Preparing for Your Move to France - Expert Guide & Tips
Embarking on a journey to France is an exciting prospect filled with dreams of picturesque scenery, delicious cuisine, and rich cultural experiences. However, amidst the excitement lies the daunting task of preparation. Whether you're relocating for work, study, or simply seeking a new adventure, thorough preparation is key to a smooth transition. In this guide, we'll explore essential steps and invaluable tips to ensure you're fully prepared for your move to France. From visa applications to packing essentials and cultural nuances, let's embark on this exciting journey together.
Learn some French
Moving to France doesn't demand fluency in French, but don't rely on English-speaking encounters. While some in larger cities and service roles may speak English, expect more interactions in French. Medical professionals, shops, and officials may only speak French. It's essential to grasp enough French for daily life. Online learning programs offer affordable options, while professional tutors ensure acclimatisation to real-world French, unlike school or digital programs.
Classic French dictionary next to a small model of the Eiffel Tower
Indeed, much like with your native tongue, French isn't typically spoken as you learned it in secondary school. While they may comprehend your secondary school French, understanding their responses can prove to be much more challenging. French speakers often converse rapidly, seamlessly blending entire sentences into what may sound like a single word, leaving you to decipher it or recall the meaning of unfamiliar expressions. Mastery comes with practice and getting accustomed to the pace and rhythm of the language.
Your go-to expression will soon become “Parlez lentement, s’il vous plaît.”which translates to “Speak slower, please”. Yet, you'll discover that, overall, individuals are much more patient and supportive if you make an effort to converse in French. Both the French locals and many expatriates in France don't particularly appreciate foreign residents who have resided in the country for years without making an attempt to grasp the language.
Bring your documentation
Unless you're collaborating with a seasoned consultant (such as The Relocation Company International) no one will adequately prepare you for the extensive documentation required to embark on life as a resident in France. As we delve into business and governmental procedures, you'll realise the necessity of furnishing ample documentary evidence related to your financial status, driving and insurance records, and even marital background (for property dealings).
Here is a list of the documents you will need to bring with you to get started:
Your passport with a visa
Visa application support documentation
Last year’s tax return
Marriage license (if married)
Copy of most recent divorce decree (if applicable) – this will be needed if you wish to purchase property to show that there will be no other claims on the property.
Birth certificate and certified translation.
Your last 3 months bank statements - you will also need online access to these as they (most recent three months) will be needed at various times throughout the year.
Verification of income - from retirement and social security plans to prove your financial sustainability – see bank statements, above.
Other financial institution investments and savings account statements.
Driving license - You will need to get this translated by an official French government certified translator if you are eligible, and plan to exchange it for a French Permit a conduire.
A statement from your home country/state driving license bureau that you are eligible to drive. In the USA, this can usually be found on your state’s DMV site.
Letter of experience from your auto insurance carrier - this proves to your French insurance carrier that you have not made accident claims in your home country.
This eBook!
Have hard copies and PDFs of EVERYTHING!
Keep hard copies of all your paperwork!
Keep your original accounts
In addition to the above, we recommend that you not completely close out bank, investment and savings accounts for the time being as you may need to access them during your first year in France to validate sources of funding
2-factor authentication
There are three levels of authentication that may be required for online access to personal (including financial) data and transactions.
1-level authentication is through something you know, such as a password and is not considered very secure.
2-factor authentication is through something you own, such as a computer or phone and is much more secure.
3-factor authentication is something you are, such as a fingerprint, retina scan or facial recognition and is the most secure, but seldom used.
These days, most banks and investment firms require two-factor authentication via phone (where they send you a PIN) to authorise large overseas cash transfers. Previously, email authentication was accepted, but this practice is becoming less common.
Ensure that all your financial institutions can validate a foreign (French) phone number for authentication. If some cannot, you might need to maintain your mobile phone account from your home country until all accounts are closed. The bank might offer an alternative to the phone PIN requirement, but it will likely involve extensive account and personal verification procedures.
We hope that the insights and advice shared have helped illuminate the path to your upcoming move to France. Remember, while the prospect of relocating to a new country may seem daunting, it is also an incredible opportunity for growth, exploration, and discovery. By taking the time to prepare meticulously, embracing the cultural richness of France, and remaining open to new experiences, you are laying the foundation for a fulfilling and enriching chapter in your life. From navigating administrative processes to immersing yourself in the beauty of French life, may your journey be filled with excitement, wonder, and endless possibilities.
Bon voyage et bonne chance – safe travels and best of luck on your adventure in France!
Let The Relocation Compay International handle your move
At The Relocation Company International we believe a major life transition like moving to another country doesn’t have to be stressful; in fact, it can be pleasant and enjoyable. We guarantee a premium service delivered by relocation specialists who understand how to manage moving from anywhere in the world to France.
Whatever you need help with, our French/English bilingual and multicultural relocation consultants can handle it. We have managed immigration administration, home searches, French work visas, travel logistics, shipping, school selection and admissions, insurance and utilities contracts, car and driver licence admin, translations, and all kinds of administrative formalities related to living in France as an expat.