More than 800 emerging changemakers from 90 countries arrived in Paris on 1 November for the four-day Young Leaders Union conference at Novotel Paris Est. The organisers issued official invitation letters and detailed visa-support guidance months in advance, enabling participants to secure short-stay Schengen visas despite tight appointment slots.
Topics on the agenda range from sustainable entrepreneurship to AI governance. Corporate sponsors—including two CAC 40 multinationals—will run recruitment booths, turning the event into a fertile ground for global talent spotting. HR teams sending junior managers should note that the organisers have arranged fast-track airport transfers and a dedicated help-desk for OFII (immigration office) queries, minimising first-time traveller anxiety.
![Paris hosts Young Leaders Union summit, offers visa support letters to delegates]()
For France, the summit is a soft-power play that dovetails with President Macron’s strategy of attracting international students and professionals. Attendees receive an accreditation letter that satisfies France’s requirement to demonstrate purpose of stay and sufficient funding, easing the Schengen interview process. Several delegates interviewed reported visa issuance within seven days—well below the regional average.
Companies should capitalise on the concentration of multilingual talent by scheduling side interviews or networking dinners. Those planning repeat visits can advise delegates to retain biometric data receipts; under EES rules introduced this month, fingerprints will remain valid for three years, streamlining future entries.
The successful logistical setup could become a blueprint for large-scale events ahead of the 2026 Paris International Expo, where similar mobility facilitations are expected.
Topics on the agenda range from sustainable entrepreneurship to AI governance. Corporate sponsors—including two CAC 40 multinationals—will run recruitment booths, turning the event into a fertile ground for global talent spotting. HR teams sending junior managers should note that the organisers have arranged fast-track airport transfers and a dedicated help-desk for OFII (immigration office) queries, minimising first-time traveller anxiety.
For France, the summit is a soft-power play that dovetails with President Macron’s strategy of attracting international students and professionals. Attendees receive an accreditation letter that satisfies France’s requirement to demonstrate purpose of stay and sufficient funding, easing the Schengen interview process. Several delegates interviewed reported visa issuance within seven days—well below the regional average.
Companies should capitalise on the concentration of multilingual talent by scheduling side interviews or networking dinners. Those planning repeat visits can advise delegates to retain biometric data receipts; under EES rules introduced this month, fingerprints will remain valid for three years, streamlining future entries.
The successful logistical setup could become a blueprint for large-scale events ahead of the 2026 Paris International Expo, where similar mobility facilitations are expected.
