Urban Index: Good day, Enrico! Thank you for taking the time to share your experiences with us. Let’s start with a bit about yourself!
Enrico: Thank you for having me! I’m Enrico, a 28-year-old originally from Italy. I took the leap and moved to France in 2021 after a transformative Erasmus experience.
Moving to France
Urban Index: Moving countries is a significant decision. What motivated you to make the move to France?
Enrico: There were two major driving forces behind my decision to move to France: love and work. I was drawn to the French approach to work, which seemed more accommodating for people like me who pursued a non-specialized academic path (I studied history). In addition, since I was 13, I had dreamt of living in Paris – the city’s allure was irresistible.
Urban Index: It sounds like a blend of personal aspirations and practical considerations guided your choice. Did you do any research or preparation before making the move? Were there any unique challenges stemming from your Italian background that you encountered?
Enrico: Certainly! I attempted to secure an apartment prior to my arrival, but it proved challenging due to the budget constraints and landlords’ stringent requirements in Paris. However, my luck changed as my boyfriend, being French, provided invaluable support.
Urban Index: Could you tell us about the specific neighbourhood in Paris where you chose to settle?
Enrico: I chose the 19th arrondissement because I am essentially a rive-droite person (the right bank of the Seine). I prefer the vibes, the activities to do and the variation of the north bank. The 19th arrondissement offers a blend of vibes, diverse activities, and a rich variety that resonated with me. Within this district, you can encounter the classic essence of Paris coexisting with modern architecture, along with parks and serene spots that contribute to the district’s unique character.
Urban Index: Arriving in a new country can be quite the experience. What was your first week like in France? Did you experience any culture shock?
Enrico: My first week was a whirlwind of emotions – it was almost surreal realizing that my long-held dream of living in Paris had come true. The most striking culture shock was the age dynamics in the workplace; in Italy, things tend to move a bit slower on the work front.
The French Language
Urban Index: Language often plays a significant role. Did you face any language barriers? In other words, did you learn French before moving?
Enrico: I had studied French during middle school, which gave me a foundation. However, the greatest language aid came from my relationship with my French boyfriend. His support immensely helped me navigate language barriers.
Urban Index: Dealing with administrative tasks in a new country can be daunting. Did you have to interact much with the French administration? Were there any amusing anecdotes or challenges you faced?
Enrico: Ah, the French administration – a tale of its own! For instance, I’ve had my fair share of dealings, particularly with the Assurance Maladie. The process is often slow, communication is minimal, and digitalization isn’t fully embraced. The phone wait times can be exasperating (>60 minutes).
On the bright side, I did have a positive experience with the tax office, where responsiveness and redirection to the right resources were commendable.
Urban Index: Finding work in a foreign land can be an adventure. How did you go about finding employment in France?
Enrico: Friends directed me to the “Welcome to the Jungle” website, a fantastic resource for job hunting. It proved invaluable in connecting me with opportunities that suited my profile.
Urban Index: Accommodation and adjusting to living costs are crucial aspects. How did you find a suitable home in France, and how did the cost of living compare to Italy?
Enrico: Over two years, I changed apartments four times – a journey that wasn’t without its stresses. Initially, budget constraints were a hurdle. As I grew accustomed, I noticed that the cost of living especially in Paris, was noticeably higher than in Italy. Having lived in Milan (where costs are also elevated), the change wasn’t too much of a shock.
Urban Index: Forming connections and integrating socially is vital. How did you go about making friends in your new country?
Enrico: Much of my friendships sprouted from work, where an international atmosphere facilitated interactions. While most experiences were positive, nonetheless, there were instances where the reserved nature of some French individuals made socialization more challenging. This may be attributed to their apprehension about speaking English.
If you visit any city in France during August, you’ll notice that a lot of businesses close for the month. Especially small shops, bakeries and restaurants. This is because August is a significant holiday period in France, many people take their annual vacations during this time.
Our holiday tradition is deeply ingrained within the French culture. The French call it “la fermeture estivale” or “les grandes vacances.” The summer vacation period typically runs from late July to the end of August. It’s peak is usually in the first three weeks of August.
That we are able to take a holiday for this long, is linked to labour laws in France. Here, if we are employed, we are entitled to several paid public holidays and annual leave days, which are legally mandated. Here are just some of these holidays (not yet mentioning RTT):
In total, there are 11 public holidays, also known as “jours fériés,” including:
New Year’s Day (Jour de l’An)
Easter Monday (Lundi de Pâques)
Labour Day (Fête du Travail) on May 1st
Victory in Europe Day (Victoire 1945) on May 8th
Ascension Day (L’Ascension)
Whit Monday (Lundi de Pentecôte)
Bastille Day (Fête Nationale) on July 14th
Assumption Day (Assomption) on August 15th
All Saints’ Day (La Toussaint) on November 1st
Armistice Day (Armistice 1918) on November 11th
Christmas Day (Noël) on December 25th.
In addition to the public holidays there are the CP, congés payés. The legal minimum paid vacation days for full-time employees in France depend on their contract and status. Employees who have worked <1 year typically receive two and a half working days of vacation for each month worked. Employees who have worked for >1 year receive a minimum of 30 working days of paid vacation per year. It’s worth mentioning that many employers offer additional vacation days beyond the mandatory requirements.
At this point, I would also like to mentioned that there are other types of leaves. If you are ill (congé maladie), if you are off on maternity or paternity leave (congé maternité/paternité) or parental leave in general (congé parental) during the birth or adoption of a child.
So, what do French people do on holiday? It’s common for many to travel within France and discover beautiful destinations such as Bretagne, Les Calanques, Biarritz, Côte Azur and more.
Some employers make it mandatory to take at least 2 weeks leave during August, so many take advantage of this to travel abroad to faraway destinations such a Sri Lanka, Kenya, Indonesia, the USA or New Zealand.
Urban Index: Hello Antje! Tell us how you came to France!
Antje: I had the opportunity to enrol in a double master’s programme at the European University Viadrina in Germany as part of my master’s programme. That’s when I chose France, because I had five years of French at school and I thought, my English is relatively good, why not live in a French-speaking country? So I applied in a city called Reims, which I neither knew nor could pronounce correctly and which is apparently in the Champagne region of France. I then spent six months there at the NEOMA Business School in Reims, where I met a very nice Frenchman (we’re still together, too!).
For NEOMA, I then had to do another internship and I chose L’Oréal in Paris. Funnily enough, my boss’s boss, my N+2 as they like to say in France, was also at NEOMA! I also discovered what a difference it makes to have been at the right university. The French school system, I didn’t know this at all, didn’t know that there are good and bad universities here and that it really has an impact on how quickly you find the job. I had applied once before to L’Oréal from Germany, but I didn’t even make it to the preliminary round. For my internship in France, I only had 2 interviews, even though the company is flooded with applications. I was certainly not the best, but I think the combination of my French university and my international profile opened a lot of doors for me.
Antje: I then wrote my Master’s thesis in Germany again. Since I didn’t want to have a long-distance relationship, I decided relatively quickly to move in with my boyfriend, who was doing an internship in Paris. I was still enrolled as a student and was therefore able to apply for an internship again. I also thought that I would find something faster that way than a full-time job and that I would be able to get a better foothold in the city that way. Going back to L’Oréal was not an option for me, because they couldn’t offer me a job in 6 months when I was still working there, and in general I didn’t like the industry and the work in such a big company. So I wanted a change of direction and found a start-up on Welcome to the Jungle that needed German-speaking employees.
I did Operations and Supply Business for the German market, which was super fun and I absolutely loved the colleagues and the ambience, the only problem was that my bosses didn’t understand German and I had to constantly explain to them what I was doing and what was so different about the German market than the French. Unfortunately, there wasn’t the possibility to take me on full-time there and I really thought afterwards that it was over with my exciting French adventure.
It’s relatively difficult to start a career in France and since I don’t speak French fluently, it was almost impossible for me. But my friend didn’t want to give up so quickly and searched for jobs for “German-speakers” at the Career Centre of our university. There, a job was offered by the provider of this platform, called JobTeaser. An alumni was looking for German-speaking support for his current team, so I applied straight away. The position suited me extremely well and appealed to me, and it worked out right away. That was really lucky.
Antje: I had a pre-screening over the phone and then four rounds of interviews, with my future boss and a German-speaking colleague (to check that I wasn’t impersonating someone else!), a member of HR, a Head of Department and finally with one of the two founders. Here I had the feeling that the company was more interested in the cultural differences between Germany and France, which immediately motivated me even more.
So I directly got a permanent French employment contract (CDI) there. Fortunately, that wasn’t a problem because as a German here in the Schengen area, I can also choose my employer across the border. The only thing that was a bit difficult was the health insurance, because I had to cancel mine in Germany and already be covered by the French one. Luckily, thanks to NEOMA, I was very well prepared for these administrative hurdles and had taken my trilingual birth certificate with me directly from Germany, which is available from the city at no extra charge. That is indispensable for the beginning!
The application was super relaxed, with my employment contract and birth certificate and thanks to my French colleague from HR, who took great care of me. After my dossier was sent to Assurance Maladie, it took about four weeks until I received my health insurance number, which I could then use to log in to the Ameli portal to apply for my Carte Vitale. With this number, I could then also leave the German insurance.
In October, it will be five years that I have been working at JobTeaser, and I am now in my third position: I started as technical support for the German market, so I had mainly German-speaking customers, and at some point I took on account management tasks. Then I had the opportunity to switch to the product team, where I have been for two years. Now I don’t work for Germany or in an international team, my daily work is mostly in French, but since everyone speaks English in theory, the transition was very pleasant.
Urban Index: How are things outside of work? Have you been able to settle in well?
Antje: Luckily, thanks to NEOMA, I already had 1-2 friends here in Paris. Others I met through the two internships, so I had friends virtually straight away at the beginning. Of course, it was also incredibly helpful to be in a relationship with a French person. Funnily enough, this has changed a bit over the years. Today I have met more Germans, often they were friends, and since you have the same cultural background, you get to talk very quickly and often just have the same problems.
To do some sport here, I signed up for a tennis club. I had never played tennis before, but I wanted to have a regular sport. It was funny, their website was completely in English, but the courses were all in French. I was very shy at first, but gradually made friends with the people.
Antje: Most of my French friends here speak very good English. They are also interested in international friends, sometimes even in Germany specifically, e.g. because they did an exchange there. That’s often really nice!
I also found out about Apéros Frenchies through my German friends and was taken there sometimes, which was really cool. They organise event series that are specifically focused on expats, which is always super fun. Through the same group, I also found out about the Kiin running group, which meets every Sunday to jog along the Seine. The group is predominantly Anglo, which I find quite pleasant from time to time so that I don’t lose my English, and these people are often super open and welcoming, so that’s also great fun! There are really a lot of opportunities to meet people here. I also tried Bumble BFF, because of my boyfriend I never really got to know the dating scene in Paris, but I was able to meet people outside of my work.
I get on really well with my colleagues and I’m lucky enough to work in an industry where we’re all the same age, but sometimes you still want to break out of your bubble. Bumble BFF is great for that, it works really well, but it’s like online dating in general: you have to be into it. The best people are those who have just arrived in Paris, then it’s not weird at all to meet because they’re also looking for a connection and you can plan things together, like going to a museum or something.
Urban Index: What is the worst thing that happened to you in France?
Antje: What was really difficult at the beginning was that I didn’t really know French. You’re often confronted with that and it simply takes time to master the language, and you have to stick with it. I used Duolingo diligently at the beginning, had language courses from work, tried to read French books, etc., but I always found my limits, even now. You just need a lot of patience and stamina, because you quickly feel left out if you don’t understand the people around you.
On the whole, though, I’ve had rather positive experiences here. One misfortune that happened to me recently was that my wallet was stolen at the Fête des Vendanges in Montmartre. I’ve always been careful, but since nothing ever happened to me before, I just got careless. It happened very quickly in the crowd, I was really drunk and just wasn’t paying attention. Suddenly my wallet was gone and I had already received text messages about some suspicious activity. The thieves must have gone straight round the corner to the next shop and used the contactless payment function with all the cards I had in it to withdraw €50 each time. By the time I blocked all the cards from my phone, €350 was gone, plus €50 in cash, not to mention all the cards and IDs.
The next day, full of anger, I immediately filled out a Pré-Plainte En Ligne, i.e. pre-filled the police report (thanks to DeepL). That worked great and the police station called me back later that day to make an appointment with me to sign it so I would have proof for my bank and insurance.
Urban Index: The whole thing, from A to Z, has now taken how long?
Antje: That actually worked. The most annoying thing was actually getting the money back from my bank in Germany. I have Boursorama in France, they refunded it within two days. It took a week for me to sign the notice. Two days for Boursorama, then I applied for a new German driving licence, you can do that by post, that was all no problem. The Deutsche Bank then took another 2-3 weeks and asked again about the pin number, which had nothing to do with it, but in the end the refund worked there too.
Urban Index: You got it all back because you blocked your cards in time?
Antje: No, simply because it was a robbery, I was insured. They had charged me €100 once and €150 once in increments of 50, and you can’t deactivate this contactless payment, at least not at my German bank. The only thing I didn’t get back was my debits from my Ticket Resto card. I guess you have to sort that out with the state and not with the provider, which in my case is Swile.
Urban Index: What advice would you give to other Germans who want to emigrate to France?
Antje: You have to want it. I don’t think France is an easy country to emigrate to if you just want to go somewhere else. Many Germans I meet here are here because of their partner, some because they are just super Francophiles. But then they often already know French very well and have this passion for French culture. I think you should have one of these anchor points.
Financially, I find France rather uninteresting financially, because at least back when I emigrated, you earned much better in Germany and the cost of living was much lower. The culture is also special. Personally, I have had mostly positive experiences, the people are very nice, but you can sometimes feel left out because you simply have a different background in many things. You didn’t grow up with the same series and films, you don’t understand some jokes. And a lot of French people just love that French music from the 80s, I don’t think I’ll ever understand that, even though I can at least sing along to some lyrics like Partenaire Particulier at parties now.
Antje: What particularly binds me here to Paris and France in general is that the people are incredibly social. It’s relatively easy to get into conversation with people, at least in a superficial way. There’s just this collective feeling here in every kind of constellation, be it with work colleagues, friends or neighbours.
Besides, the French have an incredible “savoir vivre”, they just take their time, sit down, talk to each other and enjoy this “moment convivial”. People are always eating, drinking and chatting together, which I find much more pronounced here than in Germany. The food culture and variety is just brilliant, of course. It is definitely a super beautiful country and a great culture!
You’ve probably already heard about Fête de la Musique, an amazing event that takes place each year on June 21st. Fête de la Musique is a cultural institution that was established in 1982 and was, in fact, created in France! Each year on the 21st, each city in France transforms into a musical pandemonium. Each genre, on each corner, into the early hours of the morning, can be heard. People come out en masse to celebrate, dance, and sing along.
History of Fête de la Musique
In 1982, French Minister of Culture Jack Lang and composer Maurice Fleuret, decided that each year should have a day dedicated to music. The main objective was to promote music. They wanted to encourage amateur and professional musicians to perform. They opened up the streets, parks and public spaces for this, which normally is not allowed.
June 21st is the summer solstice in the Northern Hemisphere. It is the day with the longest daylight hours, so people can enjoy the day of music for the longest. Many countries, including Germany, Italy, Spain, Brazil, and the United States, actively participate in the “World Music Day”.
The Event
Streets, Squares and parks are transformed into stages and performance areas during Fête de la Musique. Musicians set up their instruments and entertain passersby with live music. It creates a vibrant atmosphere where people can enjoy a wide range of musical styles, including classical, rock, pop, jazz, folk, electronic, and traditional music from different cultures.
The event also encourages active community involvement. Local organizations, music schools, cultural institutions, and businesses often collaborate to organize events and coordinate performances. Not only professional musicians can take part: anyone who loves music and wants to participate can join in the celebration.
Where to go
Most people just wander about on June 21st to discover what is out and about, but you can check the official program or even the social media of the artists that you enjoy to see if they have any particular performances planned. In Paris, for example, the area around Canal Saint Martin gets very busy, in Toulouse it’s the areas around Rue Pargaminières where the masses head.
The main characteristics of the French school system include compulsory education from ages 6 to 16, free public education, a national curriculum, a school zoning system (Carte Scolaire), a focus on academic subjects, structured grade levels and examinations, emphasis on the French language, highly qualified teachers, long school days, and the importance of the Baccalauréat examination.
Overview of the French school system
Carte Scolaire
The “Carte Scolaire” in France is a system that regulates school enrolment based on geographical zones. It is designed to ensure equitable access to public education and promote social diversity within schools.
Under this system, each residential area is assigned to a specific school and students are expected to attend the school in their designated catchment area.
What’s the difference between Private and Public Schools in France?
Public schools in France are funded and administered by the government, follow the national curriculum, and admit students based on geographic catchment areas (Carte Scolaire).
Private schools, on the other hand, are privately owned, have more flexibility in curriculum design, can set their own admissions criteria, and may have religious or philosophical affiliations.
Click here to read a dedicated article about this topic.
What is the structure of the French school system?
This section outlines the different steps of the French school system. If you’d like to know more about enrolling your kid in a French school, here is the article.
How do school years work in France?
In France, the structure of the school system is divided into several levels, which I will outline below:
Early Childhood Education:
The “Maternelle” refers to the nursery in France, which is the first stage of compulsory education. Children aged 3 to 6 attend an école Maternelle, which is optional, but in reality widely attended. It focuses on the children’s social, emotional, and cognitive development through play-based learning. A Maternelle aims to foster independence, creativity, and early language acquisition, laying the foundation for future learning.
It is divided into three sections: petite section, moyenne section, and grande section
Primary Education:
L’école élémentaire is the primary school stage in France, covering grades 1 to 5 (ages 6 to 11). At this level, students follow a structured curriculum that includes core subjects such as French, mathematics, science, history, geography, and physical education. They also receive instruction in the arts, music, and foreign languages, providing a well-rounded education.
It is mandatory and comprises five grades: CP (Cours Préparatoire), CE1 (Cours Élémentaire 1), CE2 (Cours Élémentaire 2), CM1 (Cours Moyen 1), and CM2 (Cours Moyen 2).
Secondary Education:
Collège refers to middle school in France and encompasses grades 6 to 9 (ages 11 to 15). It represents a transition from primary to secondary education. Collège offers a comprehensive curriculum, including subjects like mathematics, languages, sciences, history, geography, and technology. Students receive a broad education and gradually gain more autonomy in their learning. It consists of four grades: 6ème, 5ème, 4ème, and 3ème.
Lycée corresponds to high school in France, covering grades 10 to 12 (ages 15 to 18). It offers various academic tracks, including general, technological, and vocational pathways. Students choose a specialization aligned with their interests and future goals. In lycée, students deepen their knowledge in specific subjects, prepare for the Baccalauréat examination, and make decisions about higher education or career paths. Lycée is divided into three years: seconde, première, and terminale.
Higher Education:
Higher education in France offers a wide range of opportunities. Students who have obtained their Baccalauréat can pursue further studies at universities, grandes écoles, or specialized institutes.
Université (University): After obtaining the Baccalauréat, students can pursue higher education at universities and higher education institutions. They can choose from various programs, including bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
Classes Préparatoires (Preparatory Classes): Another option after obtaining the Baccalauréat is to attend classes préparatoires, which are two-year programs focused on preparing students for highly competitive entry exams to engineering schools or business schools (Grandes écoles). Grandes écoles are prestigious institutions that provide focused education in fields such as engineering, business, and administration. Specialized institutes cater to specific areas like arts, agriculture, or healthcare.
It’s important to note that there are also specialized schools in France, such as vocational schools (lycées professionnels) that offer professional training and apprenticeships.
The school day in France generally starts around 8:00 or 9:00 a.m. and ends between 4:00 and 6:00 p.m., depending on the level of education. Primary and middle schools have shorter days compared to high schools.
Why is there no school on Wednesday in France?
In France, students who are in primary education enjoy a day off from school on Wednesdays. This practice aims to provide a balanced schedule for students and promote their overall well-being. On Wednesdays, students have the opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, arts, or other hobbies. This dedicated time allows them to explore their interests outside of the academic curriculum and develop additional skills.
It’s important to note that while Wednesdays are typically free from regular school classes, some schools may offer optional activities or specialized classes on this day. However, participation in these activities is usually not mandatory, and students have the flexibility to choose their level of involvement. Overall, the Wednesday off policy in France serves to create a more balanced and enriching educational experience for students.
How long are Summer Holidays in France?
Summer holidays in France, also known as “les grandes vacances,” are the longest school holiday period in the academic year. It typically lasts around eight weeks, starting in early July and extending until the end of August. The exact dates may vary slightly between different regions and school districts within France.
Many schools provide optional summer programs or reading lists to promote continuous learning and prevent academic regression over the long break.
Grades and Exams in the French School System
What are grades called in France and how does they work?
In France, the grading system used in schools is based on a scale of 0 to 20, with 20 being the highest possible grade. The grades are called “notes” in French. The grading system is the same across all levels of education, from primary school to higher education institutions.
Grades are typically given for individual subjects or assignments, and they reflect a student’s performance and level of mastery in that particular area. Teachers assess students based on various criteria, such as knowledge, understanding, critical thinking, participation, and presentation of work. The grading scale helps to evaluate and track students’ progress throughout the academic year.
In addition to the numerical grades, teachers may also provide written comments or feedback to further explain the strengths and weaknesses of a student’s work. At the end of each academic year, students receive a report card that summarizes their grades and provides an overall evaluation of their performance in different subjects.
What is the Brevet des Collèges and the Baccalauréat?
The Brevet des Collèges, (Diplôme National du Brevet – DNB), is an examination at the end of collège. It assesses the knowledge and skills acquired during their four years of middle school education. The Brevet des Collèges typically includes written exams in subjects such as French, mathematics, history-geography, science, and foreign languages. It also incorporates oral examinations and may include a comprehensive project. The results of the Brevet des Collèges do not have a direct impact on students’ ability to progress to high school, but they provide an evaluation of their academic achievements at the middle school level.
The Baccalauréat, or “Bac”, is the national examination taken by students at the end of their high school education. It is a prerequisite for pursuing higher education in France. The Baccalauréat is a comprehensive exam that assesses students’ knowledge in a range of subjects, including their chosen specialization. There are several tracks available for the Baccalauréat, such as the general track (Bac général), which prepares students for university studies, and the technological track (Bac technologique), which focuses on specific vocational areas. The Baccalauréat is a high-stakes examination, and students’ performance in the Bac has a significant impact on their ability to pursue higher education and can determine their access to certain fields of study.
Both the Brevet des Collèges and the Baccalauréat are important milestones in the French education system. They serve as formal assessments of students’ academic achievements, provide a standard measure of their knowledge and skills, and play a role in determining their educational opportunities beyond secondary school.
In France, education is a priority, and parents have the option to choose between public and private schools for their children. While both systems aim to provide quality education, distinct differences appear between public and private schools in terms of ownership, curriculum, admissions, and governance.
Ownership and Funding
Public schools
Public schools in France are government-funded and administered by the state. Accordingly, they operate under the authority of the Ministry of Education and receive financial support from the government. Teachers in public schools are civil servants employed by the state.
Private schools
Private schools in France are privately owned. They may be secular or have religious affiliations. Private schools rely on their own funding sources, which can include tuition fees, donations, or government subsidies. Bear in mind that some private schools sign an agreement with the State to respect the curriculum, they are “sous contrat d’association” and consequently teachers will be civil servants, paid by the State.
Curriculum
Public schools
Public schools follow the national curriculum established by the Ministry of Education. This standardized curriculum ensures consistency and uniformity across all public schools in France. It covers a wide range of subjects and sets educational standards for students.
Private schools
Private schools have more flexibility in designing their curriculum. While they must meet certain basic educational requirements, they have the autonomy to develop their own curriculum or adopt alternative approaches. Please note that when a private school adopts the public school curriculum it’ll be called “sous-contrat d’association avec l’Etat”, otherwise, it’s “hors contrat”. Some private schools specialize in specific subjects or offer unique educational programs like Montessori schools.
Admissions
Public schools
Admission to public schools is primarily determined by the “Carte Scolaire” system, which assigns students to schools based on their residential location. Students must attend the public school designated for their catchment area. However, exceptions may be made for students with special needs or unique circumstances.
Private schools
Private schools have their own admissions criteria and processes. Thus, they can select students based on factors such as academic performance, interviews, or specific requirements. Private schools may have limited spots available and often require an application for admission.
Click here to read the article which explains how to enroll your kid in a French school
Governance and Management
Public schools
Public schools are governed and managed by the state. They operate under the regulations and policies. The appointment and management of teachers in public schools are handled by the government.
Private schools
Private schools have their own governing bodies or boards, which may include school administrators, parents, or representatives of the school’s owners. In a word, they have more autonomy in decision-making and management compared to public schools.
Religious and Philosophical Affiliations
Public schools
Public schools in France are secular institutions. They are neutral in terms of religious or philosophical affiliations and provide a secular education to students.
Private schools
Private schools may have religious or philosophical affiliations. Some private schools focus on specific religious teachings or cultural values and incorporate them into their curriculum.
Planning for retirement is a vital aspect of financial well-being. In France, the retirement system provides income security for individuals during their golden years. This article aims to shed light on the workings of the retirement system in France, including contribution methods, benefit estimation, and how expat workers can participate and benefit from this system.
How does the retirement system work in France?
What are “Taux plein” and “âge légal de départ” ?
In the French retirement system, there are two important concepts to understand: “age légal de départ” and “taux plein.”
The “age légal de départ” refers to the minimum age at which individuals can retire and start receiving their pension benefits. Currently, the “age légal de départ” is 62 but will be pushed to 64 with the latest pension scheme reform of 2023.
On the other hand, “taux plein” refers to the full retirement age, at which individuals can claim their full pension benefits without any reduction.
While the “age légal de départ” is the earliest age at which individuals can retire (usually 62 soon 64), the “taux plein” is the age at which individuals can retire and receive their maximum pension entitlements (now it’s 67).
It’s important to note that retiring before reaching the “taux plein” may result in a reduction of pension benefits.
The retirement system in France
The retirement system in France operates on a pay-as-you-go basis. This means that the contributions made by the current workforce finance the pensions of current retirees.
This is different to what exists elsewhere where you save money, your whole life, to fill a pension find whose interests will come back to you when you retire.
The system is based on a three-pillar framework:
First Pillar: Basic State Retirement Scheme (Sécurité Sociale)
The Sécurité Sociale is the cornerstone of the French retirement system and is managed by the National Pension Insurance Fund (CNAV).
Eligibility for this scheme begins at age 62 for individuals born in 1955 or later, with gradual increases to age 67 for those born in 1960 or later. To qualify for a full pension, individuals generally need to have accrued a certain number of quarters (trimestres) of contributions.
Contributions to the Sécurité Sociale are deducted directly from salaries and are shared between employees and employers. The contribution rates are based on a percentage of the employee’s salary, subject to a maximum contribution ceiling. Expatriate workers employed in France are subject to the same contribution rates as French nationals.
Second Pillar: Mandatory Occupational Pension Schemes
In addition to the Sécurité Sociale, certain industries and professions have mandatory supplementary pension schemes. These schemes, collectively known as Agirc-Arrco, are employer-funded and provide additional benefits on top of the basic state pension. Expatriate workers employed in industries covered by these schemes are generally enrolled automatically and contribute accordingly.
Third Pillar: Voluntary Personal Retirement Savings
The third pillar consists of voluntary personal retirement savings options, such as private pension plans and individual savings accounts. These allow individuals to supplement their retirement income beyond the state and mandatory occupational pensions. Expats in France can also take advantage of these voluntary schemes to enhance their retirement savings.
How do I get my pension?
Estimating Retirement Benefits in France
To estimate retirement benefits, individuals can use online calculators provided by the French government, pension fund websites. These calculators take into account factors such as the number of quarters contributed, average salary, and the age at which retirement benefits are claimed. By inputting relevant information, individuals can obtain an estimate of their future pension entitlements.
When the time comes to claim retirement benefits (from 62 now but 64 starting october 2023), individuals must submit a retirement claim application to the relevant pension fund.
The application should be submitted approximately four months before the desired retirement date. Once the application is processed, retirees receive regular pension payments directly into their bank accounts.
Retirement Benefits for Expat Workers in France
Expat workers in France generally have the same rights and obligations as French nationals when it comes to retirement benefits. They contribute to the retirement system through deductions from their salaries. Their eligibility for benefits is determined based on the same criteria as French citizens. Expats can access the online calculators and claim their retirement benefits in the same manner as their French counterparts.
How can I benefit from the pension I contributed to while working in France, even though I will not retire in France?
If you worked in several countries, you contributed in as many countries and as many scheme will apply to you.
The general rule is :
You can ask for you retirement money in a country (monthly payments) when you reach the retirement age in that country. ie : in France Retirement age is soon 64 and in Germany 65. You can ask for your french benefits at 64 and german at 65
Your benefit will be proportional to your contribution. the more you contributed, the higher the benefit.
It can be paid in any country.
Final tip : some states have agreement with each other to ease that whole process. That’s of course the case for all EU countries and also Brazil, among others.
During the process of applying to be a landlord’s next tenant, you will be asked to submit your dossier. Your dossier is designed to give all the information about you in a select few documents, which will confirm if you are legally able to become a tenant and in the position to finance your tenancy.
What is a Dossier?
A dossier is a collection of documents about yourself and your personal situation. It covers everything from your finances to your employment and rental history, and any contingencies your landlord must know about you.
What do you need for a Dossier?
The most commonly requested documents are the following:
ID / Passport
Job Contract
Last 3 payslips
Last year’s tax return
Bank Account number
Guarantor(s)
Last 3 rent receipts
Good to have for a Dossier:
CDI
Earn 3x the rent
Good to know: Normally, once successfully catching a landlord’s attention, these documents will be requested, however in highly competitive areas such as metropolitan Paris it is a good idea to send the documents directly with the first application – apartments can be rented in the space of 30 minutes so you want to be quick.
Let’s break it down:
Document
Purpose
Good to Know
????
ID / Passport
To verify your identity.
Make sure it’s valid!
Job Contract
To prove you are employed, what type of contract you have and your income.
Landlords prefer having tenants with a CDI and that you have passed your probation period. They also prefer if you earn 3x the rental amount.
Last 3 Payslips
To prove you have an active income.
Your payslips should be consecutive and consistent.
Last year’s tax return
To prove you are following the law and paying your taxes.
If you have not paid your taxes yet, proof of having a tax ID number should be enough.
Bank Account Number (RIB)
To prove you have a bank account and the means to transfer the rent.
Some landlords verify with the bank if you are a reliable customer.
Guarantor(s)
To cover the rent if you are not able to.
Some landlords request that the guarantor has a French bank account. Also be aware that your guarantors will need to provide all these documents to the landlord.
If you don’t have a guarantor you can explore options such as the Visale (scroll down) or paid services such as https://garantme.fr/en
Last 3 rent receipts
Proof that you have been a paying tenant.
This is not a common request, you can negotiate this.
How do I create a Dossier?
You can use Microsoft Word or Google Sheets, however my preferred method of sending my dossier is usingDossier Facile – not only do they check that I have the correct documents, but also watermark them, so potentially rogue landlords or criminals who just want access to your private information cannot steal it. It’s also completely free to use.
The alternative is to submit a file with paper copies of all your documents directly to the landlord, or in digital form as email attachment or with a WeTransfer file.
I don’t have a Guarantor
This is a big topic, especially for foreigners moving to France. You have several options, the most sought after guarantor is a French citizen who earns 4x the amount of your rent, with a bank account in France, preferably related to you.
Nothing in the law says that the garant must be a family member, own property in France or anything. The garant can be a person (friend, family), a company, or even the State.
It’s reassuring for a landlord to have the parents of the tenant as garant. That’s why most of the garant are family members and the landlords will mainly contemplate familt members as garants.
Other options are using a company such as Garantme to pay them to act as your Guarantor. It’s easy to sign up and depending on your rent, you’re looking at 200€ – 500€ a year for their services.If you have no funds or connections and are under 30 years old, there is the Visale. The Visale is a free service by Action Logement for young people in France who do not have a guarantor. Simply visit their website and see if you are eligible, if you are, apply and get confirmed in sometimes less than 15 minutes – it’s very easy and can be a lifesaver for some.
Fun Legal Facts:
Sometimes the listings you apply to are fake, to collect personal data such as the contents of a dossier – protect yourself by using watermarks and keeping track of where and to whom you send your info. Here are the documents a potential landlord CAN NOT ask you for by law since June 6th 1989 and January 17th 2002:
A copy of your Carte Vitale
A copy of your bank account
Any documentation relating to your bank account status
Any documentation relating to your loans
A direct debit authorisation
Your marriage contract or PACS (pacte civil de solidarité) contract
As a tenant in France, you have several legal rights and options available to you if you are facing issues with your landlord.
Why the Inventory is so important:
The legal logic in France is, that the tenant is responsible for EVERYTHING that happens in the apartment. Each tenant therefore should have homeowner insurance to cover the risk this entails. Both inventories (“état des lieux”) from check-in and -out should be the same to get back the full security deposit. The difference between these two documents measures your liability as a tenant.
Deposit Disputes:
The landlord has two months after the tenant moves out to return the security deposit to the tenant. Landlords cannot withhold the deposit at the end of the tenancy due to “fair wear and tear”. The law accepts normal use of the property and degradation of the decoration during the life of the tenancy.
Tenants, beware! You cannot use the deposit in lieu of the payment of rent.You must continue paying rent right up to the end of the tenancy!
Without having a reason, a landlord is not allowed to withhold the deposit. There must be proper justification (receipts, estimates) for any sum not returned to the tenant. If the landlord carries out the repair work themselves, they can only seek reimbursement of the cost of materials, not their own labor.
What to do, when things actually escalate:
Write to your Landlord. If verbal communication does not work, write a registered letter (“Lettre recommandée avec avis de réception“) to your landlord. This way you have proof of reception and proof you communicated with him. Should your issue escalate, this will help your case significantly.
Report the issues to the authorities. You can file a complaint with the local housing authority. These are at “la mairie” or “la préfecture de police”, regarding the issues (mold, leaks and/or broken windows). Informing the landlord could prompt them to take action to fix the problems. It would also lead to fines or penalties if the landlord fails to comply. You can report the issues here with “Action Logement” or get the “Syncat Tenant Association” involved. They will help you with a conciliateur de justice.
Withholding rent. In some cases, tenants in France have the entitlement to withhold rent if the landlord fails to address significant repair issues. It is important to proceed with caution and follow specific procedures in order to legally withhold rent. Best practice here is to continue paying rent. Sometimes tenants continue paying rent, however to a new account, so you can prove you are paying rent, but the landlord will not have access. BE CAREFUL with this move and research it well, each department may have different rules on this.
Seek mediation. If you are unable to resolve the issue with your landlord, you can seek the assistance of a mediator. Mediation can help to resolve disputes between landlords and tenants and is often a quicker and less expensive alternative to taking legal action. Your best bet will be at your local housing association.
Take legal action: If the issue is still not resolved, you can take your landlord to court. As a tenant in France, you have the right to a safe and habitable living environment, and the court can order your landlord to make necessary repairs. Again, your local housing association will assist you with this.
Terminate the tenancy. If the problems with the property are significant and the landlord refuses to address them, you may be able to legally terminate your lease. However, it is important to consult with a lawyer to ensure that you are following the proper procedure.
Request a deposit refund. If your landlord is refusing to refund your deposit, you can file a complaint with the local housing authority or take legal action to recover the funds.
It is important to keep in mind that different regions of France have different laws and procedures for addressing issues with landlords. Therefore, it is always a good idea to consult with a local lawyer or housing advocacy group to ensure that you are aware of your rights and options. Moreover, understanding the specific regulations in your region can help you navigate the process more effectively.
Additionally, it is advisable to keep detailed records of the issues you have reported to your landlord and any correspondence or conversations you have had with them. This can help to build a strong case if you need to take legal action. Remember: always take photos with timestamps, get everything in writing, and have witnesses wherever possible. Furthermore, maintaining a thorough record of events will provide concrete evidence to support your claims.
TL;DR
As a tenant in France, you have several options available to you if you are facing issues with your landlord. Whether it is reporting the issues to the authorities, seeking mediation, taking legal action, or terminating the lease, it is important to understand your rights and to proceed with caution in order to achieve the best outcome. Additionally, seeking advice from legal professionals or housing experts can offer valuable guidance throughout the process.
Once you have decided to become an expat, you may experience some mixed feelings. On the one hand, you’ll probably feel the thrill of adventure, be excited about a new country, and a different culture. You’re on a path to get out of your comfort zone, as we are so often encouraged by our culture to do. Sometimes, this also comes with Expat Blues.
On the other hand, you may have heard stories about expats having trouble settling in their adopted country. Of course, migrating to a new country can come with culture shock, it’s a new lifestyle, new food, new ways of living your daily life. Going to the doctor is not the same, you won’t find the same items in supermarkets, the language, weather, vibe of the country, everything can radically shift from what you’re used to. It’s like being born again.
We at Urban Index have had these same experiences in several countries, like Qatar, England and France. We are the first to acknowledge that these feelings are very valid. It can be so hard to find your place in your new world. You never know what to expect, what to do and how to react. Looking back, especially in Qatar, it was a true culture shock for Amaury.
What you can do to prevent Expat Blues
Before you leave
Get to know the culture (movies, books, politics, radio, newspaper) a little before moving. This can help get you excited about your destination as well as inspire to you dig deeper once you arrive.
Try to find your home, or narrow down where you’d like to live (Housing Archives). Knowing which neighbourhood you’ll relocate to helps reaching out to the right social groups or meetups.
Check with your company, if you’re being transferred, to see how they can help you. You can find out if there are other expat starters at the same time you can team up with to make the transition easier.
List the admin procedures you’ll need to deal with (link to the 30 days articles) and create a to-do list for yourself. Having a clear roadmap takes away from stress and scrambling to navigate the administration later.
Learn the language. Having even a little bit of knowledge will be much appreciated by the locals once you arrive.
Contact everyone you know in the city you’re heading to or people who know people, try and make friends and get in touch with new people in groups on social media (Making new Friends). Having a cold start is okay, you can manage, but already having a few points of contact ahead of time is even better!
Once you’re in the country
Get enough sleep. We can’t stress enough how helpful it is to be well rested with the energy it requires to get started in a new place.
Exercise. Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy.
Be careful not to drink too much alcohol outside of social situations. This is a common symptom for people with expat blues, preventing it from the outset is always a good idea.
Regularly touch base with your friends and family back home. You can share your adventures, your struggles, the new things you discovered and more!
Explore the town and learn to get to know the city you live in now. Each city comes with a rich history and interesting monuments, galleries, shows and events, learn more about its offering.
Minimise social media outside of using it to meet new people or get involved in social events. Social media can be toxic, especially if you are struggling and are bombarded with fake, idealistic pictures of happy, carefree people.
Remind yourself why you’re decided to move. Try and focus on the positive things that happen every day. Emma, an expat in Paris, celebrates each Wednesday by sharing all the nice things that happened to her that week on her instagram, including her mission to try 52 different types of cheeses in 52 weeks in 2022.
Cook the meals you like or adapt local recipes to your liking. Food can be a great way to get in touch with local culture or even learning about their history – take the croissant in France for example, which then may inspire you to research other famous expats.
Recognise the symptoms of Expat Blues
Lack of motivation and productivity
Poor sleeping schedule and exhaustion
Bad diet and an upset stomach
Mood swings and emotional outbursts
Sudden social anxiety and withdrawal
Changes in energy levels
Dealing with the symptoms
On your own
Ask for help! Let people around you that you’re struggling, many will offer their help. If you know what you need, don’t be afraid to share your needs with them.
Find other expats and ask them if they have experienced similar feelings, and how they dealt with them. Most expats will have had experiences with loneliness and will be empathetic to your situation.
Try to exercise. Doing a physically demanding activity can help not only distract you for a little while, but also make your body release endorphins, which will improve your mood overall.
Be kind to yourself.
Seeking the help of a professional
Doctolib has a plethora of mental health professionals, download the app and search by specialty & language spoken
