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Writer's pictureSean

A Guide To Living in France As An Expat

Updated: Oct 30

Moving to France is an exciting adventure that many people consider to change their pace. Known as the hotspot for romance and intrigue, France captivates hearts through its portrayal in films and conversations with locals.


However, living in France often presents a reality that differs from movies. There are things you’ll need to know to stand any chance at making a life for yourself there. Let’s take a quick look. If you need any assistance with moving your household belongings to France, make sure to contact Pinnacle Removals & Storage, an expert company in international removals.


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1. Red Tape Everywhere

Red Tape Everywhere

France is a region that is frankly famous for bureaucracy, and it will be a slight con to live in France initially. You’ll be expected to be ready to get started with life as soon as you arrive—there’s no buffer period here. The problem is that a lot of basic tasks can take a long time to sort out.


For example, let’s talk about something as simple as opening a bank account. In some places, you can get this sorted in an hour - it isn’t hard. In France, you need a valid passport, a work and resident permit, proof of address, a birth certificate, proof of income, and a reference from the last bank you were with.


That’s a lot of paperwork for a small thing, and unless you have a French bank account, you can’t get paid. The best thing you can do is, therefore, have it all sorted out before you arrive or have enough cash to float until you’ve set up accounts.




2. Speaking French

Speaking French

If you’re going to move to France, you are expected to eventually learn to speak French as part of your efforts to acclimate. However, you might want to make that task a priority or learn some French prior to moving.


French is a beautiful language that has long represented class and elegance. Understandably, the French prize their language highly and expect all expats to speak it. However, you might not know that there is pressure to learn French sooner rather than later.


Sentiments against foreign visitors have largely faded from French society in the last few decades, but there are still areas where a lack of French vocabulary will sour your reputation with the local community.


The easy solution is to make it your mission to speak as much French as possible. English is spoken in emergencies, but challenging yourself to expand your horizons and speak a new language will help you fit in. It doesn’t have to be perfect, but showing willingness will make a big difference to anyone you come across.


3. Patience is a Virtue

Patience is a Virtue

Patience is a necessary virtue in France, as much of Its culture is relaxed and flexible. You’d be surprised at how many core aspects of life in France are the way they are because people took the time to slow down and experiment with things. It’s nice to go on holiday to France and enjoy a laid-back, almost lax way of living, but full-time business and residency are a different story altogether.


You’ll find that everything is flexible in France - businesses and meetings are often quite casual in fulfilling obligations, and there is a generally relaxed sense of unhurried pace that permeates all of French culture.


You have to expect delays and understand that things will not get done with the same urgency that you might encounter in the UK. That’s not to say that French business isn’t effective; it's just that it’s synonymous with French culture.


4. Property Space is Premium in Paris


Something you need to understand about property space in Paris is that it is at a bit of a premium. There’s not a lot of space in your typical apartment, which can make life with a lot of possessions something of a headache and overall logistical nightmare.


If materialism is something that you prize highly, you may want to modify your thinking before your removals to Paris. The last possessions that you have, the happier you’ll be trying to fit in with the culture. Besides, it’s a pretty good opportunity to do a bit of spring cleaning and decluttering because chances are you have a lot of things that you don’t need anymore.


5. Cultural Differences Can Be Hard


If there’s one thing you should know about France, it is that its culture is different from that of many other places around the world. This is not a bad thing. New culture is always something to celebrate, and it can be a good opportunity to learn and grow.


However, it will naturally take a while to adapt to a whole new culture, and you have to be patient in your efforts. Locals will know that you are an expat, and they will understand your attempts to integrate and undoubtedly help you grow and thrive. You need to be willing to learn and look for new opportunities—it does make a big difference to your experiences.


Are you looking to move to France?

Moving to France

Moving to France is a big adventure, and we’re sure you will enjoy it. However, there is a lot to keep in mind as you start your new life.


Culture shock is something which even the most prepared expat can encounter because there is simply no substitution for living a life and seeing everything on offer. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed at first, but try not to worry too much.


You’ll see that there are a lot of friendly locals who are more than happy to help you acclimate to your new life and help you out because they genuinely are some of the nicest people you’ll run across. If you’re seen to be trying to fit in, then there is absolutely no reason why you can’t enjoy your life. The best way to move is to do so in the right circumstances and with the right support. We’re here for you, and we’ll help you with your Removal to France or anywhere else in the world.

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