This post contains affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you. Please read my disclosure page for more details.
Category: Moving to France
In this episode of Join Us in France, Annie Sargent speaks with Allison Lounes, founder of France Formation and author of Foolproof French Visas. Allison, an American expat living in France for 15 years, shares her journey from studying in Paris to building a life and business helping others navigate the complex French bureaucracy required to move to France.
Get the podcast ad-free
The Paperwork Puzzle of Moving to France
Here's one of biggest hurdles: French bureaucracy. As Allison explains, “France is a country of paperwork.” From choosing the right visa to setting up a healthcare account, every step requires precision and patience.
We discuss common mistakes people make, such as selecting the wrong visa type or failing to register their name consistently on official documents. Allison stresses the importance of understanding what French authorities expect and why it’s crucial to plan ahead.
Ready to get started? Sign-up for a free Q&A with France Formation
Foolproof Tips for Moving to France
Allison shares details about her book, Foolproof French Visas, now in its fifth edition. It’s a comprehensive guide to navigating the visa process. Whether you’re retiring in France, working remotely, or planning to start a business, this book explains the nuances of each visa type. Allison updates the book annually to reflect changes in French immigration policies, ensuring readers have access to the latest information.
Tips for Retirees and Remote Workers
Retirees will find France a welcoming destination, but as Allison explains, having a regular pension or proof of sufficient savings is key. If you’re working remotely or freelancing, things can get tricky. Allison explains the “rule of butts,” which determines where you pay taxes based on where you physically sit while working. She emphasizes that anyone earning income while living in France must comply with local tax and social security rules.
Health Care and Driver’s Licenses
French healthcare is world-renowned, but enrolling can be challenging for newcomers. Allison describes the deceptively simple forms that require precise documentation, from utility bills in your name to birth certificates with matching names. She explains how long-term planning makes this process easier and why it’s critical to address these details within your first year in France.
Driver’s licenses are another area where timing matters. Allison outlines the one-year deadline for exchanging a foreign license for a French one and the risks of not doing so. For those who miss the deadline, retaking driving tests in France becomes mandatory.
Banking in France
Opening a French bank account can be daunting, especially for Americans navigating tax regulations like FATCA. Allison provides tips on choosing the right bank and explains how organizations like La Banque de France can assist if a bank denies your application. She also highlights the importance of transparency with financial institutions to avoid unnecessary delays. Generally speaking her customers have had good luck with AXA.
Why Move to France?
Both Allison and Annie reflect on what makes France such a unique place to live. From the slower pace of life to the world-class healthcare system, there’s much to appreciate. Allison talks about her favorite regions to visit, including Normandy, Brittany, and the Loire Valley. She shares tips for exploring France with children, noting how historical sites like Clos Lucé make learning fun for kids.
Ready to Move to France?
This episode is a must-listen for anyone seriously considering a move to France. Allison’s expertise and Annie’s conversational style make complex topics easy to understand. Whether you’re just starting to dream or already planning your move, you’ll come away with actionable advice and a better understanding of what it takes to settle in France.
Table of Contents for this Episode
More episodes about moving to France
#MovingToFrance, #FrenchVisas, #FranceFormation, #LivingInFrance, #ExpatLife, #FrenchCulture, #JoinUsInFrance, #FrenchLifestyle, #FranceTravel, #FrenchResidency, #ExpatTips, #VisasForFrance, #FranceAdventure, #FrenchAdministration, #RelocateToFrance, #FoolproofFrenchVisas, #ExpatCommunity, #LifeInFrance, #FrancePodcast, #FrenchDream
FOLLOW US ON:
Email | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter
Discussed in this Episode
- French healthcare system (CPAM)
- OFII (Office Français de l'Immigration et de l'Intégration)
- Banque de France
- AXA
- AARO (Association of Americans Resident Overseas)
- France Formation
- Normandy
- Loire Valley
- Château du Clos Lucé
- Amboise
- Château Royal d'Amboise
- La France Miniature
- Giverny
- Mont Saint Michel
- Auvers-sur-Oise
- Château Miniature Park in the Loire Valley
- Impressionist Museum in Giverny
- Leonardo da Vinci’s inventions
- Van Gogh Museum in Auvers-sur-Oise
Subscribe to the Podcast
Apple Google Spotify RSSSupport the Show
Tip Your Guides Extras Patreon Audio Tours
Read more about this episode
TranscriptCategory: Moving to France