France is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Thousands of people come to see its attractions and learn more about French history, arts, foods, wines and fashion. Paris, “the city of romance” is probably the most popular tourist spot in Europe. However, living in France is different from spending your vacation there.
Visas and Immigration
American citizens who want to visit France and stay there for a maximum of ninety days, don’t need a visa. However, they will be allowed to stay in France for three months only. To get more information on visiting France as a tourist, you can visit the French Embassy in the United States.
If you want to stay in the country for more than ninety days, (for non-tourism purposes), you will have to get a visa before you leave the United States. You need to visit the French Consulate in the United States and apply.
If you want to work in France, you must have a work permit. You need to get a visa first, and then you will be able to apply for a work permit. This work permit is only valid in France. EU citizens can travel and work in other EU countries, but American citizens who have work permits for France can only work in this country, and not in other EU countries. You cannot come to the country as a tourist and then just become a worker or resident.
It is very difficult to find a job in France, if you are an American. You must have a job at hand (employment has to be approved before you actually come to France).
Hospitals with English Speaking Personnel
Here are several hospitals that have English-speaking staff:
• American Hospital
• Hertford British Hospital
• Hôpital Foch
• Centre Hospitalier St Joseph Et St Luc
• Hopital Neurologique et Neurochirurgical Pierre Wertheimer
• Hopital Femme-Mere-Enfant
• Hopital Cardiovasculaire et Pneumologique Louis Pradel
• Service de Consultations et de Traitements Dentaires
• Centre Hospitalier Lyon Sud: chemin du Grand Revoyet
• Centre Hospitalier Universitaire d’Angers
Education system in this country is excellent. If you are moving to France with your children, you will have to find out more about schools for English-speaking children.
France is one of the most developed countries in Europe. The standard of living is high, but the cost of living is high as well. This country is certainly one of the best places to live in, but you have to be prepared for limited job offers, high prices of real estate, and the fact that most French people don’t really like speaking English.
Useful Information
• Guide for American citizens in France
• Find out more about real estate in France
• Dos and Don’ts to keep in mind
• Read more about Living in France