France

Located in western Europe, France is known and loved for its one-of-a-kind local culture, incredible food and wine, world-class art galleries and museums, and laid-back way of life. Whether you are enticed by the magical Parisien city life or more drawn to the stunning French countryside, there is a spot for every kind of traveller in France. And it’s not just tourists that are flocking to this beautiful country — France is becoming more and more popular as a permanent relocation destination. If you want to learn more about how to relocate to France, this quick guide is for you!

 

Fast facts

  • France is the largest country in the European Union.
  • Considering that France is the world’s most popular tourist destination, it comes as no surprise that the French capital, Paris, is also one of the most visited cities in the world.
  • With around a third of France being covered in forests, it is the third-most forested country in the EU.

 

Why do people relocate to France?

One of the biggest appeals of living in France is the easygoing demeanour with which the French approach life. France is known for its great work-life balance. This attitude is reflected in the country’s long lunch breaks, shops closing early to give workers enough time to rest, and locals relaxing at streetside cafes to catch up with friends or get lost in a good book. French employers offer at least 30 days of paid vacation per year, aside from national holidays. This benefit, coupled with the country’s ideal location in Europe, allows people living in France to use their generous off-time to explore the rest of the continent and truly make the most of residing in this part of the world.

Another advantage of living in France is the government-subsidised healthcare system, which covers 70-100% of medical costs and up to 65% of prescriptions. The country is also equipped with a well-functioning public transport system. Commuting in cities or travelling between towns is easy thanks to the extensive network of high-speed trains, regional trains, and taxis. Depending on which town you choose to live in, you will find that many parts of France are pedestrian-friendly, which makes it even easier to get by without owning a car.

 

What do I need to know before moving to France?

Visa requirements for visiting France depend on your nationality. For stays that exceed 90 days, non-EU/EEA citizens must apply for a long-term French visa as well as a residence permit. If you’re wondering about relocating your pets to France, rest assured that this process is uncomplicated, although it can be lengthy depending on where you are moving from.

When planning to relocate to France, the best option is to find a job before moving. Depending on your career and French language capabilities, you will likely find that the bigger cities offer more opportunities for work. If you are proficient in speaking, writing and reading French, your work search circle will of course be much bigger. If you are relocating to France with kids, you can choose to enrol them in either a public or private school. Your choice will be determined by your budget (private and international schools are much pricier than public schools) as well as your children’s language skills (public education is mostly offered in French).

 

Ready to relocate to France?

In need of relocation services to France? You’ve come to the right place. Book your free consultation with one of our relocation experts to kickstart your relocation journey to France!

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