Living in France

Living in France Once your property purchase has been finalised, and you've bought your new French home, you need to start preparing for your new life in France!

Find out about visas, the cost of living and more here.

Visas

If you want to live in France for more than 90 days in every 180 you need to make sure that you have a visa or French residency. Find out more about the types of visa and how to apply for them:

If you are planning on working in France for more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a long stay visa. You can find out more about the application process on the French government website below.

Healthcare

Once you're living in France, you need to make sure that you have access to healthcare, take a look at what's available to you below.

Find out more about healthcare in France.

Education and schools

If you're moving to France with children you will need to think about what type of school you would like them to attend, and whether you want them to learn in French or English.

Read about the education system in France here.

Cost of living in France

You'll need to factor in how much life is going to cost - we've outlined all the things you need to think about before you move to France!

Find out about the cost of living.

Your driving licence in France

When you make the move to France, you will more than likely need a car to get around, find out what steps you need to take to be able to take to the road, ahead of moving.

Find out about driving in France.

Settling in to life in France

Quality of life is often top of the list for foreigners moving to France, but that initial settling in phase can still be tricky. We've outlined some ways you can make the process a bit easier.

Take a look at our tips for settling in to life in France.

Retirement

If you're moving to France to retire, take a look at our dedicated section on living in France as a retiree.

Read about retiring to France.

FAQs: Living in France

What is life like when living in France?

Living in France offers a mix of rich culture, high-quality healthcare, scenic landscapes, and a slower pace of life. Many expats enjoy excellent food, historic towns, and a better quality of life.

How can I move to France to live permanently?

To live in France permanently, non-EU citizens typically need a long-stay visa (visa de long séjour), proof of income, accommodation, and health insurance. After five years, permanent residency may be available.

Is France a good place to live for expats?

Yes, France is considered one of the best countries in Europe for expats, offering high living standards, beautiful countryside, and access to EU travel and healthcare.

What are the pros and cons of living in France?

Pros: Excellent healthcare, quality food, vibrant culture, and beautiful regions.
Cons: Bureaucracy, language barrier, higher taxes and living costs in some areas.

How much does it cost to live in France monthly?

Monthly living costs in France range from €1,200 to €2,500, depending on location. Rural areas are more affordable than cities like Paris, Bordeaux or Lyon.

Can I live in France without speaking French?

It’s possible, especially in expat-heavy areas, but speaking French helps with bureaucracy, social integration, and daily life.

Where are the best places to live in France as an expat?

Popular areas for expats include the Dordogne, Charente, Limousin, the French Riviera, Brittany, Normandy, Loire, Languedoc and the Alps — offering charm, community, and lifestyle options for different budgets.