France is part of the European Community of 15 countries which allow free and unrestricted movement across their borders. People from all these countries have both national and European citizenships. They can therefore legally seek work in any of the 15 member countries.

For this reason, only applicants with EEC citizenship need apply for teaching positions in France.

Teachers with non-EEC citizenship could possibly have appropriate working papers in order if they have previously worked in France, and obtained a "Carte de Séjour" or "Carte du Résident" which then allows you to have a work permit or "Carte du Travail".

In certain cases, schools and businesses in France can choose an applicant who does not have appropriate working papers because of his or her potential or special skills. The school or business then has to take the appropriate steps with the Immigration authorities to obtain the work permit for the applicant, and must propose permanent employment, or at least for a specified duration.