Category: Articles

The French School System

Posted on by Amaury

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.

To know more about the “Carte Scolaire” please check our dedicated article.

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.

Click here to read a dedicated article about higher education in France.

How long is a French school day?

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.

Private and public schools in France

Posted on by Amaury

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 schoolsPublic 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 schoolsPrivate 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 schoolsPublic 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 schoolsPrivate 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 schoolsAdmission 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 schoolsPrivate 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 schoolsPublic 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 schoolsPrivate 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 schoolsPublic schools in France are secular institutions. They are neutral in terms of religious or philosophical affiliations and provide a secular education to students.
Private schoolsPrivate schools may have religious or philosophical affiliations. Some private schools focus on specific religious teachings or cultural values and incorporate them into their curriculum.

Retirement in France

Posted on by Amaury

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?

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.

To get to the website you’ll need your social security number.

Claiming Retirement Benefits

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.

Your rental dossier

Posted on by Juliette

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:

DocumentPurposeGood to Know????
ID / PassportTo verify your identity.Make sure it’s valid!
Job ContractTo 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 PayslipsTo prove you have an active income.Your payslips should be consecutive and consistent.
Last year’s tax returnTo 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 receiptsProof 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 using Dossier 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
  • Your medical file
  • Your criminal background

When things go wrong with your Landlord

Posted on by Juliette

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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.

Associations that help you:

Dealing with Expat Blues

Posted on by Amaury

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.
  • Join groups to connect with other people. If you’re in doubt, head to a library, there are many events scheduled each week. 
  • 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

Income tax

Posted on by Amaury

France has a reputation to be a tax country and these taxes are particularly high. As a French person, I can say that it’s true and false (a typical French answer). In this article, we’ll focus on income tax, the main one you need to know about.

Also, don’t believe the rumors ! Taxes in France are not that high if you look at the global picture (almost no medical fees, subsidised energy cost, etc…

What is income tax ?

How is your income tax calculated?

The French income tax system is proportional and progressive. This means that the more you earn, the more you’ll pay taxes.

Let’s take some examples :

You’re a lucky single person (célibataire) who earns €75 000 (gross) a year. Your reference salary is €75 000 as you are alone in your household. You’ll then pay :

  • €0 on the first €10 225 that you earn
  • €1 742,95 on the next €15 845 because it’s €26 070 – €10 225 = €15 845 to which you apply the 11% rate.
  • €14 542,5 on the next €48 475 because its €74 545 – €26 070 = €48 475 to which you apply the 30% rate
  • €186,55 on the next €455 because it’s €75 000 – €74 545 = €455 to which you apply the 41% rate.

=> Your tax amount is €16 472

You’re a married couple with two kids that earn €75 000 (gross) a year. Your reference salary is €75 000/3 = €25 000 because the two parents account for 1 share each and every kid listed on the household accounts for 0,5 share. You’ll then pay : 

  • €0 on the first €10 225 that you earn
  • €1 625,25 on the next €14 775 because it’s €25 000 – €10 225 = €14 775 to which you apply the 11% rate.

=> Your tax amount is €1 625,25 x 3 = 4 875,75

You’re a couple (either married or pacsed) who earn €75 000 (gross) a year. Your reference salary is €75 000/2 = €37 500 because there are two people in your household (non regarding the amount that any partner earns). You’ll then pay : 

  • €0 on the first €10 225 that you earn
  • €1 742,95 on the next €15 845 because it’s €26 070 – €10 225 = €15 845 to which you apply the 11% rate.
  • €3 429 on the next €11 430 because its €37 500 – €26 070 = €11 430 to which you apply the 30% rate

=> Your tax amount is €5 171,95 x 2 = 10 343,9

How to simulate your income tax in France?

Go to this website >> “Accéder au simulateur” >> “Modèle simplifié”

It’s free, State-managed and the fiscal administration doesn’t use the data you give in the simulation to draw up your actual tax sheet.

Step 1 : your personal status

Here you will be asked about : 

  • Your marital status (mandatory)
  • Location of residency. Métropole means France in Europe, the others are French departments and regions overseas (mandatory)
  • Date of birth (mandatory)
  • Specific situations that can influence your taxable income (not mandatory)
  • If you have children (not mandatory)

Step 2 : your income

Here you will be asked about : 

  • Your marital status (mandatory)
  • Location of residency. Métropole means France in Europe, the others are French departments and regions overseas (mandatory)
  • Date of birth (mandatory)
  • Specific situations that can influence your taxable income (not mandatory)
  • If you have children (not mandatory)

For most people, who only get an income as an employee, you’ll only have these boxes to fill.

  • In the blue box: add your own gross income on the last year
  • In the green box: add your partner’s income
  • In the red boxes : add your kids’ income (if they have one), and if your kids still live with you (meaning they belong to your household).

Step 3 : your tax discounts

Here, you’ll let the fiscal administration know if you give to : 

  • Charities: fill up the 7UF box with the amount you gave over 1 year
  • Political parties: fill up the 7UH box with the amount you gave over 1 year

These institutions will give you every year a “reçu fiscal” that recapitulates the amounts you gave, like the one you can see underneath.

Then just click on “Valider” in the bottom right-hand corner. The button is a bit hidden.

Step 4 : accounts held in other countries

During your simulation, you may be asked to declare that. However, it is mandatory when you declare your taxes, every year.

You need to declare them in a form called 3916 bis and it looks like this :

Does France tax foreign income?

The French tax system wasn’t complex enough on its own, we have to add the case when foreign income is involved and it gets tricky.

Basically, there are no rules. You may get taxed or not regarding a series of conditions : 

  • Does France have a tax agreement treaty with the country?
  • What is the nature of the income (pension, wage…)?
  • What is the amount of the income?

The basic principle is that France will avoid double taxation as much as possible, but you need to clarify your situation with the fiscal administration yourself.

Here you’ll find an article dedicated to foreing income taxation.

How to pay your income tax in France ?

What are the criteria to pay taxes in France – tax residency ?

We know that our readers may have a penthouse in Paris, a triplex in New York, and maybe a pied-à-terre in Tokyo, but there are very precise rules to determine where you’ll pay taxes.

You’ll pay your taxes in France if :

  • Your permanent place of residence is in France
  • Your source of income is located in France (whether it’s the company you work for or the place where you do business)
  • You live in France for more than 6 months per year

Here are some other cases that might apply :

  • You don’t tick any of these boxes, then your tax residency will be settled based on your nationality.
  • You have dual nationality, then your tax residency will be the result of negotiations with the fiscal systems of your countries.

Direct debit

For most people in France, taxes are paid in direct debit. Every month, you’ll pay taxes based on your gross salary with a rate that has been determined according to the amount of taxes you paid the previous year.

Also, for specific situations such as liberals professions or craftsmen, different measures may apply.

Deadline

Even though you’re debited every month, once a year, around April to June, the fiscal administration requires you to validate your tax return either on paper or on a specific website in order to make sure that your rate is still in accordance with your earnings.

How do I get a “numéro fiscal” to pay taxes?

In France, in order to pay taxes, you need a “numéro fiscal”. It is a personal 13-digit number that the taxes administration uses to categorize every tax-paying resident in France.

Step 1

Get on the French taxes website and click on “Votre espace particulier” 

Step 2

Then, click on “Vous n’avez pas encore de numéro fiscal” and click on the link that will appear when you unfold the tab.

Step 3

A new page will open, you’ll have to fill it like shown underneath and, then, click on the box “Je n’ai pas de numéro fiscal” on the last row.

Then the page will unfold, revealing this paragraph. Just click on the second link.

Step 4

Fill in the form and send it. After that, you’ll have to wait a bit for fiscal administration to process your request and get your “numéro fiscal”.

Tips and tricks 

  • Check the tax system in your own country, you may need to declare your income over there
  • Don’t forget to adjust your rate every time your work status change, if you get a raise or change jobs. Otherwise, you may have a load to pay. For example, I got a raise in 2020 and forgot to adjust my rate, I had to pay over 2k of back taxes. Juliette got the same thing but with a sum along the lines of 5k.

Getting a fiscal number to pay taxes in France

Posted on by Amaury

In France, you need a fiscal number “numéro fiscal” to pay your taxes. Here is the way to get one.

How do I get a “numéro fiscal” to pay taxes?

In France, in order to pay taxes, you need a “numéro fiscal”. It is a personal 13-digit number that the taxes administration uses to categorize every tax-paying resident in France.

Step 1

Get on the French taxes website and click on “Votre espace particulier” 

Step 2

Then, click on “Vous n’avez pas encore de numéro fiscal” and click on the link that will appear when you unfold the tab.

Step 3

A new page will open, you’ll have to fill it like shown underneath and, then, click on the box “Je n’ai pas de numéro fiscal” on the last row.

Then the page will unfold, revealing this paragraph. Just click on the second link.

Step 4

Fill in the form and send it. After that, you’ll have to wait a bit for fiscal administration to process your request and get your “numéro fiscal”.

Banking in France

Posted on by Juliette

When settling in France, one must have an account to receive salary payments. You have the choice between joining a physical bank or a Neobank, or both. This article covers joining classic, physical banks, Neobanks and also the different options available to non-French people settling in France who may have trouble creating a traditional account.

Can foreigners open accounts in France?

Depending on your origin, both residents and non-residents originating from the EEA (European Economic Area) have the right to open an account with any bank in France. People from countries outside the EU do not have the automatic right to a bank account and opening one is more difficult. Some banks allow it, some do not.

Can I have a French account without a French residential address?

Technically, it’s possible but we don’t recommend it. Most French banks will require you to provide a utility bill no older than 3 months from your place of residence, or have an “Attestation d’Hébergement”, a document from the person hosting you, proving that you have a residence and are living in France. 

If you do not have a French address, you might want to explore opening an account with a Neobank (like Haylei did, for example).

How much does it cost to get a bank account in France ?

Opening costs

For every bank, you’ll have to go through a process that is not free. However, you shouldn’t have to pay more than 50€ to open an account.

Annual charges

All banks apply annual fees to maintain your account. They largely vary depending on the type of account, type of card (gold, business, black…) that you’ll have and the associated options (like international transfers are more expensive…). Bear in mind that like for every product, cheap may mean poor quality of service.

The range is from 2€/year for Boursorama to 100€ for Crédit Coopératif but for some banks it’s even higher.

Withdrawing money at the ATM is free.

Agio

Every time your bank account goes in the red, make everything you can to bring it back in the green. Indeed, in France, having a red balance means that the bank “loans” you money. And they apply a f***ing high interest rate on that loan. Could be up to 4%.

If you want to prevent that, you can choose an option when you cannot have a deficit like the one offered with Neobanks, but most banks do offer them.

Is there a “best bank” to join in France?

Which bank you join depends entirely on your personal situation and financial needs. There are some safe options, such as the bank operated by the post office which has over 10 million users, or the bank started by farmers in 1984, Crédit Agricole, which is quite popular. 

In France, there are three types of banks:

Regional Banks:

  • Groupe BPCE 
  • Crédit Agricole (CA)
  • Crédit Mutuel
  • Crédit Lyonnais (LCL – owned by CA)

National Banks:

  • BNP Paribas
  • Crédit Industriel et Commercial (CIC)
  • La Banque Postale
  • Société Générale
  • Groupe Caisse d’épargne
  • Groupe Banque Populaire

International Banks:

  • HSBC
  • Barclays
  • Deutsche Bank
  • Citi Bank

The largest bank in France is BNP Paribas, followed by Crédit Agricole, Société Générale, BPCE and then Crédit Mutuel. The bank with the most customers is La Banque Postale. There is a website that helps compare bank costs, only in French for now, but it may be helpful. To use it efficiently you can download a translation plugin for your browser, 

How do I open a French bank account?

Once you choose which bank you want to go with, check online if you can open your bank account from the internet or if you have to go in person. We list the process with the most common banks In our  article about how to open a French Bank Account.

Is it difficult to open a French account and get quality client service?

It’s easier if they speak your language if you’re not proficient in French and if you have the required documents ready, but if you’d feel more secure being accompanied for this process, you can get in touch with us.

While most international banks have different language options, Crédit Agricole has an English-speaking hotline, and some regional branches of the Banque Populaire also offer English as an option for their customers. Depending on which documents you are asked for, it can be easy to open an account, or take a bit longer if you need to procure all necessary material.

Do I need a French bank account?

No, not necessarily. Depending on your origin, having an account, say, in Europe could be enough to make online payments and receive a salary. If you however are an overseas citizen it’s probably easier to open a French account, at least with an international bank. As a student it also can be easier to open an account, as universities usually offer fast-track options in collaboration with French banks. 

If you wish to buy property or take out a loan with a French bank, you must have a French bank account.