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Chapter 1 of 15

Why France?

Lifestyle, culture, regional diversity, pros and cons

Summary

France is one of the most popular emigration destinations for Dutch citizens. An estimated 25,000-30,000 Dutch nationals live permanently in France. The country attracts people with its exceptional quality of life, culinary tradition, landscape diversity, and rich culture. From the lavender hills of Provence to the Atlantic coast of Brittany — France offers a suitable region for every type of emigrant. But emigrating to France requires thorough preparation: French bureaucracy is notorious, the language is essential, and the labor market follows different rules than in the Netherlands.

What you need to know

Quality of life

France consistently ranks in the top 10 countries for quality of life worldwide. The French deeply value their "art de vivre" — the art of living. Long lunches, freshly baked baguettes, local Saturday markets, and a work-life balance that is legally enshrined (the 35-hour workweek). Healthcare is excellent and affordable, public transport (TGV, metro) is among the best in Europe, and the cultural richness is unparalleled.

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2. Regions of France

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Knowledge Base

Glossary
  • Carte de Séjour (Residence Permit)

    The French residence permit. EU citizens do not need to apply for a carte de séjour but can obtain one as proof of residence rights. Non-EU citizens must apply for one.

  • Carte Vitale (Health Card)

    The French health card that gives you access to the healthcare system. Medical costs are directly reimbursed with this card. Apply at the CPAM after your PUMA registration.

  • CPAM (Primary Health Insurance Fund)

    The local health insurance institution. Here you register for French health insurance, apply for your Carte Vitale and submit claims.

  • CAF (Family Benefits Fund)

    The French family benefits agency: child benefit, housing assistance (APL), living allowance. If you live and work in France, you are entitled to many of these benefits.

  • Impôt sur le Revenu (Income Tax)

    The French income tax. Progressive rates from 0% to 45%. Calculated per "foyer fiscal" (household). Since 2019 the tax is withheld directly from your salary.

  • Mairie (Town Hall)

    The French town hall. Here you handle registration, marriages, and request various documents. Every village and city has a mairie.

  • Sécurité Sociale (Social Security)

    The French social security system. Covers healthcare, pensions, family benefits and unemployment. Your numéro de sécurité sociale (15 digits) is your key to the system.

  • OFII (French Immigration Office)

    The French immigration office. Non-EU citizens must validate their visa and activate their residence permit here after arriving in France.

  • PUMA (Universal Health Coverage)

    The French universal health coverage system. Everyone who lives stably in France (3+ months) is entitled to PUMA coverage, regardless of employment status.

  • Taxe d'Habitation (Residence Tax)

    A local tax on your main residence. Largely abolished for main residences since 2023, but still applies to second homes.

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