Thinking about moving to France? Whether you’re dreaming of strolling through Parisian streets, buying a countryside cottage, or starting a new life in the South of France, there are a few things you should know before making the leap.
In this episode of La Vie Creative, I sat down with Zoe and Vicky, the founders of Ask The Expat Girls, to discuss what it’s really like moving to France—from visas and bureaucracy to buying property, renting, starting a business, and even becoming French citizens.
After living in France for more than 14 years each, they’ve helped countless English-speaking expats navigate one of the world’s most complicated administrative systems.
If France is calling your name, this episode is your roadmap.
What It’s Really Like Moving to France
Many people fall in love with France during vacation and imagine life filled with cafés, fresh croissants, beautiful villages, and a slower pace.
The reality?
France absolutely delivers on its incredible quality of life—but it also comes with one of the most bureaucratic systems in Europe.
According to Zoe and Vicky, the biggest surprise for many newcomers isn’t the language—it’s the paperwork.
Almost every process requires multiple documents, patience, and persistent follow-up.
As they explain in the podcast, success often comes down to staying organized and never assuming that paperwork is progressing without checking on it.
The Biggest Mistakes Expats Make
One of the most common mistakes new arrivals make is waiting too long to complete important administrative tasks.
Whether it’s:
- renewing a visa
- registering paperwork
- applying for healthcare
- filing documents
France rewards preparation.
The earlier you start, the smoother the process becomes.
Another common mistake?
Not bringing enough documentation.
French administration often requests more paperwork than people expect, and missing even one document can significantly delay your application.
Starting a Business in France
Many creatives, freelancers, photographers, consultants, and digital entrepreneurs dream of working for themselves after moving to France.
The good news is that France offers several business structures, including the popular auto-entrepreneur (micro-entrepreneur) system.
However, running a business in France also means keeping up with:
- monthly or quarterly declarations
- taxes
- social contributions
- bookkeeping
- administrative deadlines
As Zoe explains, it’s not necessarily difficult—but consistency is essential.
Why Employees Love Working in France
France is famous for protecting employees.
Some benefits that may surprise Americans and other English speakers include:
- generous paid vacation
- paid leave for moving house
- paid leave after marriage or civil partnerships
- strong job security
- laws protecting employees from being contacted after work hours
While self-employment offers freedom, France also provides one of the strongest employee protection systems in Europe.
Buying Property in France
Dreaming of owning a home in France?
The buying process is surprisingly structured.
Typical steps include:
- Making an offer
- Signing a Compromis de Vente (purchase agreement)
- Ten-day cooling-off period
- Mortgage approval (if applicable)
- Final signing with the notaire
- Receiving the keys
The process generally takes around two to three months depending on financing.
Outside Paris, buyers can still find surprisingly affordable properties compared to many other countries.
Renting in France Isn’t Always Easy
Many people assume renting will be easier than buying.
Often, the opposite is true.
French landlords frequently ask for:
- employment contracts
- recent French tax returns
- proof of income
- guarantors
- financial history in France
For newcomers without French financial records, this can make finding housing surprisingly difficult.
Zoe and Vicky also warn against accepting “off-the-books” rental agreements that offer no legal protection if problems arise.
Becoming a French Citizen
Both Zoe and Vicky successfully became French citizens after years of living in France.
Their journey included:
- years of residency
- language requirements
- extensive documentation
- certified translations
- interviews at the prefecture
- demonstrating integration into French society
Today, citizenship requirements have become even more rigorous, including higher language standards and civic knowledge exams.
While the process is lengthy, they emphasize that it’s absolutely achievable with preparation and guidance.
Choosing Where to Live in France
One of the most valuable pieces of advice from the episode?
Visit your dream location during the winter before moving.
Many charming seaside towns and villages are vibrant in summer but become extremely quiet during the off-season.
Researching daily life—not just vacation life—can make all the difference when choosing your new home.
Three Things to Do Before Moving to France
If you’re planning your relocation, Zoe and Vicky recommend:
- Confirm you’re eligible for the appropriate visa.
- Secure stable accommodation before arriving.
- Research the region carefully—including what it’s like outside tourist season.
Once you arrive, don’t forget to validate your visa, an essential step many newcomers overlook.
Meet Ask The Expat Girls
If you’re overwhelmed by French paperwork, visas, citizenship applications, or setting up life in France, Ask The Expat Girls specializes in helping English-speaking expats confidently navigate the French administrative system.
After helping hundreds of clients—and completing the journey themselves—they know exactly what it takes to build a successful life in France.
Listen to the Full Conversation
If you’re dreaming about moving to France—or you’re already here and trying to make sense of French bureaucracy—you won’t want to miss this conversation.
We cover:
- French visas
- residency permits
- citizenship
- buying property
- renting
- starting a business
- work culture
- common mistakes
- practical relocation advice
