Advice and information about moving to France
If you're moving to France (or even if you've already moved), this section offers practical advice to prepare you for all aspects of your new life "en France".
From sorting out your utilities to understanding how the French education system works, these articles aim to help you on your way.
Helpful hints to make your move as smooth as possible and eliminate any nasty surprises. And if you can't find what you're looking for let us know and we'll see what we can do. We might even write an article for you!
Featured Article: FRENCH CAPITAL GAINS TAX AND SOCIAL CHARGES ON PROPERTY - UPDATED 2017
An update on the current Capital Gains Tax rules in France regarding property. The laws on Social Charges are explained, with the latest debate regarding EU legislation being discussed.
Featured Article: FRENCH TAX ( CAPITAL GAINS TAX - STAMP DUTY - DIVIDENDS ) - SEPTEMBER 2013
An update of French tax issues discussing current CGT rules and possible stamp duty increases. Information on dividends and interest taxation is also included.
Featured Article: FRENCH TAX - JULY 2013
Are your French tax affairs in order? Read a quick reminder of the 2013 filing deadlines and find out about the new Regularisation Cazeneuve.
Featured Article: FRENCH TAX END OF YEAR SUMMARY - DECEMBER 2012
A year-end summary of the tax laws that have changed in France. Read the latest information on CGT on French property sales, French Trust Legislation and the Social Charges incurred by non-French residents on their rental income.
Featured Article: FRENCH TAX BUDGET FOR 2013
An outline of the new French tax budget proposals for 2013. Find out how these might affect you.
Featured Article: FRENCH TRUST LAWS AND FRENCH TAX - NOVEMBER 2012
An update of the new French tax measures with regard to Trusts, Wealth Tax, and Gift and Inheritance tax. The issue of tax on rental income from French property for non-French residents is also discussed.
Featured Article: FRENCH TAX CHANGES IN JULY 2012
New French tax laws were introduced on 4th July 2012. Wealth Tax, Inheritance Tax and Gift Tax are all subject to change. But for non-French residents, the biggest change is in Capital Gains Tax on property and tax on rental income. Find out how these new laws could affect you.
Featured Article: FRENCH PLANNING - NEW PLANNING LAWS FROM 1ST JANUARY 2012
New French planning laws came into effect in January 2012. Find out what changes have been made and how these might affect the French property market.
Featured Article: HOLIDAY HOMES IN FRANCE - HOW TO AVOID CAPITAL GAINS TAX WHEN YOU WANT TO SELL
The new French Capital Gains Tax laws have affected many people. But for those of you with holiday homes or second homes in France, there may be a way to avoid paying CGT. Why not become a French resident and live in your French property? Find out what is involved and see if it might help you.
Featured Article: FRENCH TAX CHANGES IN 2011
An outline of the tax changes in France in 2011 at the time of writing (October 2011). Find out how these new tax laws might affect you.
Featured Article: INHERITANCE TAX IN FRANCE AND THE ASSURANCE VIE OR PCP (PRIVATE CLIENT PORTFOLIO BOND)
For those of you thinking of moving to France with assets and property to your name. A discussion of Inheritance Tax in France, and advice on how you might be able to reduce your Inheritance Tax liability with an Assurance Vie or Private Client Portfolio Bond (PCP).
Featured Article: CAPITAL GAINS TAX IN FRANCE ON PROPERTY
If you own a home in France and/or the UK and you're thinking of selling either property then this article should be of interest. It discusses the CGT you will be liable to and how this is calculated.
Featured Article: BENEFITS IN FRANCE FOR UK EX-PATS
Being on Incapacity Benefit or Disability Living Allowance doesn't mean you have to give up on your French dream. Some benefits can be received in France. The rules and regulations are explained, and advice is given as to how you go about claiming benefits, which may include Carer's Allowance and the Pensioner's Winter Fuel Allowance.
Featured Article: HEALTH CARE IN FRANCE - ANOTHER U-TURN BY SARKOZY
This U-turn by Sarkozy should be good news to many early retirees who moved to France thinking their health care was sorted - but then found out it wasn't. For those not yet of retirement age and not working in France, access to the subsidised health care system may now be provided, although it may be on a case by case basis.
Featured Article: TAKING PETS TO FRANCE - NEW RULES FROM 2012
New pet travel rules that come into play from 1st January 2012, which will hopefully make things easier for those moving to France with their pets.
Featured Article: THE WINDS OF FRANCE
Many move to France for the better weather. But are you aware of the winds that hit France and the effect they have? This is a guide to the different winds of France and where and when you are likely to experience them.
Featured Article: FRENCH SPORTS AND SPORTS CLUBS IN FRANCE
Sports and sports clubs are important in France. So if keeping fit is a priority to you and you're thinking of moving to France, this article will help you on your way with info on how clubs operate and what sports are on offer.
Featured Article: FRENCH WEALTH TAX
Wealth tax in France is not paid by everyone, but for those unsure of the rules and regulations you should read on. Learn what the tax actually is, who should be paying it and the current rates that must be applied.
Featured Article: RETIREMENT AND RETIRING TO FRANCE
This is a guide to retirement in France, providing an in depth look at what you should consider before retiring to France. It covers the options such as where you might live (including retirement home possibilities), how your pension may be affected and health care. It also reminds you of the good things that France can offer you in retirement.
Featured Article: DRIVING IN FRANCE
Do you know all the driving rules and regulations that currently exist in France? What about speed limits, drink driving laws and that confusing issue of who gives way to who at junctions and roundabouts? If not you'd better read on...
Featured Article: FISHING IN FRANCE
For those anglers amongst you, here's a guide to fishing and fishing holidays in France. Including information on what types of fishing are available and where you can find the best locations. It also discusses property available in France with fishing on the premises.
Featured Article: MOVING TO FRANCE - HOW TO GO ABOUT IT
Moving to France is a big step, and there are numerous things to think about and take care of, both before you leave the UK and also once you've arrived in France. This article discusses how might you go about it, offering advice along the way.
Featured Article: HOLIDAYS IN FRANCE
If you need help deciding what to do on holiday in France, then read on. With a wonderful climate and magnificent scenery, France caters for all. From pursuing activities whilst on holiday such as cycling, skiing or walking, to those more gentle past-times of sun-bathing, wine-tasting and cooking, there's sure to be something for you.
Featured Article: BRITTANY FERRIES
A guide to the French company, Brittany Ferries, who was voted the best ferry operator in 2007 in the Telegraph Travel Awards. Find out why they are considered the best - especially for those people with property or looking for property in western France. Routes are discussed, as are facilities and accommodation onboard its vessels.
Featured Article: WORKING IN FRANCE
Thinking about moving to France but need to work? This article may be of interest. It discusses the differences between the British and the French way of doing things, including information on qualifications, holidays and the 35-hour week.
Featured Article: BUILDERS IN FRANCE
Need some building work done on your place in France? Read about how to find a builder in France and what to look out for once you've found one. Also advice on whether French builders or English builders might be more suitable for you. And crucially how builders are normally paid.
Featured Article: TAXE FONCIÈRE AND TAXE D'HABITATION - PROPERTY TAX IN FRANCE IN 2018
Property taxes will be a fact of life if you are thinking of buying a property in France, or even renting. Make sure you're aware of what you'll be expected to pay before the envelope hits the mat. This article discusses the two main property taxes in France: Taxe Foncière and Taxe d'Habitation.
Featured Article: BRIVE AIRPORT
The building of any new airport is big news, and the new airport development at Brive is no exception. This article discusses the effect this airport will have on the Limousin region of France and how it might affect those thinking of buying or already owning property there.
Featured Article: INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS IN FRANCE
When moving to France with children one of the most important issues will be education. One option is to use an International School. It explains how International Schools operate, suggests the advantages and disadvantages of going to an International School, and also advises where these schools can be found.
Featured Article: INTERNET ACCESS IN FRANCE
Internet access is a necessity for most people living in France. This article includes information on how you go about getting Internet access, the differences between internet access in the UK and France, and how to overcome problems that you may encounter.
Featured Article: CYCLING AND MOTORCYCLING IN FRANCE
If you've ever considered cycling or motorcycling in France, but haven't yet managed to summon the energy, this article will spur you into action. Advice is offered from experienced cyclists and bikers, including information on road safety in France, travelling with bikes, and suggestions on where to cycle.
Featured Article: PLUMBING IN FRANCE
Are you considering some changes to the plumbing in your house in France? Before you get started get to know the differences between plumbing in France and plumbing in the UK. Learn how plumbing systems operate in France and which jobs may be suitable for a competent DIY enthusiast, and which must be left for the professionals!
Featured Article: ELECTRICS IN FRANCE - WIRING YOUR HOUSE
For those with renovation projects, it's worth understanding the basics of household electrics in France. Read on for an outline of the differences in electrics between France and the UK, including information on sockets, plugs, wiring and power supply.
Featured Article: SAVINGS AND INVESTMENTS IN FRANCE
Protecting savings and investments is of utmost importance to most people, and earning a decent return takes a lot of work, even in the UK. And for those of you who have decided to move to France, it will mean a few more complications as existing plans may not offer the same benefits. This article offers advice on the best saving and investment options currently available in France, and outlines who they might suit.
Featured Article: HEALTH CARE IN FRANCE
Sorting out health care in France can be confusing, as there are different rules for people in different situations. This article guides you through the options and the steps involved, whether you're intending to become a French resident or remain a UK national. You'll find information on EHICs, E106 forms, E121 forms and that sought after carte vitale. Advice is also given on how to find doctors and how the health care system in France actually works.
Featured Article: SEPTIC TANKS IN FRANCE
Waste disposal is not the nicest of topics, but it is essential if you are thinking of buying a property and living in France. This article discusses which properties in France might need a septic tank or fosse septique. It covers how they work and how you should care for them. And of course being in France, there are also rules and regulations which need to be adhered to!
Featured Article: SARKOZY AND FRENCH PROPERTY OWNERS
French politics may not be everyone's cup of tea, but it's important to keep up to date if you're thinking of buying a property in France or indeed if you already have one. Find out about the changes made by new French president Nicholas Sarkozy, and get advice on how these changes may affect you and your life in France.
Featured Article: PROPERTY GRANTS AVAILABLE IN FRANCE
Thinking of buying a property in France which needs work? Read on - there may be a French grant to provide financial assistance. This article outlines the grants that are currently available and where to go for more information.
Featured Article: TAKING A CAR TO FRANCE AND REGISTERING IT IN FRANCE
Registering a car in France can be a headache, whether it be one that you have brought from the UK, or one that you have bought in France. Gain advice on the paperwork you need to gather, and the procedures involved.
Featured Article: GETTING YOUR UK PENSION PAID IN FRANCE
If you're about to retire to France then you'll know it's important to sort out your finances. This article explains how you go about claiming your UK pension in France, and the tax implications involved. It also discusses how you might be able to claim a French pension and how pensioners can register for health care in France.
Featured Article: SURVEYORS IN FRANCE
If you're thinking of buying a property in France you'll have to consider the option of getting a survey. In France surveys are less common than in the UK and if you're already financially stretched, it may seem like an unnecessary expense. This article guides you through your options and explains the French way of doing things. It also offers advice from professionals.
Featured Article: FERRIES TO FRANCE
Travelling by ferry is a popular way of getting to France, though with the vast number of ports and ferry companies to choose from, it can sometimes be a confusing business. This article outlines which ferry companies serve which port. Fares, disabled access and travelling with pets are other topics also discussed.
Featured Article: TRAVEL FRANCE
If you're considering a place in France then you shouldn't forget how big France is compared to many of its neighbours. So getting around is more of an issue. This article will help you appreciate the various methods of transport available. It also explains the road system in France and the costs involved, as well as discussing the ins and outs of taking pets and bicycles on trains.
Featured Article: HOUSE INSURANCE IN FRANCE
House insurance in France is a little different to the UK. Included here is an outline of how a French policy might differ from a UK policy, and how renting out a property can affect your premium and cover. Also advice on how using an English-speaking company might make things easier should your French not be up to scratch.
Featured Article: REMOVALS AND MOVING TO FRANCE
Organising a move to France can be stressful business. This article examines the advantages and disadvantages of doing this yourself versus hiring a removal company. It offers advice on what you should consider when choosing a removal company, and how you can make things easier prior to the move.
Featured Article: LEARNING FRENCH
Whether you're thinking of moving to France to live or perhaps thinking of buying a holiday home there, being able to speak and understand French can only be a benefit. This article outlines how to go about learning French and the options open to you, both in this country before you leave and once in France.
Featured Article: TELEVISION IN FRANCE AND FRENCH TV
Wondering whether your UK television set will still work after you've moved to France? As well as answering this important question, we'll cover all aspects of French TV, including TV Licences, equipment and the channels available in France. We'll even offer an insight into the types of programmes broadcast on French TV!
Featured Article: TAX IN FRANCE
When moving to a new country the new tax system can be a bit of a mystery. This guide will give you an idea of all the taxes you should be prepared for, even if you're only thinking of buying property in France. It outlines some of the differences to expect between tax in the UK and France, and includes information on taxe foncière, taxe d'habitation, income tax, inheritance tax and wealth tax.
Featured Article: PETS AND ANIMALS IN FRANCE
If you're considering keeping pets or animals in France you should read on. This article outlines some of the things you should be prepared for: common ailments found in France, reports on the French bureaucracy involved in owning animals, and advises on certain French veterinary procedures and practices.
Featured Article: HORSES IN FRANCE
Planning to keep horses in France? This article is full of advice covering: land and stabling issues, livery in France and how it differs from the UK, insurance, French vets and even where to buy your feed. The article also discusses how you can best protect your horses from those annoying pests such as ticks and flies.
Featured Article: CAR INSURANCE IN FRANCE
It's worth spending some time considering your car insurance options when wanting to drive in France. This article covers the different things you need to think about before you go. Hiring a car might be a good option, or if perhaps even leaving a car in France. It also outlines how you go about sorting out car insurance with a French car insurance company, and whether getting French plates is mandatory or not.
Featured Article: LIFE IN FRANCE
Considering a life in France? This article not only offers advice on what you should think about before making the move, but also deals with many issues such as learning the language, French etiquette and cultural differences. The benefits of living near British ex-pat communities are also examined, and advice is given on where these communities can be found.
Featured Article: JOBS IN FRANCE
Finding a job can be hard wherever you live. This article aims to help those who looking for a job in France. It offers advice on the sort of work available, whether learning the language is absolutely necessary, and where the British expatriate communities are. It even briefly explains who to contact in France with regard to the possible benefits you may be able to receive, should you not be able to find work.
Featured Article: BANKING IN FRANCE
Getting a bank account in France is essential if you are buying a French house. Included here is advice on the various options available, including how you go about setting up a French bank account, and what penalties are awarded for bouncing a cheque in France!
Featured Article: SPORT IN FRANCE
France is not only the most visited country in the world for holidays - it also has some of the best locations for a wide variety of sports. For the more sporty house buyers, this may effect where you buy your property, as distance and time taken to get to these areas will be important factors to consider.
Featured Article: CONNECTING UTILITIES (WATER, GAS, ELECTRICITY, TELEPHONE AND SEWAGE) IN FRANCE
For many people buying property in France, connecting utilities is somewhat of an afterthought, to be done once all the dust has settled. But it does pay to be informed. This article outlines what you should look out for and how you go about connecting utilities once in France.
Featured Article: INTRODUCTION TO FRANCE
An introduction to France. From the landscape to the people, this article provides you with a quick tour of the regions and an overview of many aspects of France and French life.
Featured Article: FRENCH PUBLIC HOLIDAYS / BANK HOLIDAYS IN FRANCE
Another advantage of relocating to France is that the French get up to three more public holidays per year than we do in the UK (five more in certain departments!). Make sure you know when things are shutting down by consulting out complete list of French public holidays.
Featured Article: WEATHER IN FRANCE
Fed up of the rain in the UK? Learn where you should be looking in France if you want to enjoy the sunshine and avoid the showers. A comprehensive overview of the climate in different areas of France which is essential reading for anyone wishing to escape grey skies for good in favour of sunnier climes.
Featured Article: FRENCH EDUCATION SYSTEM - SCHOOLS IN FRANCE - 2017
Discover what makes the French school system different to the UK education system. The different types of school available and how you can help your children overcome language difficulties.
Featured Article: FRENCH LEGAL SERVICES AND SOLICITORS
Sometimes you need advice that you can rely on. Use this link to get the help of an English bilingual solicitor specialising in French law. And contrary to many lawyers, work can often be done on a fixed price basis.
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