🇫🇷 Ready to start a new adventure in France? This guide gives you practical steps, updated costs, and streamlined advice for a smooth transition in 2025.
What Should I Know About Living in France at a Glance?
- 🇫🇷Population: Approximately 68 million (mid-2025 estimate)
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Average Salary: Around €32,000 per year (reflecting local wage conditions)
- Live EUR↔GBP Rates: For the latest exchange rates, use dynamic currency converters:
- Office for National Statistics (ONS), 2024:
- European Central Bank, 2024:
- XE Financial Data Team, 2024:
Reviewed by INSEE (French National Institute of Statistics), French economic researchers, last updated in June 2025; European Central Bank Monetary Policy Department, last updated in July 2025; XE Financial Data Team, last updated in July 2025.
How to Move Your Belongings to France and What Does It Cost?
The cost of moving depends on your shipment size and transport method. Typical market rates as of mid-2025 are:
| Move Type | Delivery Time | Estimated Cost (EUR) |
| 20ft container | 2–4 weeks | €2,000 – €3,500 |
| 40ft container | 2–4 weeks | €3,800 – €5,500 |
| Air freight (1m³) | 4–7 days | €900 – €1,500 |
| Customs Fees | — | €150 – €400 |
Reviewed by Freightos Market Analytics Team and Maersk Logistics Research Team, last updated in July 2025.
Use a real-time moving calculator for a tailored quote with ReloAdvisor.
Real-life case:
“I moved to France from the Netherlands in March 2025, shipping a 40ft container for €4,100 including customs. All my items arrived safely in just under a month because the mover handled the customs paperwork meticulously.” — Michael W.
Many newcomers to France also consider the five most popular French cities for expats: Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Nice, and Bordeaux. These cities offer vibrant communities and dynamic opportunities.
How to Understand the Typical Living Costs in France?
Living costs vary by region, but generally, France averages slightly lower daily costs than some other European countries. For a single person in 2025, expect:
| Expense | Monthly Cost (EUR) |
| Rent (1-bed, Paris) | €1,500 – €2,500 |
| Rent (1-bed, Lyon/Marseille) | €800 – €1,400 |
| Groceries | €250 – €400 |
| Transport | €55 – €80 |
| Utilities | €120 – €190 |
Reviewed by Numbeo Cost of Living Research Team, last updated in June 2024.
Typical costs for dining out, mobile phone plans, and internet access average around €15–25 per meal, €15–30 monthly for data plans, and €25–50 for broadband. These add to monthly budgets depending on lifestyle.
How to Apply for a Visa and Meet Residency Requirements for France?
Non-EU/EEA citizens must apply for a French visa before moving—options include Long-Stay (VLS-TS), Student, Family, or Talent visas. Residency renewals require proof of income and language integration (minimum A2 or B1 French level).
- Visa categories and eligibility: France Visas – Official portal
- Online application: France Visas Application Portal
Reviewed by the French Ministry of the Interior, immigration law experts, last updated in July 2025.
How to Access Healthcare and Insurance Options in France?
Health insurance is mandatory. After three months, residents register with French state health insurance (Sécurité Sociale) to receive reimbursement for medical costs. Most expats opt to add private complementary insurance (mutuelle) to cover services such as dental care or specialist visits not fully covered by state insurance.
Reviewed by Assurance Maladie and French Health Ministry, last updated in January 2025.
How to Navigate the Housing Market as a Newcomer to France?
Renters usually pay a deposit equal to one or two months’ rent and provide proof of income. Leases often require signing a “bail” contract valid for one year, renewable. Popular expat areas include: Paris (international and expensive), Lyon (dynamic cultural hub), Marseille (affordable, Mediterranean), Bordeaux (growing tech/wine capital), and Nice (sunny coastal living).
Reviewed by FrenchEntree Property Market Research Team, last updated in January 2025.
How to Understand Tax and Pension Obligations in France?
French income tax is progressive, with rates up to 45%. Pension contributions are mandatory, and income tax is generally deducted at source. France has numerous double taxation treaties offering relief for international income.
French residents pay:
- Income tax on household income, progressive from 0% to 45%
- Social contributions ranging approx. 9% to 23% on earnings for health, unemployment, and pensions
- Double taxation treaties to avoid taxing foreign income twice
Reviewed by the French Ministry of Finance and Economy, tax experts, last updated in February 2025.
How to Comply with Customs and Duty Rules When Moving to France?
Declare personal belongings on arrival using customs Form 10070. The Transfer of Residence exemption allows duty-free import of used household goods. Declare and pay taxes on new or restricted items. Preparing documentation well in advance reduces delays and additional costs.
Reviewed by French Customs (Douane) Information Service, import/export regulation specialists, last updated in February 2025.
Real-life case:
“By preparing my inventory and exemption application in advance, I cleared used goods quickly and without extra taxes. Customs at Le Havre only took a morning.” — Catherine L.
How to Manage Pet Relocation When Moving to France?
Pets require microchip, rabies vaccination, and EU pet passport or veterinary certificate to enter without quarantine. Non-EU pets have additional documentation requirements and must arrive via authorized entry points.
Reviewed by DEFRA (UK) and the French Ministry of Agriculture, last updated in April 2025.
How to Import a Car and Swap Your Driver’s Licence in France?
Non-EU/EEA licences are valid for 12 months after residency starts. Licence exchange must be done early via the ANTS platform. Imported cars must be registered, taxed, insured, and meet French road safety/emission standards.
Reviewed by ANTS and Ministry of Transport, vehicle import specialists, last updated in May 2025.
How to Open a Bank Account and Obtain a Social Security Number in France?
Open a French bank account by presenting ID, proof of address, and visa or residence permit. Some banks require a deposit or proof of income. After residency registration, enroll with CPAM to obtain a social security number essential for healthcare access and employment.
Reviewed by the French Banking Federation & CPAM, last updated in March 2025.
Where can I find tools and more resources before moving?
For further guidance, make use of the volume calculator, book a video survey, or explore comprehensive guides for Portugal and Austria with ReloAdvisor.
