10 Common Mistakes Expats Make When Moving to France (And How to Avoid Them!)
Moving to France is exciting, but let’s be honest—it’s also easy to make a few mistakes along the way. From underestimating bureaucracy to not preparing financially, many expats find themselves facing unnecessary stress.
To help you avoid these pitfalls, here are 10 common mistakes expats make when moving to France—plus how to avoid them!
🚨 1. Not Researching the Visa Process Properly
France has strict immigration rules, and applying for the wrong visa (or missing a step) can lead to delays or rejections.
✅ How to Avoid It:
✔️ Check the French consulate website in your country for visa types.
✔️ Apply at least 3 months in advance.
✔️ Keep copies of all paperwork (passport, financial proof, etc.).
🏡 2. Thinking Finding Housing Will Be Easy
France’s rental market is competitive, especially in cities like Paris, Lyon, and Toulouse. Many landlords also require a French guarantor, making it even harder for expats.
✅ How to Avoid It:
✔️ Start your search early (websites: SeLoger, PAP, Leboncoin).
✔️ Have your rental dossier ready (passport, income proof, guarantor info).
✔️ Consider short-term housing first while searching for a long-term rental.
💰 3. Underestimating the Cost of Living
France isn’t cheap—rent, groceries, and taxes add up quickly. Many expats are surprised by unexpected expenses, like agency fees for housing or social security contributions.
✅ How to Avoid It:
✔️ Research the cost of living in your city before moving.
✔️ Have at least 3 months of savings as a financial cushion.
✔️ Use apps like Lydia or Tricount to manage daily expenses.
📑 4. Not Preparing for Bureaucracy (It’s Slow!)
France is notorious for paperwork. From setting up healthcare to opening a bank account, things take time—and missing a document can cause delays.
✅ How to Avoid It:
✔️ Always bring multiple copies of important documents.
✔️ Be patient (and prepared for follow-ups).
✔️ Consider using a relocation service (like Le Petit Guide!) to handle admin work.
🏦 5. Waiting Too Long to Open a Bank Account
You’ll need a French bank account for rent, bills, and even a phone contract. But some banks require proof of residency, making it tricky for newcomers.
✅ How to Avoid It:
✔️ Try online banks like N26, Revolut, or Wise (easier for expats).
✔️ Book an appointment with a traditional bank ASAP if needed.
📶 6. Not Getting a French SIM Card Right Away
Many services (banks, healthcare, deliveries) require a French phone number. If you’re still using a foreign SIM, you might miss important calls or verification texts.
✅ How to Avoid It:
✔️ Get a prepaid SIM card from Bouygues, SFR, Orange, or Free Mobile.
✔️ Consider budget options like Lebara or Lycamobile.
🩺 7. Ignoring Health Insurance Requirements
If you’re living in France long-term, you must register for public healthcare (CPAM) or get private insurance while waiting.
✅ How to Avoid It:
✔️ Apply for a social security number right away on Ameli.fr.
✔️ Get temporary private insurance (like April International) if needed.
🗣️ 8. Not Learning Any French
Many expats assume they can get by with just English, but in many places (especially for admin tasks), some French is essential.
✅ How to Avoid It:
✔️ Start learning before you arrive (Duolingo, Babbel, FrenchPod101).
✔️ Take language classes once in France (Alliance Française, local meetups).
📜 9. Assuming Your Foreign Documents Will Be Accepted
Some documents from your home country (birth certificates, marriage licenses, diplomas) might need official translations to be valid in France.
✅ How to Avoid It:
✔️ Check if your documents need an apostille or certified translation.
✔️ Use a sworn translator (traducteur assermenté) if required.
👋 10. Trying to Do Everything Alone
Between visas, housing, banking, and healthcare, moving to France can be overwhelming—and trying to do it all alone makes it even harder.
✅ How to Avoid It:
✔️ Join expat communities (Facebook groups, Meetup, InterNations).
✔️ Ask for help! Whether from locals, forums, or relocation services.
💡 Need Help Moving to France?
At Le Petit Guide, we take the stress out of moving with:
✅ Visa & Admin Support – We handle the paperwork, so you don’t have to.
✅ Housing Assistance – Get help finding & securing the right home.
✅ Local Guidance – Personalized support tailored to your situation.