Get ready to move to France with our comprehensive expat checklist! Moving to a new country can be exciting and life-changing experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. France is a popular destination for expats, thanks to its rich history, culture, and world-renowned cuisine. To make your move as smooth as possible, careful planning and preparation are essential.
Table of Contents
First thing first: Get your visa and residency permit in order
First thing to sort on your expat checklist is obtaining the proper visa and residency permit. The type of visa your need depends on your country of origin and the duration and purpose of your stay. It’s essential to check with the French embassy or consulate in your country for the requirements and processing times. Applying for a visa can take some time, so it’s best to start the process as early as possible.
> People who read this article also read: 3 visas you need to start a business in France
Sort your health insurance
Health insurance is mandatory in France. France has a universal healthcare system that is considered one of the best in the world. However, it is mandatory for all residents, including expats, to have health insurance coverage. Before you leave your home country, research and purchase health insurance that will meet the requirements in France. Keep in mind that health insurance premiums in France can be quite expensive, so factor that into your budget.
Fab French Insurance is one of our trusted partners. Click here to check out their website. You could also be interested in the podcast episode we have done with Fabien from Fab French Insurance where he shares his insurance tips for expats. Click here to listen to the episode on Spotify.
Find a place to live
Finding a place to live in France can be challenging, especially if you’re not familiar with the city or town you’re moving to. It’s a good idea to consider renting first so you can explore different neighborhoods and get a feel for the city. Many expats prefer to use real estate agents, who can help you find suitable properties based on your budget and preferences. Keep in mind that rental prices in popular cities like Paris can be high, so plan your budget accordingly.
Learn some French
Even if you are moving to a big city where many people speak English, knowing some basic French will go a long way in making friends and navigating daily life. Take some time to learn the basics of the language, such as greetings, numbers, and basic vocabulary related to daily activities. You can enroll in languages courses before you leave or once you arrive in France.
> People who read this article also read: 4 tips to learn French
Prepare your finances
France is known for its high cost of living, so it’s crucial to prepare your finances before you move. Make sure you have enough savings to cover your expenses for at least the first few months, including rent, food, transportation and other necessities. It’s also a good idea to open a French bank account and obtain a French credit card to make payments and avoid high foreign transaction fees.
> People who read this article also read: Opening a french bank account for expats
Do your research
Do your research on French culture and customs. To make the most of your experience in France, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the country’s culture and customs. Research the social norms and expectations, such as greetings, mealtime etiquette, and dress codes. This will help avoid any cultural faux pas and better understand and appreciate the local culture.
Connect with others
Last thing on your expat checklist, connect with other expats and local communities in France. Moving to a new country can be lonely, but it doesn’t have to be. France has a large expat community, and there are many ways to connect with other expats and locals. Join Facebook groups, language exchanges, and cultural events to meet people and make new friends. This will also give you an opportunity to learn more about the local culture and customs.
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Your expat checklist
Moving to France is an exciting adventure, but it requires careful planning and preparation. Here’s come your expat checklist. From obtaining the proper visa to familiarise yourself with French culture, following this expat checklist will help make your move to France as smooth as possible. Bon voyage and bonne chance!
