First published in May 2023
Updated November 2025
If you’re moving to France or already living here, learning French isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s the key to making daily life smoother, more connected, and more rewarding.
Whether you’re ordering at the boulangerie, chatting with your neighbours, or handling French paperwork, knowing even basic phrases changes everything.
And starting in 2026, some long-term residence cards and visas will even include language requirements for expats in France. 👉 Learn what’s changing here.
So how do you get started, and actually stick with it?
Here are four practical, realistic tips for expats learning French, no matter your level or location.
Table of Contents
Immerse yourself in French every day
One of the fastest ways to learn French is to surround yourself with it. Immersion doesn’t always mean sitting in a classroom, it’s about weaving French into your daily life until it becomes natural.
Try these small but powerful habits:
- Watch French TV shows, YouTube channels, or Netflix series with French subtitles.
- Listen to podcasts or local radio stations like France Inter or RFI.
- Read short news articles or children’s books to build vocabulary.
- Speak as often as possible, at cafés, markets, or even to yourself at home!
Don’t worry about sounding perfect. The goal is to hear and use French daily, not to avoid mistakes.
Keep a list of phrases you actually need in daily life, things like ordering food, paying bills, or making appointments. Here’s a great starting point: Everyday French Vocabulary You’ll Actually Use When Moving to France.
Join language exchanges and conversation groups
Learning from native speakers is one of the most effective, and affordable, ways to improve your French.
Look for language exchange programs (called échanges linguistiques) or conversation cafés in your city. These informal meetups let you:
- Practice real conversation with locals
- Help a French person learn your language in return
- Pick up cultural nuances that textbooks miss
Popular apps and websites like Tandem and Meetup are great places to start. You can also check with local libraries, universities, or your Alliance Française branch for community events.
Consistency beats intensity, even one or two short exchanges per week will boost your confidence and fluency faster than occasional big study sessions.
Enrol in a French language school
If you prefer a more structured approach, enrolling in a language school can help you progress quickly and stay motivated.
Look for accredited institutions recognised by the French government or the Alliance Française network. These schools offer classes tailored to your level, from complete beginner (A1) to advanced (C1/C2).
Many also provide specialised programs for:
- Expats working in France
- Retirees settling long-term
- Students preparing for DELF/DALF exams
Ask if your local mairie or region offers subsidised language courses for foreigners, some programs are free or discounted for new residents.
Practice (and make mistakes!) every day
Here’s the truth: there’s no shortcut to fluency, but daily practice, even for 10 minutes, works wonders.
Use every opportunity to speak:
- Chat with your neighbours or local shopkeepers.
- Order your coffee in French, even if you stumble.
- Try journaling or voice-noting in French to train your thinking.
And don’t let fear of mistakes stop you. The French appreciate the effort, even if your grammar isn’t perfect.
Set micro-goals: one new phrase a day, one conversation a week, one French film per weekend. These small wins add up to real progress.
Useful resources for learning French
Here are some tried-and-tested platforms and tools used by expats across France:
| Resource | Best For | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Duolingo | Beginners | Free, gamified learning app with bite-sized lessons |
| Rosetta Stone | Immersion learners | Focus on context and real-world usage |
| BBC Languages – French | Self-learners | Free online courses and grammar guides |
| FrenchPod101 | Listening practice | Audio and video lessons for all levels |
| Tandem | Language exchange | Find native French partners to practice with |
| Alliance Française | Classroom learners | Official French courses worldwide |
| iTalki | Private tutoring | One-on-one online lessons with native teachers |
💡 Bonus Tip: Set your phone and Netflix profiles to French, you’ll absorb vocabulary without even realising it!
FAQ: Learning French as an expat
Do I need to speak French to live in France?
Not immediately, but it will make your life much easier. And from 2026, some long-term residence permits will require basic French knowledge.
What’s the fastest way to learn French as an expat?
Daily immersion and consistent speaking practice, even short, everyday conversations, are far more effective than occasional lessons.
Are language schools in France expensive?
Prices vary. Expect around 200-500 € per month for private schools, but community or government-funded options may be cheaper.
Is it okay to make mistakes when speaking French?
Absolutely. Mistakes are part of learning. The French appreciate when you try, even if it’s not perfect.
Final notes
Learning French as an expat isn’t just about grammar or vocabulary, it’s about connection.
Every phrase you learn helps you navigate daily life more confidently, integrate faster, and feel at home in France.
Whether you start with an app, a class, or simple café conversations, remember: progress is about practice, not perfection.
So dive in, keep going, and enjoy the process, one bonjour at a time.
Planning a move to France or just thinking about it?
Book a free 30-minute call with our team for personalised guidance on relocating to France. 👉 Schedule your call here
Not ready for a call? No problem. Explore our free resources to learn at your own pace:
📚 Browse the blog for expert tips
🎧 Listen to our podcast for real stories and insights
Wherever you are in your France journey, we’re here to help.
