Emigrate to France
Emigrate to France: Find out the most important information for your stay here
France offers a high quality of life, which is particularly attractive for anyone wishing to emigrate to France. Characterized by enjoyment and a pronounced work-life balance, the French appreciate good food, wine and cultural traditions. For people considering emigrating to France, the country scores with its rich history and culture. Cities such as Paris, Lyon and Marseille attract visitors with their numerous museums, historic buildings and cultural events. In addition, the world-famous French cuisine spoils gourmets with a wide variety of regional specialties and exquisite wines.
Facts about France
Capital City
Paris
Population
68.17 million
Surface Area
213,010.63 mi² or 551,695 km²
Continent
Europe
Official Language
French
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Emigrating to France: An overview of the political system
Anyone wishing to emigrate to France should be familiar with the country's political system: France has a strong president with far-reaching powers who is directly elected by the people. The parliament consists of the National Assembly and the Senate, with the National Assembly generally having the final say on proposed legislation. The political spectrum is broad, with numerous parties from left to right. For those emigrating to France, the long history of immigration is also relevant. France attaches great importance to the integration of immigrants, even if issues such as national identity and the role of Islam are always under discussion.
Climate in France: Important information for emigrants
Anyone wishing to emigrate to France should be familiar with the country's diverse climate zones, as they have a major influence on life and leisure activities. The north-west has a temperate maritime climate with mild winters, cool summers and frequent rain, especially along the Atlantic coast in cities such as Brest or Rennes. The northeast and the center are characterized by a continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters, while it can snow in the Vosges in winter. The south and south-east offer a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot, dry summers - the Côte d'Azur is a typical example. For those considering emigrating to France, these climate zones offer a wide range of activities: Water sports on the coasts or skiing in the Alps.
Healthcare system in France: Important facts for emigrants
The French healthcare system offers good care, but requires preparation - especially for people who want to emigrate to France. Statutory health insurance (Sécurité sociale) is compulsory. After registering, you will receive the Carte Vitale, which must be shown when visiting doctors and pharmacies. The health insurance covers part of the costs, but there are often co-payments. Many people therefore take out additional private health insurance (mutuelle).
After your arrival, you should register directly with the health insurance company and apply for the Carte Vitale. The European Health Insurance Card can help temporarily. Private health insurance is useful to cover additional services such as dental treatment. A good knowledge of French will make it easier to deal with the healthcare system. Prepare your emigration carefully and inform yourself in good time.
Emigrating to France: An overview of the economic situation and quality of life
France's gross domestic product per capita amounted to 48,011.83 US dollars in 2024. The Gini coefficient of wealth describes the distribution of wealth. The indicator is an established, internationally comparable measure of wealth inequality. It is measured on a scale from zero to one. The higher the value, the greater the inequality. The Gini coefficient in France is expected to be around 0.32 in 2025 (source: Statista).
France offers a high quality of life, which is an attractive reason for many people to emigrate to France. However, this quality of life depends on various factors. Before you decide to emigrate to France, you should carefully consider which aspects are particularly important to you and which region best suits your lifestyle. Thorough planning will help you to make your move a success and enjoy life in France to the full.
National holiday
Emigrate to France - Entry Requirements
Entry is possible for German nationals with the following documents:
- Passport: Yes
- Temporary passport: Yes
- Identity card: Yes
- Provisional identity card: Yes, must be valid
- Children's passport: Yes
FAQs for emigrating to France
Where can I find relevant information about my country of entry and the entry regulations that apply there?
We have compiled destination country information as well as entry requirements and customs information for many countries in the Relocation Service section of our website and are constantly expanding this section.
Can I use my own container that I already own for the move with DACHSER & KOLB?
For every removal, which we at DACHSER & KOLB always offer as a door-to-door (full service) removal, a container is rented for the duration of the removal. We therefore do not offer the option of using your own container.
Who is responsible for my move abroad and the services I need there?
As a FIDI member, we work abroad with selected, long-standing partners who work in accordance with our service standards.
Are my removal goods insured in the event of damage?
For every overseas move, we naturally cover transportation insurance at current value for the used household goods and personal belongings
What types of transportation do you offer for overseas relocation?
It is generally possible to carry out overseas removals via air freight or sea freight. In the case of sea freight, it is possible to ship the removal goods as additional cargo (“LCL shipment” with Liftvan) or with a container (FCL shipment in 20 feet, 40 feet or 40 feet high cube). We will be happy to discuss which option is best for you in a personal consultation.
When and how must the move be paid for and what is the payment deadline?
You will receive an invoice a few weeks after placing the order and pay the full amount directly in advance.
Do I have to pay taxes and customs duties on my removal goods?
Removal goods can be imported tax and duty-free into most countries if you have a valid residence permit. We will be happy to check the options for importing the removal goods for your desired destination country in a personal consultation.
Are you interested in moving to France or another destination country?
Then do not hesitate and contact us today.
Donna Draganov
Teamlead Customer Service & Sales - ROAD
