Moving to France

International Relocation

From an international travel attraction to immigration, France has always been one of the top choices considered by people. If you are planning to move to France and live under the shining night sky of vineyards and lavender flower towns you must know everything about the things you need for a smooth relocation in the country. From visa process to permanent accommodation, one should be completely assured about their life in a different nation so they don’t find things overwhelming at any point in time. Perfect planning can make things easier for your departure and with our detailed information you will get a clear head about the things you need to manage before you shift to France.

Visas

Stay in France is entirely based on the visa process and your documents are the essential part of a successful acceptance of your application by French authorities. There are two different types of visa options, one for a short period and the other for a longer stay. You must complete your application process that includes filling a visa application form, booking an appointment with the visa center, the consulate will review your documents, an administration fee will be charged, biometrics for applicants above 11 and if all your submissions are approved by the authority your Visa will be issued between 4 to 8 weeks. But for French visas, one should be persistent and consult the French embassy to achieve as much information as one can.

Related – Moving to France from Singapore

Documents

If you are deciding to work or study in France then you will need to follow the immigration criteria of French authorities that help aspirants to fulfill their dream of settling in France. There is a list of mandatory documents you must possess while applying for a visa including your passport which must be valid for at least three months beyond the date of return, two blank pages in passport, two recent pictures, copies of older visas if any, medical insurance, complete Itinerary, financial proofs, accommodation proofs, employment records, business papers or college acceptance letter for students. As per the current scenario, Vaccination certificates are necessary to carry with you for health and security purposes.

Job Prospects

France is undoubtedly one the most vibrant countries in the EU continent but language is the key to success to get more job opportunities and one should focus on improving it. For broader employment opportunities you can translate your resume in French as it will open doors for you to get hired quickly and ensure their style of writing the curriculum vitae. For students, your career path can shoot up through some top courses in Computer Science, Engineering, Management, and Tourism will reward you with high-paid jobs. In France, your higher studies and fluency in French will help you succeed in the country financially as you can communicate your thoughts and ideas to them without any breach. People should maintain active professional networks and learn about the recruiting companies before they are interviewed.

Insurance

Medical cover is the foremost requirement to keep yourself safe when you apply to move internationally whether you are a student, traveler, or employee. There is a wide range of healthcare plans available in the market according to your age and requirements. For students, some universities pay from the national healthcare system whereas students keep their backup by buying potential insurance that will help them in sickness or under unfortunate circumstances. When applying for a visa one should have proof of private health insurance if their stay is less than 3 months in France. You can simply choose a policy from some of the reputed global healthcare providers like Allianz and Cigna Global.

Accommodation & Home Loans

France is a country of historical architecture and countrylike towns restoring the beauty of nature in its soil. Before stepping on the land of the loveliest landscapes of France, the most important decision is where you want to live because some people love the hustle-bustle of morning streets and some like to reside in the peace of the countryside. You can search online accommodation portals to book a furnished apartment before you arrive in the country. You can take the assistance of realtors after you are permitted to permanently take residence as they will help you find a house according to your preferences. But mortgage and loans depend on your income and budget. Also, French banks require financial assurance when they lend loans to international buyers.

Moving Possessions

Choosing useful possessions can be a stressful task when you are packing things but the right guidance can help you sustain your starter days so you can save money when you get there. And because your belongings are the most important thing for your stay you should be completely assured about what you are taking and leaving. Although France has open-air markets to buy inexpensive stuff like jackets, coats, stockings are important to carry as winter clothes are expensive in the world of fashionable France. Other things include comfortable shoes, handbag, 700-1000 euro in cash, power bank, adapter, raincoat, student card, debit/credit card, and umbrella as the climate is ever-changing so if you don’t want to go all wet by the downpour keep it.

Bank Accounts

Once you are all set in your apartment the first thing you must do is find a bank to open an account with them to keep your money well managed. You will need to book an appointment with the bank advisor to get your account opened. Embracing the difference can be a beautiful experience for you if you keep your mind open as many banks keep holidays on Sunday and Monday which is unusual in other countries. Also, there is an overseas bank option that helps you keep money internationally but if you are determined to open an account then you can choose from current/saving/long-term accounts as per your needs, accessibility, services, and interest rates provided by different banks.

Credit Cards

Financial stability is important when you move to a different nation so that payments and bills do not burden you much. So, if you are considering permanent residence in the country, a good credit score can be a potential addition to your application. Immigrants should pay through a credit card for their regular expenses and on-time repayments will maintain a good credit record. You can select from global visa card issuer banks like Citibank, Deutsche Bank or you can apply to French banks for credit cards because there are many rewards and discounts available you can avail of while paying through your card.