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A mover's guide to France
With its rich cultural history, temperate climate, varied landscapes and proximity to the UK, France has long been a desirable and popular destination for expatriates looking for a different way of life. Not to mention its lauded culinary delights and, in some areas, comparatively low property prices. Whether you’re drawn to the beautiful rolling vistas of the Dordogne, or the chic, urban bustle of Paris, there is a location to suit a myriad of lifestyles.
As with any potential relocation, deciding which area most suits your needs is just one thing to consider before moving across the Atlantic, or simply across the Channel. Though culturally more similar to the UK than many other, more far-flung, expatriate destinations, there are differences it’s important to know before you go. You’ll need to familiarise yourself with the property market, the health care system and find a job to suit you. Making an effort to learn the language will open more possibilities and help you to fully immerse yourself in the rich culture and hidden gems that make France so unique.
Keeping you and your family healthy in France
When relocating to another country, organising the health care needs of you and your family will no doubt be a top priority. From universal health care to private insurance and from vaccinations to health risks, discover what you need to know for your move to France.
Learn more about health care in France
Health and personal safety risks
France is, in general, a safe and welcoming place to live. With a settled political climate and the kind of environment most westerners will be familiar with, it's the ideal place to settle down with your family and earn a living.
Getting a job
Though it has a reputation for a relatively laid-back working environment and a 35-hour working week, France is currently undergoing reforms that challenge its business culture.
Building business relationships
When working in another country, it pays to familiarise yourself with the local business etiquette and structure, as accepted mores will differ from place to place.
Choosing a place to live
Claiming the title of the world’s most visited country. France is expected to greet over 100 million visitors a year by 2020 and has long been a popular destination for people looking to change their way of life.
A new way of life
‘Work to live' not ‘live to work' is the general wisdom in France – the work-life balance is a good one with a relatively short average working hour week and generous holiday allowance for both businesses and schools.
Getting the measure of how much it costs to live in France
Despite France’s reputation for its high cost of living, the notoriously expensive city of Paris ranks 44th in Mercer’s Cost of Living Rankings with London coming in at number 17 and New York at number 11.
Making a home
You've decided on a region, secured a job and are learning the language and are almost ready to take the exciting leap to emigrate. But what’s the best way to go about buying property in France?
Making the best of your money
Paris may have a reputation as an expensive city to live in, but when compared to other such cities around the world, it ranks considerably lower.
