Moving to France

Before moving to France, there are some things you should arrange. France is known to be rather bureaucratic which comes with paperwork. You will apply for a visa at the department of the city where you will be living.  

If you are a citizen of outside the EU, you should always check the latest regulations at the French Embassy in your country. You might need a Visa even to enter France for a short term period. If you are planning to stay for more than 90 days you will need to apply for a long-term Visa for France.

France has a favorable health care system for expats. Regardless of duration of your stay in France, you are entitled to have French general health care insurance. The condition? You must not benefit from health insurance in your home country at the same time. As an expat, you will receive a ‘carte vitale’ to show when visiting a doctor or a pharmacy, so you can get insurance withdrawal afterwards.  An additional insurance in France can be useful to cover additional medical expenses for yourself or your family. Think of hospital visits in France for example. This additional insurance could be useful especially when you will be staying in France for a some time.

When living and working in France, you will need access to a bank account in order to pay invoices, rent and other expenses in time. Although many things could be arranged with your bank account in your home country, but on the long term this will be much more expensive.  Opening a bank account in France is not too complicated. You will need proof of identification and an address in France.

There are tons of habits that typify the French daily life. As an expat it could be useful to know what to expect during your stay. Make sure to delve into the French culture since traditions and etiquette are highly valuated; a handshake when greeting each other, or maybe two kisses, long lunches and late dinners.

Are you moving to France to work there for a longer period? Then there is a chance that your family and children are moving with you. Also for them this expat life can be very challenging. Make sure to offer coaching and space for questions. Help them out with practical arrangements; a school, hobbies, language classes and more.