximately 80 professions that are now open for foreign nationals seeking legal employment opportunities in France.

This strategic update comes as part of the government’s broader effort to address significant workforce gaps in key industries, such as construction, agriculture, hospitality, and personal care. The measure is intended to facilitate the recruitment of foreign workers while offering a legal pathway for undocumented individuals already employed in these fields to regularize their status.

Updated Shortage Occupations List for 2025

The newly published list of in-demand occupations includes roles across several sectors that are vital to the national economy. Depending on the region, the 2025 shortage occupations include:

• Construction and public works professionals

• Salaried farmers, market gardeners, and horticulturists

• Home care aides, kitchen assistants, housekeepers, and cooks

• Domestic workers and cleaning staff

• Hotel and restaurant service roles

These changes reflect France’s ongoing commitment to addressing critical labor shortages while modernizing its approach to immigration and workforce development.

Facilitating Regularisation and Recruitment

The updated shortage list simplifies the process for employers to recruit foreign workers in these high-demand fields. It also provides a legal framework for certain undocumented workers, already active in these occupations, to regularize their immigration status through employment.

In a public statement, the French government emphasized that the reform is designed to “respond to urgent labour needs” in sectors that are essential for the country's social and economic fabric.

Strong Support from Industry Stakeholders

Industry leaders have welcomed the move. Franck Trouet, General Delegate of the Hotel and Restaurant Association (GHR), told ICI that the decision was “long-awaited,” particularly by businesses in the hospitality sector facing severe staffing shortages.

According to figures from France Travail, the hospitality industry alone anticipates the need to fill approximately 336,000 jobs in 2025, with nearly half categorized as difficult to recruit.

Foreign Workers Key to Sustaining the Economy

The policy update coincides with a recent study from French think tank Terra Nova, which found that the country needs between 250,000 and 310,000 foreign workers annually to maintain its economic stability, particularly in light of an aging population and stagnant domestic workforce growth.

In 2022, France welcomed around 331,000 immigrants, a number seen as essential to support the country’s labor market. With demand showing no signs of slowing, immigration is increasingly viewed as a crucial driver for sustaining productivity across sectors.

Streamlined Pathway for In-Demand Professions

In line with broader immigration reforms introduced in 2024, foreign nationals working in professions listed as “in-demand” are now eligible for faster processing of residence permits. These reforms are expected to reduce administrative delays and offer more predictable pathways for legal employment and integration.

This initiative marks a significant shift in France's approach to immigration policy—prioritizing both economic resilience and social inclusion through targeted labor migration.

Conclusion

With its 2025 shortage occupation list now in effect, France signals a clear commitment to addressing pressing labor shortages while supporting legal pathways for foreign workers. As the country prepares to meet the growing needs of its economy, these changes are set to have a profound impact on employers, foreign employees, and the broader workforce landscape.