Moving to France — Complete Guide 2026

Everything you need to know about visas, French taxes, healthcare, housing, bureaucracy, and getting started in France.

Visa Processing

4-6 weeks

Cost of Living

€1,400-€2,000

Popular Cities

Paris, Lyon

Main Visa Types

6

Why France?

EU Citizen Advantages

EU/EEA citizens enjoy freedom of movement without visa restrictions.

World-Class Healthcare

France has one of Europe's best healthcare systems with excellent coverage.

Strong Social Benefits

Excellent social security system covering health, unemployment, and family benefits.

Cultural Hub

Art, cuisine, literature, and history — one of the world's most influential cultures.

Work-Life Balance

35-hour work weeks, 5+ weeks vacation, strong labor protections.

Quality of Life

Consistently ranks among world's best places to live. Beautiful countryside and cities.

Visa Types Available

EU/EEA Citizen

Duration

Unlimited

Requirements

EU/EEA passport + registration if staying >3 months

Ideal For

EU/EEA nationals

Salaried Worker Visa

Duration

1 year renewable

Requirements

Job offer + labor agreement + employer sponsorship

Ideal For

Employees

Self-Employment Visa

Duration

3 years renewable

Requirements

Business plan + professional qualification + financial proof

Ideal For

Entrepreneurs, consultants

Competent Worker Visa

Duration

3 years renewable

Requirements

Professional qualification + business plan

Ideal For

Skilled professionals

Visitor Visa

Duration

1 year renewable

Requirements

Sufficient funds + travel insurance + accommodation proof

Ideal For

Tourists, visitors

Student Visa

Duration

1 year renewable

Requirements

University admission + €615/year tuition + €800+/month funds

Ideal For

International students

Tax System & Costs

Income Tax

France has a progressive income tax system with rates ranging from 0% to 45%. The tax system is integrated with social contributions, making effective rates higher.

  • Income tax: 0% (€0-€11,294), 11-45% (€11,294+)
  • Employee social contributions: ~8% on gross income
  • Self-employed social contributions: ~45% (varies by profession)
  • Wealth tax: 0.55% on assets >€1.3 million

Cost of Living

France offers good value, especially outside Paris. Monthly costs typically range from €1,400-€2,000 depending on lifestyle and location.

Getting Started Checklist

Apply for visa at French consulate (if required)
Register with local prefecture (Préfecture) within 3 months
Obtain French tax number (numéro SIRET if self-employed)
Open French bank account (compte bancaire)
Register with healthcare system (Assurance Maladie)
Register with local social security office (CPAM)
Get utilities connection (electricity, water, internet)
Register with local commune (mairie) for services

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