Many people who decide to change their place of residence find this experience to be thrilling, yet challenging and France is not an exception. Over the years, France has developed attractive culture, remarkable history and tasty food as a result of which a number of foreigners choose this country for living. But it does not mean that moving to France is as easy as collecting your luggage and take a flight to France. This guide seeks to educate newcomers on how to go about entering French life, where and how to find the best international moving companies France and the overall French lifestyle.
Step 1: Plan Your Move Thoroughly
When looking to move to another country, there are several issues that have to be considered and taken into account. One should begin the process of moving at least six months before he or she intends to move since planning weeks before the actual exercise may be very stressful. Here are the key elements to focus on:
Research the Visa Requirements
The legal status of the country is also one of the first things one needs to familiarise with especially in terms of visa and permit to reside in the country. Based on the immigration laws of the country you wish to relocate to and the purpose of the move; it is possible to acquire a work visa, a long-term living visa or student visa. French Visa Application should be done early and a proper research should be conducted on the requirements so that you have all the documents readily available.
Hire a Reputable International Moving Company
Selecting the best moving company is a very important factor to consider especially when it comes to the physical movement of your property/ goods. It will be beneficial to search for international moving companies France that have the expertise in performing cross border moving services. The professional moving company will ensure that all the arrangements such as customs formalities, transport and even unpacking if need be are provided. They should also afford insurance for your items while in transit. To accommodate the needs of different customers, it is advisable to compare various companies to get the best services at a reasonable cost.
Consider Relocation Services
Apart from moving companies, you may also consider using other moving companies from France that will also help you to settle in the new area. Such services usually do not only moving but also offer assistance in finding homes, connecting utilities, administrating paperwork and language courses. If, for example, you are moving to France for work needs, then moving companies are more beneficial in the sense that you can hire them to do most of the moving work while you sort out other issues that come with switching to a new job.
Step 2: Finding a Place to Live
France has many types of accommodations ranging from the traditional thatched and daub cottages in the countryside to tall glass and steel faced apartments in the big cities. However, the search for a suitable home may not be a very easy task to accomplish. Here’s how to navigate the French housing market as a newcomer:Here’s how to navigate the French housing market as a newcomer:
Renting vs. Buying
Buying is usually not preferable at the beginning because renting is a better way to give you an opportunity to choose a favorable neighborhood. In France, to rent a property, the lease agreement must be signed, security deposit should be paid, which in most cases is an amount equal to one- or two-months’ rent, and the income certificate or guarantor is necessary.
For those who intend to live in this area for the long-term and have the ability to make the investment, it may be cheaper in the long run to actually purchase a property. France has a fairly developed real estate and the cost of property differs depending from area to area.
Popular Expat Destinations
- Paris: France’s capital is a hub for professionals, artists, and students. However, it’s also one of the most expensive cities in Europe. If you’re planning to live in Paris, be prepared for high rent prices.
- Lyon: Known for its culinary scene and historical architecture, Lyon offers a more affordable alternative to Paris while still providing a vibrant urban lifestyle.
- Nice: Located on the French Riviera, Nice is ideal for those looking for a Mediterranean climate and coastal living.
- Bordeaux: Famous for its wine, Bordeaux has become an increasingly popular destination for expats in recent years due to its quality of life and lower cost of living compared to Paris.
Understanding French Rental Contracts
France follows a long-term rental contract system, which is highly standardized by the legal provisions. This type of lease provision extends for approximately of three years, renewable. Some countries have certain legislation regarding the maximum amount one can be charged for rent, like in Paris and therefore it’s wise to learn more about these laws.
Additionally, you’ll need to provide several documents when applying for a rental property, including:
- Proof of employment or income
- A bank account (some landlords may require you to have a French bank account)
- References from previous landlords
Step 3: Understanding Healthcare and Insurance
The French healthcare system is one of the best in the world; therefore, this is one of the advantages of being an inhabitant of the country. There are state and private health insurance services which are accessible; however, the newcomer should understand how the health care system operates.
Securing Health Insurance
In France, all persons are mandated to acquire health coverage and including the public and or private health insurance. On entry you may have to rely on private facilities for health care while you make a payment to Sécurité Sociale for the rights to health care facilities. When it comes to public healthcare you must have resided in the country for not less than three months and meet the presence requirements.
After entering the system the major part of the medical costs are covered by the state, still, often you may require the additional private insurance titled “mutuelle” to cover the difference.
Step 4: Setting Up Essential Services
Once you’ve secured a place to live, the next step is to set up essential services like utilities, internet, and phone services.
Utilities
If you are living in an apartment, it is common that the landlord pays for the utility expenses such as electricity, water and or gas and they will be included in the rent amount you pay every month. But if you are to contribute for the payment of utilities on individual basis, then it is necessary to apply as a customer for the utility companies such as electricity, water, and even phone bills among others. Often this can be done online or via the telephone, however a French bank account may be necessary.
Banking
It is advisable to open a bank account when moving to France since you will be required to pay your rent, bills among other things and in case you have a job, receiving your salary. Majority of French banks allow non-residents banking facilities; however, to open an account, one is required to submit some documents like a proof of his/her address, I’d, and residency permit where applicable.
Step 5: Navigating French Bureaucracy
Moving to France involves navigating a complex system of bureaucracy, from registering with the local authorities to paying taxes.
Registering with the Local Authorities
If your wish to stay in France for over three months then you have to declare yourself at your town hall (Mairie). You will also need a residence permit also referred to as a carte de séjour if you are not an EU citizen. Make sure that this process is done quickly since it may take several weeks to get the permit.
Understanding French Taxes
Living in France makes you an exclusive member of the French community and as a result, you will be subjected to the French taxation system which includes the income tax and property where one owns a house. The French tax system might be somehow difficult, so it is always recommended to consult a tax advisor to avoid all potential violations of the Law.
Step 6: Adapting to French Culture
It is lovely to live in France and feel that one is immersed in a different culture but there are always the cultural differences to be dealt with which include language.
Learning French
Despite the fact that many French citizens know English fluently and more often tourists and expats meet English-speaking Frenchmen especially in such cities as Paris, Nice etc., it is important to learn French in order to become completely e integrated in society. These include such elements of spoken French as greetings, shopping, dealing with people in the next door, officials, and in filling in various forms. Most big cities have language schools for foreigners and it improves one’s fluency in the language to practice with people from the country.
Social Etiquette
This is important because France has its own unique culture and it is vital to know the people’s demeanour and expectations. For instance, when meeting people you will find them offering a hand for a handshake or a peck on the cheek which is locally referred to as “la bise”. Greetings also matter; begin with a “bonjour” whenever one gets into shops and other social setting, and always stick with “vous” until when told otherwise.
Step 7: Connecting with the Expat Community
France is home to a lot of expats and meeting those who are also new in the country will make you feel that you belong. Some of them answer questions, write diaries, share experience, meet others; there are expat groups and online communities. Don’t forget that other expats could also give you some tips and instructions regarding problematic aspects of daily life such as looking for houses, schools and work.
Moving the whole family, or business to another country is not an easy process, however, hiring international movers France makes it easier. From the smallest household items to the largest of homes, the best movers can always do the work for you and you do not have to bother yourself with packing items to move, how to organize the items and even unpacking when you get to the new place. Hire a company that has knowledge in international moving, rules and regulations of customs and immigration authorities, and the lifestyle of people living in France.
Conclusion
Moving to France is among some of the most exciting experiences anyone can ever undertake in life but it has its own trials. If you are engaging the services of international moving companies France, you will have the opportunity to leave your property in the hands of professionals hence concluding that, what remains is just for you to familiarize with the new environment.
If an expat has no time for packing, unpacking and sorting, HelpXpat is among the best relocation companies in France. Having been in this business for many years we pride ourselves on being able to deliver one stop services for your international move. No matter if you are relocating for your job or education or just for the change of pace, we manage everything beginning with packing and transportation of your belongings until the item reaches its new destination, plus customs formalities. Our team’s mission is to present a proper and individual approach to help minimize your stress when moving to France. When speaking about moving, feel free to turn to HelpXpat as we are one of the top international moving companies in France.