Picture strolls along cobbled Parisian streets, the scent of warm croissants wafting through the air. France beckons with its art, cuisine, and history. However, moving to France from the US is a complex venture. Our guide navigates the legal and cultural intricacies, ensuring your transition to this country is smooth and stress-free.
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Why moving to France?
Moving to France from the US is an enticing prospect for numerous reasons, as it offers a unique blend of lifestyle, culture and opportunities distinct from those found in the United States.
One of the most compelling aspect of living in France is its world-renowned healthcare system. France consistently ranks high in global healthcare indices. Accessible and high-quality medical care, coupled with a robust public health infrastructure, provides a strong safety net for residents.
France is celebrated for its work-life balance. The French prioritise leisure and family time, with mandatory vacation days and shorter workweeks. This fosters a more relaxed and fulfilling lifestyle, allowing individuals to savour life outside of the professional sphere.
Education is another major draw for expats in France. The country boasts a world-class education system, particularly at the university level. Many of its institutions are globally renowned for their quality. Moreover, education is generally more affordable in France.
In terms of societal values, France places a premium on social welfare and safety nets. The government provides comprehensive healthcare, robust unemployment benefits, and various subsidies. This safety net provides a sense of security for residents, potentially reducing financial stress compared to the US.
Moving to France from the US offers a chance to experience a different pace of life, a rich cultural tapestry, and a more comprehensive social safety net. These factors, along with many others, make France an attractive destination for those seeking a unique and enriching life experience.
Legal requirements to move to France from the US
Moving to France from the US as an American involves several requirements and procedures. Here’s a comprehensive overview:
- Valid passport: ensure your US passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from France.
- Visa or residence permit: depending on the purpose and duration of your stay, you’ll likely need a visa or residence permit. The type of visa you require will depend on factors such as employment, education, family reunification, or retirement. Apply for the appropriate visa at the nearest French consulate in the US. See below about the different visa options.
- Residence permit: If you plan to stay in France for more than one year, you’ll need to apply for a residence permit or ‘carte de séjour’ within the first year of your arrival. The specific type of permit will depend on your circumstances.
- Health insurance: France has a comprehensive healthcare system. While you’ll have access to this system as a legal resident, it’s advisable to have health insurance, especially during the waiting period for eligibility.
- Financial means: you may be required to demonstrate that you have sufficient financial means to support yourself and any dependents during your stay.
- Proofs of accommodation: you’ll need proofs of accommodation in France, whether it’s a rental agreement or an address where you’ll be staying.
- Language proficiency: depending on your visa type, you may need to demonstrate proficiency in the French language.
- Criminal background check: in some cases, you might need to provide a clean criminal background check from both your home country (the US) and France.
- OFII form: after your arrival in France, you’ll need to complete an OFII form (Office Français de l’Immigration et de l’Intégration) and schedule a medical examination within three months of your arrival.
- Social security registration: to access government benefits like healthcare and unemployment insurance, you’ll need to register and contribute to the French social security system.
- Taxes: you’ll be subject to French taxes on your income and assets. Understanding the tax laws and obligations is crucial.
- Driver’s license: if you plan to drive in France, check if your US driver’s license is valid there or if you need to obtain a French driver’s license.
Visa options for Americans moving to France
The initial step when considering a move from the US to France involves securing a visa, enabling a stay exceeding 90 days. To initiate this process, visit the official visa website, France.visas. While you can complete the visa application online, it must be submitted in person at the nearest visa center. To locate the closest center and schedule an appointment, consult the ‘who to contact?’ section on France.visas.
The different visas options
Here is an overview of the various visa available, their costs and the requirements:
Short-stay visas
- Schengen Visa: this allows a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period in the Schengen Area. It’s suitable for tourists, business travellers and family visits. The cost is around 80 €.
- Long-stay visitor visa: for stays longer than 90 days but less than a year. It’s generally for non-working purposes like study, research, or accompanying a family member. The cost is around 99 €.
Student visas:
- Student visas: Required for students attending a recognised educational institution in France. The cost is around 50 €. Additional requirements include proof of enrolment, financial means and accommodation arrangements.
Work visas
- Skills and talents visa: for highly skilled individuals, artists or those contributing significantly to the French economy. Costs vary around 99 €. Requirements include proof of qualifications and employment contract.
- Temporary work visa: issued for specific, time-bound projects. Costs vary based on the project and duration. Requirements include a job offer and contract.
- Intra-company transfer visa: for employees transferring within a multinational company. Costs and requirements depend on the specifics of the transfer.
Entrepreneur and business visas
- Entrepreneur visa: for individuals looking to start a business in France. Costs depend on the type and scale of the business. Requirements include a business plan and sufficient funds.
- Investor visa: for those making a significant financial investment in France. Costs vary based on the investment. Requirements include proof of investment and business plan.
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Family reunification visas
- Spouse or partner of a French national visa: for spouses or partners of French citizens. Costs are generally lower, but requirements include proofs of relationship and accommodation.
- Family reunification visa: for joining family members residing in France. Costs and requirements depend on the family relationship.
Retirement visas
- Visitors visa for retirees: allows retirees to stay in France for an extended period. Costs are similar to long-stay visitors visas. Requirement include proofs of retirement income.
Au pair and cultural exchange visas
- Au pair visa: for young individuals participating in a cultural exchange program. Costs are moderate, and requirements include acceptance into an approved program.
Visa application guidelines
1 – Determine your visa eligibility: Begin by assessing if you require a visa. France-visas, the official visa platform, provides Visa Wizard tool to ascertain your eligibility, along with associated fees and required documents. If you’ve been in the Schengen Area recently, use the Visa Calculator to determine your remaining authorised stay.
2 – Complete the online application: Fill out the visa application form, ensuring you have the necessary documents like a valid travel document, recent ID pictures and supporting documents. If your documents aren’t in French or English, translation might be necessary.
3 – Schedule your appointment: Book an appointment at the visa application center with enough time before your departure. Be aware of the waiting time for appointments, which varies for short and long-stay visas.
4 – Attend your appointment: Arrive for your appointment with all required documents. Biometric data, including a photo and fingerprints, will be collected. Visa feeds cover administrative costs are collected by the service provider.
5 – Monitor your application: Track your application’s progress through the visa center. Once processed (usually within 15 days), you’ll be notified for passport collection. In special cases, processing might extend up to 45 days.
Understanding the cost of living in France compared to the US
While Paris can be pricier, cities like Lyon and Nantes offer a more affordable yet enriching experience. Keep in mind, healthcare and education are often more accessible and cost-effective in France compared to the US. Embracing the French lifestyle may require some adjustments, but the rewards are well worth it!
- Consumer prices in the US are 11.1% higher than France (without rent)
- Consumer prices in the US are 34.5% higher than France (including rent)
- Rent prices in the US are 111.2% higher than in France
- Restaurant prices in the US are 18.7% higher than in France
- Groceries prices in the US are 12.6% higher than in France
- Monthly preschool fees for one child in the US is 76.5% higher than in France
- Mobile phone monthly plan with calls and 10GB+ data in the US is 37.4% higher than in France
- Average monthly net salary (after tax) in the US is 91.3% higher than in France
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9 steps to moving to France from the US
Step 1: Check your legal documents for migration
Before embarking on your journey to France, ensure your legal documents are in order. This includes a valid passport with additional passport photos. You’ll also need to file an OFII (Office Français de l’Immigration et de l’Intégration) form, which you’ll validate an an OFII office upon arrival. Within three months of arriving, a health check is required for immigrants.
Step 2: Apply for a visa
If your stay in France is longer than three months, applying for a long-term visa is necessary. This is accomplished through the French consulate. The process takes about three weeks for approval. Within a year of moving, you’ll need to apply for a resident permit or carte de séjour.
Step 3: Check your vaccinations list
Ensure your vaccinations are up-to-date. France, like the US, has a well-established vaccination program. While there are no specific rules for visitors, expats will need to undergo a medical examination within three months of arrival.
Step 4: Make a budget for living in France
Researching the cost of living in your chosen city is vital. Understand the average expenses for rent, utilities, groceries, and transportation. Remember, costs can vary significantly depending on the region.
Step 5: Learn about the healthcare system in France
France boasts one of the world’s best healthcare systems. It’s a combination of public and private providers, with the majority of funding coming from the government. Expats are eligible for the French healthcare system after a waiting period, though some may opt for additional international health insurance.
Step 6: Open a bank account
While online banking is common, having a local bank account simplifies many aspects of daily life. This is essential for receiving pay checks from a French employer. You’ll need identification, proof of address and a local tax ID number.
> Need help opening a bank account? We can help you! Click here to find out how.
Step 7: Find a place to live
Begin your search well in advance of your move. It’s recommended to start several months beforehand. Real estate agents can be invaluable in the search.
Step 8: Find a job or start a business
Securing employment is a critical step. If you’re employed by a French company, they’ll handle the work visa application. For entrepreneurs, starting a business involves additional steps including acquiring a local business license.
Step 9: Sign up for social security
To access government benefits like healthcare and unemployment insurance, expats must register and contribute to the French social security system. US citizens may be able to retain their US social security benefits under the Totalisation Agreement.
Moving to France from the US Q&As
Can I move my pet to France?
When relocating your pet to France, it’s important to follow specific procedures. Begin by ensuring your pet has an ISO11784/11785 compliant 15-digit microchip. This is crucial for identification. Following this, your pet must receive a rabies vaccination and undergo a blood test. After a mandatory waiting period, typically 21 days, your pet will be eligible to travel to France.Prior to departure, arrange for a health certificate issued by a USDA-accredited veterinarian, and ensure it’s dated within 10 days of travel. Upon arrival in France, be prepared for potential additional checks at customs to ensure your pet’s compliance with regulations.
What is the average cost of moving to France from the US?
The cost of relocating from the US to France can vary widely depending on factors like location, lifestyle, and specific visa requirements. Generally, considering expenses such as visa fees, travel costs, and initial setup, the total could range from $5,000 to $10,000. However, it’s important to nota that this estimate does not cover ongoing living expenses.
How can I move my care to France?
To transport your car to France, you’ll need to adhere to French customs regulations. This involves providing necessary documents including the vehicle’s registration and insurance, your valid driver’s license, and a certificate of conformity. Depending on your car’s age and origin, you may also be required to pay import duties or value-added tax (VAT)
Do I need to pay taxes in France?
Yes, if you are residing and/or working in France, you are subject to French taxation. The French tax system is intricate, so seeking guidance from a tax professional or account knowledgeable in international tax laws is advisable.
> You might be interested in the following podcast episode: Jumping across the Atlantic? Top tax planning tips from industry expert
What are the cheapest cities to live in France?
While Paris is renowned for its high cost of living, there are several more budget-friendly cities in France. Places like Strasbourg, Lyon, Grenoble, Aix-en-Provence, Marseille, and Nantes offer a lower cost of living compared to the capital.
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