Moving to France as an expatriate : everything you need to know

Vivienda en Francia con la ayuda de Muter Housing como expatriado

Expatriating to France is an enriching experience, but it also entails a number of formalities, not least finding accommodation and completing administrative formalities. Whether for professional, family or academic reasons, it’s essential to be well-prepared to ensure a smooth and worry-free move.

Given the many complexities involved in settling in France, Muter Loger offers tailor-made support to expatriates, easing every step of their transition. From house-hunting to administrative formalities, from managing subscriptions to integrating into a new environment, our expertise means you can settle in stress-free.

Finding accommodation in France : a key step to a successful move

  1. Accommodation solutions for expatriates

One of the first concerns when moving to France is finding suitable accommodation. Depending on your situation, several options are available :

  • Long-term rental: ideal for those wishing to settle in permanently.
  • Shared accommodation: an economical alternative that allows you to meet other people and facilitate your integration.
  • Temporary residences: suitable for expatriates looking for accommodation until they find a permanent solution.

Thanks to its network of real estate partners, Muter Loger can help you select and reserve a home that meets your criteria. We ensure that your accommodation is close to your workplace, schools or essential services, for a smooth transition.

   2. Administrative procedures for renting a property in France

To rent a property in France, you will need to provide a number of compulsory documents :

  • A valid passport or identity card
  • Employment contract or proof of income
  • Proof of previous address or proof of accommodation
  • A guarantor in France, or a rental guarantee such as Visale.

These formalities can be complex and time-consuming, especially for expatriates who do not master the French system. Muter Loger can help you put together your rental file and negotiate directly with landlords and agencies.

The essential administrative procedures for settling in France

  1. Obtaining a residence permit and registering for public services

Depending on your nationality and the length of your stay, you may need to apply for a residence permit in France. This must be done within two months of your arrival, at the prefecture of your place of residence.

The main documents required are :

  • A valid passport, with visa if required
  • Proof of residence in France (rental contract, electricity bill)
  • Proof of income or employment contract

In addition, you’ll need to open a bank account in France. You’ll also need to take out home insurance. Register with the French social security system for health coverage. Muter Loger can help you with all these formalities, guiding you through the steps and putting you in touch with the right people.

   2. Securing your move with personalized support

Moving to a new country also means managing subscriptions and essential services, such as electricity, water, internet and insurance. This can be a complicated process for expatriates, not least because of differences in regulations and delays in activating services.

With Muter Loger, you benefit from a dedicated concierge service, which takes care of taking out and activating all your contracts. We’ll also take care of cancelling your old subscriptions if you’re coming from another country, so you can settle in hassle-free.

Assistance for expatriates : easing the cost of relocation

  1. Housing assistance for expatriates

Various forms of financial assistance are available to facilitate access to housing in France :

  • APL (Aide Personnalisée au Logement): means-tested assistance to reduce the cost of rent.
  • The Visale scheme: free rental guarantee, covering unpaid rent and facilitating access to housing without a personal guarantor.

Taking advantage of these benefits can be a long and complicated process, especially for new arrivals. Muter Loger can help you put together your application and guide you to maximize your chances of obtaining these benefits.

   2. Support for successful integration

Moving to a new country as an expatriate involves much more than finding accommodation and sorting out administrative formalities. Understanding local customs, infrastructure and public services is essential for rapid integration.

In fact, thanks to our comprehensive support services, we can help you to :

  • Find out about local services: schools, transport, shops, etc.
  • Find expatriate associations and networks to help you integrate
  • Facilitate your children’s schooling and your spouse’s employment.

We provide an interactive guide and a dedicated assistance service to help you adapt to your new life.

Conclusion

Moving to France as an expatriate can seem complex, but with the right support, the transition becomes much simpler. Muter Loger can help you find accommodation, manage your administrative formalities and benefit from available grants, for a stress-free and stress-free move.

Preparing your move to France ? Visit our Muter Loger website or follow us on LinkedIn. Rely on our experts for a smooth and secure transition.