Ask any traveler which country they’d like to visit and you’ll find that France is at the top of the list for many people. This is not much of a surprise as France is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, if not the world. France offers something for everyone with the stunning peaks of the Alps and the breathtaking landscape of the Pyrenees before heading to the stunning beaches of coastal towns such as the French Riviera, Nice, or St Tropez. Of course, the cities of France also have a lot to offer with some of the best museums you can imagine and a culture rich in history that is visible with every step you take in this wonderful land. Then, of course, is the cuisine where even the simplest of meals will take your breath away and keep you coming back for more.
With all the wonderful attractions of France, is it any wonder that so many tourists flock to this part of the world every single year? What’s more, France is also a popular country for expats searching for little joie de vivre. If you’ve been dreaming of living in the French countryside such as Colmar, Montmartre or Montpelier, or even Paris, the French capital, there are a few things you need to know before you start packing. This helpful checklist includes everything you need to consider before making the move to France.
Start Gathering Information
The first step to making a life-changing decision such as moving to France is to start gathering as much information as you can about the country itself and what life in France entails. You may think you only need to book a flight and go, but there is a lot more you need to know. Ask yourself these questions:
- What type of visa do I need?
- Which is the best city or town to live in?
- What will it cost to move my belongings to France?
- What job prospects are available to me in France?
- What is the cost of living in France?
- What are French people like?
These are just a few questions you need to ask and there will be more, depending on where you plan to live.
Applying for the Right Visa
For most visitors to France, there are no visa requirements for those who want to stay for up to 90 days. However, if you are thinking of working or studying in France, you will need a visa. Check with your local French Embassy or Consulate to see which visa you will need.
Finding Employment
We live in an era where working from home is extremely popular and even more so if you are self-employed or a freelancer. Perhaps you are employed with a multinational company with a presence in France and will be able to transfer to France. Unless you have unlimited funds, you will need to work and you’ll need to know how much you need to earn to have a decent life in France. Keep in mind that the cost of living in France can be high, especially in major cities so you need to be sure that you can earn enough to finance your new life.
Signing up for Essential Services
While you can take some things slowly upon your arrival in France, it’s good to get started as soon as you can or even before you leave your current country. You will need things such as:
- A French bank account
- Local telecommunications plan
- Connect utilities such as electricity, water, internet, etc.
- An International or French Driver’s License or permit
- A New Home
Long-term or short-term, you will need a place to call home when you relocate to France. Finding the right accommodation can be a difficult task in a country such as France, but it doesn’t need to be. Fortunately, there are websites you can browse through to find the right accommodation and this search can be easier if you find a site that offers filtering options. These will allow you to narrow down your search to a certain location, the type of accommodation you are looking for and one in your price range.
Look at Healthcare
While healthcare in France is excellent, the public system is generally only available to French citizens and those who are employed in France and thus have healthcare as part of their employment agreement. If you plan on moving to France before you find a job, you will need some type of insurance before you board your flight. Travel insurance is the best option to start with and you can choose a period from a few days to a year. This will ensure you are covered for medical emergencies until you find a suitable private health insurance plan or you start working and your employer covers your health insurance.
Start Learning French
The French love to talk and you will be included in many interesting and passion-filled discussions. While many French people do speak English, not all do and you will need to start learning French as soon as you decide to make the move to this country. You’ll find it easier when you can order your own food, ask for directions or just engage in small talk with your neighbors. Sign up for online French lessons or find a good language-learning app.
While there is a lot you need to research and do before moving to France, you’ll find it easier as an English speaker than those who don’t. Take a closer look at this checklist and add extra details relative to your personal situation and your move to France will not only be smooth but you’ll also make the transition to your new life sooner rather than later.