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Moving to France as an EU Citizen: Your Stress-Free Guide
Dreaming of a life in France? As an EU citizen, you enjoy many freedoms, but there are still some things to consider. This guide helps you make your move smoothly. Need assistance with planning and executing your move? Contact us for personalised advice.
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Dreaming of a life in France? As an EU citizen, you enjoy many freedoms, but there are still some things to consider. This guide helps you make your move smoothly. Need assistance with planning and executing your move? Contact us for personalised advice.
Dreaming of a life in France? As an EU citizen, you enjoy many freedoms, but there are still some things to consider. This guide helps you make your move smoothly. Need assistance with planning and executing your move? Contact us for personalised advice.
Dreaming of a life in France? As an EU citizen, you enjoy many freedoms, but there are still some things to consider. This guide helps you make your move smoothly. Need assistance with planning and executing your move? Contact us for personalised advice.
Planning a move to France? This article provides you with all the essential information for EU citizens, from the initial steps to successful integration. Learn more about residency requirements, taxes, housing, and much more!
Are you planning a move to France as an EU citizen? This article provides you with all the crucial information you need for a smooth transition. At GoMovin, we understand that an international move can be challenging. That's why we've created this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the various aspects of living and working in France. From the initial steps to successful integration, you'll learn about residence requirements, taxes, housing, and much more!
Our aim is to make the moving process as easy and stress-free as possible for you. With our expertise and global network, we support you every step of the way, from planning to arrival in your new home. We offer personalised advice, legal support, real estate services, and assistance with cultural integration, allowing you to focus entirely on your fresh start.
Read on to discover all the important details for your move to France as an EU citizen. And if you need professional support, we are here to assist you. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive relocation services.
Residence rights: No permit necessary for EU citizens
As an EU citizen, you enjoy the right to free movement in France. This means you do not need a special residence permit to live and work in France. A valid national identity card or passport is sufficient to verify your identity and citizenship. This significantly eases the move to France as an EU citizen, as you do not have to deal with bureaucratic hurdles.
Although no residence permit is required, you have the option to apply for a Carte de Séjour (residence card). This card serves as official proof of your residence in France and can facilitate access to certain state services and administrative processes. However, applying for it is voluntary. More information on the right of residence for EU citizens can be found on the page of the Federal Ministry of the Interior and Community.
Regardless of whether you apply for a Carte de Séjour or not, it is important that you register with the French tax authorities. This is mandatory and serves to document your tax residency in France. Registration is usually done online or in person at your local tax office. Do not forget that you must deregister with your German municipality within a week before making your move to France as an EU citizen.
After residing in France for more than three months, it is advisable to register with the local authorities in order to obtain a registration certificate. This certificate confirms your legal residence in France and can be useful in various administrative matters. For registration, you will generally need a valid ID or passport, as well as proof of employment, self-employment, pension, studies, health insurance, and sufficient financial means. Further information on registering your residence can be found at Europa.eu.
Job search: No work permit required for EU citizens
A significant advantage for EU citizens planning a move to France as EU citizens is that they do not need a work permit to work in France. This greatly facilitates the job search and allows you to start working immediately after your arrival. The French economy offers diverse opportunities in various industries, especially in major cities such as Paris, Lyon, and Marseille.
The French employment agency (Pôle Emploi) provides you with comprehensive support in your job search. Here, you can find out about job vacancies, take part in application training, and receive support from experienced advisors. As an EU citizen, you might also have the possibility to transfer your unemployment benefit I from Germany to France for 3-6 months. This can help you financially during the initial period after your move to France as an EU citizen.
For a successful job search in France, French language skills are essential. Many employers expect you to communicate fluently in French. Therefore, it is advisable to take a language course or brush up on your French skills before your move to France as an EU citizen. The Federal Office for Migration and Refugees provides country-specific information and supports you in your job search.
The working conditions in France may differ from those in Germany. French employment contracts often offer permanent positions, a 35-hour work week, overtime pay (25-50% bonus), and 30 days of holiday per year. The minimum wage level is about €11.65 per hour. It is important to inform yourself about the applicable employment laws and conditions before your move to France as an EU citizen.
Living in France: Pay attention to the rental agreement and additional costs
Finding an apartment can be one of the biggest challenges when moving to France as an EU citizen. In major cities, the housing market is often tight, and rental prices can be high. Therefore, it is advisable to start your search early and consider different options.
To rent an apartment, you will typically need proof of employment, a French bank account, and possibly a guarantor. Landlords often also require a copy of your ID card or passport, as well as proof of your financial situation. Home insurance (assurance habitation) is mandatory and must be taken out before moving in. Movinga offers more information and tips on finding accommodation in France.
In addition to rent, there are also additional rental costs in France. These include rubbish collection fees, building and home insurance, and costs for electricity, gas, and water. It is important to consider these costs when budgeting. The CAF (Caisse d'Allocations Familiales) is responsible for processing housing benefit applications (APL). If you meet certain criteria, you can apply for housing benefit to reduce your rental costs.
Purchasing property is generally straightforward for foreigners in France. However, you will need a French bank account and an identification document. The buying process typically involves two preliminary contracts and a deposit (5-10%). Note that as an owner, you will also have to pay the taxe foncière (property tax). INFOBEST provides more information on housing in France.
Taxes and Social Security: DTA avoids double taxation
An important aspect of moving to France as an EU citizen is the issue of taxes and social security. As a resident of France, you are generally liable to pay taxes. The amount of income tax depends on your residence, place of work, and the nature of your income. The Franco-German Double Taxation Agreement (DBA) aims to prevent you from being taxed on the same income in both countries. It is advisable to inform yourself about the applicable tax laws before your move to France as an EU citizen and, if necessary, consult a tax advisor.
In addition to income tax, France also has the taxe d'habitation (residence tax), which is levied on all residents on January 1st, as well as the aforementioned taxe foncière (property tax) for property owners. You also need to pay the Contribution à l'audiovisuel (TV licence fee) for television sets, which is paid annually with the taxe d'habitation. The French tax authorities are your point of contact for any tax-related queries.
The social security (Assurance Maladie) is another important point. The state health insurance typically covers 70% of costs. A private supplementary insurance is advisable and is often available through the employer. To access social security, you need a French social security number (numero de securité social). Applying for this number can take some time, so it's advisable to manage this early. UTS Germany provides further information on French health insurance.
If you have worked in Germany and are receiving unemployment benefits, you may have the option to transfer these to France for a specific period. Check with the relevant authority for the requirements and process. Migrating within Europe is generally uncomplicated due to EU freedom of movement, yet good preparation is essential.
Vehicle registration: Deutsche Führerscheine sind gültig
If you're planning to take your car to France, there are some important points to consider. First of all, German driving licences are valid in France, so you don't need to exchange your licence. However, you must register your vehicle in France within one month of your move as an EU citizen. Registration is done online via ANTS and requires specific documents, including a quitus fiscal (tax certificate) and an EU certificate of conformity.
The VAT exemption or payment for vehicles depends on whether the car is new (less than 6 months old or fewer than 6000 km) or used. For new cars, VAT must be paid within two weeks. Used cars are usually exempt if VAT has been paid in Germany. It's important to inform yourself about the applicable regulations in advance to avoid unnecessary costs. Connexion-emploi offers additional information on vehicle registration in France.
In certain French cities, a Crit'air Vignette is required for vehicles. This sticker indicates the emissions class of your vehicle and allows you to drive in low-emission zones. Check in advance whether your vehicle needs a Crit'air Vignette and order it online in good time. INFOBEST provides further information about the Crit'air Vignette.
If you're importing your vehicle from Germany to France, you must observe certain import regulations. Generally, there are no customs duties, as both Germany and France are EU member states. However, you may have to pay VAT in France if your vehicle is new. It is advisable to consult the relevant authorities in advance to ensure that you have all the necessary documents and comply with all regulations. Our article on emigrating to France provides you with more useful information.
For more information: Please observe reporting obligations and pets regulations
Besides the points already mentioned, there are some other important pieces of information you should consider when moving to France as an EU citizen. Before starting your move, you must de-register from your German municipality within one week. Do not forget to settle any outstanding tax liabilities with the tax office. It is important to complete these formalities in a timely manner to avoid unnecessary issues.
In France, it is mandatory to carry an identity document (passport or ID card). Ensure that your ID is valid and that you always have it with you. This may be required during checks by the police or other authorities. The registration address in Paris is 93, Avenue Parmentier, F-75011 Paris.
If you wish to take pets to France, you must comply with certain regulations. Your pets need a microchip or a tattoo (before 3 July 2011), a rabies vaccination, and an EU pet passport. Check in advance with your veterinarian about the exact requirements and make sure you have all the necessary documents. UTS Germany offers further information on bringing pets to France.
There are certain restrictions on the import of goods into France for items such as cigarettes, cigarillos, cigars, tobacco, spirits, wine, and beer. Inform yourself in advance about the applicable quantity restrictions to avoid problems when entering the country. In France, there is compulsory schooling from the ages of 3 to 16. If you have school-aged children, you will need to enrol them in a French school. Our article on taking money with you when emigrating offers further useful information.
Useful resources: Bundesstelle and EURES offer support
For your move to France as an EU citizen, there are numerous useful resources and contacts that can assist you with planning and execution. The Federal Office for Emigrants and Expatriates provides you with country-specific information and supports you in preparing your move. EURES offers advice on the German-French job market and helps you with job searching. The DAAD supports academic stays and provides you with information on study and research opportunities in France.
The European Consumer Centre Germany (ECC) offers a practical online guide for students and trainees. The Federal Foreign Office provides you with general information and advice, including travel and safety information. These resources can help you optimally prepare your move to France as an EU citizen and consider all important aspects. The German Embassy in Paris is also an important point of contact for German citizens in France.
Here are some of the most important contacts for your move to France as an EU citizen:
Federal Office for Emigrants and Expatriates: Country-specific information and support for preparing your move.
EURES: Advice on the German-French job market and assistance with job searching.
DAAD: Information on study and research opportunities in France.
European Consumer Centre Germany (ECC): Practical online guide for students and trainees.
Federal Foreign Office: General information and advice, including travel and safety information.
Use these resources to make your move to France as an EU citizen as smooth as possible. With good preparation and the right information, there is nothing to stop a successful start to a new life in France. Our article on emigrating offers you further useful information.
Conclusion: With planning, the move to France will be successful
Moving to France as an EU citizen is generally straightforward, but it requires careful planning and preparation. Following the points listed here will ease your start in a new life in France. France offers numerous opportunities and a high quality of life for EU citizens. With good preparation and the right information, nothing stands in the way of a successful move.
We at GoMovin are happy to support you with your move to France as an EU citizen. Our comprehensive service covers all aspects of your relocation, from planning to arrival in your new home. We offer you personal advice, legal support, property services, and help with cultural integration, so you can fully focus on your new beginning.
France offers numerous opportunities and a high quality of life for EU citizens. With good preparation and the right information, nothing stands in the way of a successful move to France as an EU citizen. Use the resources and contacts listed here to optimally prepare your move. And if you need professional support, we are happy to assist you.
Now is the perfect time to plan your move to France as an EU citizen. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive moving services. We look forward to supporting you in your new beginning in France!
Further useful links
The Bundesministerium des Innern und für Heimat provides information on the residency rights for EU citizens in Germany, which is relevant for moving to France.
Europa.eu offers information on registering residence in another EU country.
The Federal Office for Emigrants and Foreign Employment offers country-specific information and supports job searching in France.
FAQ
Which documents do I need as an EU citizen for moving to France?
As an EU citizen, you only need a valid identity card or passport to move to France. A special residence permit is not required. However, it is advisable to apply for a Carte de Séjour (residence card) to facilitate access to certain state benefits.
Do I need a work permit to work in France?
No, as an EU citizen you do not need a work permit to work in France. You can start looking for a job and begin employment directly upon your arrival.
How do I find accommodation in France?
Finding accommodation in France can be challenging, especially in large cities. It is advisable to start your search early and consider various options. To rent, you typically need proof of employment, a French bank account, and possibly a guarantor.
What taxes do I have to pay in France?
As a resident of France, you are generally liable to pay taxes. The amount of income tax depends on your residence, your place of work, and the type of your income. The Franco-German Double Taxation Agreement (DTA) is designed to prevent you from paying taxes on the same income in both countries.
How does health insurance work in France?
The state health insurance (Assurance Maladie) generally covers 70% of the costs. A private supplementary insurance is recommended and often available through employers. To access social security, you need a French social security number (numero de securité social).
Do I have to register my car in France?
Yes, if you plan to bring your car to France, you must register it within a month of moving. Registration is done online through ANTS and requires specific documents.
What registration requirements do I have to consider?
Before moving, you must deregister from your German municipality within a week. In France, it is mandatory to carry identification (passport or identity card).
Where can I find support for planning my move to France?
The Federal Office for Emigrants and Expatriates offers you country-specific information and supports you in preparing for your move. EURES provides advice on the Franco-German job market and helps you with job hunting.
