The quality of life, incredible tradition, and delicious meals are just some of the reasons most people wish to migrate to France. While all these are valid reasons, it takes more than just a wish to move to France.
Getting ahead of the paperwork is one of the challenges you may face. This is why you need experts like Garant Immigration to make your process smoother and seamless. However, overcoming paperwork stress is not the only difficulty you’ll face. From getting used to the new system to sorting out accommodation issues. There are just many hurdles you may face.
Therefore, as an expat, reading this ultimate guide will prepare you for the journey ahead and take you steps ahead of your fellow expats. Let’s get to it.
Visa Types and Work Permit Requirements
Before you apply for your visa, you must be aware of the different visa types and choose the one that best suits your status and purpose of relocating. There are different requirements for each type of visa, and your purpose of entry and duration of stay are some of the factors that determine the type of visa you choose.
It’s also essential to acquaint yourself with the cost of the different visa types. In case you’re going with any of your family members, ensure you have firsthand information about the requisites.
The visa and work permit application can be tricky. However, it’s easier when armed with adequate information. You may even qualify for a talent visa that allows you to live and work in France.
Accommodation
Finding accommodation in France can be tricky for expats who don’t have or know anyone there. Therefore, it’s advisable to start your search for good accommodation as early as possible. There are different types of accommodation depending on your taste and budget. You can decide to rent an apartment or buy your home.
However, rented apartments are the most popular type of apartment you’ll find in France. This is because it allows expats to learn about the cultures of different locations before they eventually buy their homes if they so desire. A rented apartment is usually renewed on a yearly or monthly basis.
If you’re buoyant enough, you can get a furnished apartment and live alone. Otherwise, you can opt for an unfurnished apartment or merge with a group of people and live as roommates. You can also choose a budget-friendly city like Grenoble.
Permanent Residency
You’ll qualify to get a residence permit after about 5 years of staying in France. This duration can be shorter if you have relatives who already have their permits, or you’re married to a French citizen. Below are some of the benefits of having a permanent residency:
- It gives you the right to enter any Schengen country without a visa
- You have legal access to the EU
- You can extend your period of stay for up to ten years before renewal
- You have the right to citizenship.
The following are some of the documents you’ll need when applying for a permanent residency. You should submit these documents to your local prefecture:
- Proof of residence. This can be either your rent receipts or utility bills.
- Bank statements of not longer than three months
- Your proof of income
- Marriage or birth certificate, if unmarried
- Health insurance
- Medical certificate
Tax Laws
Most likely, the tax laws in your home country will differ from that of France. Therefore, to avoid any unpleasant surprises, ensure you do your research and know about taxes in France before you relocate.
As an expat in France, you’re required to pay tax on all France-based income. The following are other criteria that make you liable to pay tax in France:
- You have children or spouse who live in France
- Your main residence is in France
- You live in France for 183 days or more in a year. The days don’t have to be consecutive.
- You have important assets in France
- You work in France
Learn French
Since you’ve decided to move to France, it’s only ideal to learn their language. You don’t expect everyone there to understand English. However, if you’ve not learned the language, different online resources can come to the rescue.
You can always use Babbel, BBC, or Duolingo. You can also sign up at any institution near you if you prefer a physical French class. Learning French will also help you interact better with people from your new country.
Best Places to Live in France for Expats
Before your immigration to France, you need to have an idea of where you’re going, and what to expect there. While there are many beautiful places expats can live in France, the following places are some of the best places.
#1: Lyon
If you like it loud, then Lyon is the right city for you. It is one of the largest cities in France with many job opportunities, especially for people in the pharmaceutical, banking, or technology industries. Little wonder why expats flock to the city. However, if you’re planning to live on a budget, then by all means, avoid Lyon.
#2: Paris
Another city where you can enjoy yourself and have fun is Paris. It’s the most common city for foreigners. Paris is known for delicious foods, culture, and premium entertainment. You can also cool off after a stressful day at any of their parks and gardens. Again, Paris is not for expats living on a budget.
#3: Grenoble
If you’re a nature lover and you don’t like too much noise, then Grenoble is where you should be. There, you will find a community of students and professionals. While this city is more serene than Lyon and Paris, it’s still a place for entertainment and fun.
#4: Nice
As its name implies, Nice is a nice place for expats who speak French and love amazing year-round weather. It is also a great city for foodies. With their amazing meals, you’ll become a foodie even if you don’t like food. Nice is located between the mountains and the sea beside the Italian border.
Final Note
Moving to France can be quite exhausting with all the logistics involved. However, it can be a dream come true with the help of experts and the guide above. Also, ensure you don’t stay indoors. Go out and meet with other expats in France, share experiences, and just have fun.