Despite being the country that gave us the term ‘laissez-faire’, doing business in France is actually a highly bureaucratic affair. The country's strong regulatory environment, which developed during its post-war reconstruction, has shaped a distinctive French business culture where government procedures are integrated into many aspects of commercial activities.

The French are proud of their culture and language. This pride is often reflected in the attitude towards international arrivals in France. For this reason, if you want to succeed in business, make a concerted effort to learn the language and familiarise yourself with local customs and practices before doing business in France.

Fast facts

Business hours

Business hours vary in France, with the standard working day being from 8am or 9am to 4pm or 5pm. With a government-set standard 35-hour work week, many companies are flexible, opting for shorter days or Friday afternoons off.

Business language

French is the primary language in France, although English proficiency is widespread and often used in business, particularly in tech sectors and multinational corporations.

Dress

Business attire in France is formal, smart and stylish. It’s also conservative, not flashy.

Gifts

Gifts are not generally expected between colleagues or business associates in France. You may better express appreciation through hosting a dinner or social event. In such social situations, however, a small gift is appropriate as a sign of gratitude.

Gender equality

Women are entitled to equal treatment in France and frequently occupy high positions in the French business world.

Greetings

A handshake is an appropriate greeting for both men and women. French handshakes are typically brisk and light. Use the formal titles ‘Monsieur’ and ‘Madame’ (Mr and Ms).

Business culture in France

You may find it difficult at first to get to grips with business culture in France. On the one hand, it’s quite formal, with adherence to hierarchical business structures and an emphasis on appearance. On the other hand, you’ll need to incorporate some level of flexibility when it comes to deadlines and meetings.

The French are passionate people, and this is reflected in the local business culture. Spirited debates are common. You’re expected to be able to intellectually defend your positions. While arguments may be impassioned, logic usually holds the most weight with French businesspeople.

Hierarchy

Business culture in France is particularly hierarchical, with policy and vision conceived by upper management and carried out by junior employees. Socialising across hierarchical lines is unusual. Most senior managers in French companies hail from the elite Grandes Écoles schools and share a respect for intellectualism.

Appearance

You may want to give your wardrobe some attention before jumping into the business world, as appearance is important in France. Business dress is typically stylish and conservative. Dark suits are appropriate, and clothes should be of good quality. Even occasions specified as informal will require tastefully coordinated dress, including a jacket for men.

Flexibility

French businesspeople are casual about punctuality, and it’s not unusual for business associates to be 10 to 15 minutes late to a meeting. Similarly, deadlines may be considered negotiable unless otherwise stated.

Titles

When addressing a French businessperson, always use the appropriate formal title like ‘Monsieur’ and ‘Madame’ unless told otherwise.

Dos and don’ts of business in France

• Do dress stylishly and wear quality business attire
• Don’t make exaggerated claims
• Do ensure that your written communications are grammatically correct
• Do expect to defend your ideas intellectually
• Do begin meetings with a brief greeting in French, even if the rest will be in English
• Don’t rush straight into business matters without some polite conversation first

The education system in France may be more complicated than expats are accustomed to, but it’s generally of a high standard. There are a variety of school types in France, including public, private, bilingual and international schools. You’ll need to consider the language barrier, cost and curriculum before deciding which type of institution will be best for your children.

Public schools in France

French education is highly centralised, with most private and public schools in France following the national curriculum mandated by the Ministry of Education. Public schools in France are free for citizens and those who can show proof of residence in the form of a signed lease or a utility bill. Public school attendance is based on catchment areas.

School attendance is compulsory for students between the ages of 3 and 16, but you can often enrol your children in a maternelle (kindergarten) from the age of two. Children generally spend two or three years at this level before advancing.

Many expat parents choose to send their younger children to their local nursery school, as it’s practical and free of charge. Children of this age tend to overcome the language barrier quickly, and as there are few formal educational demands, the difficulties of reading and writing in French are irrelevant.

As in most destinations, schooling standards can vary immensely from one neighbourhood or city to the next. Certain public schools in France run a curriculum geared towards teaching French to non-Francophone students, known as a Section Internationale, to eventually integrate these students into the French system. This programme typically offers about 6 hours of English instruction weekly, including English Language & Literature, Science and Geography. Few primary schools offer this programme. It’s largely reserved for middle and high schools in France’s large cities.

Useful links

• French Ministry of National Education
• Section Internationale Programmes

Private schools in France

Private schools in France are either state sponsored or privately funded. These tend to afford smaller class sizes, more individualised instruction, better facilities and improved access to teachers. About 95 percent of private schools in France are Catholic, meaning that the curriculum incorporates a faith-based value system.

You should note that state-sponsored private schools have a better reputation than their privately funded counterparts.

French is the primary teaching language in most private schools, but you’ll find more bilingual options in this category than in public schooling. Private schools are also more likely to make an effort to hold special classes for non-Francophone students. Parent associations tend to be stronger and more prevalent in private schools.

Admission requirements and tuition fees of private schools in France may vary considerably. Proof of residence is not usually required, but some schools may request previous school records and entrance exams. Due to high demand, early application is advisable. Tuition for state-sponsored schools is generally significantly less than that of privately funded schools.

International schools in France

There are many international schools in France, although most are located in large commercial centres such as Paris. Some notable options can be found in other cities, including Lille and Toulouse, as well as along the French Riviera. These schools generally either uphold the teaching language and curriculum of your home country or subscribe to the International Baccalaureate curriculum and teach in English.

While educational standards and school sizes tend to vary, high tuition fees are common. Nevertheless, international schools in France are ideal if you plan to stay in France and would like to maintain consistency in your child’s education for a short time. They’re also preferable if you have high-school-aged children looking to attend university in your home country.

International Schools in Paris

Special-needs education in France

France has fairly adequate infrastructure in place to support children with special educational needs. Both public and private schools in France try to cater for the needs of students with special needs through the use of specialist teaching assistants. The Maison Départmenetale des Personnes Handicapeés (MDPH) is the organisation charged with evaluating a child’s special needs, and they work with the Commission des Droits et de l’Autonomie des Personnes Handicapeés (CDAPH) to create a personalised learning plan (PPS).

Since the 2019 reforms, there has been an increased focus on inclusive education, with mainstream educational settings adapting to accommodate each learner’s special educational needs. The system is evolving toward enrolling more learners with disabilities in mainstream classes, either part-time or full-time, with appropriate support frameworks through the PPS.

When a student with special needs can’t adjust to a mainstream school, the options include special schools or private tutors. The availability of additional staff and facilities to accommodate students with special educational needs often depends on the school and the area in which it’s located. You’re most likely to find this type of support at schools in major French cities.

Useful links

• Secretary of State for People with Disabilities
• European Agency for Special Needs and Inclusive Education: France

Tutors in France

The private tutoring market in France is booming, with projected growth at a healthy 10 percent annually through 2030. Generally speaking, most private tutors offer one-on-one sessions with students, but some offer small group tutoring sessions. Online tutoring options have also expanded significantly, providing more flexibility and access to international curricula.

You’ll find that inquiring at your children’s schools and networking with other expat parents may be a good starting point for sourcing good private tutors. Online platforms such as Preply, Italki, and Languatalk also offer access to vetted French tutors with easy booking systems.

If you’re looking to relocate to France in the long term, you might want to get a French language tutor to improve your children’s language abilities faster. Naturally, French tutors are available in abundance, but it’s worth vetting their qualifications to see if they are certified teachers or simply native language speakers.

If your children require extra assistance on a particular subject, you can also look for tutors who are subject-matter experts rather than those who follow a particular curriculum. There are lots of tutors who are qualified to tutor the French curriculum and the International Baccalaureate, but there are smaller numbers available to tutor other curricula, such as the British curriculum.

Useful links

• iTalki
• Preply
• LanguaTalk

While relocating to France may be the opportunity of a lifetime, living in the land of cheese and wine comes with drawbacks and benefits.

Here are a few of our pros and cons of moving to France.

Accommodation in France

The biggest decision you’ll need to make when finding accommodation in France is whether to live in the countryside or the city. The countryside offers large areas of land, community living and more spacious homes. City living means that public transport is always close at hand, as are schools, shopping, hospitals and more.

+ PRO: Plenty of choice

You should find plenty of accommodation options no matter where in France you are. Most real estate agencies have property listings displayed in their windows and on their websites. Some estate agents might not be fluent in English, but they will do their best to communicate and find suitable options.

Alternatively, a simple internet search can provide listings of available apartments, houses or room-share options. Many French websites offer a translated English version. Some bed-and-breakfasts and holiday rentals also offer long-term stays, which are helpful while looking for permanent residence.

Accommodation in France

- CON: Older housing

Most apartments and houses in France are very old. While charming, they can lack proper insulation, have small rooms and contain only one bathroom. It’s not uncommon to find apartments or houses without light fixtures or kitchen appliances. Although some places will offer furnished kitchens and up-to-date features, these are more expensive and harder to find.

The French government has set goals for energy-related renovations, but the pace of improvement remains slow. Some grant programmes exist for home improvements, particularly for accessibility features like stair lifts.

- CON: Housing tax

All tenants living in a property must pay an annual French residence tax (taxe d’habitation), the amount of which depends on the area. If you’re renting a home in France and either physically resided in it as of January 1st or had it available to use, you’ll be liable for this tax. Newly built properties, substantial extensions, and fully renovated homes are exempt from property tax (taxe foncière) for the first two years following completion of work.

Lifestyle in France

+ PRO: Slower pace of life

Experiencing the lifestyle in France means adjusting to a different rhythm. The French generally enjoy one- to two-hour lunches every day, as well as ample coffee breaks. Most shops open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 8pm, with some now opening Sunday mornings in tourist areas. While this can be frustrating if you’re used to living a fast-paced life, it doesn’t take long to adjust to the slower rhythm. Great importance is placed on family, and you’ll soon enjoy spending Sundays with your loved ones at home.

- CON: Bureaucracy

Relocating to France involves various admin tasks, such as opening a bank account, changing a driving licence or dealing with visa paperwork.

These and several other tasks come with many requirements and forms. There will often be long lines at government offices, and you’ll have no choice but to wait and hope to be seen. The frustration of dealing with French bureaucracy is infamous and, unfortunately, an inevitable part of life in France.

The French government has established a network of France Services offices to help with administrative tasks, but the system remains complex. Recent immigration laws have also tightened language requirements for residency cards and citizenship.

Visas and Residence Permits in France

+ PRO: Many paid holidays

France is known for being a country with one of the highest numbers of paid holidays in the world. All employees are entitled to 2.5 days of paid leave for each month worked, resulting in 25 days annually (or 30 days by French calculation, as Saturday is considered a working day). Schools enjoy a week-long holiday every six or seven weeks, which allows families to enjoy a break together. Remember that most of the country has their holidays during the same period in mid-July, and planning ahead is necessary.

+ PRO: Accessible and convenient urban transport

Most cities offer a reliable bus, metro or tram system. Unlike many countries where public transit ridership is declining, France has seen increases every year since 2000. Some towns are even testing free public transport schemes. France also has a number of regional airports and train stations to help you travel within Europe.

If you’re relocating to rural France, note that you will likely need a car. A bus may go to a neighbouring city once or twice a day, but, for the most part, a vehicle will be required to get around the French countryside.

Transport, Driving and Driver's Licences in France

+ PRO: Fresh food and great wine

Every big city, small town or country village will have a regular fresh goods market. Most neighbourhoods have a local boulangerie, which sells fresh bread, as well as a butcher, cheese shop, or small grocery. France is known for its strict food regulations, which result in an extensive range of fresh and tasty nutritional options.

Of course, good wine is also an integral part of French life. Both lunch and dinner normally include a glass of wine or a bottle shared among friends. The traditional model of three synchronised meals a day is still followed by most people, with mealtimes remaining an important social ritual in French culture.

Cost of living in France

- CON: Cost of essentials

Understanding the cost of living in France is essential when planning your relocation. Many staples, such as fuel, food and clothes, are undeniably expensive. Value-added tax (VAT) at the standard rate of 20 percent applies to most goods and services, with reduced rates of 10, 5.5, and 2.1 percent for certain categories. This tax can add considerable cost to a large purchase, like a car.

Rent and home prices vary widely, with Paris and the south of France being the most expensive regions. The good news is that, on average, housing prices in France are one-third less than in the United States. If you’re looking for better value, consider regions like Brittany, Occitania, or Dordogne, which offer a high quality of life at more reasonable prices.

+ PRO: High quality of life

France consistently ranks well for quality of life metrics. Whether in bustling cities or peaceful rural settings, you’ll find high standards of healthcare, education, and civil liberties. Most expats report high overall satisfaction with life in France, with four in five saying they’re satisfied with their life abroad.

- CON: Cost of transport

There are many options for getting around France, but they are not all cheap. The TGV, or high-speed train, going in and out of Paris is quite pricey despite receiving state subsidies. Toll roads throughout France are also expensive, with some roads and bridges costing more than EUR 30 for a single trip.

Food costs also vary significantly between urban and rural areas. Grocery price inflation in rural areas has been higher than in cities. Shopping at local markets for fresh produce is a smart strategy to save on these expenses.

+ PRO: Tax benefits for expats

France offers several tax advantages for newcomers. A special expat exemption scheme provides partial income tax exemption for up to eight years, subject to certain conditions. To qualify, you must not have been a French resident for the past five tax years prior to your arrival.

Expats seconded to France may not be taxed on compensation items related to their assignment, such as housing cost reimbursements. Additionally, certain rental property owners benefit from significant tax rebates.

Education and childcare in France

+ PRO: Great school schedule

Choosing education and childcare in France means adapting to their distinctive schedule. Most schools start between 8.30am and 9am and end between 4.30pm and 5pm, with a generous 90-minute to two-hour lunch break. The typical school week runs four and a half days, with Wednesdays usually being the half day. French schools offer longer vacations than many other countries, with two-week breaks in fall, winter, and spring, plus two months in summer.

Education and Schools in France

- CON: Cost and availability of childcare

There are many childcare options in France, but these can be costly and sometimes difficult to secure. The most common forms include crèches (nurseries), nounous (childminders), and assistants maternels (state-licensed caregivers who accept up to four children in their home).

Nurseries across France have considerably long waiting lists, with experts recommending you register soon after falling pregnant. The enrollment rate for children aged 2 to 5 has increased from 40 percent in 1950 to over 70 percent today, and competition for spots is fierce, particularly in major cities.

+ PRO: Government assistance for families

France offers substantial financial support for childcare costs. The CMG childcare allowance is available to families whose children spend at least 16 hours monthly in daycare. Government subsidies can cover up to 85 percent of the cost for families employing certified nursery assistants. Support amounts are calculated based on your income, with higher thresholds for families with multiple children and for single parents.

+ PRO: Quality education options

The standard of education in France is generally high across all types of institutions. While public schools follow the national curriculum with its focus on academic rigour, international schools offer a blend of educational approaches, often with smaller class sizes. For families planning a long-term stay, the French system provides excellent foundations, while international schools might better suit those on shorter assignments.

Healthcare in France

+ PRO: World-class and affordable healthcare system

The healthcare system in France ranks among the best in the world, with 80 percent of expats praising the quality of medical care. After just three months of residency, you can access the French healthcare system, which operates on the principle of solidarity. This means the sickest patients typically pay the least for their care.

The system typically covers 70 percent of doctor fees and 80 percent of hospital costs. For major illnesses, the coverage extends to 100 percent of expenses. Medication coverage ranges from 15 to 100 percent, with most prescriptions reimbursed at around 65 percent.

Healthcare and Medical Insurance in France

Working in France

+ PRO: Work-life balance

Working in France offers one of the best work-life balances globally. The statutory 35-hour work week, implemented in the early 2000s, gives you more personal time than in many other countries. The French workplace culture generally respects the separation between professional and personal life, with many expats appreciating that the French work to live rather than live to work.

Working in France

Local culture in France

- CON: Language barrier challenges

The language barrier remains one of the biggest hurdles for expats in France. Learning French is the gateway to understanding the country’s rich social and cultural dynamics. Without adequate French skills, you may struggle with daily tasks, bureaucratic procedures, and meaningful social connections.

Many expats find practical immersion helpful – visiting local markets, bakeries, and cafés provides natural language practice. Others recommend watching French films with subtitles, reading translated books, and listening to French music. For job seekers, French proficiency often determines their career prospects, with bilingual positions offering more opportunities and typically higher compensation.

+ PRO: Established expat communities

France hosts numerous thriving expat communities, particularly in regions like Paris, Lyon, the French Riviera, and the Nouvelle Aquitaine (formerly Poitou-Charentes, Aquitaine, and Limousin). These established networks can ease your transition, providing practical advice, social connections, and cultural guidance.

Many online forums, social media groups, and local associations cater specifically to expats, offering everything from housing tips to language exchange opportunities. Whether you prefer integrating fully into French society or maintaining connections with fellow expats, you’ll find support for your chosen lifestyle in most regions of France.

Local Culture in France

Transport and driving in France offers some of the densest road and railway networks in Europe. The country boasts some of the fastest high-speed trains in the world, making cross-country travel a breeze, while most of France’s cities also have tram lines that make getting around fast and simple.

Getting Around in Paris

Public transport in France

Trains

Public transport in France links all major cities with each other, as well as many other destinations in Europe, and the French rail system is dense and highly centralised. SNCF (French National Railway Company) operates most of the passenger and freight services on the national rail network, while RATP primarily serves Paris and the Île-de-France region.

The Train à Grande Vitesse (TGV) is France’s high-speed rail network, which connects all its major cities. The TGV travels at speeds of up to 200 miles per hour (320km/h), so journeys between cities on opposite sides of the country are only one to three hours long.

Multiple rail pass options are available if you want to use the TGV and local trains frequently. The Eurail France Pass (for non-European residents) or Interrail France Pass (for European residents) allows you to hop on and off trains and travel to many destinations with just one ticket. You can also use the Transport Express Regional (TER) to travel short distances around France.

You can use trains to travel to neighbouring countries such as Germany, Spain, Switzerland and Italy. Direct high-speed connections link France with Brussels, Luxembourg, Frankfurt, and Munich.

Eurotunnel

Opened in 1994, the Eurotunnel (now branded as LeShuttle) links France and England via a dry-land tunnel under the English Channel. High-speed trains move cars, buses and passengers underneath the ocean. The shuttle runs every day of the year, with up to four departures per hour during peak times.

Buses

Buses in France are more affordable than trains but are slower and less luxurious. Most cities have urban bus routes, and long-distance coach services have expanded since the market started being deregulated. Major operators include FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus, offering routes throughout France and to neighbouring countries. Buses are more frequently used in rural areas, such as Brittany and Normandy, where there are few train lines.

Metro

The Paris Metro system is comprehensive and is the easiest way to get around the city. It’s fast, reliable and relatively easy to navigate. The network continues to expand with the Grand Paris Express project, including extensions to Line 14 that opened in 2024. Five other French cities also have metro systems: Lille, Lyon, Marseille, Rennes, and Toulouse, and twenty-six French cities have light rail or tram systems.

Useful links

• SNCF Connect
• Eurail France Pass
• Interrail
• LeShuttle (Eurotunnel)
• FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus

Taxis in France

Taxis in French cities are relatively affordable, and you can hail them from the street if the sign on their roof is lit. You can also call a nearby taxi station and book one ahead of time, but be aware that the meter typically runs from the moment the driver departs to meet you. If you don’t speak French, you may find it helpful to have your destination written down for the driver.

Ridesharing services such as Uber and Bolt and local options like G7 Taxi and LeCab are widely available in the country. If you can’t speak French, these apps may be your preferred option because they take care of communicating your destination. The Uber by Women service in Paris and the Île-de-France region offers female drivers for female clients.

Useful links

• Uber France
• Bolt France
• G7 Taxis
• LeCab

Driving in France

Highway driving in France is usually a relaxed affair. France has a large network of highways (autoroutes) connecting its cities. Many are toll (peage) roads, typically charging EUR 5 to EUR 10 per 60 miles (100km), except for those around major cities. Payment options include cash, credit cards, and télépéage (electronic toll collection).

City driving in France can be more stressful and difficult. It is often best to park in a suburban area before entering a city and then use trams, the metro or buses to get around. Be aware that many major French cities now have low-emission zones (ZFE) that restrict certain vehicles based on their environmental impact.

You will also need a certificate of registration (la carte grise) and a certificate of insurance. If you plan to stay in France for more than six months, you will need a French driving licence and must have your car inspected through the contrôle technique system. The minimum driving age in France is 18 years.

Driver’s licences

If you’re an EU citizen, you can drive in France with your national driving licence. If you’re not an EU citizen, you need to apply for an international driving licence. UK licences issued before January 2021 are still valid until their expiry date, thanks to Brexit negotiations.

Agreements exist with certain countries and states where an exchange can be done within the first year of legal residency in France. If your licence cannot be exchanged, you must take a full French theory and practical driving exam.

Useful links

• Service-Public: French Driver’s Licence Information
• French Motorways Information

Air travel in France

Air travel in France is served primarily by Air France, a full-service international airline that flies to 20 domestic destinations throughout the country. The national carrier continues to expand its network, recently adding routes from Paris-Charles de Gaulle to various destinations and increasing service frequencies on existing routes. Budget airlines like Transavia France also serve domestic routes, offering competitive alternatives to Air France.

The average flight time between cities in France is only one hour, and domestic flights are a quick alternative to trains for longer distances. Since 2021, France has banned short domestic flights where train alternatives exist for journeys under 2.5 hours, pushing for more eco-friendly travel options.

France’s two major international airports – Roissy Charles de Gaulle and Orly – are both in Paris. Bordeaux, Nice, Toulouse, Marseille and Lyon also have international airports that service many destinations within Europe. Several regional airports have shown impressive growth, including La Rochelle, Tarbes, Perpignan, Nîmes, and Calvi.

Most airports offer excellent transport connections to city centres, with major hubs like Charles de Gaulle providing direct train services in addition to buses, taxis, and private transfers.

Useful links

• Air France

You might dream of moving to France, enticed by visions of long restaurant lunches, people-watching at Parisian cafés, strolls in lavender-scented Provence, sunbathing on the beaches of Nice and being immersed in the cultural riches of art and haute couture.

Living in France as an expat

If you’re moving to France for work, prepare accordingly. Although the French are renowned for their ‘work to live, not live to work’ philosophy, the country claims one of the largest economies in the world, and France is a major player within the EU. Expats account for a significant percentage of the workforce in Paris – for instance, roughly 20 percent of the Île-de-France population – and businesspeople value the new skills you can bring as a foreigner.

There are both upsides and downsides to expat life in France. The country prides itself on its distinct culture and language, and you might initially struggle to find your niche and adapt to the social rules that apply to daily life. The language usually proves the most difficult barrier to cross, especially as the French prefer engaging in their local language.

Moving to Paris
Pros and Cons of Moving to France

Working in France

When working in France, you’ll discover that while the French take their work-life balance seriously, the business culture maintains high standards of professionalism. France boasts one of Europe’s strongest economies, with particular strengths in luxury goods, agriculture, and technological innovation. You’ll find that punctuality and proper business etiquette carry significant weight in French professional environments.

The French workplace typically operates under the 35-hour workweek policy – although this serves more as a threshold above which overtime pay kicks in rather than a strict limit. Standard working hours run from 8am to 4pm or 9am to 5pm, including a one-hour lunch break. The finance, healthcare, technology, and hospitality sectors currently offer the most opportunities for expats, with France facing shortages in over 90 occupations across various industries.

Finding a Job and Working in France

Local culture in France

When adjusting to local culture in France, you’ll need to navigate a society that deeply values its distinct cultural identity and traditions. The French take enormous pride in their language, and you’ll find your experience greatly enriched by making efforts to speak French, even at a basic level. Most French people appreciate it when foreigners try to speak their language, even if they themselves have some English skills.

Social etiquette carries significant weight in France. You’ll notice that greetings typically involve cheek kisses (la bise) among friends, while a handshake is appropriate in professional settings. Small talk isn’t as common as in some English-speaking countries, and the French often prefer substantive conversation about arts, politics, or philosophy. Adapting to these social customs typically takes between six months to a year for most newcomers.

Local Culture in France

Finding accommodation in France

When finding accommodation in France, you’ll discover varied options across different regions. In major cities like Paris, apartments predominate, while houses are more common in suburban and rural areas. Be prepared to make quick decisions when house-hunting, particularly in sought-after locations.

Rental agreements typically require extensive documentation for your dossier, including proof of income, employment contracts, and previous rental history. You’ll generally need a French bank account before signing a lease, which can present a catch-22 situation for new arrivals. Many landlords also require a guarantor who resides in France – a potential hurdle for expats just settling in, although you can pay for a rent guarantor provider to take their place.

Renting Accommodation in France

Cost of living in France

The cost of living in France is high, especially in large urban centres such as Paris, Lyon and Marseille. Your expenses will decrease considerably the further you go into the rural countryside, a result of both lower prices and fewer opportunities to splurge.

Many expats find themselves pleasantly surprised by France’s healthcare costs. The public system typically covers 70 percent of doctor’s fees and 80 percent of hospital costs, with private top-up insurance (mutuelle) available to cover the remaining portion. For value-minded expats, regions like Limousine, Dordogne, and Languedoc-Roussillon offer an attractive balance of lifestyle quality and affordability.

Cost of Living in France 

Living in France with children

If you’re moving to France with children, you’ll find a wonderful selection of attractions for families to enjoy together. Beyond the famous Disneyland Paris, family-friendly options abound: treasure hunts at the Louvre, hot air balloon rides over Burgundy’s countryside, and charming villages perfect for exploration. The French approach to family activities often involves children participating fully in adult experiences rather than separate ‘kids’ activities’.

Family benefits in France are income-adjusted and available to expats who meet residency requirements. Since January 2025, you’ll need to prove nine months of residence to qualify for these allowances. For non-French speaking children, the education system offers dedicated support through FLE (Français Langue Étrangère) programmes and transition classes designed to ease integration.

Finding a school in France

When finding a school in France, you’ll encounter various institution types, including public, private, bilingual and international schools. The 2024–2025 academic year recently brought significant reforms, including more assessments for primary school children. Most international schools accept applications year-round depending on space availability, and applying sooner is better.

The French educational system places a strong emphasis on academics and discipline. Public schools follow the national curriculum, which might present language challenges for expat children. Many schools offer dedicated support through Classe d’Accueil programmes and UPE2A (Unités Pédagogiques pour Élèves Allophones Arrivants) to help non-French speaking students integrate successfully.

International and bilingual schools provide alternatives that ease the transition, with the newly renamed BFI (Baccalauréat Français International) blending French and international curriculum elements. This dual approach has grown increasingly popular with expat families who want both French immersion and global educational standards.

School Types in France 

Getting around in France

Getting around in France is a matter of choosing between multiple convenient options suited to different lifestyles. The country boasts an extensive and efficient public transport network, particularly in urban areas. The high-speed TGV train system connects major cities.

If you prefer driving, you’ll find well-maintained roads throughout the country, although obtaining a French driver’s licence typically involves theoretical training and practical driving lessons. In Paris, car ownership is typically considered impractical due to traffic congestion and parking challenges, with public transport proving significantly faster for daily commutes.

Cycling has gained remarkable popularity, with Bordeaux earning its nickname ‘La Ville à Vélo’ thanks to extensive cycling lanes. Many cities are competing to become France’s premier cycling hub, with Paris seeing bike use (11 percent of commutes) now surpassing car use (4 percent). Living in rural areas often requires having your own vehicle.

Climate and weather in France

The weather in France varies dramatically across regions, from warm summers on the southern coast to wet, snowy winters in the Alpine areas. Each season brings distinctive experiences across different regions. Spring showcases gardens and festivals in Paris and Île-de-France, while autumn transforms wine regions with harvest activities and bright colours. The northern coast typically experiences cooler temperatures, with winter averages around 45°F (7°C), while the Mediterranean south enjoys milder conditions.

Weather in France

When you move to France, you can count on a slower, more enjoyable pace of living marked by innumerable little joys and seasonal celebrations that lead to a greater quality of life overall.

Fast Facts

Population: Over 67.5 million

Major religion: Christianity, but largely secular

Capital city: Paris

Legal system: Constitutional republic

Main languages: French is the official language, but English is widely spoken and understood

Time: GMT+1 (GMT+2 from the end of March to the end of October)

Electricity: 230 volts, 50Hz. European two-pin plugs are standard.

Currency: The Euro (EUR), divided into 100 cents

Tipping: 15 percent service charge always included, although tipping for exceptional service is common in the main centres

International dialling code: +33

Emergency numbers: 112 (general emergencies), 15 (specialised emergency medical services), 18 (fire), and 17 (police)

Internet domain: .fr

Drives on the: Right

Banking, money and taxes in France offer a well-managed, sophisticated financial ecosystem that’s more accessible to foreigners than ever before. The main hurdle you might face is the language barrier, although English-speaking services have grown, especially in digital banking and popular expat areas.

Money in France

Money in France follows the standard European currency system. As with all EU member states, the official currency in France is the euro (€ or EUR), divided into 100 cents.

• Notes: EUR 5, EUR 10, EUR 20, EUR 50, EUR 100, EUR 200 and EUR 500
• Coins: EUR 1 and EUR 2, and 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents

EUR 500 notes are no longer issued, but some are in circulation. In France, full stops (.) are used as thousand separators, and decimal places are denoted with a comma (,). For example, five million would be written as 5.000.000, while 20 euros and ten cents would be written as EUR 20,10.

Contactless and mobile payments have boomed in France, with digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay accepted almost everywhere alongside traditional cards. Even small vendors at local markets now offer tap-to-pay options.

Banking in France

Banking in France gives you access to both established traditional banks and modern digital alternatives. All banks maintain high service standards with features like multi-language mobile apps, instant transfers, and contactless payments. English-speaking staff are common, and expat-heavy areas like the French Riviera have banks with dedicated English services.

Your choice between local and international banks depends on your specific needs. French digital banking has surged, and over 85 percent of online banking customers use mobile apps.

Local French banks pay no interest but charge a small monthly account fee. While living in France, you can open either a resident or non-resident account.

Non-resident accounts are suitable if you’re staying less than three months or if you can’t provide employment proof or a residence permit. These accounts have more restrictions than resident accounts, lack overdraft facilities, and require larger initial deposits. Not all branches handle non-resident accounts, so you’ll need to find an international branch for this service.

France offers three main types of bank accounts:

• Private current accounts function as standard checking accounts where you can receive payments, make deposits and authorise withdrawals. These don’t pay interest.
• Deposit accounts serve as savings vehicles for money not needed immediately.
• Joint accounts work well for couples or those who prefer managing finances together.

Banking hours in cities run from 8.30am or 9am until 4pm to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday, with rural branches often keeping shorter hours.

France offers straightforward ways to handle recurring bills through automated transfers. You simply need the RIB (Relevé d’Identité Bancaire) of the party you’re paying, which includes their account details. For regular automatic payments, you can set up a one-time authorisation for a TIP (Titre Interbancaire de Paiement). The SEPA system now processes most transfers within one business day.

Opening a bank account in France

Opening a bank account in France is simple, although requirements vary by bank and account type. Digital-only banks have made the process easier for many expats with remote account opening options and fewer document requirements.

For a non-resident bank account in France, you’ll need:

• Proof of identity via passport or birth certificate
• Proof of residence, usually shown with a utility bill
• An initial deposit, which can range widely for non-resident accounts, from a modest sum to several thousand euros

Opening a resident bank account in France typically requires:

• Proof of identity through your passport or EU identification card
• Proof of earnings or status through a work contract, income verification, or student card. Retirees may need to show they can support themselves in France.
• Resident status or carte de sejour
• Tax notice (increasingly requested for foreign nationals)

Brexit has affected UK citizens, who now face additional scrutiny when opening French accounts. US citizens may also encounter extra documentation demands due to FATCA regulations.

ATMs and credit cards

Chequebooks and debit cards come standard with most French bank accounts and are widely accepted throughout the country. Post-dated cheques remain technically illegal, and bouncing a cheque is treated as potential fraud in France.

Most international debit and credit cards work seamlessly in France. ATMs are plentiful even in smaller towns. French banks and post office ATMs don’t charge withdrawal fees themselves, although your home bank may impose foreign transaction fees of 1 to 3 percent.

You can also exchange cash at bank branches, bureaux de change, and post offices, with the latter often offering surprisingly good rates.

Digital payment methods have taken off. Six-tenths of French consumers now use Apple Pay for in-shop purchases. Digital wallets work in most French businesses, from large retailers to local market stalls. Visa and Mastercard enjoy near-universal acceptance, and American Express works mainly in tourist areas and upscale establishments.

To minimise foreign transaction fees, consider using cards that waive these charges, limit ATM withdrawals, avoid currency conversion at the point of sale, and look into multi-currency accounts from digital banks.

Taxes in France

Taxes in France feature systematic deductions for both income tax and social security. The tax system applies to anyone working, living, or investing in the country.

Roughly 20 to 23 percent of your gross income will go toward social security contributions. Using a tiered progressive system, income tax ranges from 0 to 45 percent of your net income. These brackets adjust annually for inflation, while the rates remain stable.

Property owners face additional taxes and must now declare occupancy status. The system is moving toward replacing the current property tax with a single land tax. Self-employed individuals face extra taxes, though France offers supportive resources for entrepreneurs.

Remember that income tax declarations remain separate from social security contributions. Brexit has brought changes for UK citizens, who must now apply for residency permits and navigate some new tax obligations.

All EU member states pay VAT on goods taken out of the region when you leave the EU. For VAT refunds, bring your passport when shopping, obtain necessary documents from retailers, and get your forms stamped by customs when departing. Short-term residents staying just a few years should consult a VAT expert about potential refund claims, which can often result in substantial savings.

The prospect of working in France holds great appeal, particularly in a post-Covid world. While many of Europe’s largest economies, including Germany, Spain and Italy, have declined considerably, France (the second-largest economy in Europe) has shown surprising resilience despite the pandemic. As such, there are still opportunities for talented international expats to find a job in France.

You may have been attracted to the French working world by its perks, which include a 35-hour workweek, plenty of holiday time, and a retirement age of 64. Finding a job in France is notoriously difficult for expats though. Most who manage to find one do so through intra-company transfers or opportunities within large multinational organisations.

Job market in France

You may be disappointed to discover that most of the job market in France isn’t concentrated in the south or even bustling, romantic Paris. The jobs available in France show strong hiring demand in regions like Auvergne, Bretagne, Limousin and Pays de la Loire. If you’re willing to move to these less glamorous destinations, you’ll find many opportunities, even though the area surrounding Paris claims one of the continent’s wealthiest and largest regional economies.

Salaries in France are on the lower end of the spectrum compared to other areas of the world that attract international workers, such as the US, the Middle East and Asia. Current unemployment rates hover around 7.5 percent, which is expected to remain relatively stable in the short term.

Finding a job in France

When looking for employment in France, you’ll benefit greatly from speaking French, as fluency is a requirement for most positions. Note that education levels are still given priority over experience and accomplishments and that the French generally prefer to do business with acquaintances and friends. Many people find employment through networking and alum organisations, so fostering connections is going to be a necessary part of your job hunt.

France’s most prominent industry sectors are hospitality, telecommunications, aerospace and defence, shipbuilding, pharmaceuticals, construction and civil engineering, chemicals, automobile production, banking and technology. Above all, the service sector dominates, representing about 78 percent of the economy. You’ll need a valid work permit if you want to work in France.

Work Permits for France 
Visas and Residence Permits for France

Useful links

• LinkedIn Jobs
• France Travail (formerly Pôle Emploi)
• Indeed France
• APEC (Association Pour l’Emploi des Cadres)

Work culture in France

You’ll find that the work culture in France tends to be hierarchical and reserved, with little socialising across hierarchical lines. In addition to this, appearances are important to the French. You’d do well to invest a little extra in your work wardrobe, as style and presentation remain highly valued in professional settings.

You’ll also need to take a flexible approach to time and punctuality. Work culture in France is heavily influenced by bureaucracy, so simple tasks may take longer than expected.

That said, you’ll also enjoy a 35-hour workweek (legally mandated since 2000) and substantial holiday time throughout the year (typically 5 weeks of paid leave plus public holidays). This free time allows you to make the most of working in the country and embrace the French way of life.

With the rise of remote work, you may find more flexibility in how and where you work, although the traditional office culture remains strong in many sectors.

Business Culture in France

Ranked 17th in the 2024 World Index of Healthcare Innovation, healthcare in France is world-renowned and operates through an intricate public-private combination that is both efficient and generous.

While most locals claim to be happy with the healthcare system in France, the vast majority also supplement state-provided coverage with private health insurance that covers add-ons such as private hospital rooms, dentistry and eye care.

If you’re lucky enough to take advantage of the public system and the associated insurance, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Even if you’re forced to shell out substantially more for private health insurance, you’ll still likely be satisfied with the standard of care.

Public healthcare in France

The network of public healthcare facilities in France spans the entire country and includes more than 3,000 regional, university, local and general hospitals. The system upholds an exceptionally high standard and emphasises primary care.

The French public healthcare system once had virtually no waiting lists, but wait times have increased in recent years. You’ll now wait about 10 days to see a GP, although this remains better than in the UK and Canada. You’ll still find that you have plenty of choices when selecting a doctor or specialist in France.

EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access state healthcare during a short-term visit. UK citizens can use their Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which replaced the EHIC for UK citizens post-Brexit. Your existing EHIC remains valid until its expiry date.

The public health insurance system, known as Sécurité Sociale, provides basic coverage to those who qualify and is funded by tax contributions from salary deductions. If you’re employed in France, self-employed but make the necessary contributions, or have reached official retirement age in your home country, you can use the French public healthcare system once you’ve registered at your local social security office.

The public system covers about 70 percent of medical bills. Most locals and foreigners use private supplemental insurance to cover themselves for the remainder of the medical fees. The government covers 100 percent of the medical bills for chronic illnesses such as diabetes and cancer, covering surgery, therapy and drugs.

If you’re using the public healthcare system, keep in mind that even though the choice of doctor is left up to you, going to the same doctor will assure higher compensation from social security. You must also acquire a referral before consulting a specialist, or the state will lower its contribution. Certain professionals, such as psychiatrists and dentists, are exceptions to this rule.

It is worth noting that payment is required upfront for some appointments, and you’ll only be reimbursed later.

Useful links

• Ameli: The Official French Health Insurance Website (English Version)
• CLEISS: Information on Healthcare Rights for EU Citizens
• Service-Public.fr: Health Insurance Information for Foreigners in France

Private healthcare in France

Private healthcare is available in France but provides little advantage in terms of quality of care over the public system. Private clinics typically offer specialised care with shorter waiting times than public hospitals.

Most healthcare providers in France work in private offices and run fee-for-service practices. The French government still plays a strong role in negotiating medical fees and costs associated with prescription drugs. Most private physicians accept the state-negotiated fees, but some doctors in the major urban centres and select sub-specialists may bill extra.

Medicines and pharmacies in France

Medicines and pharmacies in France operate under strict regulations. Pharmacies are the only place to purchase over-the-counter medicine, and you won’t find basic medications like painkillers or flu remedies in supermarkets.

You can identify pharmacies by their large illuminated cross sign, normally red or green. Most pharmacies are open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 7pm. Late-night pharmacies (Pharmacie de Garde) can also be found in major cities. Nearby late-night pharmacies are usually posted on closed pharmacy doors, and digital alternatives like the ‘Mon Pharmacien’ app make finding an open pharmacy much easier, especially in emergencies.

Private health insurance in France

Private health insurance in France supplements the public system for nearly 95 percent of the French population. Even though public health insurance covers about 70 percent of medical bills, most locals and foreigners use supplementary plans to cover themselves for the remainder of medical fees. These private health plans are often supplied by employers. If you’re moving to France for work, you should try negotiating this into your package before signing a contract.

Owing to the success of the public health insurance system, there are far fewer providers of private healthcare insurance in France than in many other destinations. Many expats value private coverage for its ability to fill gaps in the public system, offer wider access to healthcare facilities, and provide global coverage that works beyond French borders.

Vaccinations in France

When moving to France, you should ensure your routine vaccinations are current. No specific vaccinations are required for entry into France or residence permits, but standard immunisations are recommended. These include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, and seasonal flu. For adults, a pertussis booster with a 10-year interval between vaccinations is recommended.

COVID-19 vaccinations are recommended but no longer required for entry. Once you’ve established care with a French doctor, they can advise you on any vaccination updates needed according to the French schedule.

Emergency services in France

Emergency services in France are primarily handled by SAMU (Service d’Aide Médicale d’Urgence), a hospital-based network with around 100 call centres across the country. SAMU provides ambulance services, phone medical advice, and specialised medical assistance. The dispatch centres are staffed by physicians and trained medical personnel who triage calls and determine the appropriate response.

In an emergency in France, dial 15 if using a landline or 112 on a mobile. Emergency services might contact you back on 0800 112 112, so be prepared to answer calls from this number if you’ve requested help. Response times may vary between urban and rural areas, with rural regions experiencing longer wait times of potentially 14 minutes or more.

English support may be limited, especially outside major tourist areas. Having a French speaker nearby can be invaluable during medical emergencies.

When planning your international move, you’ll find shipping to France a fairly painless affair. The country boasts several major ports, including Marseille Fos Port and Le Havre, a high-density rail system, and Charles de Gaulle – one of the largest international airports in the world.

Despite the apparent ease of sending goods abroad, be mindful that international shipping costs add up quickly. Many expats find purchasing new or used household goods upon arrival more cost-effective or simply opt for furnished accommodation.

Plenty of removal companies offer door-to-door shipping services or can handle specific parts of the relocation process according to your needs.

Relocation Companies in France
Accommodation in France

Shipping household goods to France

To ship household goods to France duty-free, your items must be more than six months old, and you must have lived outside the EU for at least 12 months. To qualify, you’ll need proof of residency in France along with the required customs paperwork.

These requirements can change without much notice, particularly since Brexit has impacted shipping between the UK and France. Check with French customs for the current terms and requirements before shipping duty-free.

 If you’re committed to keeping your furniture, get at least three quotes from shipping providers and verify they offer the essential services listed below.

Common services to look for in a shipper:

• Pick-up of goods at your location
• Basic disassembly and reassembly of furniture
• Border clearance and customs formalities at the destination
• Professional wrapping of all wooden, metal and fabric furniture
• Export documents for household goods only
• Wooden crate lift van or palletising
• Preparing a professional inventory list
• Unloading of all items to destination residence and setting all items per request
• Agent fees and NVOCC deconsolidation charges
• Removal of packing debris from destination resident

Most shippers charge by your items' weight and/or volume. Watch out for additional expenses often tacked on for specific packing materials, handling oversized items, or special processing requirements.

Purchase insurance from a company other than your shipping provider to ensure reliable coverage for damaged cargo.

Shipping pets to France

All pets entering France require microchipping, rabies vaccination, and proper documentation (either an EU Pet Passport or Health Certificate). Pets under 16 weeks cannot enter France under any circumstances, and certain dog breeds face strict restrictions.

Pet passport and identification

Your pet must have a microchip implanted for identification before any other procedures. The microchip must meet ISO standard 11784/11785. You’ll need an EU pet passport if travelling from within the EU. If coming from outside the EU (like the US or post-Brexit UK), you’ll need an EU Health Certificate issued by an accredited veterinarian within 10 days of entry into France.

Microchipping is strictly enforced at French borders, so ensure this is done before or at the same time as the rabies vaccination.

Vaccinations and health requirements

All dogs, cats and ferrets over 12 weeks of age must have a valid rabies vaccination administered after the microchip insertion. After the primary vaccination, pets must wait at least 21 days before travelling to France. For booster vaccinations, your pet can travel immediately if the previous vaccination hasn’t expired.

If your pet is arriving from a high-rabies country, they’ll need a blood titer test taken at least 30 days after vaccination, followed by a three-month waiting period before travel. France is a rabies-free country and takes these requirements seriously.

France doesn’t typically impose quarantine for pets from most countries when all documentation is properly prepared. If your pet doesn’t meet entry requirements, it may face quarantine, return to your origin country, or, in worst-case scenarios, euthanasia. Proper preparation is non-negotiable.

Restricted breeds

France restricts certain dog breeds categorised as ‘attack dogs’ (Category 1) and ‘guard and defence dogs’ (Category 2). Category 1 includes unmixed pit bulls, boerbulls, and tosas. Category 2 covers Staffordshire terriers, American Staffordshire terriers, Rottweilers, and tosa-type dogs.

Owners of these dogs must be over 18 with no criminal record and must obtain a certificate of fitness and a permit, and the dogs must be leashed and muzzled and are restricted from public transport and some public spaces.

Exotic animals

Exotic pet imports require special permits from both your origin country and France. Many exotic species fall under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) regulations and need specific documentation.

For pet birds, additional concerns about avian influenza mean special regulations apply. Birds must be kept isolated for 30 days after entering the EU and should not be brought to places where birds gather during this period.

Read more about Moving Your Pets to France

Useful links

• French Customs: Official Pet Travel Requirements
• EU Pet Entry Requirements by Country of Origin
• CITES Protected Species List

Despite the familiar feeling of France and its iconic capital city, you’re still likely to experience some culture shock in France. Making a home in this European country comes with the challenges of learning the language and fitting into a culture steeped in unique social conventions.

The first and most critical step for overcoming culture shock and avoiding any misunderstandings about French culture is to learn the local language. You should also mind your manners, keep an open mind and maintain an eagerness to learn about French customs and etiquette.

Language barrier in France

The language barrier in France can be significant, as French is the official language. When living in the south of France, you may encounter regional dialects like Occitan (including Gascon, Languedoc, and Provençal) that sound surprisingly different to what is spoken in Paris and Lyon. In many tourist areas and larger cities, locals are likely to speak some level of English, with around 25 million French citizens having English skills.

This fact should not detract from your attempts to initiate a conversation or request in French with a ‘Bonjour’ (good day) or ‘Parlez-vous Anglais?’ (Do you speak English?). French people genuinely appreciate when you make an effort to speak their language, even if it’s just basic phrases.

There are plenty of language schools that offer French classes to foreign-language speakers. They all cater to various levels of proficiency and needs. Even for the more fluent speaker, there are conversation classes and language exchanges that offer an opportunity to practice with native French speakers outside traditional classroom settings.

Etiquette in France

Etiquette in France is extremely important to local people, and it is not unusual to see people being subtly disregarded by salespeople, waiters or others in the service industry for not minding their manners. At any service counter, even if in a rush, the most observed form of etiquette is greeting. Rushing in to make demands or a request without a brief ‘Bonjour’ can elicit a frosty response.

The bisous (kissing on both cheeks) is reserved for people you’re familiar with, and even then, locals will always be first to initiate. This greeting practice remains common despite slight post-pandemic adjustments. Women typically greet other women with cheek kisses, while men usually only greet other men like this when they’re close friends. It might seem overly familiar to expats at first, but it’s a deeply embedded greeting in the French social fabric.

Time in France

The issue of time in France, particularly in social situations, perplexes many newcomers who are used to the notion of punctuality. In French society, being invited for a meal at someone’s house prescribes that you do not arrive exactly on time. It is best to err on the side of being fashionably late and arrive 15 to 20 minutes after the set time. This social timing rule remains widely observed throughout the country.

That said, if invited to a restaurant or a business function, it’s acceptable to arrive at the specified time. Professional settings generally expect punctuality, especially for client meetings, while the clear separation between work and personal time is legally protected in France, with employees entitled to disconnect from work communications after hours.

Dining etiquette in France

Dining etiquette in France follows specific rules, and as a general principle, the French don’t have much tolerance for picky eaters. While it’s fairly common to customise an order of food according to your preferences in restaurants abroad, this behaviour isn’t acceptable in most French establishments or at someone’s home, although attitudes in metropolitan areas are slowly evolving.

Once the usual questions around food allergies have been addressed, the host/hostess expects you to finish what you’re served. It is frowned upon to leave food on your plate, especially as servings aren’t typically large, and food preparation, particularly in someone’s home, is a labour of love. It can only be reciprocated through your thorough appreciation and enjoyment of the meal.

When invited to a French home, never arrive with empty hands ('les mains vides', as the French say). Appropriate gifts include quality wine, chocolates, or flowers.

Cultural nuances in France

Cultural nuances in France can be subtle yet important. The French aren’t known for being gregarious and open. Restraint and reserve play a big role in most interactions, and overt friendliness is not something you’ll encounter overnight. You should be prepared to be patient when it comes to fostering connections with locals, as building meaningful relationships takes time.

The mixing of professional and private lives, such as socialising with colleagues outside of working hours, is seldom done in French companies. This separation applies to labour law, with French employees legally protected from after-hours work communications. The standard 35-hour work week and a minimum of five weeks of annual leave highlight the French emphasis on work-life balance.

The French can be very direct, which can be misconstrued as rude, especially if you’re not used to such forthrightness. Try not to take this personally; it’s simply a cultural difference in communication style that values clarity and precision. Making an effort to speak even basic French will significantly improve your chances of connecting with locals.

Shopping hours in France

Shopping hours in France might catch you off guard if you’re from the UK or US. On Sundays, nearly everything is closed, except for cafés, restaurants, and shops in designated tourist zones. While this may be annoying at first, try to follow the lead of the locals and take advantage of Sundays to relax and unwind.

Many shops will also close for two to three hours over lunch throughout the week, but this practice is more common outside metropolitan centres. This midday pause is part of the French lifestyle that values taking time to enjoy a proper meal. The southern regions typically have a more casual approach to these timings.

Tourist areas offer more flexibility with extended shopping hours, especially during the peak season. For shopping during closure times, many expats turn to online platforms like Showroomprive.com or larger supermarkets in urban areas that maintain longer hours. During special events like the 2024 Olympics, more businesses in Paris were permitted to open on Sundays.

Women in France

As a woman in France, you’ll find a society with strong constitutional protections for gender equality, although practical implementation varies. French workplaces show a mixed picture – companies scored an average of 88 out of 100 on the gender equality index in 2024, yet women hold only 35 percent of senior management positions. This represents better representation than Germany but lags behind the United States.

French maternity benefits are generous by international standards, with strong legal protection against pregnancy-related job loss. However, France has seen birth rates drop to post-war lows, prompting government reforms to parental leave policies in an effort to reverse this trend.

Safety considerations vary significantly by location. Major cities like Paris offer extensive amenities but come with typical urban safety concerns. Cities such as Marseille, Montpellier, and Lille have higher reported crime rates, primarily involving petty theft rather than violent incidents.

Gender Equality and Women in Leadership in France

LGBTQ+ in France

LGBTQ+ people in France experience one of Western Europe’s more progressive environments, with the country ranking 13th out of 49 European nations on the 2024 Rainbow Europe LGBTI rights index. Since legalising same-sex marriage in 2013, France has continued to strengthen legal protections, including a 2024 constitutional amendment protecting reproductive rights.

Urban-rural divides remain significant when it comes to LGBTQ+ acceptance. Paris stands out as exceptionally welcoming, while other cities like Montpellier, Lyon, Nice, Bordeaux, and Marseille also host established LGBTQ+ communities and Pride events. Rural areas tend to be more conservative, with surveys showing nearly half of LGBTQ+ individuals in small towns reporting their communities as somewhat or very unaccepting.

Despite strong legal frameworks, challenges persist. Reported anti-LGBTQ+ offences rose 13 percent in 2023, with over 4,500 incidents reported nationwide. For support, newcomers can connect with organisations like ILGA-Europe and local community groups. Transgender rights in France remain relatively strong compared to many countries, although recent political debates reflect ongoing tensions regarding gender-affirming care access.

LGBTQ+, Diversity and Inclusion in France

Getting work permits in France means meeting certain requirements that vary based on your country of origin. If you’re a citizen of the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, you don’t need work permits to find employment in France – you can simply move and start working.

For non-EEA nationals, you’ll face a more complicated application process for the right to work in France. The French government limits the number of job categories open to non-European international arrivals, with preference given to fields facing shortages, such as healthcare, engineering, manufacturing, and hospitality.  This makes it tough to secure work permits in France for those outside the EU in non-shortage fields. France recently updated its shortage occupations list, expanding opportunities in high-demand sectors.

Your eligibility for a French work permit links directly to your employment status, and you’ll typically need a job offer before relocating. Your prospective employer often handles the permit application process on your behalf, submitting your contract to the French Ministry of Labour for approval.

When job hunting in France as a non-EU citizen, you’ll need to demonstrate that your skills can’t be found among EEA nationals – a tricky hurdle to clear. Pack your patience for this process; you’ll get a first-hand taste of the country’s notorious bureaucracy. Most applications take two to three months to process.

Finding a Job in France
Visas and Residence Permits for France

Types of work permits in France

Work permits in France come in several forms, each with specific validity periods, requirements and allowed entries. The type you need depends on your profession and intended length of stay. Common options include the Talent Passport (valid for up to four years), Employee Permit (for permanent contracts), EU Blue Card (for highly skilled workers), and Temporary Worker Permit (for short-term assignments).

Talent Passport

The Talent Passport targets highly skilled professionals, startup founders, and investors. Valid for up to four years and renewable, this permit allows your family to join you in France with enhanced work rights. Family members received expanded employment rights in 2025, including simplified residence permit procedures that bypass standard family reunification requirements. You’ll need to demonstrate exceptional skills or qualifications in your field to qualify. Processing typically takes around three months.

EU Blue Card

The EU Blue Card provides a direct pathway to permanent residence and appeals, particularly to professionals seeking long-term European career flexibility. This permit underwent major reforms in France in 2025. You can now qualify with three years of professional experience in certain fields instead of requiring a university degree. The minimum contract duration dropped to six months, and the scheme offers improved mobility within the EU. 

Employee Permit

Available to those with permanent employment contracts (CDI) in France, this permit requires your employer to prove they couldn’t find suitable candidates within the EU. The 2024 immigration law created a special one-year Employee Permit for shortage occupations, making it easier to work in high-demand fields. France’s updated shortage occupations list from May 2025 includes roles in healthcare, construction, hospitality, manufacturing, and cleaning services. Note that from 2026, you’ll need to demonstrate A2-level French proficiency for multi-year permits.

Temporary Worker Permit

If you’re taking on short-term contracts (CDD) or seasonal work, this permit matches your employment duration. Your employer must justify hiring from outside the EU, although requirements are sometimes relaxed for shortage occupations.

Entrepreneur/Self-Employed Permit

For freelancers and business owners, this permit requires a solid business plan and proof of sufficient resources. You’ll need to demonstrate how your enterprise benefits the French economy and creates jobs.

Useful links

• Welcome to France: Work Permit Application
• France-Visas: Professional Purpose
• Service-Public: Work Authorisation for Foreign Employees
• Welcome to France: EU, EEA and Swiss Nationals

Applying for a work permit for France

Applying for a work permit for France for stays longer than three months requires a long-stay visa. This can only be requested after your prospective employer sends your work contract to the French Ministry of Labour for approval. Once reviewed and approved, you can book an appointment to apply for the visa. After arriving in France with your long-stay work visa, you must register with the Office Français de l’Immigration et de l’Intégration (French Office of Immigration and Integration) within three months.

Since 2023, most applications have been submitted through the ANEF (Administration Numérique des Étrangers en France) online platform. This digital system handles everything from initial applications to renewals. The platform sometimes experiences technical challenges, including system failures and processing delays that have even prompted legal action from advocacy groups. Submit your application two to three months before your planned travel date for best results. For renewals, apply three months before your current permit expires.

Long-Stay Visas in France

Useful links

• ANEF: Digital Administration for Foreigners in France
• French Office of Immigration and Integration (OFII)
• France-Visas: Application Guidelines

Visa and work permit regulations are subject to change at short notice, and you should contact your respective embassy or consulate for the latest details.

Buying a house in France is a well-regulated exercise that rewards careful preparation. The property purchase process in France has several unique aspects worth noting before beginning the process.

Tips for buying a house in France

• The process becomes legally binding quickly, so don’t rush into signing anything.
• The total costs of buying a house are high. These include notaire’s fees (approximately 1-1.33 percent of the property price), taxes, stamp duty, agent’s fees, and other administrative costs. For a second-hand property, you can usually add an estimated 7-8 percent of the asking price for these total transaction costs.
• Homebuyers’ surveys are not normally carried out in France, but if you want one, you can usually find English-speaking surveyors working in France through the internet.
• You shouldn’t expect state-of-the-art appliances, floor layouts, or conveniences. Part of the charm of traditional French buildings is their age, and this generally applies to the kitchens and plumbing as well.

How and where to buy property in France

If you wish to begin your property search in France from abroad, you’ll be able to either appoint an agent or research accommodation options on the internet. One advantage of using an agent is that they can often speak both English and French and will be able to guide you through each step of the process.

If you’re already in France, you can purchase property through a notary or an estate agent. You should check that all intermediary agents are members of a professional body such as FNAIM, SNPI or UNPI. Remember that the properties presented to you may be relatively more expensive, especially if they are marketed specifically to foreigners.

Buying property in Paris and other cities

Buying a property in Paris or another city is somewhat different from the rest of France. You should walk the streets to find an area you like, then hunt down some agencies that look promising. Listings and estate agents can be found in various magazines, newspapers, and the internet. There is relatively little new construction in Paris, and you’ll most likely be looking to purchase an apartment rather than a formal house.

Listings are posted as À Louer (For Rent) and À Vendre (To Buy). They will also indicate which arrondissement the property is in. Perhaps most importantly, they will state the size in square metres and the number of rooms. Most apartments in Paris are small. Studios are 100 to 200 square feet (9.5–19m²), some smaller. Three-bedroom apartments are frequently under 1,000 square feet (93m²).

Americans should remember that the French follow the European convention of counting the first floor as the ground floor (Rez-de-Chauseé or RdC); the second floor in American terminology would be the first floor in Europe. Generally speaking, the higher the floor, the more expensive the property.

More often than not, an apartment is sold with an empty kitchen. Some shops will help design and install a customised kitchen, ranging from pre-fabricated cabinets at IKEA to a kitchen created by cuisinistes. It’s worthwhile to get at least three estimates and to collect references from friends, colleagues and acquaintances. Kitchen installations typically cost over EUR 10,000, including appliances, materials, and labour.

It is also important to decide whether you’re purchasing a car. Parking in Paris is difficult, and having a parking spot can greatly increase the resale value of a property. That said, car ownership in Paris has been declining steadily as many residents use the extensive public transport system instead.

The Paris property market has seen some price declines in recent years, with average price decreases between 0.9 and 1.8 percent in the most recent periods. The 4th arrondissement remains popular with foreign buyers, while areas like Vaugirard, Javel, and even the previously overlooked 19th arrondissement are gaining interest among expats for their value and improving amenities.

Accommodation in Paris

Buying land in France

French land prices are generally quite expensive, particularly in agricultural or wine-growing regions. Buying land can often be more complicated than buying a house, as the French tend to be attached to their land, and sometimes there are rights of way and other precedents pertaining to the use of land which have never been recorded but which are legally binding nevertheless.

If you’re interested in purchasing agricultural land, be aware that the SAFER system (Sociétés d’Aménagement Foncier et d’Etablissement Rural) controls rural land sales in France, and they have significant oversight of agricultural property transactions. For building plots, check with local authorities about any applicable tax allowances or incentives that may be available.

Prices of property in France

In France, there is a substantial local market which exists alongside the formal market. Some local properties, especially in the countryside, may be advertised through informal channels. Approximately 50 percent of property sales in France are handled by estate agents, with the remainder usually directly between buyer and seller.

The French property market has cooled significantly, with prices falling by around 4 percent on average in 2024. House sales have notably declined in recent years, creating more favourable conditions for buyers. While property prices are decreasing nationally, there are some regional variations – some areas are seeing price increases despite the overall downward trend. Buyers can often negotiate price reductions on sale prices for existing properties, making this a potentially good time for cash buyers to enter the market.

The most expensive areas remain in the Ile-de-France region, while international buyers continue to show strong interest in regions like Alpes-Maritimes, Provence, and Paris. British buyers lead foreign purchases (representing about 28 percent of foreign-owned second homes), with Americans accounting for approximately 3 percent of foreign buyers. Regional performance varies considerably, with cities like Marseille, Montpellier, and Paris offering higher rental yields compared to cities like Toulouse.

Making the purchase

By law, the notaire is the only person permitted to handle conveyancing in France. The notaire does not represent any one party’s interest and is merely engaged to ensure that the transaction is carried out in the correct legal manner. Therefore, it is common that the same notaire handles both the vendor’s and the buyer’s transactions. The notaire’s actual fee is typically around 1–1.33 percent of the property price. These total costs vary depending on the property value, location, and whether you have a mortgage.

Many property experts now suggest using your own notaire rather than sharing with the seller, despite the notaire’s formal level of independence. This won’t increase your costs, as the fees are split between the notaires if two are involved in the same transaction.

Making an offer – compromis de vente

Once you’ve found a property and are interested in making an offer, you should ask to see the plans for the property and its land. These are held by the local mairie, or prefecture, and are known as the plan cadastres.

Once a verbal offer has been made and accepted by the estate agent and the vendor, a preliminary contract known as the compromis de vente is drawn up. Although it is only the preliminary contract, it is legally binding, and therefore you should ensure that all verbal agreements are included in writing. The contract usually contains the following:

• Your personal details and the seller’s
• A description of the property
• The price
• The date by which completion must take place
• Clauses suspensives

The deposit, stamp duty and registration fees are paid at this point. The usual amount expected for a deposit is 5 to 10 percent, but it may be possible to negotiate for less. When purchasing an apartment, you automatically become a co-owner of the building and will have rights and responsibilities pertaining to its upkeep and regulations.

Be aware of regional differences in how property sale agreements are handled in France. North of the Loire, the promesse de vente unilatérale (a unilateral promise to sell) is often used, while in the south, the compromis de vente (sales agreement) is generally preferred. The key difference lies in the level of commitment – in a compromis de vente, both parties agree to sell and purchase upon the fulfilment of the conditions.

Clauses suspensives

Make sure all major conditions for purchase are included in your contract as clauses suspensives to avoid penalties if the purchase is not completed. The loss of the deposit is usually the penalty for the buyer if you do not complete the sale. If the seller does not complete it, they will normally refund the deposit and pay the same amount again to you as a penalty. In this way, the deposit protects both the buyer and the seller from the other party backing out of the contract.

The most common clause suspensive is the finance clause, stating that you will only proceed if successful in obtaining a mortgage for the property. Other common conditions may relate to planning consent, the purchase of adjoining land, or easements over the property. For international buyers, including clauses that safeguard against unforeseen issues is particularly important.

If the conditions outlined in the clauses suspensives are not met, the contract becomes void, and your deposit should be returned. The time limit for signing the final deed may need to be extended to fulfil these conditions, but the seller must agree to this extension.

Cooling-off period

Once both you and the seller have signed the compromis, there is a ten-day cooling-off period. During this time, the buyer can still withdraw from the sale without incurring a penalty, but the seller cannot. The period begins the day after you receive the contract, and this timing is strictly enforced. Once the cooling-off period is over, the contract becomes legally binding for both parties.

This cooling-off period, known in French as the délai de rétractation, applies only to individual buyers and not to companies or other legal entities purchasing property. You don’t need to provide any reason for withdrawing during this period, giving you valuable time to reconsider this significant investment.

Reports and searches

Once the cooling-off period expires, the notaire begins the process of the searches on the property. These include the land registry, rights to ownership, boundaries and rights of way. In France, the searches do not include investigating private planning applications. As such, you should always ask for plans for the greater area. These are held by the local mairie, or prefecture, and are known as the plan communale.

Lead, asbestos, termites, gas, electricity and energy reports are grouped together in a single report known as the Technical Diagnostic File (Dossier de Diagnostic Technique) or DDT. The reports are all required by law, and the vendor must ensure that up-to-date reports are attached to the compromis de vente.

Note that any asbestos diagnostics carried out before 1 April 2013 must be renewed, although those made after this date have unlimited validity when no trace of asbestos was detected. Termite reports are only necessary for some areas of France. Property vendors with swimming pools are obliged to commission a report on the safety features of the pool.

As a property owner in France, you’ll also need to complete a mandatory property declaration (Biens Immobiliers). You’ll need to submit this declaration electronically through your private account on the French tax authority website.

Acte de Vente and taking possession

It takes about three to four months before the final Acte de Vente is signed. Traditionally, both buyer and seller are present to sign it, but if you’re not yet in the country, you can arrange a power of attorney. To set up a power of attorney, you’ll need to have your identity verified remotely by a certifying officer and create a qualified electronic signature. The documents and transaction details will be exchanged through a secure digital platform.

Before taking possession, you must transfer the final payment to the notaire’s account. Funds must be transferred directly to the notaire’s client account. After the Acte de Vente has been signed, the notaire pays all taxes, settles all accounts of the purchase/sale, and registers the deeds and mortgage.

If you’re a foreign buyer, you’ll need to provide original birth, marriage, and divorce certificates at this stage.

Vices cachés

Finally, the vendor must disclose any major problems with any parts of the property, such as problems with the pool, if a particular wall is unsound, etc. If, after the purchase, a major flaw that the vendor did not disclose but must have known about is found, you have protection, as these are hidden defects, or vice cachés, which are not allowed under French law.

Under Article 1641 of the French Civil Code, if you discover a hidden defect that makes the property unfit for its intended use or significantly reduces its value such that you wouldn’t have purchased it at that price, you can seek either financial compensation or cancellation of the transaction. You have two years from discovering the defect to take legal action, within a maximum of 20 years from the date of purchase. Common hidden defects include damp walls, improperly functioning heating systems, and structural issues with foundations or roofing.

This is not a comprehensive guide, and you should take appropriate professional advice before purchasing any property in a foreign country.

Missing friends and family back home is an often inevitable downside of keeping in touch in France during your expat life. You can rest assured that you’ll be able to stay connected with ease when heading to France, thanks to the country’s strong communications infrastructure.

Internet providers in France

Internet providers in France typically offer consolidated packages that bundle internet, cable television services, and a phone contract. These services come with a box that serves for both internet browsing and television streaming. The quality varies between providers, but these deals generally offer good value for money.

The market is dominated by four main providers – Orange (holding about 40 percent of fixed-line subscribers), SFR, Bouygues Telecom, and Free Mobile. Since 2012, Free Mobile has introduced competitive pricing to the market, breaking the former dominance of the three traditional providers.

Fibre optic internet is now available to approximately 70 percent of properties across France, with the government aiming for nationwide coverage by 2025. If you’re settling in a rural area, check coverage maps before signing up, as speeds can be up to 66 percent slower than in urban zones.

Useful links

• Orange
• SFR
• Bouygues Telecom
• Free Mobile

Mobile phones in France

Mobile phones in France now benefit from expanded 5G coverage, with over 40,000 authorised 5G sites across the country. A standard mobile package contract will include high-speed internet access on your phone and unlimited calls to landlines in France. Most will also include free calls to other European countries, either for a certain number of minutes per month or on an unlimited basis. To sign up for a contract, you’ll usually need your passport and proof of residence. There are also options for prepaid packages where a SIM card is loaded with the required amount as needed.

Try to find out whether your phone picks up a strong signal for your chosen provider in your local area before signing up.

If you’re visiting France short-term, prepaid SIM options are available from all major providers, with tourist-specific packages sold at airports and train stations.

Useful links

• Opensignal: Mobile Network Experience France

Postal services in France

Postal services in France are handled by La Poste, a reliable and efficient state-owned organisation. This may surprise expats from countries with different postal systems, as despite being fully public, La Poste has evolved well beyond mail delivery. Alongside its postal duties, La Poste offers a full array of banking services through La Banque Postale, digital innovations, and mobile phone services.

While postal services within France are affordable, international delivery can be expensive. For package delivery, alternatives to La Poste include international couriers like DHL Express, UPS, FedEx, and GLS, which often provide faster delivery times for urgent international shipments.

When receiving international packages, be prepared for potential customs delays, particularly at major entry points like Roissy Charles De Gaulle Cedex. Clear documentation can help speed up the customs clearance process.

Useful links

• La Poste: Official Website
• La Poste: International Shipping
• DHL: Customs Regulations France
• UPS: Shipping to France

English-language media in France

English-language media in France has evolved with the digital shift. France has several free public television stations, but cable or streaming services will be essential for watching English-language television or channels from home. Most TV programmes in France are dubbed into French, including popular shows from the US. France24 is the only public channel that broadcasts in English, offering worldwide news in English, French and Arabic.

Good news for your wallet: the annual television licence fee has been abolished since 2022, so you no longer need to pay this mandatory charge when purchasing a television in France.

Satellite television is available through shared or individual satellite dishes, although its popularity has declined significantly in urban areas as streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+ have taken over. These platforms now serve as the primary source of English content for expats in France.

There are a few English-language publications available in France, such as The Connexion, a monthly newspaper run by France’s expat community. The international edition of the New York Times is also based in France, while The Local is an English-language online news publisher servicing several countries with local editions, including France. A newer addition is Le Monde in English, providing French news from a unique perspective.

Some expats who want to access television content from their home countries use a VPN with their streaming platforms. Services like BritBox also offer specific UK content legally available in France.

Useful links

• France24: English Channel
• The Connexion: English News in France
• The Local: France Edition
• Le Monde in English

Visas for France follow Schengen regulations, meaning you can enter for short stays without applying for a visa if you’re a citizen of a fellow Schengen country. When it comes to long-term or permanent stays, securing a long-stay visa and residency permit (carte de séjour) is considerably more challenging if you’re not an EU or EEA national.

The Entry/Exit System (EES) launches in October 2025, with the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) following in late 2026.

If you’re moving to France for work, make sure to read up on Work Permits for France.

Tourist visa for France

Tourist visas for France fall within the Schengen Area framework. If you’re a national of an appointed country, you don’t need to apply for a tourist visa before arrival when planning to stay in the country for less than 90 days. This includes citizens of European Union countries, the European Economic Area, Switzerland, the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and others.

If you’re a national of a country not listed, you’ll need to apply for a Schengen visa before arrival to be granted entry to France. The cost for this visa increases periodically, so check the current fees before applying.

Schengen visas

Schengen visas entitle you to up to 90 days of travel within a six-month period to any country within the Schengen Area. If you’re travelling to multiple destinations, you should submit the Schengen visa application to the consulate of the country in which you’ll spend the most time.

You must apply for and secure a Schengen visa before you arrive in France. This process requires submitting a completed visa application and appointed documents to your home country’s French consulate or embassy. Processing times typically take around 15 days but vary, so submit your application well before departure. Be aware that your application submission date cannot be more than three months before leaving your home country.

Useful links

• France Visas: Short-stay visa information
• European Commission: Applying for a Schengen visa

Long-stay visa for France

If you plan on living in the country for more than 90 days, you’ll need to apply for a long-stay visa for France. This visa is primarily granted to those going to France to work, study or reunite with family. The application requires supporting documents, including a valid travel document issued less than 10 years ago with at least two blank pages, proof of accommodation, sufficient funds, and health insurance. If you’re an EU citizen, you don’t need to apply for a long-stay visa to live in France for more than 90 days.

The most common type is the VLS-TS (visa de long séjour valant titre de séjour), which acts as both a visa and residence permit for up to 12 months. If you’re granted one of these visas, you are required to register with the Office Français d’Immigration et d’Intégration within the first three months of your arrival.

Following Brexit, UK citizens now need to apply for long-stay visas for stays over 90 days, just like other non-EU nationals. The 90/180-day limitation particularly affects those with holiday homes in France.

If you’re planning on living in France for more than a year, you must usually apply for a formal residence permit (carte de séjour) in addition to the long-stay visa.

EU Blue Card

France’s EU Blue Card provides a streamlined pathway for highly qualified professionals from outside the EU. Recent legislative changes have updated the framework for these permits.

The EU Blue Card is valid for the duration of your employment contract, up to a maximum of four years if your contract spans at least two years. For contracts shorter than two years, the card covers the contract duration plus three months, capped at two years total.

To qualify, you must have been employed in a highly qualified position for at least six months and hold either a diploma certifying at least three years of higher education, five years of comparable professional experience, or three years of relevant experience within the last seven years. Your salary must meet the threshold of at least 1.5 times the average gross annual salary.

Family members of EU Blue Card holders can automatically renew their residence permits if they’ve resided legally in the EU for five consecutive years, including the last two years in France.

Useful links

• France Visas: Long-stay visa information
• Service-Public.fr: Long-stay visa requirements

Residence permits for France

A residency permit for France is required if you’re not an EU citizen and plan to live in the country for over a year. You have two months from your initial entry to apply for this card. It’s best to start the process no later than one month after your arrival.

To get a residence permit, you must have entered France on a long-stay visa. You can apply for your residence permit at the Service des Étrangers section of your local préfecture. The required documents for application vary depending on the préfecture, as do the appointment policies. Some allow online scheduling, while others require telephone or in-person scheduling. Expats often cite securing an appointment as one of the biggest challenges in the whole process, so make your booking as early as you can.

Once all documents have been submitted, you’ll be given a récipissé de demande and a date for the required French medical check-up, which is quite thorough and even includes an X-ray. You must take the medical confirmation certificate back to the préfecture to complete the final step of the application process.

A new immigration law enacted in 2024 introduced stricter language requirements. Applicants for multi-year residence permits now need to prove at least an A2 level of French proficiency, while those applying for ten-year residence permits must demonstrate B1-level skills.

You’ll be notified when your residency permit is ready for collection. Some people receive their permits within days, while others have had to wait several months. Don’t be afraid to contact your local préfecture to check on the status of your permit application.

The carte de séjour is valid for one year, and you can start the renewal process two months before expiration. For renewal, submit your application between two and four months before your current permit expires.

Long-term residence eligibility

If you’ve held an EU Blue Card in France for at least two years and resided legally in France or another EU Member State for at least three years under specific permits, you may qualify for a 10-year EU long-term resident card. Qualifying permits include the EU Blue Card, national permits for highly qualified employment, researcher permits, or refugee/subsidiary protection status.

Useful links

• Service-Public.fr: Residence permits information
• OFII: Official immigration services

Visa regulations are subject to change at short notice, and you’re advised to contact your respective embassy or consulate for the latest details.

When moving to France, you can have a difficult time anticipating what day-to-day life in French society is like. Read on to learn about diversity and inclusion in France.

Accessibility in France

Although some of France’s most picturesque aspects, such as its historical architecture and cobblestone streets, can be difficult to traverse for people with mobility or sight impairments, major efforts have been made to make France more accessible, especially Paris. Most of the attractions in Paris have been made wheelchair-accessible, and Paris-Charles de Gaulle is considered one of Europe’s most disability-friendly airports.

Throughout France, buses and trams are the most accessible forms of transport. Most buses have electronic ramps and lowered floors for ease of access, while trams are designed to be level with station platforms, allowing a smooth entry and exit. In smaller towns and rural areas, accessibility can be more limited than in major cities, so it’s worth researching specific locations before travelling.

Useful resources

Wheelchair Travel in Paris
European Accessible Cities

LGBTQ+ in France

France has been praised for its progressive stance towards LGBTQ+ rights. Homosexuality has been legal since the late 18th century, and in 2013, France became the 13th country in the world to legalise same-sex marriage, including provisions for same-sex couples to adopt. In 2017, laws were passed to allow transgender individuals to change their legal gender without the requirement of surgery or medical diagnosis. As of 2022, France became one of just a few countries worldwide to ban conversion therapy, and in 2024, the French constitution was amended to include express protections for reproductive rights.

Paris is considered one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly cities in the world. Le Marais, in particular, is the centre point of the city’s thriving LGBTQ+ community. Paris Pride, held annually in June, is the country’s biggest LGBTQ+ celebration, drawing half a million attendees each year. Beyond Paris, cities like Montpellier, Lyon, Nice, Bordeaux, Toulouse, and Marseille also host vibrant pride parades and have active LGBTQ+ communities.

Useful resources

L’autre Cercle
SOS Homophobie
Feminist Spectrum

Gender equality in France

The French constitution ensures that all citizens enjoy equal rights, and French women’s equality of access to the benefits of their society is among the highest in the world. France even advocates for women across the globe with its International Strategy for Gender Equality.

That said, there are some holdovers of traditional gender roles in France. These include the idea that women should dress and act traditionally feminine and the assumption that women stay home and men work. These traditional roles can still be seen in the gender pay gap and an uneven distribution of household chores and childcare, although most families nowadays are dual-income, and these gender roles have become much less pronounced.

The EU’s European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE) continues to rank France among the top five in the EU as an exemplary country for gender equality. According to the latest Eurostat data, the gender wage gap in France stands at approximately 14 percent, showing improvement compared to previous years. However, when looking at unadjusted figures that don’t account for differences in working hours and positions, women’s average wage income was 24 percent lower than men’s in the private sector. This gap comes largely from a difference in specialisations, with women accounting for most of the workforce in the lower-paid healthcare and social work industries.

In France, expectant mothers are usually afforded 16 to 26 weeks of maternity leave, well above the UN’s International Labour Organization’s recommended 14 weeks. Fathers have 25 days of leave (32 days in the case of a multiple birth), including a mandatory four-day period immediately following their child’s birth.

Useful resources

European Institute For Gender Equality
Agence Française De Développement

Women in leadership in France

As a highly developed democracy, France’s representation of women in leadership is generally excellent. Since the implementation of the landmark Copé Zimmerman law in 2011, France has made significant strides in boosting the number of women in corporate leadership roles, and it now boasts an impressive 40 percent representation of women on boards. This remains among the highest in the world, followed by Italy and the UK, while countries such as Sweden and Germany lag behind.

While women enjoy many freedoms in France, the general representation of their voices in work and politics is an area for improvement. Women’s representation in parliament fell to approximately 36 percent in 2024, down from 40 percent in 2017, although France still leads many European countries in gender equity in political representation.

The French government is making some inroads towards reducing gender disparities and making women’s voices heard. The Rixain Act, introduced in 2021, sets gender quotas for large corporations to achieve by 2026 (30 percent) and 2029 (40 percent) to increase the representation of women in executive roles. This legislation aims to ensure that the number of women in meaningful leadership positions rises by mandating that companies increase diversity in key decision-making roles.

Useful resources

Coordination Française Pour Le Lobby Européen Des Femmes
Professional Women’s Network Paris

Mental health awareness in France

Expats can be at greater risk of mental health issues, especially depression and anxiety, exacerbated by stress and loneliness in a new country. Expats in France commonly mention language barriers, cultural adjustment, and social isolation as key challenges.

Companies are becoming more aware of the impact of mental health issues, and many have adjusted their policies to provide better support. This includes ensuring that mental illness is well covered by the company’s chosen employee healthcare schemes, as well as promoting knowledge and decreasing stigma by holding in-house workshops.

France has excellent provisions for physical healthcare, and although mental healthcare hasn’t traditionally been prioritised, some recent changes are encouraging. Since 2022, the French government has covered the cost of therapy sessions for citizens aged three and older. In most major towns, you can access medical-psychological centres (CMP – Centre MédicoPsychologique), which are specifically for people with mental health needs.

Useful resources

SOS Help – English Speaking Helpline

Unconscious bias training in France

The concept of unconscious bias is an implicit set of often stereotyped ideas we carry about groups of people different to ourselves. These ideas are not purposefully adopted but rather develop subtly over time, and we tend to hold unconscious biases about groups we never or rarely come into contact with. As a result, they’re often inaccurate and based on assumptions.

Unconscious bias can profoundly affect personal and work conditions. In the workplace, unchecked bias undermines important aspects of the company, with negative effects on employee performance, retention and recruitment. In a bid to create a better work environment, many French companies are beginning to institute unconscious bias training. One challenge expats might face is that many training resources are predominantly in French, which can present a language barrier if you’re not a fluent speaker.

Research on the effectiveness of unconscious bias training shows mixed results. While traditional diversity training isn’t always effective and can sometimes backfire, carefully designed programmes focusing on behavioural change rather than just awareness-raising tend to have better outcomes. If you’re looking to implement such training, consider programmes that offer ongoing support rather than one-off sessions.

Useful resources

Harvard Implicit Association Test
Nonprofit Ready Unconscious Bias Training
Harvard Business Review: Unconscious Bias Training That Works

Diversification of workforce in France

Many expats are drawn to France by its attractive work-life balance and sturdy economy. France is a diverse country, home to over 7 million foreigners. When considering the labour market specifically, foreign workers represent approximately 15 percent of the workforce, with 4 percent from other EU member states and 11 percent from non-EU countries.

You can expect to encounter a fairly diverse work environment, and the offices of international firms, particularly in large cities, buzz with different nationalities and languages. Expats of every ethnicity are generally welcomed, although there is occasionally some prejudice reported against African immigrants. The French attitude to some foreign customs can vary; for example, wearing a veil in public that covers the entire head and face is punishable by law. There can be discrimination against women who wear hijabs in the workplace.

Studies show that workplace diversification is hugely beneficial to companies and employees. In recognition, many of France’s largest companies are setting up diversity and inclusion programmes, ensuring that a wide variety of people is represented among employees. Expats might face challenges like temporary contract work, which is common for international workers, and language barriers, which remain one of the biggest obstacles to integration in the French workplace.

Useful resources

Institut National D’études Démographiques
McKinsey: Promoting Diversity In French Companies

Safety in France

France is one of the safest countries in Europe, so expats have little to worry about when it comes to crime here. According to recent crime statistics, the homicide rate in France is approximately 1.14 per 100,000 inhabitants, which is relatively low by global standards.

Petty crimes like theft, mugging and scams do occur occasionally, more often in France’s larger cities like Paris, Marseille, and Lyon, so it’s important to still be vigilant, keep your doors locked, and not carry too many valuables around. Pickpocketing can occur, especially in areas popular with tourists and on crowded public transport.

Be aware that emergency services are accessible through several numbers:

• 112 for general emergencies,
• 15 for medical emergencies,
• 17 for police, and
• 18 for fire services.

Emergency services might also contact you at 0800 112 112.

Useful resources

UK Government: Safety And Security In France

Calendar initiatives in France

4 February – World Cancer Day 
28 February – Rare Disease Day 
March – TB Awareness Month 
8 March – International Women’s Day (widely observed in French workplaces) 
17 May – International Day Against Homophobia 
19 May – Global Accessibility Awareness Day 
June – Pride Month (with major events in Paris and other cities) 
10 September – World Suicide Prevention Day 
21 September – World Alzheimer’s Day 
October – Breast Cancer Awareness Month 
10 October – World Mental Health Day 
November – Prostate Cancer Awareness Month 
14 November – World Diabetes Day 
25 November – International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women 
1 December – World AIDS Day

Living in France, you’ll find that climate patterns are highly variable depending on your location. The weather in France can range from warm summers on the southern coast to wet, snowy winters in the Alpine area. Generally speaking, though, you can look forward to a climate that is temperate and agreeable.

In north and northwestern France, rain occurs throughout the year, with a noticeable increase in autumn and winter rainfall. Winters are moderate, and summers are warm but not excessively hot, although summer dry spells are becoming more common.

Southwestern and Mediterranean France have the most attractive weather patterns. Sunshine is plentiful, summers are hot, and winters are mild. Rainfall in the region is predominantly associated with summer thunderstorms. There's an occasional cold wind that blows for short periods during spring.

Central and eastern France have a continental climate characterised by cold winters and warm summers. Snow is more likely to fall here than in other regions of France (except the Alpine region).

The mountainous regions of France march to the beat of their own meteorological drum. You can expect these areas to be the wettest and coldest in the country. Here, snow typically falls between three and six months of the year, although higher temperatures have reduced snow cover duration by nearly a month since the 1970s.

On the whole, rainfall in France is moderate and occurs throughout the year, although nowhere near as much as in neighbouring countries like Belgium. Transitions between the seasons in France are distinct, and you can look forward to uniquely seasonal weather in spring, summer, winter and autumn.

Prehistoric to Roman Gaul

• The first human settlements in the area that is now France date back to the Palaeolithic era, with cave paintings at Lascaux dating to approximately 15,000 BCE.
• 4800–3500 BCE: Neolithic peoples establish significant settlements across the region, leaving impressive megalithic monuments like the Carnac stones in Brittany.
• Around 500 BCE: The Celtic Gauls inhabit the region and develop sophisticated trading networks and cultural practices.
• 58–51 BCE: Julius Caesar’s campaigns lead to the Roman conquest of Gaul, turning the region into one of the empire’s most prosperous provinces with substantial urban development and infrastructure projects, including roads, aqueducts, and public buildings.
• 1st–4th centuries CE: A distinctive Gallo-Roman culture emerges, blending Celtic traditions with Roman practices, while Christianity gradually spreads throughout the region.

Medieval France

• 5th century CE: As the Roman Empire declines, various Germanic peoples migrate into Gaul, with the Franks eventually establishing dominance.
• 481–511: Clovis I of the Merovingian dynasty creates the foundation of what will become France, converting to Christianity and establishing Paris as his capital.
• 768–814: Charlemagne, a Frankish king of the Carolingian dynasty, expands the Frankish Empire to include much of Western Europe and is crowned Emperor by the Pope in 800.
• 843: The Treaty of Verdun divides Charlemagne’s empire after his death, with the western portion evolving into the Kingdom of France.
• 987: The Capetian dynasty is founded by Hugh Capet, beginning the continuous rule of French kings. While the direct Capetian line ends in 1328, cadet branches (Valois, then Bourbon) continue ruling until the French Revolution.
• 11th–13th centuries: Medieval French society is structured under the feudal system, with a rigid hierarchy of nobility, clergy, and peasants, while the monarchy gradually centralises power.
• The Catholic Church plays a central role in medieval France, not only in religious life but also in education, welfare, and political affairs, with France becoming known as the ‘eldest daughter of the Church’.
• 1096–1291: French knights and nobles are prominent participants in the Crusades, with the First Crusade (1096–1099) in particular heavily influenced by French participation.

Late Medieval France

• 12th–15th centuries: The late medieval period sees important cultural developments, including Gothic architecture and early Renaissance influences contributing to intellectual life. Universities flourish in this period, with the Sorbonne in Paris becoming one of Europe’s most prestigious centres of learning, producing influential theologians and philosophers.
• 1309–1377: The Avignon Papacy sees popes residing in France rather than Rome, followed by the Great Western Schism (1378–1417) that divides Catholic loyalties.
• 1337–1453: The Hundred Years’ War arises from territorial disputes and the English crown’s claim to the French throne, resulting in devastating battles that include Crécy (1346) and Poitiers (1356).
• 1348: The Black Death arrives in wartorn France, killing an estimated one-third of the population and causing profound social and economic disruption.
• 1429: Joan of Arc emerges as a pivotal figure during the reign of Charles VII. She helps secure a French victory at Orleans before her capture and execution by the English in 1431.
• 1453: The Hundred Years’ War finally ends with the French regaining most of their territories and developing a stronger sense of national identity.
• 1461–1483: Under Louis XI, France undergoes significant centralisation of power, including establishing a standing army and reducing noble autonomy.

Renaissance and Religious Wars

• 1515–1547: The reign of Francis I sees the flourishing of Renaissance art, architecture, and humanism in France as he invites Italian artists like Leonardo da Vinci to his court.
• 1516: The Gallican Church begins developing as a distinctive form of Catholicism that maintains independence from papal authority while remaining within the Catholic fold, formalised in agreements like the Concordat of Bologna (1516).
• 1530s: The Protestant Reformation begins gaining significant support in France, with Calvinism spreading despite official persecution and creating divisions that will lead to decades of conflict.
• 1534–1608: French exploration begins in North America with Jacques Cartier’s voyages, although permanent settlements are only established in the early 17th century with Samuel de Champlain’s founding of Quebec in 1608.
• 1562–1598: The Wars of Religion pit Catholics against Protestant Huguenots, involving religious differences and political power struggles among noble factions. The 1572 St. Bartholomew’s Day Massacre sees thousands of Protestants killed in Paris and other cities, deepening religious animosity and drawing international condemnation.
• 1589–1610: Henry IV, who converts from Protestantism to Catholicism (‘Paris is worth a mass’), ends the religious wars with the Edict of Nantes in 1598, which grants religious toleration to Protestants.

Age of Absolutism

• 1608–1699: French colonisation expands in North America, the Caribbean, and parts of India and Africa, establishing settlements in Quebec, Louisiana, Haiti, and Senegal, often displacing or subjugating indigenous populations.
• The 17th century also sees a flourishing of French culture, with the establishment of the Académie Française (1635) and the works of playwrights Molière and Racine, philosopher Descartes and painter Poussin.
• 1618–1648: France engages in the Thirty Years’ War and numerous conflicts with the Dutch Republic and Spain that expand French territory but strain national finances. Under Cardinal Richelieu and later Jean-Baptiste Colbert, France develops a mercantilist economic system that fosters domestic manufacturing and overseas trade.
• 1643: Louis XIV is crowned king. His reign will be the longest in European history and epitomises absolute monarchy, earning him the title ‘Sun King’ and establishing France as Europe’s dominant power. While the elite enjoy unprecedented luxury, the majority of French people are peasants who face heavy taxation, periodic famines, and limited political rights, creating tensions that will later contribute to the Revolution.
• 1682: Louis XIV centralises political power in the monarchy, reducing the influence of the nobility and establishing the magnificent Palace of Versailles as the centre of court life and government.
• 1685: Religious persecution intensifies with the revocation of the Edict of Nantes, forcing Protestants to convert, flee abroad, or practice their faith in secret.

Enlightenment and Revolution

• The 18th century sees the rise of Enlightenment thinking in France, with philosophers like Voltaire, Rousseau, and Montesquieu advocating reason, individual rights, and questioning traditional authority.
• 1715–1792: Under Louis XV (1715–1774) and Louis XVI (1774–1792), France experiences economic growth but also increasing debt from wars and court expenditures, while a rising middle class seeks greater political representation.
• 1780s: Poor harvests lead to food shortages and rising bread prices, intensifying public discontent that contributes to revolutionary sentiment. Social inequality is institutionalised in the Three Estates system (clergy, nobility, and commoners), with the first two estates enjoying tax exemptions despite representing only a small percentage of the population.
• 1789: The French Revolution begins with the formation of the National Assembly and the storming of the Bastille on July 14, leading to the Declaration of the Rights of Man and ending feudal privileges.
• 1791: The Revolution profoundly impacts France’s colonies, especially Saint-Domingue (Haiti), where enslaved people lead a successful revolution against slavery and French colonial rule, establishing independence in 1804.
• 1792: The Revolution enters a more radical phase with the establishment of the First Republic in 1792, the execution of Louis XVI in 1793, and the subsequent Reign of Terror under Robespierre. Counter-revolutionary movements emerge, particularly in the Vendée region, where royalist and Catholic peasants rebel against revolutionary authorities.
• 1795–1799: In the aftermath of the Revolution’s radical phase, the Directory is established before being overthrown by Napoleon Bonaparte in the Coup of 18 Brumaire (November 9, 1799).

French Empire to Republic

• 1799–1804: Napoleon Bonaparte emerges from the French Revolution, becoming First Consul before crowning himself Emperor in 1804, establishing the First French Empire.
• 1804–1815: Napoleon institutes significant legal, educational, and administrative reforms, including the Napoleonic Code, which influences legal systems worldwide while also ending religious persecution.
• Over the next decade, the Napoleonic Wars expand French influence across Europe but ultimately end with Napoleon’s defeat at Waterloo in 1815 and the restoration of the Bourbon monarchy.
• 1815–1870: The 19th century sees repeated regime changes, from the Bourbon Restoration (1815–1830) to the July Monarchy (1830–1848), the Second Republic (1848–1852), and the Second Empire under Napoleon III (1852–1870).
• 1830–1914: France expands its colonial empire throughout the 19th century, acquiring territories in Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific, often through military conquest. Indigenous resistance to French colonialism occurs in various forms across the empire, from armed uprisings to cultural preservation efforts and intellectual opposition.
• Industrialisation transforms the French economy and society, creating a growing working class and urban centres while also generating labour movements advocating for workers’ rights.
• 1871: The Paris Commune, following France’s defeat in the Franco-Prussian War, represents a brief but significant experiment in worker self-governance and socialist principles before being violently suppressed, with thousands killed.
• 1870: The Third Republic is established and will last until 1940, representing the longest-lasting French regime since the Revolution.
• 1894–1906: The Dreyfus Affair, involving the wrongful conviction of a Jewish army officer, exposes deep anti-Semitism in French society and divides the country between traditionalist and progressive forces.

World Wars and Reconstruction

• 1914–1918: World War I devastates France, with much of the Western Front’s heaviest fighting taking place on French soil, resulting in 1.4 million French military deaths and extensive physical destruction. Colonial soldiers from Africa and Indochina fight for France during World War I, with over 500,000 colonial troops deployed. The Treaty of Versailles gives France control of Alsace-Lorraine and German colonies, but the war’s aftermath brings economic challenges and political instability.
• 1919–1939: The interwar period sees France struggle with economic depression, political polarisation, and anxiety about the rise of fascism in neighbouring countries.
• 1939–1945: World War II begins for France in 1939, and after the German invasion in 1940, the country is divided between German occupation in the north and the collaborationist Vichy regime in the south.
• The French Resistance includes various rebel groups working against the occupation. Charles de Gaulle leads the Free French forces from exile, maintaining France’s place among the Allies.
• 1944–1946: Liberation comes in 1944, followed by the establishment of the Fourth Republic in 1946, which faces immediate challenges of reconstruction and political instability. The post-war period sees significant economic growth (the Trente Glorieuses or Thirty Glorious Years), infrastructure development, and the establishment of a comprehensive welfare state.

Modern France

• 1954: The decolonisation process accelerates after World War II, beginning with the independence of Indochina following the French defeat at Dien Bien Phu, which leads to the creation of Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. The Algerian War is particularly traumatic, involving extensive violence and ultimately leading to Algerian independence and the return of over one million French settlers to metropolitan France.
• 1958: Political crisis brings Charles de Gaulle back to power and leads to the establishment of the Fifth Republic with a stronger presidency, which continues to the present day.
• 1960–1966: France develops its own nuclear arsenal (’Force de Frappe’) and withdraws from NATO’s integrated military command in 1966 (rejoining in 2009), reflecting its desire for independent defence capabilities.
• Most French colonies in Africa gain independence, although France maintains significant economic, military, and cultural influence in its former territories through arrangements known as Françafrique.
• 1968: The May protests begin with student demonstrations but expand into a broader social movement when labour unions join with a general strike involving approximately 10 million workers, representing one of the largest labour actions in history. In the following decade, France will see significant advancements in labour rights, women’s rights, and cultural liberalisation, even as the immediate political demands of the movement aren’t achieved.
• 1981–1995: François Mitterrand’s socialist presidency begins with ambitious reforms, including nationalisations and wealth tax. It expands worker rights, although later shifts toward more moderate policies in response to economic constraints and European integration.

Contemporary France

• 1995–2007: Jacques Chirac’s presidency sees France’s transition to the euro currency, opposition to the 2003 Iraq War, and increasing debates about immigration and national identity. The 2005 rejection of the proposed European Union constitution in a referendum reflects growing Euroscepticism and disillusionment with political elites among segments of French society.
• 2007–2012: Nicolas Sarkozy’s presidency is marked by economic reforms, international crises, including the 2008 financial crash, and debates over immigration and national security policies.
• 2012–2017: François Hollande’s socialist presidency faces economic stagnation, high unemployment, and serious security challenges, including terrorist attacks, leading to historically low approval ratings. France experiences devastating terrorist attacks, including the Charlie Hebdo shooting, the November 2015 Paris attacks, and the 2016 Nice lorry attack, which kill hundreds and profoundly impact French society and politics.
• 2017–2022: Emmanuel Macron, elected in 2017 and reelected in 2022, represents a break from traditional parties, advocating a centrist, pro-European approach while attempting controversial economic and labour reforms.
• 2018–2019: The Yellow Vest movement represents a diverse grassroots protest against economic inequality, fuel taxes, and the perceived detachment of political elites from ordinary citizens’ concerns.
• 2020–2022: The COVID-19 pandemic severely impacts France, with the government implementing strict nationwide lockdowns, curfews, and eventually a vaccination campaign beginning in December 2020 while providing substantial economic support to businesses and workers.
• 2023: Mass protests erupt against Macron’s pension reform, raising the retirement age from 62 to 64, with millions participating in demonstrations across the country in what becomes one of the largest protest movements in recent French history.
• 2024: A political crisis emerges when Macron dissolves parliament and calls snap elections after poor results in European Parliament elections, leading to the rise of the New Popular Front (NFP), a left-wing coalition, as a major political force. The elections result in a hung parliament with no clear majority, creating unprecedented political instability, including the short-lived government of Prime Minister Michel Barnier that falls in December 2024 after a no-confidence vote.
• France is experiencing growing political polarisation, with increased support for both far-right parties focusing on immigration and national identity and left-wing movements advocating economic justice and environmental protection.
• As a nuclear power, permanent member of the UN Security Council, and founding member of the European Union, France maintains significant global influence while grappling with domestic challenges, including economic inequality, integration of immigrant communities, and climate change adaptation.

The standard of accommodation in France is similar to that of other Western European countries, with comfortable but small living quarters dominating the housing market. When moving to France, you’ll find plenty of reasonably priced, comfortable housing options despite the current market slowdown.

Housing in France varies from studio apartments and condos to cottages, farmhouses and even châteaux. It is generally best to know well in advance the type of accommodation you’re in the market for, as competition can be fierce in popular expat areas like Paris, Provence and the Dordogne.

Types of accommodation in France

The types of accommodation in France depend largely on the region. Most cities offer apartments and studios, and as you travel further from the cities, iconic French châteaux, farm cottages and stone houses are more readily available. Housing construction has sharply declined, with only around 60,000 new homes built for sale in 2024, making existing properties all the more valuable.

While shipping furniture to France is a viable option, you can rest assured that you won’t have much difficulty finding furniture after arriving in the country. Paris, in particular, is wonderfully shopper-friendly, boasting a famous range of second-hand and antique shops and several modern superstores.

Shipping and Removals in France

Apartments

By far the most common type of accommodation in French cities, apartments are usually rented out on a monthly basis. They vary in size from small studio apartments to sprawling high-end condos, with an equally vast range in price. French apartments tend to be smaller than their American counterparts, with Paris known for particularly compact living spaces compared to other European capitals.

Cottages

Cottages are more common in rural areas of France. These are usually for sale, but some are rented out on a short-term basis for holidaymakers, especially near the coastal regions in the south of France. Cottages in rural France are also frequently available for renovation projects. These can be bought for a low price but usually need considerable restoration, particularly in areas of energy efficiency, roofing, and plumbing.

Cottages vary considerably in price depending on their condition, location and size. They can be suitable for families planning to live in France for a long period or those who want to avoid the fast pace of city life.

Châteaux

If you have a slightly larger budget, you may consider buying or renting a stunning château, many of which have rich histories dating back to the Middle Ages. Most have been renovated over the years and have all the amenities expected of a modern home. Château renovations often involve significant investments with historical preservation requirements, so be prepared for ongoing maintenance costs.

Furnished vs unfurnished

Both furnished and unfurnished accommodation are available in France. Furnished options are inevitably more expensive and more likely to be available for short-term rental. It is always important to fully inventory the apartment’s condition on arrival. This not only simplifies matters for both tenant and landlord but also demonstrates responsibility.

Be aware that unfurnished accommodation in France, unlike many other destinations, does not usually include white-label appliances such as refrigerators or washing machines. Air conditioning is not a common feature, except in the south of the country, while an adequate heating system is essential for the country’s cold winters.

Short lets

Short-term accommodation options in France have expanded beyond traditional holiday rentals. Serviced apartments are growing in popularity, with thousands of new units expected to open in the next few years. Coliving spaces that combine living quarters with coworking facilities are gaining traction, particularly among digital nomads and remote workers. New Paris short-term rental laws mandate energy ratings, registration, and 90-day caps for properties by 2026, so check the latest regulations before booking.

Useful links

• Airbnb France
• Vrbo France

Finding accommodation in France

Finding accommodation in France can be achieved through several effective channels. Online property portals like SeLoger, LeBonCoin, and PAP.fr dominate the market, with millions of monthly visitors browsing their listings. These sites often include virtual tours and 3D viewings, making remote property hunting more accessible than ever. Beyond these digital platforms, the classifieds in various print and online publications remain valuable resources, often including scheduled viewing times.

You may find it difficult to secure accommodation in France before moving to the country, as most landlords and property owners prefer doing business with people they’ve met in person. It is usually also best to see the property in person before committing to a lease, especially given the up to six-month waiting time for studio apartments in Paris.

Another way to find accommodation in France is networking. Due to extremely high competition among potential tenants, some of the best properties available may not be advertised publicly. Make connections and ask around to find out if anyone in your social circle may know of something. Expat Facebook groups and regional anglophone social networks have proven particularly effective for uncovering unadvertised gems.

If you don’t mind the extra fees or don’t want to deal directly with a landlord, you can always use a real estate agency. This option is good if you’re in a rush and don’t have time to browse the market yourself. Agency fees typically amount to around 5 percent of the property price, which is higher than the European average.

Useful links

• SeLoger: France’s Leading Property Portal
• LeBonCoin: Classified Property Ads
• PAP: Direct Owner-to-Tenant Rentals
• BienIci: Property Search Platform

Renting accommodation in France

Renting accommodation in France is the most common option for expats. Housing costs are mainly determined by location, with Paris and the Île-de-France region maintaining the highest tension in the rental market, followed by Lyon and Bordeaux. The golden rule is that the closer the accommodation is to the city centre, the higher the rent will be.

As a result, it is not uncommon to seek accommodation in slightly outlying districts of French cities. These areas often offer bigger properties that are in better shape and boast more creature comforts, like air conditioning and double glazing, than anything available in the downtown areas.

Making an application

When seeking accommodation in French cities, you’ll need to act swiftly once you find a place because of the intense competition and demand in the city, with listings sometimes being taken down minutes after going up.

A good impression with a prospective landlord can be the difference between signing a lease and having to continue the search, especially when there are dozens of other eager candidates. Come prepared with all the necessary documents so that you can get the ball rolling as swiftly as possible.

Your dossier should include proof of identity, three months of income statements, previous rental references and, for non-EU nationals, visa or residence permit documentation. Many landlords also require a guarantor, particularly for students or those without a French credit history.

Leases

Standard leases in France are generally for 12 months. It is possible to negotiate shorter leases directly with the landlord, but most property owners are reluctant to do so. For more flexibility, consider a mobility lease, which runs from 1 to 10 months and allows you to give just one month’s notice.

The law in France mostly favours the tenant, meaning that evicting or raising the rent can be difficult for a landlord. A letter must be sent to the tenant at least six months before a rental increase, informing them of the landlord’s intentions. The landlord also has to show that the rental increase is in line with the property's market value. Rent increases are strictly regulated, with landlords limited to one increase per year based on the IRL index.

Deposits

The deposit for an apartment is usually one month’s rent, with the expectation that you will provide two months’ rent in advance in addition to this. If the inventory shows no damage upon your departure, the full deposit should be returned, with 80 percent of deposits typically released within one to two months.

Terminating the lease

To terminate your lease in France, written notice must be given according to the terms specified in your contract. The standard notice period is three months for unfurnished properties and one month for furnished apartments, although this can be reduced under certain circumstances, such as job loss or health issues. Once notice is given, schedule a move-out inspection with your landlord. This final inventory (état des lieux de sortie) compares the property’s current condition to its state when you moved in.

Breaking a lease early typically means you’re responsible for paying the remainder of the lease term. For mobility leases specifically, tenants can end them without penalty with proper notice. Be aware that the winter truce (trêve hivernale) prevents landlords from evicting tenants between 1 November and 31 March each year, even for non-payment of rent.

Useful links

• Service-Public: Official Notice Period Information

Utilities in France

Managing utilities in France involves understanding the local market and providers. When signing a lease, read the paperwork carefully to understand what is included in the rental price. You are usually responsible for paying your own utility bills, but in the case of short-term rentals, these may be included.

French law also requires tenants living in apartment buildings to take out inexpensive rental insurance to protect against theft, fire and damage to the communal areas. This insurance is mandatory for all tenants in both furnished and unfurnished properties. If you fail to obtain appropriate coverage, your landlord can legally terminate your lease.

Electricity and gas

Setting up electricity and gas in France typically involves contacting providers like EDF and Engie – the two most prevalent suppliers since the market was liberalised. To establish service, you’ll need your rental agreement, identification, and banking details for direct debit payments. You must apply to your local EDF office to have your electricity connected and sign a contract specifying the power supply needed.

Most homes use electric heating in cities and gas in rural areas. Electricity bills are typically mailed every two months based on historical consumption patterns.

France has implemented strict energy efficiency standards with real consequences for landlords. Since January 2023, properties consuming more than 450 kWh/m²/year (classified as G+) have been banned from the rental market. From January 2025, all G-rated properties will be deemed unfit for rental, although smaller apartments received exemptions in 2024 updates.

Water

Water service in France is managed by municipal authorities or private companies like Veolia and Suez, which dominate the market. In apartment buildings, water is often included in your communal charges and billed collectively. For individual houses, you’ll need to contact the local water company to set up service in your name.

Water quality is generally excellent throughout France. Hard water (high calcium content) is common in many regions, which may affect appliances over time.

Bins and recycling

Waste collection in France is managed locally with specific systems varying by commune. Collection schedules differ by location – from daily in city centres to weekly in rural areas. Waste disposal is typically covered by the taxe d’habitation or included in your building charges. Most areas provide separate bins for general waste, recyclables (paper, plastic, metal), and glass.

France has taken bold steps in waste management, becoming the first country to ban the destruction of unsold non-food products. Since 2024, electrical and electronic devices must display a repairability and durability index.

Internet

Internet service in France offers good coverage in urban areas, with fibre connections increasingly available nationwide.  Major providers include Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom, and Free. The government’s ‘Fibre For All’ initiative aims to provide fibre coverage across France to address the significant urban-rural divide. Connection speeds vary significantly between locations, with inconsistent deployment in rural areas.

Setting up the service typically requires a French bank account, proof of address, and identification. Most providers offer bundle packages, including internet, TV, and phone services.

For non-French speakers, several providers now offer English-language customer support.

Useful links

• Energy: EDF, Engie, TotalEnergies, Antargaz
• Water: Veolia, Suez
• Internet/Telecommunications: Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom, Free