FRANCE
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Big Dreams, Big Questions - The Adventure Begins
Starting a new life somewhere new is exciting… and a little terrifying. When that move involves packing up and heading to another country, those feelings can be amplified even more. You might be dreaming of slower days, better food and a fresh start, while at the same time worrying about paperwork, language barriers, and how it will all actually work in real life. That mix of excitement, nerves and endless questions is completely normal.
Moving to France comes with its own learning curve from understanding the systems, adapting to the culture, to finding the right place to live, and getting to grips with everyday life. It can feel overwhelming at first, but it’s also the beginning of something incredibly rewarding. With the right information and support, what feels daunting now can become an exciting and achievable adventure.
At A New Life in France, we’ve been exactly where you are now. We’re here to guide you through the process, step by step, with clear, honest and practical information and advice.
This page is designed to give you a clear, reassuring overview of what life in France involves and the key things you need to think about before making the move. It’s not here to overload you — instead, it introduces the main topics and points you towards our comprehensive guide, where everything is explained in detail. If you’re at the start of your journey, you’re in the right place.
MOVING TO FRANCE 2026
Our Complete Guide to Moving to France (2026) is designed to support you at every stage of your journey, from those first early questions through to feeling truly settled in your new life. It takes you step by step through the practicalities of moving while also helping you understand what life in France is really like once the paperwork is done!
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Why even consider France?
France has long captured the imagination of people looking for a better quality of life and for good reason. Beyond the postcard views and famous cuisine, France offers a way of living that prioritises balance, wellbeing and everyday enjoyment.
From long lunches and lively local markets to strong public services and a deep sense of community, life in France often feels refreshingly different. Healthcare is widely regarded as one of the best in the world, infrastructure is reliable, and even small towns tend to have schools, medical services and shops close by.
Just as importantly, France offers incredible variety. Whether you’re drawn to countryside living, coastal towns, vibrant cities or mountain regions, there’s somewhere that suits almost every lifestyle and budget.
The full guide explores lifestyle, costs and what day-to-day life in France really looks like.
ARE YOU PLANNING ON MOVING MONEY TO OR FROM FRANCE?
Currency transfers are an important step in the house buying journey. It is key to get all the information you need beforehand, so you aren’t missing out when it comes to the transfer. We can put you in touch with our currency partner to save you time and money in the long run…
THE MOVING TO FRANCE GUIDE 2026
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Visas & Residency – The Basics
For many people, visas are the most daunting part of moving to France — but with the right preparation, they don’t need to be.
If you’re not an EU citizen, you’ll usually need a long-stay visa to live in France for more than 90 days. There are different visa options depending on whether you plan to work, study, retire, run a business or live in France without working.
Most visas are applied for before you move, and some require additional steps once you arrive in France. Understanding which route applies to you early on can save time, stress and unnecessary costs.
Healthcare in France
Healthcare is often one of the biggest worries when moving abroad — and one of the biggest pleasant surprises about living in France. France has a universal healthcare system that provides high-quality medical care at a relatively low cost. Once legally resident, most people can access public healthcare, with the state reimbursing a large portion of medical expenses. Many residents also choose a private top-up policy, known as a mutuelle, to cover additional costs.
Doctors, pharmacies and hospitals are widely accessible, and emergency care is excellent. While the system works differently from private healthcare models, most newcomers quickly find it reassuring and efficient.
Where Will You Live?
One of the most exciting parts of planning a move to France is deciding where to live and one of the most personal. France offers extraordinary regional diversity. Northern regions tend to be cooler and greener, while the south enjoys Mediterranean sunshine. Some people are drawn to lively cities with international connections, while others dream of quiet villages, vineyards or coastal towns.
Cost of living, access to healthcare, transport links, language, climate and lifestyle all play a role in choosing the right location. There is no single “best” place to live — only the place that fits your plans and priorities.
Property & Housing
Whether you plan to rent first or buy straight away, France offers a wide range of housing options — from city apartments and townhouses to rural farmhouses and coastal homes.
Foreigners are legally allowed to buy property in France, and the buying process is structured and secure, overseen by a notaire (a state-appointed legal official). Renting is also common, particularly for those who want time to explore different regions before committing.
Property prices and running costs vary significantly by location, with far better value often found outside major cities.
Families, Schooling & Everyday
France is a family-oriented country, and education is taken seriously. Public schooling is free, well-regarded and widely available, while private and international schools offer alternative options, particularly in larger cities. French schools tend to be more academic and structured than some other systems, and lessons are usually taught in French. For children who don’t yet speak the language, additional support options are available.
Beyond schooling, everyday life in France may feel different at first from shop opening hours to administrative processes but many people grow to appreciate the rhythm and routines of French life.
Retiring to France
Retiring to France is a realistic and increasingly popular choice for people seeking a slower pace of life, excellent healthcare and rich culture.
Retirees are drawn by affordable living outside major cities, access to the healthcare system, and the opportunity to enjoy food, travel and community life. Many people continue to receive their pensions from abroad while living in France.
Most non-EU retirees apply for a long-stay visitor visa and transition into the French healthcare system after arrival.
Taxes, Insurance & Practicalities
Moving to France also means adapting to a new administrative system — including taxes, insurance and official registrations.
Your tax position depends on residency status and income sources, and France has tax treaties with many countries to prevent double taxation. Certain types of insurance, such as home and car insurance, are mandatory, while others are strongly recommended.
This side of life in France can feel complex at first, but understanding the basics early on makes everything smoother.
Ready to Go Deeper?
This page gives you an overview of what moving to France involves — but the real confidence comes from understanding the details.
Our Complete Guide to Moving to France (2026) walks you through every stage of the journey, from planning and paperwork to settling in and building a life you love.
A New Life in France is part of A New Life Overseas, helping you explore your options and move forward with clarity and confidence — wherever your next chapter takes you.
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