Living in France: this is what it could look like

France remains a favorite vacation destination among the Dutch. Are you increasingly considering the idea: Do I perhaps want to live (permanently) in France? In that case, you might want to read this blog about everything involved in living in France for Dutch persons. Perhaps your dreams of moving to France are becoming more real for you too.

Permanent living in France

As an EU citizen, you have the right to live in France. If you stay in France for more than 8 months in a year, the Dutch government considers this as permanent living in France. In that case, the Personal Records Database (BRP) requires you to deregister in the Netherlands, and you will then be considered as living permanently in France. Keep in mind that if you actually want to live permanently in France, you must also register at the town hall of the place in France where you live.

By the way, when opening a bank account in France, a registration certificate from the municipality is often not required; instead, a "justificatif de domicile" is usually needed. This is a bill for gas, water, or electricity, which indirectly proves that you live permanently in France.

Temporary living in France

You might wonder: Can I, as a Dutch citizen, also live temporarily in France? With a valid passport showing that you are an EU citizen, you can stay for a maximum of three months. This is considered temporary living in France. For example, with a holiday home that you use for temporary living in France.

Dutch living in France

France is a beloved country for the Dutch to temporarily live in a dream spot, spend the winter, or (semi) permanently live in a second (holiday) home. Dutch people who live in France often cite nature, peace, and space as reasons. We don't know exactly how many Dutch people live in France in 2024. Among pension migrants, commonly known as "pensionados," France is certainly popular. Many Dutch live in Aquitaine, a region in Southwest France. Additionally, the South Vendée is a trendy region with plenty of sunshine. Perfect if you want to live in France for the climate.

Different regions in France to live in

We've made our own selection (subjective, not exhaustive, and in no particular order) of the best regions to live in France:

1.Côte d'Azur

Located between the mountains of the Alps and the blue sea on the French Riviera, the baroque city of Nice is one of the most beautiful places in France to settle. The historic center and the beaches form a perfect combination. There's always something to do. When you settle in Nice, there's always something for everyone within this diversity to enjoy. However, it is quite expensive compared to the Netherlands.

Cocktails and being seen, marinas, and luxury yachts. Who wouldn't choose Saint-Tropez as a chic place to settle in France? Besides the warm climate, which allows you to walk around with sunglasses even in winter, it is always a bustling place.

2.Provence

For those who prefer to live in cities with more natural beauty, the charming Provence might be the most beautiful place to settle in France. Avignon with its cultural festival, the small village of Gordes with its beautiful castle, places around the impressive Verdon, or the historic Arles are certainly among the most beautiful places to live in France.

3.Aquitaine

Located in the Southwest of France, the Aquitaine region in France includes the departments of Dordogne (the medieval Sarlat is beautiful!), Gironde, Landes with its pine forests, Lot-et-Garonne, and the Pyrénées-Atlantiques. An abundance of beautiful, quiet villages and towns like Bordeaux, Mont-de-Marsan, or the picturesque Pujols are excellent options for living in France. If you love high waves and a wonderful beach to enjoy, then the bustling seaside resort of Biarritz is also worth considering as the most beautiful place to live in France.

4.Vendée

Looking for a versatile region in France to live? Perhaps the south of Vendée is worth considering. The touristy Les Sables-d’Olonne, La Rochelle, port city Nantes, or La Roche-sur-Yon can be the ideal place to live in France, partly because it's less hot than in the South of France.

5.Normandy

The small peninsula of Mont Saint-Michel is often the first thing people mention when they think of the most beautiful place in Normandy. Settling there is almost impossible, so which places compete for the title of the most beautiful places to live in France? Certainly not the port city of Le Havre, but Normandy's rugged cliffs and charming seaside towns like Rouen and Honfleur. Enjoy scallops, mussels, or oysters, typical of the Norman cuisine. Hopefully, a little sunshine, and you can enjoy living in France!

6.Paris

The capital city Paris might not be the most beautiful, friendly, or affordable place to settle, but it attracts people for its cultural life and numerous entertainment options. If this appeals to you, moving to Paris might be an option. Conveniently close to the Netherlands as well.

Living and working in France

As a Dutch citizen, you don't need a visa or work permit to work in France. Are you considering living and working in France? Keep in mind that you won't deal with just one agency like the Chamber of Commerce in the Netherlands to register your startup with the French government. Registration depends on the established activity when you start working in France. There are no fewer than six(!) different registration authorities in France. The result is the SIRET number, similar to your Chamber of Commerce number in the Netherlands.

Do you live in France and receive income from the Netherlands? Or do you work and live in France for a Dutch company? Avoid paying double taxes on your salary. Whether France or the Netherlands levies tax is laid down in the 183-day rule. Our advice: Seek expert advice.

Buying a house in France

The housing market in France is often described as opaque. Prepare well for living and buying in France. The process of buying a house in France can be complex, with specific rules, property rights, taxes, and costs that differ from those in the Netherlands. Hire a real estate agent and/or legal advisor familiar with this.

The French buying process is formal and follows several fixed steps:

Pre-contract: You sign a preliminary sales contract, the "Compromis de Vente," which contains the sale details.

Cooling-off period: After signing, you have 10 days to withdraw from the purchase.

Financing: Arrange financing, for example, through a mortgage.

Transfer Deed: Once all conditions are met, the final deed, the "Acte de Vente," is signed at the notary, making the transfer of ownership official.

Your social benefits in France

If you're considering moving to France, it's wise to request information from the Dutch Healthcare Institute on how to retain your Dutch health insurance. For your family members, you can take out private insurance. If you live in France for an extended period, you can also arrange your health insurance there.

Healthcare in France is accessible to everyone: everyone is entitled to medical care. Costs are covered through a contribution from your employer (up to 6% of your salary per month) or by taking out a basic insurance policy through the government health fund. Many French people also choose additional insurance, which is generally affordable.

In the worldwide International Living's Retirement Index (2023), France ranks ninth in the top ten. Are you moving to France with a pension from the Netherlands? You are entitled to an AOW supplement if you move to a country within the EU, including living in France with AOW. You will likely pay tax on your pension in France if you live there. Inquire about exemptions with the Dutch Tax Office.

Inspired? Now taking steps to live in France?

Then De Haan Relocation, Netherlands would be happy to take care of your move with care and attention. We understand the bureaucracy on-site, and our experienced partners in France can handle it exceptionally well.

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