Settling in France: your first steps, one by one

Arriving in France, or moving to a new town, comes with a lot of paperwork. It feels complicated at first, but it follows a logic. This guide covers the most common steps and, above all, the free official sources where you can find reliable information. Exact rules depend on your personal situation, so always check official websites.

1. Keep your documents in order

Almost every procedure asks for the same documents: ID or passport, residence permit if you have one, proof of address and birth certificate. Keep the originals together in a folder and store clear digital copies somewhere secure.

One simple habit helps a lot: keep a list of your reference numbers (tax number, health insurance number, CAF number) and of the dates when your documents expire, so that you can start renewals in good time.

If a document is in a foreign language, a translation by a sworn translator (traducteur assermenté) may be required. Lists of sworn translators are available from the courts of appeal.

2. Proof of address

You will be asked for it everywhere. It can be an energy, internet or landline bill, a rent receipt or a home insurance certificate. If you are staying with someone, they can provide a hosting certificate (attestation d’hébergement) together with their own proof of address and ID.

3. Opening a bank account

A bank account is essential for receiving wages or benefits. Compare traditional and online banks. If a bank refuses to open an account for you, you can ask the Banque de France to apply the right to an account (droit au compte), which gives you an account with basic services.

Never share your banking login details or codes received by text message, even with someone claiming to be your bank adviser: a real bank will never ask for them.

4. Health

• Health insurance (Assurance Maladie): depending on your situation, you need to register to have your medical costs reimbursed. The carte Vitale then makes reimbursements easier.
• Family doctor (médecin traitant): registering a regular doctor means better follow-up and better reimbursement.
• Top-up insurance (mutuelle): it covers part of what is not reimbursed. A free or low-cost solidarity scheme exists for people on modest incomes.

All the details are on the official health insurance website, ameli.fr.

5. Residence procedures

Many residence permit procedures are now done online, on the official digital administration website for foreign nationals in France (ANEF). Plan renewals ahead, keep proof of every application and any receipts, and be wary of intermediaries promising appointments or permits for money. For specific legal questions, contact specialised associations or a lawyer.

Depending on your situation, French classes and support may be offered through public integration programmes.

6. Taxes

In France, you file an income tax return every year, usually online at impots.gouv.fr. Even on a low income it is often worth filing: the tax notice (avis d’imposition) is requested for many procedures, such as social housing, benefits and rental applications.

7. Where to find free help

• France Services: local offices across the country where staff help you with administrative and online procedures for free.
• Service-public.fr: the official website explaining your rights and procedures, with template letters.
• Town halls and social action centres (CCAS) for local social support.
• Associations within the community and organisations that support foreign residents.

8. Beware of fake government websites

Some websites imitate official services and charge for procedures that are free (birth certificates, vehicle registration, criminal record extracts…). Check the web address: official government websites usually end in .gouv.fr or are listed on service-public.fr.

9. Emergency numbers

• 15: SAMU (medical emergency)
• 17: police
• 18: fire brigade
• 112: European emergency number, from any phone

Frequently asked questions

I lost a document or it was stolen: what should I do?

If it was stolen, report it to the police or gendarmerie. If it was lost, the procedure depends on the document: explanations are on service-public.fr. The digital copies you kept will make replacement easier.

Where can I learn French for free?

Many associations, town halls and libraries offer free or low-cost classes, and some public integration programmes include language training. Daily practice (radio, reading, conversation) also helps a lot.

Is my foreign driving licence valid in France?

It depends on the country that issued it and on your residence situation. Some licences can be exchanged for a French licence within a set period; others cannot. Check the rules on the official ANTS website or on service-public.fr.

In short

Keep your documents in order, use official websites, get free help from France Services or associations, and be wary of any paid intermediary promising shortcuts.

On TamilMarket the community shares homes, jobs and everyday services: browse all categories, and read our guide Renting a home in France.