France is one of the most famous and attractive countries in the world, located on the western coast of Europe. The country is renowned for its rich culture, exquisite cuisine, high fashion, unique architecture, and picturesque landscapes. But France attracts not only tourists — it also draws in migrants who want to live and work in one of the most developed nations in Europe.
Why France?
France stands out for its high standard of living:
- Minimum wage is €1,600 per month.
- Generous social benefits: unemployment, maternity, parental leave, and high pensions.
- Free education for residents.
- A legally limited 35-hour workweek.
The country also offers a wide range of landscapes — from the sunny beaches of the French Riviera to the snowy Alps and the green plains of Provence. France borders several countries including Germany, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, and Belgium, making it a perfect base for travel.
Challenges of Moving to France
Relocating to France also comes with some challenges:
- Predominance of the French language in the workplace.
- Bureaucratic procedures that can be lengthy and complex.
- High unemployment rate among qualified professionals (7.5%).
Nevertheless, with proper preparation and motivation, relocating to France is entirely achievable. Let’s explore the main migration options.
Main Ways to Relocate
France offers several pathways for migration, which can generally be divided into three categories: educational, professional, and family-based.
1. Educational Opportunities
France is a hub for European education, offering a wide variety of programs:
- University studies
- Earning an academic degree
- Learning French in France (for students aged 18 to 30)
- Short-term courses and internships
- School education (for minors accompanied by parents or guardians)
2. Professional Opportunities
Employment in France: French employers are actively looking for professionals in fields such as IT, engineering, science, design, and commerce. In 2021, there were 2.7 million job openings announced.
- Intra-Corporate Transfer: Option to relocate to a French office of an international company you already work for.
- Freelancing or Starting Your Own Business.
Experience matters: Mid-level and Senior professionals have better chances of getting hired. However, beginners can consider internships, language courses, or university studies as an entry point.
3. Family-Based Reasons
- Reuniting with a French or EU citizen, or a French residence permit holder
- Adoption of a foreign child
Employment Contracts: What You Need to Know
A French employment contract is a key document for obtaining a work visa. Without it, you cannot work legally or stay in the country.
Main contract types:
- CDI (Contrat à Durée Indéterminée) – Permanent contract for full-time work (35 hours/week).
- CDD (Contrat à Durée Déterminée) – Fixed-term contract (up to 36 months), often used for seasonal work or temporary replacements.
To get a visa, the employer must publish your job offer on Pôle Emploi or Apec for at least 21 days so that authorities can confirm no local candidates are available.
Visa Application Process
Depending on your purpose, you'll need one of the following visa types:
- Short-Stay Visa: for tourism, short courses, or seasonal work (up to 90 days).
- Long-Stay Visa: for study, work, family reunification, or business (over 90 days).
- Transit Visa: for passing through French territory.
Steps for obtaining a work visa:
- Determine the appropriate visa type (use the Visa Wizard on the official portal).
- Fill out the online application and receive confirmation.
- Sign an employment contract with your employer.
- Employer posts the offer online.
- Visit the visa application center with all required documents:
- Valid passport
- Proof of income
- Health insurance
- Proof of accommodation
- Wait for notification that your visa is ready.
The average processing time for a long-stay visa is 2–3 months.
Life in France: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High standard of living and strong social safety net
- Free education and a well-developed healthcare system
- Cultural diversity and a pleasant climate
Cons:
- High cost of living, especially in large cities like Paris
- Language barrier — French is often required even for daily life
- Bureaucracy can complicate administrative processes
Tips for a Successful Move
✔️ Learn French — even basic skills will help you adapt faster
✔️ Research the job market — identify in-demand professions and prepare a competitive CV
✔️ Don’t delay document preparation — the visa process can be lengthy
✔️ Seek professional advice — tax and legal aspects can be complex, so consult an expert
Conclusion
France is a dream destination for those seeking a high quality of life, cultural richness, and career opportunities. While relocation can be challenging, with proper planning and motivation, you can achieve your goal and start a new chapter of your life in France.
Ready to make the move? Follow our guide and take the first step toward your dream!
