France reviews and updates its minimum wage (SMIC – Salaire Minimum Interprofessionnel de Croissance) every year to protect workers’ purchasing power and reflect inflation trends. This adjustment is decided by government decree, following consultations with social partners and expert recommendations.
From 1 January 2026, the French minimum wage will officially increase by 1.18%.
This update is particularly important for students, part-time workers, hourly-paid employees, and international graduates planning to work in France.
SMIC Increase Effective 1 January 2026
The SMIC is revised each year by assessing inflation experienced by the 20% lowest-income households in France. In addition, whenever the consumer price index rises by 2% or more, the SMIC increases automatically in the same proportion.
What Is SMIC in France?
SMIC stands for Salaire Minimum Interprofessionnel de Croissance.
It represents the legal minimum hourly wage below which no employee can be paid in France—regardless of nationality, contract type, or sector.
Latest SMIC Rates in France (From 1 January 2026)
SMIC AmountDurationDetails€12.02Per hourGross (Brut)€9.51Per hourNet€1,823.03Per month (35h/week)Gross (Brut)€1,443.11Per monthNet
Applicable Regions
These SMIC rates apply in:
Guaranteed Minimum (Minimum Garanti) Update
From 1 January 2026, the minimum garanti, used to calculate certain allowances and benefits, will increase to:
➡ €4.25
Special SMIC Rules in Mayotte
Mayotte follows a specific SMIC adjustment framework under the law of 11 August 2025.
From 1 January 2026:
SMIC & Minimum Income for French Resident Permits
For many French visas and residence permits, the minimum income threshold is directly linked to SMIC. Salaries are always assessed in gross (brut) values.
⚠️ Some official thresholds will be updated soon to reflect the 2026 SMIC. The figures below are based on 2025 SMIC values and may change.
Minimum Income Requirements (Indicative)
Visa / Residence PermitCalculationMinimum Income RequiredVisitor Visa1 × SMIC Net€1,426.30 / monthAPS (Master) / CdS RECE1.5 × SMIC Gross€2,702.70 / monthSalarié (CDI) / Travailleur Temporaire (CDD)1.5 × SMIC Gross€2,702.70 / monthTalent – Qualified Employee2 × Reference Salary€39,582 / yearTalent – EU Blue Card2.5 × Reference Salary€59,373 / year
Calculated on monthly SMIC values.
Why This Matters for Students & Graduates
EduxSkills strongly recommends keeping the updated SMIC values in mind when discussing salaries with employers in 2026.
The SMIC increase from January 2026 ensures better income protection amid inflation while directly influencing employment conditions, residence permits, and job eligibility in France. Whether you are a student, graduate, or international professional, understanding SMIC is essential for financial and legal planning.
EduxSkills will continue to publish verified updates on working, studying, and settling in France.
Source : travail-emploi.gouv.fr
