Hello All.

I have just finished this LL.M. in International Business Law in Paris and would like to clarify some points before you register for the course.

The most important is that, regarding French law, this LL.M. is not considered a Master of Laws (despite the fact that the website of the Program says so). I have just received in written the confirmation of the Dean in this sense.

This may pose you some big problems in France, mainly regarding a possible extension of your Visa in case you find a job in Paris after graduating.

More especifically: if you are not European, this LL.M. does not give you the right to stay in France to look for a job after the course and, even if you find a job, it can be hard to change the type of your visa (from student to work permit), since legal counsels are not considered a profession "in tension" (métiers en tension) according to the French government.

It means that, even if you get a job, it can be very hard to stay in France since this LL.M. is not considered a Master according to French legislation.

Be aware of the rules before registering.

I wish you all the best and good luck!

Hello,
Thank you for the warning. Are there any LLM programs taught in English which are considered as a "real" LLM?

[quote]Hello All.

I have just finished this LL.M. in International Business Law in Paris and would like to clarify some points before you register for the course.

The most important is that, regarding French law, this LL.M. is not considered a Master of Laws (despite the fact that the website of the Program says so). I have just received in written the confirmation of the Dean in this sense.

This may pose you some big problems in France, mainly regarding a possible extension of your Visa in case you find a job in Paris after graduating.

More especifically: if you are not European, this LL.M. does not give you the right to stay in France to look for a job after the course and, even if you find a job, it can be hard to change the type of your visa (from student to work permit), since legal counsels are not considered a profession "in tension" (métiers en tension) according to the French government.

It means that, even if you get a job, it can be very hard to stay in France since this LL.M. is not considered a Master according to French legislation.

Be aware of the rules before registering.

I wish you all the best and good luck!
[/quote]


I am a French citizen, bilingual French and English, and I have completed all my education in England, including a bachelor of Law (LLB) at City, University of London. In addition to possibly qualifying as an English lawyer (solicitor), I would like to qualify as a French lawyer.

My research relating to qualifying as a French lawyer has led to the conclusion that I have to first complete a Master 1, to meet the requirements of entry to the Ecole de Formation du Barreau. However, I cannot find a Master 1 in France, which stipulates the possibily to enter the M1 programme with an LLB in English Law.

The only programme that I have found is the dual programme master 1 / LL.M International Business Law, offered by Lyon Catholic University in partnership with City, University of London. But, I cannot find much information about the reputation and prospects of the programme, beside the information available on the website. The course is also not featured on the website of City, University of London, which leaves me concerned. Can you share your thoughts about the course or experience?

http://www.ucly.fr/en/ll-m-in-internatio...

Alternatively, please advise me on the best proceeding course of action, considering my qualifications and objective to become a French lawyer. I am not a qualified English lawyer.

Thank you for your help!