How do I apply?
Simply search the job section (here) and when you see a job that you like (and are suitable for) click on the APPLY ONLINE button, you will then be able to upload your CV and add a covering note to your application.
When is a good time to apply?
Companies start recruiting from the end of the season , so anytime from May onwards for most of the Ski/Chalet companies , however many bars & restaurants prefer to recruit from later in the summer.
Do I have to work for the full season?
Certain companies look specifically for peak season cover , check in the job description. Due to non-EU staff requiring a work visa , many companies will want you to work for the full season as the visa process comes with cost/time implications and the HR department will not want to go through this twice for the same job.
Do I need a visa?
Since Brexit a lot of rules have changed, if you are an EU citizen then you will be free to travel to the EU and get a job there , so no visa required . However if you are a UK citizen (for example) you will need to get a work visa, see the next question in the FAQ section.
How do I obtain a Work Visa for the EU
Since Brexit, Brits need a work visa to live and work in France. Here’s a simple guide to help you navigate the process.
1. Pick the Right Visa
France has different work visas:
- Salaried Employee Visa: For regular jobs.
- EU Blue Card: For highly skilled workers with a good salary.
- Intra-Company Transfer Visa: For employees of multinational companies.
- Talent Passport: For specific categories like researchers, artists, and innovative company employees.
2. Get a Job Offer
You need a job offer from a French employer before you can apply for a visa. Your employer might need to explain why they’re hiring a non-EU person.
3. Check Requirements
Look up the requirements on the French consulate or embassy website in the UK:
- Documents needed (passport, job offer, proof of qualifications, etc.).
- Application forms.
- Processing times.
- Fees.
4. Gather Your Documents
You’ll typically need:
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least three months after your planned stay.
- Job Offer or Contract: Signed by your French employer.
- Proof of Qualifications: Diplomas, certificates, transcripts.
- Proof of Experience: Letters from previous employers.
- Health Insurance: For the duration of your stay.
- Proof of Funds: To show you can support yourself.
- Criminal Record Check: From the UK and possibly other countries.
5. Apply for the Visa
- Online or In-Person: Apply online via the France-Visas website or at the French consulate or embassy in the UK.
- Fill Out Forms: Complete all necessary forms accurately.
- Pay Fees: Fees depend on the visa type.
6. Go to an Interview
You might need an interview. Be ready to discuss your job, qualifications, and reasons for moving to France.
7. Wait for Approval
Processing can take a few weeks to a few months, so apply early.
8. Get Your Long-Stay Visa
Once approved, you’ll get a Visa de Long Séjour (long-stay visa) to enter and work in France.
9. Move to France and Register
- Enter France: Make sure you enter within the visa’s validity period.
- Register Locally: Within three months of arrival, register at the local Préfecture and apply for a residence permit (Carte de Séjour).
10. Follow Local Rules
- Work Authorization: Make sure you’re fully authorized to work under your visa terms.
- Residence Permits: Keep your residence permit up to date and renew it as needed.
Example: Getting a Salaried Employee Visa in France
- Get a Job Offer: Secure a job from a French employer.
- Employer Application: Your employer submits a work contract for approval to French authorities (DIRECCTE).
- Apply for the Visa: Once approved, apply at the French consulate or embassy.
- Gather Documents: Submit your passport, approved work contract, proof of qualifications, health insurance, and proof of funds.
- Wait for Approval: It usually takes a few weeks.
- Travel and Register: Enter France, register at the local Préfecture, and get your residence permit.
Conclusion
Getting a work visa for France involves securing a job, preparing your documents, and going through the application and registration steps. Follow these steps, and you’ll be ready to start your new job in France.
How do I advertise on your site?
Simply head to HERE and then decide which package suits you, you can then upload jobs / create a company profile all from your dashboard . Please feel free to contact us should you require a more bespoke service .
How do I get to resort?
Normally the company you work for will advise you of this , however if you are working for a more independent company you may well have to organise your own transport, easyjet can be invaluable, there are great train links too. Its advisable to sign up to the resort facebook page for seasonairres as quite often transfers from airport to resort can be booked there.
What kind of wages should I expect?
This will all depend on your role, sometimes a chalet staff / rep job will pay what seems to be quite good wages, however check for uniform / transport deductions which may be made, best to check when you are at the interview stage.
Do I need to have a qualification?
There are many jobs where if you are qualified this will bump you up the prospect list, obviously if you will be cooking at chalet level then perhaps a chalet course would be good for you, proffesional kitchens look for experience and qualifications. Ski hire shops may look for staff who have attended training courses. Do what you can to make yourself stand out from other candidates.
Will I have my own accommodation?
This varies again from role to role, accommodation is very expensive in ski resorts and you may find yourself in a tiny room under a chalet or sharing a larger apartment with other staff. Its worth remembering when having a “get together” that you may have signed up to a damage deposit in your contract!!
Will I get to ski / board every day?
NO… if you are lucky then you may get to get out on the hill 3/4 times a week with one of those being your day off, the more organised you are the more slope time you get… So it can be in your hands .
When will it snow!?
At some point…! Early season dumps can lead to weeks without snow… Early season “droughts” can lead to late season dumps that go on for weeks… That being said, resorts mostly have great snow-making facilities and it’s in their interest to keep everyone on the mountain… Relax… you have got all season .
Can I get a job with my friend?
It is possible to get a job running a chalet with friends, and also working in bars / restaurants and hotels give you an opportunity to work together too, remember though that if the company needs staff in another resort you may well be asked to move.
Do you offer training?
If you are looking to attend a chalet cookery course then we can highly recommend the guys at Fresh Tracks Chalet School , they are more than just a cookery school and will give you tips on what to expect (and how to cope) with a season in the mountains