Whether it is a long-standing dream, or a more recent desire for a life-style change, moving to France can be magical (think wine, cheese, bakeries, lavender). But moving to a new country, even one as coveted as France, requires careful consideration.
Starter Checklist When Deciding To Move To France
Visa and Residence Permit Requirements: It is important to research the visa and residence permit requirements that apply to your specific situation. Some countries may require a long-term visa or a work permit, while others may not. Official English-language website of the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs. The sites below provide official information.
- Visas: This is the Official Government website (in English) for Visa applications to France.
Cost of Living: The cost of living in France can be high, especially in larger cities such as Paris. It is important to consider the cost of housing, food, transportation, and other daily expenses before making the decision to move. The online tools below can help give an idea of the cost of living.
- International Cost of Living Calculator: Allows city and country comparison worldwide and is based on prices for rent, food, transport and other living expenses.
- Numbeo: Crowd-sourced global database of quality of life data: housing indicators, perceived crime rates, healthcare quality, transport quality, and other statistics.
Language: While many people in France speak English, it is still important to consider the language barrier. It can be helpful to take French language classes before moving to France to make the transition easier.
Health Insurance: France has a comprehensive healthcare system, but it is important to research the options available to you and make sure you have health insurance coverage. Initially, you may be required to have comprehensive private coverage while processing your initial entry into the national healthcare system. Once complete, top-up insurance (mutuelle) is needed to have a level of comprehensive coverage for certain treatments or for dental, optical or other services.
- Find out more about mutuelles and the health system here.
Culture and Customs: France has a rich culture and history, and it is important to familiarize yourself with the customs and traditions before moving. This will help you integrate more easily into the local community.
Job Opportunities: Research job opportunities in your field before moving to France. If not retired or financially independent, It is important to have a job lined up before you move or at least have a plan for finding one. Social charges (as well as taxes of course) are a reality of working in France, and different rules and reporting apply.
- Work Visas in France: discover all available work visas in France, what their requirements are, and how to apply for one.
- Social Charges: explanation of social charges – levied on most forms of income in France, in addition to income tax.
Legal Requirements: France has a number of legal requirements for people who want to live and work in the country. Make sure you have all the necessary documents, such as ID card, passport, and other legal documents translated in French.
- Coming To France: Official English-language website of the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs.
Social Security: It is important to research the social security system in France and make sure you understand how it works, and how to access benefits if you need them.
- Social Security Rights in France: Official comprehensive guide.
Taxes: France has a high tax rate and it is important to understand the tax laws and regulations before making the move.
- Overview French Tax System: Comprehensive overview of the French tax system – 2016. Verify current regulations.
Family considerations: If you have a family, it is important to consider how the move will affect them and whether it is the right decision for everyone. Is everyone in the family enthusiastic about moving to France? Will everyone who wants to work, be able to work? For children, what impact will a move have on their education? What support is available if needed? The French national education system is highly regarded worldwide, but there are likely differences in the style, culture of learning and academic approach. Private international schools are an alternative, but usually come with significant fees.
