Moving To France From US

Are you planning Moving to France from USA? At first glance it may appear to be a mammoth task! But here we have prepared a step-by-step moving guide for you that will make this seemingly overwhelming process a doable task.

France is one of the top destinations for the American expats. This European country with its rich socio-cultural heritage and modern day glamour attracts not only tourists but people from all over the world who wish to settle here. From its ancient history, castles, museums, to its fame in global fashion and cuisine, captivating natural charms with high mountains on one side and the vast blue sea on the other, offer an adventure of a lifetime. Who would not like this exciting lifestyle!

However, to move to France from the US you will need to go through proper paperwork’s. Here is this guide you will get all the necessary information that will help you prepare for a smooth international relocation to France. We’ve teamed up with expert international movers and packers to ensure you have all the information needed for a smooth transition.

Contact us and make your move to France as seamless as possible, with insider tips that help you every step of the way.

About France

Officially known as the French Republic, France is a western European nation sharing its border with some of the leading European nations like Germany, Italy, Spain and Belgium, Luxembourg, and the tiny city-state of Monaco. Paris, France’s largest city and capital, shapes the world with its vibrant culture and dynamic economy. As of 2025 France stands at the 9th place for being World’s Largest Economies and is the 2nd largest economy in entire Europe.

France has deep ancient roots, vast historical heritages that encompass art, literature and science. Along with the historical places, like the Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, etc. For centuries, people have recognized France as a global center of fashion and gastronomic art. Chefs in France pioneered haute cuisine and continue to lead the world in culinary innovation. UNESCO has recognized this rich gastronomic tradition as a cultural heritage.

The country is a modern day marvel where history and contemporary lifestyle seamlessly exist. Naturally, this country attracts a large number of tourists from all over the world. No wonder, relocating to France from the USA will be an exciting adventure.

Visa requirement to enter, work and live in France as an American citizen

The Long-stay Visa (VLS-TS) is mandatory for all American citizens who wish to stay in France for more than 90 days. France is a Schengen Area country, which means, as a US citizen you can travel in France and the other neighboring countries within the Schengen Areas, visa-free for 90 days. But any stay more than that will require a proper visa to validate your stay in France. Let us take you through the requirements step-by-step and how you will need to prepare to obtain a visa.

Living in France as an American expat is like a dream. The slower pace of life, high quality lifestyle, work-life balance and irresistible charm of the Mediterranean and Alpine elegance attract American expat to this European country. There are different types of visas available that you can avail when you are planning an international relocation to France from the USA.

The Long Stay Visas

In this category there are visitor visas and work permits.

The Visitor Visa for Long Stay in France

This visa allows one to stay in France for a period between 3 months to 1 year. The long-stay visitor visa will also act as a temporary residency permit. This type of visa will be suitable for digital nomads or retirees. However, you must submit specific documents to apply for a long-stay visitor visa. These include –

• A valid health insurance
• A proof of accommodation in France
• Financial resources that can support the visa holder for the duration of the stay

The Work Permit for Long Stay in France

This is one of the most sought after visa categories for the American expats seeking long term stay in France. To avail a work permit to work and stay in France for a long term you will need to have a job offer from a French employer. After you have the job offer then your employer will have to initiate the process for the work visa via the France immigration office (OFII).

As an applicant for this visa you will have to show the proof of employment, which in this case will be the work contract.

Talent Passport – Visa for highly skilled professionals

Highly skilled professionals can obtain this visa, and entrepreneurs and investors are also eligible to apply. The visa is valid for four years, during which holders receive a residence permit for the same duration.

Student Visa

If you wish to study and live in France then the student visa option is applicable. However, you must first gain acceptance from an educational institution to apply for a student visa. You will be able to stay in France for the duration of the course. The proofs that you will need to furnish include –

• University acceptance letter
• Proof of financial support or enough fund to support your stay in France
• Proof of accommodation in France
• Proof of tuition.

There are many French educational institutions that will help their students with the visa application process.

Family Reunion Visa

This visa is applicable to those who wish to reunite with a family member settled in France. There are different categories under this visa type, which takes into consideration the nationality and residential status of your family member staying in France. For instance,

• Whether your family member is an EU/EEA national,
• Whether the family member is French,
• Whether your family member is not French but residing in France

The supporting documents and assessment of the familial relation will differ based on these considerations.

Once you know which visa type you are applying for, you need to start the application process. You will have to apply through the official France-Visas website. Once you obtain the visa and arrive in France you will need to complete a validation process online to obtain a residence permit (carte de séjour). This is applicable for all the long stay visa types.

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Working in France as an American expat

Working and living in France can be exciting. There are a number of industries in France where there are notable requirements for skilled foreign professionals. Some of these sectors are –

• Manufacturing – A shortage of skilled professionals in the manufacturing industry drives high demand and opens excellent career opportunities.
• Energy – In the energy sector there are considerable requirements for adaptable and skilled foreign workers.
• Technology & IT – Software developers, engineers are in high demand in the French IT & Technology sectors.
• Healthcare – France constantly demands well-trained health professionals, such as nurses and physicians, creating lucrative opportunities for American expats.
• Hospitality & Tourism – France is a global tourist hub. There are high demands of trained hospitality staff in this sector all over France.

However, locations play a major role when it comes to the availability of lucrative work opportunities in France for Americans. You’ll find more work opportunities in urban locations than in rural areas. Capital city Paris is a major job hub for multiple job opportunities. Other major locations where one can find good work opportunities include – Lyon, Marseille etc.

Top French Cities for Your Move

Thinking about moving to France? Our international household moving company can assist in easing the transition, ensuring your move is as smooth as possible. Whichever city you choose, France promises a rich and fulfilling experience. Choosing the right city is crucial, and each offers unique benefits. You can explore more about where expats find the best places to live in France to get a sense of what suits your lifestyle best. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

Paris

Ideal for those seeking vibrant nightlife and cultural experiences. It’s a top choice for Americans moving to France, although it can be on the pricier side.

For families and professionals alike, understanding the different Paris neighborhoods for American expats helps highlight areas that balance city life with community amenities. These neighborhoods combine convenience, safety, and a welcoming environment, making them popular choices for Americans settling in Paris.

Brittany

Offers affordability without sacrificing charm, making it a great option for budget-conscious movers.

Lyon

The go-to city for culinary enthusiasts. If you love French cuisine, Lyon should be on your list.

Montpellier

Excellent for families, offering a welcoming community and a variety of educational resources.

Luberon

Perfect if you’re looking for tranquility and a slower pace of life amidst picturesque landscapes.

Cost of living in France

When you choose to live in France for a long period of time or seek residential status, it is always better to know the daily expenses and budget accordingly. The daily cost of living in France is largely dependent on the location you choose for your stay. Cosmopolitan France will spike the daily cost of living compared to the smaller city or county areas. Lifestyle is another major factor that influences the cost of living.

These daily cost points can guide you in calculating your budget for everyday expenses in France.

Accommodation

If you are living alone then the monthly expense for a single room apartment can be anywhere between €300 to €500. For a couple the cost may go up to €2,800 to €4,500. Consider the fact that renting a studio apartment through a public institution, which can cost around €800 to €1,200 can be a cheaper option than renting a single room apartment, which may cost you up to €1200. 

Food

Based on your lifestyle, consumables cost per month can range anywhere in between €300-400 for a single person and €600-700 for a couple. Eating out at restaurants can also push the cost up. However, this factor will again be based on the location you are choosing to live. 

Utilities

The monthly expenses for gas, internet connection, electricity and water for a single person can go up to €100-120 while for a couple it may range in between €200-300. 

Transport

If you live close to your workplace and choose to avail public transport then the monthly cost €60-140 based on whether you are a single person or couple. Getting a public transport pass will be more treasonable. In Paris for a year a public transport pass can cost around €333.90. 

Healthcare

Compared to America, healthcare facilities and costs are more reasonable in France. You need to have acceptable healthcare insurance while living in France as an American expat. 

Leisure & entertainment

Eating out, sight-seeing, leisure travel, movie outing, fitness membership – all these will add up to your daily budget and are dependable on your lifestyle choices. Roughly a movie ticket can cost around €11 and a monthly gym membership can cost around €40. 

Top Benefits of Living in France

Living in France as an American expat requires consideration for the socio-cultural differences and adaptability to these differences. There are some key areas you need to be aware of and work on your social skills, which will prove to be beneficial. Here we list a few –

Work-life Balance

In France the work-week is 35 hours and paid vacation time. There is a clear distinction between work and personal life. In France, employees enjoy the legal right to disconnect from work once the workday ends.

Adapting to these norms will be essential when you settle down in France after your relocation.

One deciding factor for employee retention across the globe is the work-life balance. However, individual companies often provide work-life balance. But when a country as a whole dictate that their citizens will lead a healthy lifestyle, nothing can compare that benefit! Fortunately for you, France is a country with a healthy work-life balance is a mandate. Moving to France from USA will feel a great decision when we disclose these facts –

• On an average the French workers get 5 weeks of paid vacation every year
• There are also additional holidays of 9 or 11 paid days
• French workers also receive paid sick leave at 100% of their pay packages.
• France even has the parental leave and it is valid until the child turns 3 years old.

Your decision to move from the USA to this European country will definitely feel like a worthy one after this!

Job Stability

After work-life balance comes another great motivator for considering moving to France from USA – job stability. In France, there are 2 types of employment contracts:

• Indefinite term contracts (the CDI)
• Fixed-term contracts (CDD)

By default, the French employers offer CDI. If they offer CDD they have to justify the reason. Moreover, a CDD is valid for up to only 18 months. Once this duration is over the employer either has to offer CDI or go for termination of contract in which case they have to pay part of the social benefits. This preference for CDI makes job stability one of the key advantages of working in France.

Understanding how the French job market works, including the types of roles available and industries hiring, is easier when you explore jobs in France for Americans – giving a practical sense of opportunities that come with stable contracts.

Language and Social Norms

While English is common in major cities and international organizations, mastering French is crucial for forming social connections and navigating everyday life. Overall, the pace of life in France is slower. For example, the French use mealtime to connect socially, rather than feeling guilty about productivity. Additionally, you may find fewer 24-hour grocery stores compared to the U.S., so adapting to these changes will be necessary.

Bureaucracy

Be mentally prepared for long bureaucratic procedures. When you are going through paperwork’s for your residency or visa there will be heavy paperwork and may take longer than expected. In these cases, having patience will help you adapt to the process.

Exceptional Healthcare Facility

Relocation to France from the USA is definitely a “healthy” decision! How so? Because healthcare takes the central stage in citizen wellbeing plans in France. In this leading European country healthcare for all is a basic right. The social security law in France mandates that everyone who lives in France for more than 3 months can avail affordable healthcare facilities, and this extends to students and travelers on visitor’s visas.

CPAM in France is known as the public healthcare system. While CPAM covers the majority of healthcare costs, French nationals also take out top-up insurance, known as “Mutuelle.” This helps them to account for additional healthcare expenses.

Here is a list of the key features in the French Healthcare system – 

Carte Vitale – This is the national health insurance card. Having this card means your medical expenses will be reimbursed.

Protection Universelle Maladie (PUMA) – This healthcare protection rule was introduced in 2016 and mandates continuous medical and health coverage for all French legal residents. 

Mutuelle (Complementary Health Insurance) – This is a top-up insurance, which one can opt voluntarily but is highly recommended. As an American expat you can check this policy for full coverage. 

Weather and Climate Conditions

France is notable for having different climate and weather, which again may vary based on the different regions. You may get to enjoy a temperate climate in the metropolitan areas of France while there are marked variations in the climate in the western and eastern part of France. 

In the eastern part of France you will find continental climate, which is marked by warm summers and cold winters. 

However, in the western areas of France, which is along the Atlantic ocean, you will notice oceanic weather, marked by moderate summers and wet winters. 

The southern part of France has a Mediterranean climate. Here you will find summer months to be hot and humid and winter months are mild and usually dry. 

Based on which part of France you are going to stay, pack your clothing accordingly and be prepared in advance.

Dual Nationality

I am sure when you decided to move to France from USA you have researched the benefits extensively that you will be getting in this leading European country. If not, let us assist you. France allows you to have dual or even multiple nationalities. When you reside in the country for 5 years and have B1 level French language skill along with a clear background devoid of any criminal proceedings against you, you can apply for permanent residency. Once acquired you can pass on your French nationality to your children, as well. There are ample perks of obtaining a French nationality.

High Quality of Life

Needless to say, with job security, work-life balance, reliable healthcare system, high quality of education and many more social benefits, France offers one of the best quality of life among other countries in the whole world. Naturally, moving to France from USA is a great decision whether you are moving alone or relocating your entire family.

When moving with children, planning for family needs becomes especially important. From schooling options to childcare and local services, understanding how to settle your household effectively can make the transition smoother. For practical tips on navigating life with children and raising a family abroad, you can refer to Raising a Family in France – Guide for Expats, which covers education, activities, and family-friendly neighborhoods.

However, while moving to France from USA, especially when your family is accompanying you, one may need assistance in moving automobiles or household good. You can check the household goods shipping advice here and get more insights for a hassle-free relocation to France.

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Customs Regulations for Moving to France

Documents Required for Entry

• Passport
• Original Visa, Residence and Work Permit (requirement may vary according to nationality)
• Certificate of Change of Residence obtained from the French Consulate with Customers signature indicating dates of stay abroad
• Attestation de non-cession (signed original stating Customer has lived abroad for at least one year, has owned all items for more than six months, and that goods will not be sold for twelve months)
• Proof of residence in France (Certificate of Residence, lease contract or utility bills)
• Letter of professional transfer from employer indicating date of employment abroad
• Valued inventory in French (valued in French Francs) dated and signed by Customer — three copies
• Inventory must indicate contents of each carton
  • List all electrical items separately (purchase invoices required) must show brand name and serial number
• Delivery address in France with access, floor, entry code if any

Customs Regulations

• Used household goods duty-free if owned abroad for six months, if the owner is moving his principal residence to France, and the items arrive within one year from the arrival date reflected on the Change of Residence
• Regulations are different if the Customer is establishing a secondary residence
• If SECOND shipment anticipated, it must be stated at the time of the first importation
• Inheritance:
  • Declaration from notary with inventory of goods, date of death, relationship & French Resident
  • The goods must be shipped within one year from date of death
• Wedding presents:
  • Marriage Certificate and French Resident Permit
  • Goods must be shipped within one month of wedding
• Students
  • Official attestation of attendance at school or university. The scholars goods must be shipped within one month from date of registration at school or university.

Dutiable/Restricted Items

• Alcohol must be inventoried separately with brand name, type, amount, number of bottles, and value (Import License or Liquor License may be required)
• Tobacco products are allowed, but subject to duty or tax
• New items (less than six months old) are subject to tax if arriving from EEC countries or tax and duties if coming from other countries and must be documented with sales invoices
• Works of Art, oil paintings, sculptures, antiques, etc. should have Certificate of Authenticity
• Video tapes, fax machines, telex machines and books will be held temporarily by customs until necessary authorization is obtained for each item

Prohibited Items

• Paints, polishes, and cleaning solvents
• Drugs and narcotics
• Live plants
• Ivory, all animal skins
• Pornographic material
• Explosives & matches
• Guns, weapons and ammunition are highly regulated, and require various registrations and certificates and have the authorization from the French Defense Ministry (provide make, caliber, serial number and purpose)
  • Some weapons strictly prohibited
  • Do not ship with household goods

Motor Vehicles

• Expatriates who intend to remain in France for a period of time may import one auto duty-free as personal effects
• Foreigners may import an auto duty-free provided the owner has been living abroad for more than one year, the car has been owned for six months prior to import, and the car is correctly registered as a commercial car
• Auto must not be disposed of within two years of entry into France
• MUST BE LISTED ON INVENTORY (giving year, make, model, chassis engine, horse power and registration numbers)
• Certain makes are not permitted
• Vehicle must pass inspection for compliance with French standards and must be road-worthy
• Documents required:
  • Purchase Invoice (original)
  • Original title showing owners name and vehicle serial number (original)
  • Insurance Certificate from French insurer
  • Registration Card (original)
  • Plate numbers

Pets

• Must be at least three months old
• Subject to quarantine
• Endangered species and exotic animals prohibited
• Pets should be accompanied by their owner with vaccination card and certificate of good health

NOTE – Customs regulations are subject to change at any time. The proceeding information is a brief summary of customs regulations applicable to household goods shipments to this destination and is being provided for general guidance to assist our Agents and Customers. Since such regulations are subject to change without notice, We are not cannot be held liable for any costs, damage, delays, or other detrimental events resulting from non-compliance. Always double check with your local embassy or consulate.

How We Simplify Your Move to France

Any international move can be overwhelming! International moving requires proper documentation for yourself, your belongings, and even your pets. Key factors like cost, time, and safety also play an important role. At International Sea & Air Shipping, we provide complete services for household goods shipping to France, ensuring everything is handled efficiently from start to finish.

Our experienced and insured professionals manage the entire process from the USA to France. Moreover, we handle every detail to guarantee a smooth, hassle-free relocation, so that you can concentrate on settling into your new home.

Container Shipping Solutions

At International Sea & Air Shipping, we design our container shipping services to make your move to France both efficient and secure. We offer a range of container sizes to suit different volumes of household goods, ensuring the right fit for your needs. Our containers are strong, weather-resistant, and provide excellent protection for your belongings throughout the journey.

With both full-container-load (FCL) and less-than-container-load (LCL) options, we tailor the service to the scale of your move. This approach keeps costs low, streamlines logistics, and gives you complete peace of mind, knowing we handle your possessions with care from start to finish.

Comprehensive Packing Services

We understand that packing for an international move requires careful planning and precision. Our professional packing services for overseas shipping ensure every item—from delicate glassware to bulky furniture – is securely prepared for its journey to France using top-quality materials and proven techniques.

With our expert team handling your belongings, you can focus on preparing for your new life abroad. This service not only saves you time but also eliminates the stress of packing, giving you peace of mind knowing your household items are in safe hands.

Specialized Piano Moving Services

Moving a piano internationally involves unique challenges due to its size, weight, and sensitivity. At International Sea & Air Shipping, we offer specialized piano moving services to ensure your instrument arrives in France in pristine condition.

Our skilled international piano movers carefully handle and transport pianos, using custom crating and padding to protect them from impacts and vibrations during transit. We coordinate with international regulations to manage all necessary documentation and customs requirements, making the process seamless for you.

Arts and Antiques

For art lovers, the Louvre Museum, the world’s largest art museum, is a must-visit. Interested in fine art shipping services? They ensure treasures like those at the Louvre are preserved and transported with care. And let’s talk about the food – France is famous for its culinary delights, including 25,000 tones of snails consumed each year and over 1,500 types of cheese. Each bite tells a story of tradition and taste that’s uniquely French. So, whether you’re here for the culture, the cuisine, or both, moving to France offers a rich tapestry of experiences that await your discovery.

Wrapping Up: Your Next Steps to Moving to France from the US

Moving to France is exciting but can come with challenges. Take time to settle in, connect with locals and expatriates, and explore your new surroundings. Keep practical guides handy and rely on professional international movers and packers to make your relocation smoother.

Embrace the adventure of building a new life, enjoying France’s culture, and creating lasting memories. With the right planning and support, your move will be worth every effort. Contact us today for expert help and make your transition to France a success!

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