Guide to Working in France

Want to work in a country that’s full of history, culture and amazing travel opportunities? Here’s our Guide to Working in France.

Accommodation – How Much Does It Cost to Live in France?

The cost of living in France will vary across areas of the country. However, here are the average rents and bills to help you plan your budget:

Studio Accommodation – One month’s rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Paris would be between €795 - €1095.
One-Bedroom Apartment – One month's rent for a one-bedroom apartment in France across other big cities would be between €450 - €600.
Monthly Utility Bill for Paris – Utilities for one month for 2 people in a 85m2 flat in Paris will cost around €178.
Monthly Utility Bill for Wider France– Utilities for one month for 2 people in 85m2 flat in other big cities will cost around €134.

Transport – How Can You Get Around?

Transportation in France relies on one of the densest networks in the world, with 146km of road and 6.2 km of rail lines per 100 km2. The country is built as a web with Paris at its centre. Rail, road, air and water are all widely developed forms of transportation in France.

In most, if not all, French cities, urban bus services are provided at a flat-rate charge for individual journeys. Many cities have bus services that operate well out into the suburbs or even the country. Fares are normally cheap, but rural services can be limited, especially on weekends.

Working in France offers the opportunity to visit other incredible European countries, which include:

Spain – From incredible landscapes and beaches, to world-famous cuisine and rich history, Spain has it all.
Italy – Travel to Italy to discover spectacular cities, ancient ruins, wonderful museums, soaring mountains, great beaches and beautiful natural scenery.
Monaco – Monaco is a very small country but with a rich history and beautiful landscapes worth visiting.
Belgium – The place to be for any beer or chocolate lover.

Culture

Most people associate French culture with Paris, which is a centre of fashion, cuisine, art and architecture, but life outside of the City of Lights is very different and varies by region. Catholicism is the predominant religion of France. Food and wine are central to life at all socioeconomic levels, and much socializing is done around lengthy dinners. Historically, French culture was influenced by Celtic and Gallo-Roman cultures as well as the Franks, a Germanic tribe. France was initially defined as the western area of Germany known as Rhineland but it later came to refer to a territory that was known as Gaul during the Iron Age and Roman era.

Education

It is compulsory for all children to attend school between the ages of six and 16, with French schooling divided into primary level (école), elementary and middle school (collège) and high school (lycée). Compulsory education is free for everyone.

Taxes

Non-residents usually pay tax on their French-sourced income at a minimum French tax rate of 30%. Property tax for non-residents on the taxable gain of the sale of a French property is 19% for EU citizens and 33.33% for all others.

Pensions

To be entitled to receive any form of French pension you must have worked for at least 10 years in the country, whilst the maximum pension amount can only be claimed after working 40–43 years (depending on when you were born). An old-age pension is never granted automatically: residents must ask for a pension claim form at the relevant institution where you live.

Things to Do in France

The Palace of Versailles has been listed as a World Heritage Site for 30 years and is one of the greatest achievements in French 17th century art.
Verdon Gorge is one of the must-see natural wonders of central Provence.
Disneyland Paris brings the magic for children and families.
The French Riviera is known for its beaches, scenic views and yachts.
The Moulin Rouge is a dazzling and spectacular experience with a lot to see.
Mont-Saint-Michel is a magical island topped by a medieval monastery.

Language

Hi = Salut
Yes = Oui
No = Non
Thank You = Merci
Goodbye = Au revoir
Sorry = Désolé
You're welcome = De rien
How are you ? = comment vas-tu?
Well = Bien
Bad = Ma

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