Why Move to France?
Are you dreaming of sipping wine in a cozy Parisian café, wandering through picturesque villages, or waking up to breathtaking views of the French countryside? Moving to France could make all of that a part of your daily life! Whether you’re drawn by the romance of Paris, the sunny beaches of the French Riviera, or the rustic charm of Provence, France offers a rich and diverse lifestyle. Known for its high quality of life, exceptional healthcare, and world-class culture, it’s no wonder that France remains one of the most desirable destinations for expats from around the world.
Let’s take a closer look at what it takes to make the move and settle into the French way of life.
Visas and Residency: Navigating the French System
The first step to making France your new home is securing the right visa. Depending on your reason for moving, France offers several visa options:
- Short-Term (Schengen) Visa: If you’re coming from a non-EU country and want to stay in France for up to 90 days, you’ll need a Schengen visa. This allows short stays for tourism or business within the entire Schengen Area, which includes most of Europe.
- Long-Stay Visa (Visa de Long Séjour): Planning to live in France for more than 90 days? You’ll need a long-stay visa, which is the first step toward residency. You can apply for different types of long-stay visas depending on your circumstances, such as the visitor visa (for those not working), student visa, or work visa.
- Work Visa: If you’ve found a job in France, your employer will help you apply for a work visa. Once granted, you can live and work in France as long as you stay employed.
- Retirement Visa: If you’re planning to retire in France, you can apply for a visitor visa. You’ll need to show proof of sufficient financial resources to support yourself without working.
Once in France, long-term visa holders must apply for a Carte de Séjour (residency permit), which allows you to stay longer than a year. After five years, you may qualify for permanent residency or even French citizenship if you meet certain requirements.
Finding a Place to Call Home: From Paris to Provence
When it comes to finding your perfect home in France, the options are endless! Whether you’re dreaming of a chic Parisian apartment, a charming stone cottage in the French countryside, or a villa on the Mediterranean coast, France has something for every taste and budget. Here are a few popular regions to consider:
- Paris: The heart of France, and one of the most iconic cities in the world. Paris is perfect if you’re looking for vibrant culture, world-class dining, and endless activities. However, keep in mind that housing prices in the city can be steep—renting a one-bedroom apartment in central Paris can cost around €1,200–€2,500 per month.
- Provence: Known for its lavender fields, vineyards, and historic villages, Provence offers a slower, more relaxed pace of life. Rent and property prices here are much more affordable than in Paris, and you’ll enjoy warm weather and incredible landscapes.
- The French Riviera (Côte d’Azur): Famous for its glamorous coastal cities like Nice, Cannes, and Monaco, the French Riviera is ideal if you love sunny beaches and a luxury lifestyle. Renting an apartment near the sea will cost you a premium, but smaller towns further inland offer more affordable options.
- Normandy and Brittany: If you love the idea of living near the sea without the Mediterranean price tag, the coastal regions of Normandy and Brittany in the north are great options. These areas are known for their stunning cliffs, historic towns, and laid-back lifestyle.
Renting in France is common, especially for expats who are new to the country. You’ll generally need to provide a guarantor (someone who agrees to pay your rent if you can’t) and proof of income. If you plan to buy, non-EU citizens can purchase property freely, though the process can be lengthy due to French bureaucracy. Real estate agents, known as agences immobilières, are helpful in navigating the system.
Cost of Living in France
The cost of living in France can vary greatly depending on where you live and your lifestyle. Paris is one of the most expensive cities in the world, but other regions of France are much more affordable. Here’s a rough breakdown of typical costs:
- Rent: In Paris, expect to pay between €1,200–€2,500 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center. In smaller cities like Lyon, Toulouse, or Nantes, rents range from €600–€1,200. If you move to a rural area, rent can be even cheaper.
- Groceries: France is known for its incredible markets, so you can enjoy fresh, local produce at a reasonable price. Monthly grocery bills for a couple typically range from €300–€600.
- Dining Out: A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around €15–€25, while dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant in Paris can set you back €100+. Don’t forget to try the plat du jour (daily special), a great value at local bistros!
- Utilities: Utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) typically cost €100–€200 per month, depending on the size of your home.
- Transportation: If you live in a major city like Paris, public transport is reliable and affordable. A monthly Navigo Pass in Paris costs about €84, giving you unlimited access to metro, bus, and train services. In smaller towns, a car might be necessary, and fuel prices in France average around €1.70 per liter.
Healthcare: World-Class Care at Affordable Prices
One of the best things about living in France is its excellent healthcare system. France is known for providing high-quality medical care to both residents and expats, and the cost is significantly lower than in many other countries.
Once you’ve lived in France for at least three months, you’re eligible for French public healthcare under the PUMA system (Protection Universelle Maladie). This system covers a large portion of your medical costs, and you can also get private health insurance (mutuelle) to cover any additional expenses like dental care, vision, and specialist treatments.
Consultations with a general practitioner (GP) cost about €25, and hospital stays are highly subsidized. For peace of mind, many expats opt for private health insurance, which can cost around €40–€100 per month, depending on the coverage.
Schools and Education: A Strong Focus on Learning
If you’re moving to France with children, you’ll be pleased to know that the French education system is highly regarded. Public schools are free for residents and offer a solid education, with the curriculum set by the national government.
For those who prefer an international education, France has a range of international schools, especially in larger cities like Paris, Nice, and Lyon. These schools offer curricula in English or other languages, including the International Baccalaureate (IB), British, or American systems. International school fees range from €10,000 to €30,000 per year depending on the school.
Language and Culture: Embrace "La Vie Française"
French is the official language, and while many people in big cities speak English (especially younger generations), learning French is highly recommended. Not only will it help you navigate daily life more easily, but it will also allow you to fully embrace the culture and connect with locals.
Life in France is all about enjoying the simple pleasures—good food, good wine, and plenty of time to relax. The French work fewer hours than many other countries, giving more importance to leisure and family time. Sundays are typically quiet, with shops and businesses closed, as families enjoy long meals together or take leisurely walks in parks.
The French are proud of their cultural heritage, so expect to enjoy frequent festivals, public holidays, and events celebrating art, history, and regional traditions. From the Cannes Film Festival to the Tour de France, there’s always something happening!
Getting Around France
France’s transportation network is modern and well-connected. Public transportation in cities is efficient and affordable, and the TGV (high-speed train) system makes traveling between major cities quick and convenient. You can get from Paris to Marseille in just over three hours!
- Driving: If you plan to drive, keep in mind that France drives on the right side of the road, and traffic rules are strictly enforced. Expats from the EU can use their national driving licenses, while others may need to exchange their license or take a driving test.
- Cycling: France is bike-friendly, and cycling is popular in cities like Paris and Lyon. You can easily rent bicycles using city bike-sharing systems like Vélib’.
Taxes and Finances: Managing Your Money in France
France has a progressive tax system, and as a resident, you’ll be subject to French income tax. Taxes range from 0% to 45% depending on your income level. Don’t worry—France has tax treaties with many countries to avoid double taxation.
You’ll also pay social security contributions if you work in France, which fund the healthcare and pension systems. These contributions vary but are generally around 23% of your salary.
To open a bank account in France, you’ll need to provide proof of address, identity, and visa/residency status. French banking is modern and efficient, with online and mobile banking services widely available.
Ready to Make France Your New Home?
Moving to France is an exciting adventure, whether you’re looking for bustling city life in Paris, peaceful village charm in the countryside, or sun-soaked beaches in the south. The French lifestyle offers a perfect mix of culture, leisure, and everyday pleasures, making it a dream destination for many expats.
Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to start planning your move. Bon voyage!