Why People Move to France…Permanently!
There are lots of reasons people move to France. For one, retiring in a foreign country attracts many people. Certain destinations permit them to do more with their retirement dollars. But there are other reasons people move to France! (See my post: Living in France.) There’s additional insight on day-to-day life.
Government sources indicate that over 166,000 UK citizens and over 153,000 Americans reside permanently in France. Most of the Americans are in or near Paris, while Brits favor smaller towns and rural areas. But you’ll find both all over the country.
These expats find many advantages (include a reasonable cost of living) for moving to France. Surprised? Keep reading!
Here’s a summary of reasons some people move to France. In a future post, I’ll share the story of a couple I know who made that choice a few years ago and don’t regret it. You’ll see many other stories on You Tube videos.
They live in Dijon, Bordeaux, near Cannes or Avignon, villages in the southwest of France, bigger towns, and the list goes on. Whatever type of place you’re comfortable living, you can find it in France. Your quality of life will vary between Paris and the south of France, for example. It depends on what you want. Would you enjoy living in a quiet village or a city like Paris, or something in between?
Why Do People Move to France Permanently?
Here are some frequent reasons people move to France. They aren’t all retired, though some are.
- Marrying a French national and settling in France. That’s one obvious reason, but there are many others.
- Someone takes a “sabbatical year” and decides never to leave. That’s the case of several couples in the Southwest of France. People fall in love with the pace of life.
- A person may go with a temporary work or education visa but decide to stay.
- Retirement in the south of France or along one of its beautiful coastlines draws people to live their dream.
- Someone might be tired of things in their own country (crowds, government, politics, the hurried pace of life, tension and stress, etc.)
- So go to have experience and expand their horizons. Living in another culture will keep you learning and growing (including growing in patience!)
- People who have fallen in love with the French culture, people, and way of life. The likely suspects: People who keep returning to France on vacation year after year because they can’t get enough.
- To have the opportunity to learn and master the French language.
Advantages of Living in France
- The variety and beauty of France… mountains, beaches, picturesque villages and towns. There are many varied travel opportunities throughout France.
- High quality and affordable healthcare (non-citizens are eligible)
- Being nearby other European countries that you can visit easily
- If you live in bigger towns, there’s cheap and efficient public transportation. Hopping on a tram sure beats sitting in daily traffic.
Surprises about Living in France
- France is more affordable than you think. People think all of France is as expensive as Paris. Almost none of it is. You’d be surprised at how affordable it is. Certain things are more expensive (like gasoline), and others are less (like food, cell phone and internet costs, and train travel, among many other things.) Housing costs depend on where you live. See the post: Is France Expensive? 21 Ways to Save Euros.
- The people are nicer and more welcoming than you’d expect. They may be more reserved at first, but that’s common in Europe. As you learn French, you’ll see that the French are patient and encouraging. (So, scrap those stereotypes!)
- You have to prove you have income in order to get a visa. However, it’s much less than you would think.
Bordeaux
Some “disadvantages”
- The initial preparation for the move can seem daunting. But there is a step-by-step method you can learn and follow.
Research ahead of time will make it less scary and will enable you to know what questions to ask. For example, about schools, if you’re taking kids. What about medical care, if you have a special condition? Take the various aspects of your life that are important to you and research those.
- You’ll have to apply for a visa, and it’ll be good for one year, renewable. There are various steps to accomplish before you go, then when you get there some things that may be easy in the US will be more difficult. Some of that is simply the difference. (Opening a bank account, for example, was one thing many expats mentioned as being more difficult.)
- Your visa does not permit you to work on the economy, for example in a French company (unless you are a legal long-term resident of the European Union.) In fact, you have to sign a statement saying you will not. You might be able to start a small business, but be aware that taxes are high. Try to speak with someone who’s done this to get the pros and cons.
The best scenario is to have your own income in the form of investments and/or retirement income or work remotely for yourself or for a company based in your home country.
Initially, you’ll have to have an insurance policy that covers you in France. After some time, you’ll be able to apply for their national medicine, which is very good. In fact, even if you don’t become a part of their system, medical costs are significantly lower than in the U.S. You’ll pay out of pocket and get reimbursed from your home country insurance.
Once you have things in place (visa, set-up in France, residence card, bank account, utilities…), you know how it’s done, and be able to enjoy your new adventure. Many people choose to hire a consultant to walk them through the steps of the move. This is a good idea if you want some help and a less stressful transition. One such company is French Connections HCB, which guides you through the process. Another one takes you through the emotional steps of being ready to live abroad: thecouragecatalyst.com/ *
Of course, there will be cultural changes and much to adjust to. Give yourself time and learn to say, “It’s not wrong, it’s just different.” That’ll help. Some things will seem less efficient than back home (while others will be much more so!)
Out of the people who shared their story as well as the couple I know, none said they regretted moving to France. They found their niche in the community, activities, friendships, and appreciation of the French quality of life!
*Neither company is vetted by me. I became aware of both as I researched.
Related Posts
The French People: A Travelers Guide
Is France Expensive? 21 Ways to Save Euros
