Moving to France: Your Comprehensive Guide to Relocation Success

Do you ever dream of packing up everything and moving to France? For many people, the romance of French life is irresistible but the hardest part is always figuring out where to start. Well, in this detailed guide we’ll cover everything you need to know on how to move to France, from how best to move your belongings to where to find your perfect home! Your dream of moving to France does not need to be hard, and we are here to help you make those first steps. For an insight into what Living in France is like as an Expat, please see our other insider guide into living the French life!

Table of Contents

• Finding Work in France
• Finding accommodation 
• Finding Schools and Universities
• Moving your belongings
• Registration on arrival
• Opening a bank account as an Expat
• Best Way to Learn French
• Your next step for moving to France

Finding Work in France

The French economy is one of the major powerhouses in Europe. Energy, finance, transport, tourism, and agriculture are all large employers. The startup and tech scene has also seen huge growth in the last few years with tax incentives, infrastructure support and even a dedicated Startup Visa.

However, it can be challenging to find employment in France as a foreigner. While international companies and those with global markets are often looking for English speakers, to be employed by a French company, you’ll generally need to speak good French. You’ll also have better luck finding jobs for English speakers in bigger cities that see more tourism and have a stronger demand for it.

If you can secure a job before arriving in France, you’ll make your life a lot easier, but we know that’s not always possible.If you have a job waiting for you, your employers may provide services to help you learn how to move to France.

Consider using sites like

• Pole-Emploi
• Cadre Emploi
• Jobs in Paris(This site features jobs in all of France, not just Paris).

Remote work

Although remote work (le télétravail) was not previously a big part of the work culture in France, it’s starting to pick up. The COVID-19 pandemic has given many a different perspective. A 2020 survey found that 6.6% of people in France work from home, but the Covid-19 pandemic has sped that up. The government is currently working on new agreements to allow people to work from home after the pandemic restrictions. 

Average salary and work hours

French employee benefits are strong and the minimum wage has also recently increased to €11.65/hr or €1,766.92/month. The government revises this amount each year, and it is typically one of the highest in Europe. France also has a legally mandated 35-hour working week, and if you work over this, you should get paid overtime.

Paid leave is an average of 30 days a year (in addition to 11 public holidays). Many French residents take the month of August off for vacation, and you’ll often find the streets and restaurants less crowded during this time.

This healthy work/life balance is a significant draw for people who choose a life in France.

For information on the various Tax rates, both income and household, please see the section in our Living in France guide.

Finding accommodation in France

Finding a place to live in France is no more or less complicated than in other countries. Additionally, looking in big cities like Paris has similar challenges to apartment hunting in New York or London. However, do not fear, because you will always be able to find the right place that suits all your needs. With lots of different ways to approach it, we have highlighted some of the most important things to keep in mind when starting your dream home search!

Renting

On the whole, France is significantly less expensive to rent a house or apartment than the United States or the UK. As you might expect, rent in Paris is substantially higher than in the rest of the country, up to 50% more expensive.

An average two-bedroom apartment in France is only €644, but this includes low-cost accommodations in the countryside. You’ll pay more if you choose to live in a major city center. Check out more about France’s cost of living here.

Utilities

Utility costs are more or less the same as they are in the U.S. or the UK. You may find the cost of utilities is already included in your rent price, especially if you’re renting a furnished apartment.

You may be able to transfer existing utilities over to your name. If not, your landlord can provide you with a list of utilities you’re responsible for.

How to rent an apartment in France 

If you’re trying to secure a place before arriving in France, it’s easiest to work with an agent (agent immobilier). Note that you will have to pay a fee for their services. The Federal government controls these charges, so you always know what to expect. Sometimes these fees will be split between the tenant and landlord. They will usually want money up front to cover the security deposit and the first month’s rent. You’ll most likely have to submit a credit check.

You can also rent directly from a landlord to avoid extra fees. This practice is common in France, but you’ll have to do more legwork to ensure your contract (contrat de bail) is in place. It’s also not uncommon for landlords to ask for a three-year lease for an unfurnished apartment. Furnished apartments are typically on a one-year lease.

What you need to rent in France

You’ll typically need to supply your passport, proof of income (usually 3x your rent), a French bank account, and a current residence permit. In some cases, a landlord may want you to provide the name of a guarantor (Garant). This person is usually a French citizen who agrees to co-sign the lease with you. They offer insurance that will cover your rent if, for some reason, you can’t pay. Obviously, not everyone can do this, but it may help sway a landlord who’s reluctant to rent to an Expat.

How to find a rental property in France

Many websites have rental listings; you can start with Seloger or PAP. PAP is very popular among Expats and locals alike as it connects individuals without using an agency as an intermediary.

Depending on how long you are looking to stay, sites like AirBNB or Vrbo can have more options and better rates for short periods. They will also often provide discounts for rentals longer than a month. However, if you are looking to stay for a very long period or indefinitely, then going through a rental or property agency is normally best. 

If you are looking to rent in some of the more remote or rural regions of France where there are often fewer options, then a simple online search should give you an estate agency to help you out! 

READ ALSO: French Visa Guide: your options to Immigrate to France.

Buying a property

The number one thing you should understand if you’re thinking about purchasing property in France is the amount of tax you’ll pay. Many people in France choose to rent over buy because of these taxes.

France has a similar homeownership rate (63.4%) as the United States (65.6%). Importantly, there are no restrictions on foreigners buying real estate. And while you don’t need to use a real estate agent, the process can be smoother if you work with one. 

Note: French agencies can charge up to 10% in fees. 

Requirements for purchasing property in France

Expats can get loans from French banks to purchase property. However, your DTI (debt to income ratio) generally can’t be more than 33% of your total income. This range is slightly lower than in the U.S., typically 36% to 45%.

Again, be prepared to pay significant fees:

• Your agent will charge up to 10%.
• Notary fees are adjusted with the cost of your property, most are around 7-8%.
• VAT tax is also paid on home purchases which is a whopping 20%.
• Public Registration fees are 5.8% in almost all areas with a very few areas fees at 5.09%.

Acquirement process

After your initial offer has been accepted, you’ll get a Technical Diagnostic File (Dossier de Diagnostic Technique, or DDT). This will provide information on lead levels, asbestos, gas, electricity, and an energy report.

At this time, the law requires the seller to show any defects or major problems on the property. You typically have to wait about 12 weeks before final payment and possession take place.

After you get the keys, setting up utilities shouldn’t be too complicated. You may even be able to have the previous owner transfer them over to you.

You can choose your energy supplier (most use electricity over gas), but the district supplies water, so you’ll use what’s available.

Finding Schools and Universities

France has an excellent public education system which runs from federally-sponsored nursery schools all the way up to some of the finest Universities in the World. We know that education is one of the biggest considerations when immigrating abroad and so we have collated the most important information you need to know below:

Children’s education

Local provided education

Public education is compulsory from ages 6 to 16, but many start as early as three with their first year of kindergarten (maternelle). As an expat, you will still be able to enter your children into public education in France.

International schools

If you want an international school education for your children, you’ll find most of them in large cities. Many of these schools will teach in English and follow UK or USA curriculums. Tuition can be expensive, but they can assist families with integration into French life by connecting with other international and expat families.

Homeschooling

Homeschooling has been a hot topic in France recently as new laws have come into effect limiting it considerably. While it is still legal, there are only very special cases which have been allowed which are worth researching in-depth if you are looking to do it. The government website has a lot of information regarding this new law. 

Higher education in France

France is home to about 80 public universities and many institutions for tertiary education and vocational skills. Many of these schools are free for French citizens, but even for international students, fees are still relatively low. There are also private universities and colleges with varying fee structures.

On average, you’ll pay €2770 per year for a Bachelor’s degree and €3770 for a Master’s programs. To study in France, you’ll have to get a VLS-TS student visa which lets you study and work up to 20 hours per week.

To qualify for the visa you must:

• Be at least 18.
• Have chosen your field of study.
• Be accepted into a program of study.

France also has a Post-study Work permit for graduates who complete studies in specific fields.

Scholarships

Scholarships are available for international students. The majority of opportunities you’ll find are for EU/EEA students, but there are also many options for non-EU students at some brilliant institutions.

Accommodation

The Campus France website can help you locate a room or flat when studying and living in France. You can also select dorm-like housing, which is cheaper, and furnished, and sharing with other students provides a built-in social life.

You may also elect to rent an apartment in the city or look for a room for rent with housemates. Start looking early, and be sure to ask your school for assistance in finding a place to live.

READ ALSO: Living in France: Insights on Everyday Life and Culture.

Moving your belongings to France

If you plan on moving your household items to France, they must go through customs (douanes) on arrival. However, as long as your move is not temporary, they won’t be subject to any duty. You will have to provide an itemized list of your belongings along with the estimated value in euros. It is important that, while it does not need to be exact, this estimation is fairly accurate as your items will be held at the border and you will be liable for a fine if the border police estimate that you have not been honest about the value. It’s also a good idea to bring receipts for any more expensive items that were purchased within the last six months. 

The best way to find an international removals company is to use World Wide Removals. They have 10,000 companies in their database. You add your details once, they identify the five best removal companies for you depending on the information that you give them. Within a day you will have quotes from those five companies in your inbox to compare and make a decision. They also get reviews from clients that you can have a look at. It is much easier than going and doing the research yourself!

For further information, read our guide to the best International Removal Companies.

Registration on arrival

Many countries require travelers on long-stay visas to register with the local authorities upon arrival, and France is no different. Most people have to validate (or register) their visa with the Office of French Immigration and Integration (OFII).

You must do this within three months of arriving in France. We recommend you do it as soon as possible because appointments for medical exams can book out weeks in advance. The process is mostly online and the site operates well. We provide a detailed description of the process, including what to expect from your OFII appointment and medical exam in our VISA Options Guide. 

Opening a bank account as an Expat in France

You’ll need a French bank account to do most things (like health services, cell phone, direct deposit, and utilities). You might find this harder than in the U.S. or UK, because banks can legally reject your request. If this happens, they’ll supply you with a formal rejection letter (ask for this if they don’t give it to you).

You may find some banks aren’t as eager to open accounts for Expats, especially Americans. The banks LCL, HSBC, Credit Agricole, and Bank Populaire have reputations for letting Americans and other Expats open accounts.

Note: unlike the United States, most banks will charge fees for having accounts and using debit cards. To open an account, you’ll need to make an appointment and bring your ID, proof of address, and proof of funds.

Three types of bank accounts you can get in France:

• Current account (Compte Courant) – the most common type of account for accessing funds, using checks and bank cards. This account is like a checking account in the United States. You may find a basic account that has no fees associated with this, but usually, there are some fees.
• Savings account (Livret) – A regular savings account where you have easy access to your money.
• Long-term savings account (Compte a Terme) – A high-yield savings account (kind of like a money market account) that’s intended for more long-term savings (like buying a house).

HSBC has the advantage of being an international bank; they are present in the U.S., UK, and France. With this option, you may be able to open an account in your home country before moving to France.

In recent years, many Expats have chosen to open an account with a rapidly growing online bank such as N26 or Revolut.

How to transfer money to France

You’ll also need to transfer money to your account in France. Use our International Money Transfer guide – the right option will save you loads.

How to Learn French

Your time in France will be much richer if you learn to speak some French. The French will appreciate even a few simple words and phrases.

Once you arrive in France, there are endless language schools and classes, even in smaller towns. 

But if you want, you can get started right now. We recommend these online opportunities to make sure you hit the ground running.

• Duolingo: This free and easy-to-use app has gamified language learning and is used by thousands of people to build vocabulary.
• Babbel: This is similar to Duolingo although it is subscription-based, however many reviewers say it produces better results. 
• italki: You can virtually connect with French teachers, tutors, or conversation partners anytime, anywhere.
• Udemy: Udemy offers more than 800 user-reviewed French language courses from beginner to expert.
• FluentU: This language learning method gets fantastic reviews. Learn at your own pace with a wide range of resources.

Your next step for moving to France

Figuring out how to move to France can seem overwhelming. The first place to start is identifying and securing your visa. You can book a 30-minute consultation with one of our recommended French immigration lawyers to find out which visa is the best visa for you or read our full guide on all the different types of Visas and next steps.

If you’re moving to France from the UK after BREXIT, don’t worry! While it is more complex, it is still possible for many UK citizens.Also, be sure you know what you’ll need to do within the first couple of months of arriving. You can use our Moving Abroad Checklist – it is a great way to make sure you stay on track.