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Moving to France

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Select your destination

Moving to France

Search for a country guide

Select your destination

Moving to France

How to move to France

House Prices and Renting

The cost of housing in France varies by city, with Paris being the most expensive.

  • Average Rent: A one-bedroom apartment in Paris costs around $1,800 per month, while in smaller cities like Lyon or Toulouse, rent is closer to $1,000 per month.

  • Popular Neighborhoods: Expats often choose areas like Le Marais in Paris for its cultural scene, while those looking for affordability prefer cities like Nantes or Montpellier.

  • Buying a Home: The average cost per square foot in Paris is approximately $1,000, with lower prices in rural areas.

Job Opportunities

France has a diverse job market with high demand in several industries, including technology, hospitality, and healthcare.

  • Key Industries: Tourism, fashion, IT, and finance.

  • Job Search Tips: Expats can find jobs through platforms like Pôle Emploi, Indeed France, and LinkedIn. Learning basic French can improve job prospects.

  • Work Culture: French workplaces emphasize hierarchy, professionalism, and long lunch breaks.

Immigrate to France

Moving internationally involves several expenses:

  • Shipping Costs: The cost of shipping a 20-foot container from the US to France ranges from $3,500 to $6,500.

  • Customs Fees: France has strict import regulations; items may be subject to VAT and customs duties.

  • Flights: One-way tickets from the US to France range from $500 to $1,200, depending on the season and airline.

Visa and Residency Requirements

US citizens need a residence permit to live and work in France long-term.

  1. Long-Stay Visa (VLS-TS): Suitable for work, study, or family reunification.

  2. Talent Passport Visa: Available for highly skilled professionals and entrepreneurs.

  3. Work Visa: Requires a job offer from a French employer.

  4. Permanent Residency: After five years of continuous residence, expats can apply for permanent status.

Healthcare and Education

France offers high-quality public services:

  • Healthcare: France has a universal healthcare system, with public healthcare costing significantly less than in the US. Private options are also available for faster access.

  • Education: Public schools are free and highly rated. International and private schools are also available in major cities.

Moving Checklist

A step-by-step guide for US citizens moving to France:

  1. Secure a residence permit.

  2. Arrange housing before arrival.

  3. Research job opportunities or secure employment.

  4. Organize healthcare coverage.

  5. Ship necessary belongings while adhering to customs regulations.

  6. Learn basic French to ease integration.

Food & Drink

French cuisine is world-renowned for its quality and variety:

  • Popular Foods: Baguettes, croissants, escargots, and coq au vin.

  • Dining Customs: Tipping is optional, and meals are often long and leisurely.

  • International Cuisine: Major cities offer a variety of global food options, including American-style restaurants.

Culture

Adapting to French culture can help with a smooth transition:

  • Social Customs: The French value politeness and formal greetings.

  • Key Traditions: Bastille Day, wine festivals, and Christmas markets are widely celebrated.

  • Events: Festivals such as Cannes Film Festival and Paris Fashion Week attract visitors from around the world.

Moving to France from the US offers a chance to experience a rich culture, excellent public services, and a high quality of life. With proper planning, your transition to France can be smooth and rewarding.



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Relocately enables you to manage everything related to your relocation, or that of your employees, in one, simple place. We help over 150.000 customers a year with relocating to over 140 countries. Our services range from comparing moving companies, housing / short say to immigration services and currency exchange and more! Find out here what we have to offer in your city!

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