Moving to France checklist: essential steps before relocating

Relocating to a new country involves several administrative and practical steps. Understanding these steps in advance can help expatriates and international families prepare their move more effectively.

Here is a practical checklist of the essential steps to prepare your move to France.

1. Moving to France checklist: understand visa and residency requirements

Before moving to France, it is important to identify the visa or residence permit that corresponds to your situation.

Depending on your nationality and your relocation project, this may include:

• a long-stay visa

• a residence permit

• a work authorisation

Administrative processing times can vary, so it is recommended to start these procedures several months before your arrival.

2. Anticipate your housing search

Finding accommodation in France can be challenging for people arriving from abroad.

Landlords usually require:

• proof of income

• an employment contract

• a guarantor based in France

For expatriates who do not have a French guarantor, specialised companies now offer services that can act as a guarantor.

Preparing a complete rental application file before your arrival can significantly increase your chances of securing accommodation.

3. Plan access to healthcare

Access to the French healthcare system generally requires registration with CPAM (Caisse Primaire d’Assurance Maladie).

For many expatriates, eligibility usually requires at least three months of stable residence in France.

Once the application is submitted, the processing of the file may take several additional weeks. During this transition period, many expatriates choose to arrange temporary or international health insurance.

4. Anticipate school enrollment for children

Enrollment in public schools in France generally depends on the residential address of the family.

Without a confirmed address in France, it is usually not possible to complete the registration process in the public school system.

For families arriving from abroad, private or international schools are sometimes considered initially, especially when certain administrative or visa procedures require proof of school enrollment.

However, places can be limited, so it is advisable to start these steps several months in advance.

5. Prepare administrative documents

Before arriving in France, it is useful to gather several essential documents, such as:

• birth certificates

• marriage certificates

• diplomas

• tax documents

• certified translations when required

Having these documents ready in advance can simplify many administrative procedures once you arrive.

Relocating to France involves more than simply moving your belongings. Administrative procedures, housing requirements and access to services often require careful preparation.

Planning these steps in advance can help expatriates settle in more smoothly and approach their first weeks in France with greater peace of mind.

Finding accommodation can be one of the most challenging steps when moving to France, especially for expatriates who do not have a French guarantor.

You can read our guide explaining how to rent in France without a French guarantor.