What You Need to Know Before Moving to Paris
Share this post

What You Need to Know Before Moving to Paris

If you’re considering relocating to Paris, you’re in good company. Many expats can only dream of living in the City of Lights, while others actually take the leap and live there, even for a short time. Paris is easy to fall in love with. It has incredible architecture, a rich history and culture, and the laissez-faire attitude that Parisians are famous for. Food is also a pivotal part of French culture, and you’ll find it easy to immerse yourself in this aspect by devouring your weight in delectable cakes and pastries while washing it down with aromatic French coffee or fine French wine.

However, there is more to life in Paris than just enjoying the sights, sounds, and tastes. The good life in Paris, like anywhere, is not free, and if you are planning on making the move to Paris, you will need to fund your Parisian lifestyle. There are also several other administrative things you will need to consider before moving to Paris.

The Need for A Visa

France is pretty flexible when it comes to visitors; most people can enter the country and stay for three months without a visa. However, not all countries’ passports allow you to enter or remain without a visa, so check before traveling. For those wanting to live in Paris, you will need to apply for a residency permit and register with the authorities.

Finding A Job

There are plenty of job prospects for expats in France, especially if you know the language. If you don’t speak French, you’ll find there are fewer jobs for you to choose from unless you already have an established, well-paying remote job. Otherwise, like many other expats, you may be able to find work as an au pair or an English teacher.

It is advisable to find a job before moving to Paris unless you have enough money to see you through several months. Also, remember that France has different residency permits, so you will need to obtain one that allows you to work. You’ll also need to apply for a taxation identification and social security numbers.

Opening a Bank AccountWhat You Need to Know Before Moving to Paris

ATMs and bank cards have made it easy to make purchases and access funds anywhere in the world, but even so, you will need to open a French bank account if you plan on living in Paris for an extended period. Using the cards from your country of origin can incur international fees, which will add up very quickly if you’re not careful. Opening a French bank account will also make it easier to pay your bills as well as make it easier for your employer to pay your wages.

The Cost of Living

No matter how frugal you think you are, the cost of living in a major European city like Paris can be pretty daunting. You may be able to save some pennies on groceries, but you need to factor in the costs of utilities, public transport, and accommodation.

Where to Live

Fortunately, you won’t be left wanting a choice when finding a place to live in Paris. There are many options to choose from, including studio apartments, serviced or furnished apartments or even hotels. The cost of rent generally depends on whether you want short or mid-term rented accommodation and the closeness to the city center. Mid-term rental accommodation is often a better option for people who don’t want to be locked into a contract for too long but also want more stability than a short-term rental or hotel offers.

The decision to live in Paris for any length of time will undoubtedly be a good one as long as you take the time to do a little research so that you fully understand what to expect. By ensuring you are well-prepared before the move, you’ll have covered all the necessary bases and can focus on living like a true Parisian.

Article by

Alla Levin

Seattle-based lifestyle and marketing content creator. I build content funnels that guide your audience from scroll to action, blending storytelling, UGC, and smart strategy—so every piece of content has a purpose.

About Author

Explorialla

Hi, I’m Alla — a Seattle-based lifestyle and marketing content creator. I help businesses and bloggers get more clients through content funnels, strategic storytelling, and high-converting UGC. My content turns curiosity into action and builds lasting trust with your audience. Inspired by art, books, beauty, and everyday adventures!

movies for entrepreneurs

Luxury Brands Marketing: They Don’t Sell Products—They Sell Dreams..

Trending Posts

I Recommend

All the information you need to understand the business world, your career, and marketing. All the information you need to understand the business world, your career, and marketing.

My favorite tools for creators

My favorite Tools for Content Creation

Courses
I recommend

Be Informed, Be Inspired - Join Today

Email

I do the research to understand your customer's journey, pain points, and what moves them to act

I create content funnels rooted in a deep understanding of where readers are in their journey—meeting them with the right message at the right time

I build content journeys that turn curiosity into conversion through storytelling, UGC, and smart funnels

I constantly run CustDev interviews and test what converts best—so every piece of content is backed by real audience insight