What Should I Consider If I’m An American Moving To France?

Relocating to a new country is both exciting and challenging, and if you’re an American moving to France, there are many factors to consider for a smooth transition. From visa and residency requirements to tax obligations, housing, healthcare, and employment, careful planning is essential to settling in successfully.

France offers a high quality of life, excellent public services, and a rich cultural experience, but the process of moving can be complex. Understanding the legal, financial, and practical aspects—such as securing a long-term visa, navigating the job market, and integrating into French society—can help you avoid unnecessary stress. Whether you’re relocating for work, retirement, education, or a fresh start, having the right information and professional guidance can make all the difference.

This guide covers everything you need to know as an American moving to France. With the right preparation, your move can be a seamless and rewarding experience.

Visa and Residency Requirements

If you plan to stay in France for more than 90 days, you will need a long-stay visa (visa de long séjour) before you arrive. The specific visa you apply for will depend on your reason for moving, and each has different requirements regarding financial means, health insurance, and work authorization.

Types of long-stay visas include:

Visitor Visa (Visa de Long Séjour “visiteur”)

Ideal for retirees, remote workers, or those moving to France without employment, this visa requires:

• Proof of sufficient financial resources to support yourself without working in France (usually around €1,329 per month in 2025, equivalent to the French minimum wage). This can come from pensions, savings, or remote income.
• Private health insurance covering at least €30,000 in medical expenses for your stay.
• A signed statement not to engage in employment in France.
• Proof of accommodation in France (rental agreement, property deed, or a letter from a host).

Work Visa (Visa de Long Séjour “salarié”)

If you have secured employment with a French company, they will typically sponsor your work visa and handle part of the paperwork, but you will still need to provide:

• A signed employment contract from a French employer.
• Proof that your salary meets minimum income requirements (varies by job sector).
• Approval from the French Labor Ministry (DIRECCTE), as your employer must prove that no French or EU candidate was available for the role.
• Some categories, like the “Talent Passport” visa, allow highly skilled professionals, investors, or entrepreneurs to bypass labor market tests.

Student visa (Visa de Long Séjour “étudiant”)

For those pursuing higher education in France, this visa requires:

• An acceptance letter from a recognized institution.
• Proof of financial means (at least €615 per month for living expenses).
• Health insurance (mandatory for non-EU students).
• Student visas allow part-time work (up to 964 hours per year, about 20 hours per week).

Applying for a Residence Permit (Carte de Séjour)

Once in France, long-stay visa holders must validate their visa with the French Immigration and Citizenship Office (OFII) within three months of arrival. If staying beyond one year, you must apply for a carte de séjour (residence permit) at your local préfecture (immigration office). Requirements include:

• Proof of income or employment.
• Health insurance coverage.
• Proof of address in France.
• Visa validation certificate from OFII.

Failure to secure a residence permit before your visa expires could lead to legal issues or difficulty renewing your status.​

Financial Planning

Relocating to France requires careful financial preparation, as cost-of-living expenses, banking procedures, and tax obligations differ from the U.S.

Cost of Living in France

Your living costs will depend heavily on location and lifestyle:

• Paris and large cities (Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux): High rental prices (€1,500+ per month for a one-bedroom apartment in Paris).
• Mid-sized cities (Toulouse, Nantes, Montpellier): More affordable, with rent around €700–€1,000 per month.
• Rural areas: Significantly cheaper, with rent as low as €500 per month in some regions.

Everyday expenses like groceries, healthcare, and transportation are often lower in France than in the U.S., but income taxes and social charges can be higher.

Opening a French Bank Account

To pay rent, utilities, and receive wages (if employed), you’ll need a French bank account. The process requires:

• Proof of identity (passport).
• Proof of residence (rental contract or utility bill).
• Proof of income or financial stability (such as payslips or tax returns).

Non-residents may face stricter requirements, so it’s best to open an account after securing a local address. Popular banks include BNP Paribas, Société Générale, and Crédit Agricole. Online banks like N26 and Revolut are also options for expats.

Taxes: U.S. and French Obligations

As a U.S. citizen, you must continue filing U.S. taxes annually, regardless of residence. However, you may also be subject to French taxation:

• The U.S.-France tax treaty helps avoid double taxation, allowing expats to offset French taxes paid against their U.S. liability.
• Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE): If you meet residency tests, you can exclude up to $120,000 (2025 estimate) of foreign income from U.S. taxation.
• FATCA and FBAR reporting: If you hold more than $10,000 in foreign accounts, you must report them to the U.S. Treasury.
• French tax residency: If you spend over 183 days per year in France, you become a tax resident and are subject to French income tax, wealth tax, and social charges.

Navigating taxes as a U.S. expat in France can be complex, so consulting a cross-border tax advisor is highly recommended.

Healthcare

France has one of the world’s best healthcare systems, offering high-quality, affordable medical care. However, U.S. citizens moving to France must make sure they have appropriate health insurance coverage before and after arrival.

Health Insurance Requirements

Private health insurance (before eligibility for public healthcare):

• Mandatory for all non-EU residents entering France on a long-stay visa.
• Must cover at least €30,000 in medical expenses (for visa approval).
• Needed for the first three months of residence before transitioning to public healthcare.
• Options include international providers like Cigna, Allianz, or April International.

Public healthcare (PUMA – Protection Universelle Maladie):

• After three months of legal residence, expats can apply for state healthcare via the Caisse Primaire d’Assurance Maladie (CPAM).
• You must show proof of residency, stable income, and a long-term stay.
• Contributions are income-based, and once approved, you’ll receive a Carte Vitale, granting access to subsidized healthcare.
• The system reimburses 70% of standard doctor visits and up to 100% for long-term illnesses. Many residents opt for mutuelle insurance (private top-up coverage) to cover the remaining costs.

Bringing Medical Records

To have continuity of care, it’s advisable to bring:

• Vaccination records (especially for children enrolling in school).
• Medical history and prescriptions (translated into French, if possible).
• Specialist referral letters if you have pre-existing conditions.

Having these documents helps establish care with a general practitioner (médecin traitant), who acts as your primary doctor under the French system.

Language and Cultural Adaptation

Adjusting to life in France is easier when you understand the language and social customs. While many French people speak some English, daily life and administrative tasks require at least basic French proficiency.

Learning French

While expats in Paris may find more English speakers, in smaller towns and bureaucratic settings, French is essential.

Language proficiency enhances job opportunities, social interactions, and overall integration.

Options for learning:

• Alliance Française and other language schools offer structured courses.
• Government-funded language programs are available for some visa holders.
• Language apps and meetups (Duolingo, Tandem, or local conversation groups) can help with practice.

Understanding French Etiquette

French culture places great importance on politeness and formality, especially in first impressions.

Greeting customs: Always start interactions with “Bonjour” (good morning) or “Bonsoir” (good evening), whether in shops, offices, or social settings.

Addressing people: Use “Monsieur” or “Madame” instead of first names in formal situations.

Business culture:

• French workplaces tend to be hierarchical, with an emphasis on professionalism.
• Long lunch breaks and work-life balance are valued, with many businesses closing for two-hour lunch periods.

Dining and social norms:

• Avoid discussing money, politics, or personal salaries in casual conversation.
• Expect longer meals with structured courses—rushing through dinner is seen as impolite.

By respecting these norms, U.S. expats in France can integrate more smoothly and build positive relationships within their community.

Housing

Finding a place to live in France can be challenging, particularly in Paris and other major cities, where demand is high. Understanding rental rules and the home-buying process is key to securing the right accommodation.

Renting a Property in France

Lease agreements (bail) are usually for one year (furnished) or three years (unfurnished) and must be registered with the local authorities.

Many landlords require a French guarantor—a person or institution who agrees to cover rent if the tenant defaults.

Expect to provide:

• Proof of income (typically three times the rent).
• Employment contract or proof of funds.
• French bank account details (some landlords require a local account for rent payments).
• Rental deposit (usually one- or two-months’ rent).

Buying Property in France as a U.S. Citizen

Non-EU citizens can buy property in France without restrictions, but it’s essential to consult a local real estate professional to navigate legal requirements.

Notary involvement

• A notaire (notary) oversees the transaction, ensuring legal compliance.
• The process can take 2–3 months from offer acceptance to final signing.

Additional costs

• Expect to pay 7–10% of the property price in fees and taxes.
• Annual property taxes (taxe foncière and taxe d’habitation) vary by location.

Mortgage considerations

• French banks may offer mortgages to non-residents but require higher down payments (typically 20–30%).
• U.S. expats should check FATCA compliance with their chosen lender, as some banks refuse U.S. clients due to tax reporting obligations.

Employment

If you’re planning to work in France, understanding the job market and work culture will help you navigate professional life successfully.

Job Market for U.S. Expats

While English-speaking jobs exist, especially in international companies and certain industries, proficiency in French significantly enhances employment prospects.

Sectors with high demand for English speakers

• Technology & IT: Many international tech firms have offices in France, particularly in Paris, Lyon, and Toulouse.
• Finance & Banking: Global banks and investment firms often seek English-speaking professionals.
• Education: Teaching English (TEFL, ESL) is a common job for U.S. expats, especially in language schools and private tutoring.
• Tourism & Hospitality: Hotels, travel agencies, and luxury brands often hire multilingual staff.
• Startups & Entrepreneurship: France has a growing startup ecosystem, particularly in Paris, with government incentives for foreign entrepreneurs.

Work authorization

• Non-EU citizens must have a work visa, which is usually tied to a job offer from a French employer.
• Some long-stay visas, such as the Talent Passport, allow skilled professionals, researchers, and entrepreneurs to live and work in France without needing a separate work permit.

French Work Culture

Work culture in France differs from the U.S. in several key ways:

Hierarchy and formality

• Many French workplaces are hierarchical, with decision-making centralized at the top.
• Titles and formal greetings (e.g., Madame or Monsieur) are important in professional settings.

Work-life balance

• The 35-hour workweek is standard, but higher-level jobs may require overtime.
• Long lunch breaks are common, with many businesses closing for two hours midday.
• Employees are encouraged to disconnect from work emails outside office hours, thanks to France’s “right to disconnect” law.

Paid leave and benefits

• France has generous paid vacation (minimum 5 weeks per year), plus public holidays.
• Parental leave is well-supported, with extended maternity and paternity leave options.

Understanding and adapting to these cultural norms will improve workplace integration and foster positive professional relationships.

Education

For families moving to France, selecting the right schooling option is an important decision. There are several types of schools available:

Public schools (Écoles publiques)

• Free for residents.
• Taught in French, which can be challenging for non-French-speaking children.
• Immersion programs may be available to help expat children integrate.

Private schools (Écoles privées)

• Some are religious (Catholic schools are common), but secular private schools also exist.
• Tuition costs vary but are generally lower than in the U.S.

International schools

• Offer curricula in English, bilingual programs, or other languages (e.g., American, British, IB, or German programs).
• More expensive than local schools but ideal for continuity in education for expat families.
• Found in major cities like Paris, Lyon, Nice, and Toulouse.

Homeschooling

• Allowed in France but regulated, with annual inspections by education authorities.

Choosing between these options will depend on language proficiency, budget, and long-term plans. If staying long-term, integrating into French public schools can be beneficial for language and cultural immersion.

Transportation

France has one of Europe’s best public transportation systems, making it easy to get around without a car.

Public transportation options

Metro and bus systems:

• Major cities like Paris, Lyon, Marseille, and Toulouse have extensive metro, tram, and bus networks.
• Monthly passes (Navigo in Paris) offer unlimited travel.

National train network (SNCF):

• The TGV (high-speed train) connects cities like Paris, Lyon, Bordeaux, and Marseille in just a few hours.
• Regional trains (TER) link smaller towns and suburbs.

Ride-sharing and bike rentals:

• Apps like BlaBlaCar offer affordable intercity ride-sharing.
• Vélib’ (Paris) and similar programs provide city bike rentals.

Driving in France

Short stays: U.S. driver’s licenses are valid for up to one year for visitors.

Long-term residents:

• After one year, you must exchange your U.S. license for a French one if your state has a reciprocal agreement (e.g., California, Texas, New York).
• If no agreement exists, you’ll need to take a French driving test (written + practical).
• Car insurance is mandatory and can be expensive.

While many urban residents don’t need a car, having one is useful for those living in rural areas.

Social Integration

Building a social network is key to adjusting to life in France and feeling at home.

Ways to Meet People and Get Involved:

Expat communities:

• Groups like Americans in France, InterNations, and MeetUp organize events for expats.
• Facebook groups for English speakers in specific cities can be great resources.

Local clubs and activities:

• Joining sports teams, book clubs, or hobby groups helps integrate into the local community.
• Volunteering is another way to meet people and contribute to the community.

Understanding French Social Etiquette

French culture values politeness, formality, and structured social norms.

Greetings: Always start interactions with “Bonjour” and “Merci”—not greeting someone properly can be seen as rude.

Personal space: The French use cheek kissing (la bise) in social settings, but a handshake is common in business.

Invitations & dining:

• If invited to someone’s home, bringing a small gift (wine, chocolates, flowers) is customary.
• Meals tend to be long and social, so expect extended conversations.
• Splitting the bill evenly is common, but offering to pay your share is appreciated.

Adjusting to these cultural norms will help you build stronger relationships and feel more comfortable in French society.

Professional Help For Americans Moving To France

Relocating to France as an American comes with many exciting opportunities, but it also involves complex financial, legal, and logistical considerations. From navigating visa and tax requirements to managing currency exchange, investments, and retirement planning, having professional guidance can make all the difference in ensuring a seamless transition.

At Blacktower Financial Management, we specialize in helping U.S. expats protect and grow their wealth while ensuring compliance with both U.S. and French financial regulations. Whether you’re moving for work, retirement, or investment opportunities, our team of international financial professionals can assist you with:

• Cross-border tax planning to help you avoid double taxation and optimize your financial situation.
• Investment and wealth management strategies tailored to your long-term goals.
• Pension and retirement planning, ensuring you maximize benefits from both U.S. and French systems.
• Estate planning and asset protection, ensuring your financial legacy is secure across jurisdictions.

With nearly four decades of experience in international financial services, Blacktower Financial Management is here to provide personalized advice and strategies to help you make the most of your move to France.

Get in touch today to discuss your financial planning needs and start your journey with confidence!

Sources

Financial Times

​CN Traveler

Harrison Brook

International Citizens