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Here are a few questions we get from our clients from time to time.
To move to France, you need to obtain the appropriate visa based on your purpose of stay (e.g., work, study, long-term stay). For stays longer than 90 days, you need a long-stay visa, which often requires proof of accommodation, financial means, health insurance, and sometimes a criminal record check. After arriving, you must apply for a residency permit (Titre de Séjour) within the first three months.
The cost of living in France varies significantly depending on the city and region. Paris and the French Riviera tend to be the most expensive areas, while rural areas and smaller cities are more affordable. On average, expect to pay around €800-€1,500 per month for rent, €200-€400 for groceries, and additional costs for utilities, transportation, and entertainment.
You can find accommodation through various online platforms such as SeLoger, Leboncoin, and PAP. Additionally, real estate agencies (agences immobilières) can assist you in finding rental properties. It is common to provide documents such as proof of income, a rental history, and a guarantor when applying for a rental property.
The French culture places a high value on family, cuisine, and leisure. French people typically enjoy a slower pace of life, with a strong emphasis on work-life balance. Social etiquette is important, and it's polite to greet people with a "bonjour" and say "merci" and "s'il vous plaît" frequently. Dining is a significant part of social life, with long, leisurely meals being common.
As a resident of France, you will be subject to French taxes on your worldwide income. This includes income tax, social security contributions, and potentially wealth tax if your assets exceed a certain threshold. It's important to consult with a tax advisor to understand your obligations and to ensure compliance with both French and your home country’s tax regulations.
France has an excellent healthcare system, considered one of the best in the world. Residents can access the public healthcare system, which is funded by social security contributions. You will need to register with the French social security system and obtain a Carte Vitale, which allows you to be reimbursed for medical expenses. Many residents also opt for additional private health insurance (mutuelle) to cover the remaining costs.
While it is possible to get by with English in larger cities and tourist areas, speaking French is highly recommended for daily life, especially in smaller towns and rural areas. Learning French will significantly enhance your experience, help with integration, and make it easier to navigate administrative tasks and social interactions.
France offers a wide range of educational options, including public schools, private schools, and international schools. Public education is free and of high quality, but instruction is in French. International schools offer curricula in English or other languages, but they can be expensive. You can also consider bilingual schools for a mix of both languages.
To set up utilities such as electricity, gas, water, and internet, you can contact providers like EDF (for electricity), Engie (for gas), and Orange, SFR, or Free (for internet and phone services). You will need to provide your address, proof of identity, and sometimes a bank account for direct debits.
If you are moving to France from an EU/EEA country, your driver's license is valid. If you are from a non-EU/EEA country, you can use your foreign license for up to one year, after which you will need to exchange it for a French license (if your country has an exchange agreement) or pass the French driving test. You will also need to register your vehicle and obtain French car insurance.