Moving from London to Paris

Relocating from London to Paris represents a significant life change that requires careful planning and organization.

Before the move, ensure you have the right to live and work in France – EU citizens have different requirements compared to non-EU citizens.

Essential Pre-Move Checklist

Secure proper visas and work permits
Find accommodation (temporary or permanent)
Research healthcare options and register with the French system
Open a French bank account
Register with local authorities
Plan school arrangements if moving with children

Housing in Paris

Paris housing costs are generally lower than London, but finding an apartment can be more challenging due to strict requirements.

Common rental websites include SeLoger, PAP, and LeBonCoin.

Transportation Options

Mode	Monthly Cost (Approx)
Metro Pass (Navigo)	€75.20
Bike Share (Vélib)	€37.20

Moving Your Belongings

International Movers: Crown Relocations, AGS, Allied Pickfords
Shipping Time: 5-7 days by road
Cost Range: £2,000-£4,000 for a 2-bedroom apartment

Administrative Steps

Obtain your Carte Vitale (health insurance card) after registering with social security.

Banking and Finances

Major banks: BNP Paribas, Société Générale, Crédit Agricole
Online options: N26, Revolut, Wise

Language Considerations

While English is widely spoken in business settings, basic French knowledge is essential for daily life.

Recommended Language Schools:

Alliance Française
Institut Français
Lutèce Langue

Healthcare Setup

The French healthcare system reimburses 70-100% of medical costs.

Useful Contact Information

Emergency: 112
Police: 17
Ambulance: 15
British Embassy in Paris: +33 (0)1 44 51 31 00

Set aside approximately €5,000-€8,000 for initial moving and setup costs.

Timeline Planning

3-6 months before: Start visa process, research areas
2-3 months before: Book movers, start house hunting
1 month before: Set up utilities, inform UK authorities
1 week before: Final packing, currency exchange

Cultural Integration

French work culture and social norms differ significantly from British customs. The standard workweek is 35 hours, and lunch breaks are generally longer and more formal.

Social Etiquette Tips:

Always greet with “Bonjour” before starting any conversation
La bise (cheek kissing) is common in social settings
Maintain formal politeness in professional environments

Setting Up Utilities

Major utility providers in Paris:

Electricity: EDF, Engie
Water: Eau de Paris
Internet: Orange, Free, SFR, Bouygues

Neighborhood Selection

Popular expatriate areas include:

16th arrondissement: Family-friendly, upscale
Marais (3rd/4th): Trendy, central location
11th arrondissement: Young, vibrant atmosphere
15th arrondissement: Residential, good value

Conclusion

A successful relocation to Paris requires thorough preparation and patience with administrative procedures. Focus on securing housing and necessary documentation early in the process. While initial setup can be challenging, the city offers an exceptional quality of life with rich cultural experiences.

Remember to:

Start preparations early
Budget carefully for all expenses
Learn basic French phrases
Build a local support network
Maintain all important documents

FAQs

What documents do I need to move from London to Paris as a UK citizen post-Brexit?
You’ll need a valid passport, proof of employment or study in France, proof of financial means, health insurance coverage, and depending on your situation, you may need a long-stay visa (for stays over 90 days) or residence permit.
How much should I budget for housing in Paris compared to London?
While both cities are expensive, Paris generally has slightly lower rental costs than London. Expect to pay €1,200-2,000 for a one-bedroom apartment in central Paris, with utilities averaging €150-200 monthly. You’ll need to provide a guarantor and typically 3 months’ rent as deposit.
What are the main steps for registering as a resident in Paris?
Register at your local mairie (town hall), obtain a social security number, register for healthcare (CPAM), open a French bank account, and exchange your driving license if necessary within your first year of residence.
Do I need to register my UK-earned qualifications in France?
Yes, professional qualifications need to be recognized in France through ENIC-NARIC. Some professions require specific French certifications or additional training to practice.
What’s the best way to transport my belongings from London to Paris?
Options include international moving companies (€2,000-4,000 for a one-bedroom apartment), shared container services, or hiring a van. The Eurotunnel and ferry services both accommodate moving vehicles.
How does the French healthcare system work for new residents?
After three months of residence, you can apply for the French healthcare system (Protection Universelle Maladie). You’ll need to contribute to social security and will receive a Carte Vitale for medical coverage.
What are the initial administrative costs I should prepare for?
Budget for visa fees (if applicable, around €100), residence permit (€225), healthcare registration, housing agency fees (up to one month’s rent), and utility connection fees.
How can I find English-speaking services and communities in Paris?
Join expat groups on social media, connect with organizations like the British Council, and use resources like Fusac or The Local France. Many arrondissements have established English-speaking communities.
What are the tax implications of moving from the UK to France?
You’ll need to inform HMRC of your move, understand French tax residency rules (183 days), and may need to file tax returns in both countries initially. France has higher income tax rates and social charges.
How long does the entire relocation process typically take?
Plan for 3-6 months from initial preparation to complete settlement. This includes visa processing (1-2 months), finding accommodation (1-2 months), and setting up essential services (1 month).