What do I need to know before retiring in France?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to France, they said...
"Well, firstly - great to hear that there is nothing to wait for. Just start learning some French...take few documents with yourself as France seems to like red tape very much and you need papers for everything! Take some birth certificates for sure. Don't worry about the accommodation because here in Lyon you will get many estate agencies to help you out and they speak English! And mostly...read some blogs, forums, expats websites which will provide you with the up to date info," said another expat in Lyon, France.
"Expats looking to retire in France should be aware that the country has a high cost of living and wages may not match those from their home country. Additionally, due to the language barrier, learning French is essential for effective communication. Retirees should also familiarize themselves with the various visa and residency requirements before embarking on the move. It is also helpful to research and know the cultural norms and customs in France as this will help them better integrate into the French lifestyle. Lastly, expats should consider the healthcare options they will have access to in the French system, and obtain coverage to avoid any medical expenses that are not covered," wrote a member who made the move to France.
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French Riviera House Hunting - FRHWe are the best possible negotiator to help our expatriate clients to safely, efficiently and effectively find the right property in the right place in the French Riviera. Whether buying or renting, French Riviera House Hunting's objective is to find the best place for you, making sure that there are no hidden problems in the acquisition or renting process!
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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in France?
- How do I meet people in France?
- What is life like in France?
- Is there a lot of crime in France?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in France accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in France like?
- Is the cost of living in France high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in France?
- What are healthcare services like in France?
- Is the cost of living in France high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in France?
- What is the weather like in France?
- Are there good restaurants in France?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in France?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in France?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in France?
- What do I need to know when buying property in France?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in France?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What do I need to know before retiring in France?
If you live in France, newcomers to France would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
