Start the process well before your expiry date
The salarié residence permit is renewed annually. What many people don't know: in major cities, préfectures often have appointment slots booked out 2 to 3 months ahead. If you wait until your permit has expired, you risk an irregular situation. The rule: submit your documents 3 months before expiry in major cities, 2 months in smaller ones.
CDI or CDD — it makes all the difference
With a permanent contract (CDI), renewal is usually straightforward — you're demonstrating stable, continuous employment. With a fixed-term contract (CDD), the situation is trickier. If your contract ends before or during the review, you'll need to provide either a new contract or a signed job offer from your employer. Without proof of employment, the préfecture may refuse renewal. Deal with this as early as possible.
The document checklist
The préfecture consistently requires: your current employment contract, your last 3 payslips, a letter from your employer confirming your current position, proof of address less than 3 months old, your valid passport with photocopy, 2 ID photos, and a photocopy of your current permit. Some préfectures also ask for tax notices — prepare them just in case.
Your contract ends before renewal: what to do?
If your CDD ends during the review period, notify the préfecture immediately by recorded letter. Attach any evidence of a new opportunity: a job offer, a France Travail certificate, a letter from your employer. The récépissé you received at submission authorises you to keep working — but only for the employer listed in your original application.
The cover letter that makes a difference
A well-written letter shows the préfecture agent that you understand your situation and that your file is solid. Clearly mention how long you've been in France, your stable employment situation, and your integration. FrenchDesk generates this letter in 30 seconds based on your real situation — no blanks, no vague formulas.