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Whether you’re arriving in France for study, work, or family life, this guide highlights the most common needs and tips to help you settle in smoothly. While Ireland and France share many European frameworks, the French system has its own set of rules, culture, and expectations that take some adjustment.
We recommend that you start by consulting the Embassy of Ireland in France website which provides a comprehensive overview of useful information Irish nationals in France :
On the MNA website you will find lots of useful addresses.
The website is a great source of information about events and activities in Paris and around France.
You can also look at members profiles and make contact with them.
Below you will find information specifically for students, professionals and families.
Studying in France offers an excellent academic experience, vibrant culture, and the chance to improve your French. Here is what to focus on:
University Registration
Ensure your enrolment is complete and that you’ve received your student card (“carte étudiante”).
Irish students (as EU citizens) do not need a visa or residence permit, but registering with the local municipality may still be helpful.
Apply for a French social security number via the etudiant-etranger.ameli.fr platform.
You will need a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) initially, but many students also get a mutuelle étudiante (student health top-up plan).
University residences (CROUS) offer affordable options but have limited space.
Look at Leboncoin, Studapart, and Erasmus groups for private rentals or flatshares.
A French guarantor may be required; some platforms offer paid guarantor services if you don’t have one.
Open a French bank account – it’s often needed for rent and utilities.
Many banks (e.g. BNP Paribas, Crédit Agricole) offer student-friendly accounts.
Even if your course is in English, daily life will be in French. Sign up for language classes through your university or local town hall (“mairie”).
Language exchange events are popular and a fun way to improve.
If you’re relocating for work, navigating French bureaucracy and professional norms is key.
Most jobs are on CDI (permanent) or CDD (fixed-term) contracts. These come with strong worker protections.
Irish professionals can work freely in France, but registering with the French social security system through your employer is essential.
Some sectors may require recognition of qualifications (e.g., teaching, healthcare).
Once employed, you’ll be automatically enrolled in the Assurance Maladie.
Request your carte Vitale after receiving your social security number.
A mutuelle (health insurance) is recommended to cover medical costs not reimbursed by the state.
Set up a French bank account, phone plan (Free, Orange, SFR), and transport pass (e.g., Navigo for Paris).
Many rental properties require a “dossier” with payslips, proof of employment, and sometimes a guarantor.
Meetings often begin formally – a polite “Bonjour” goes a long way.
Work-life balance is highly valued, and lunch breaks can last an hour or more.
Email communication tends to be more formal than in Ireland.
Moving with your family? France offers excellent childcare, healthcare, and public schooling, but preparation is key.
A group on Facebook book called “Expats in France” is a very useful source of pratical information. You can ask specific questions and find tips or advice.
Public schools are free, but you’ll need to register at the local mairie. Private and bilingual schools are also available, often with waiting lists.
Schooling begins at age 3 in France with école maternelle.
For secondary school-aged children, consider international sections in public schools or private international schools.
Apply for your social security numbers upon arrival.
Children are covered under a parent’s health insurance.
You may be eligible for CAF family benefits, including housing aid and childcare subsidies. (CAF = Caisse d’Allocations Familiales).
Choose housing near public transport and schools.
Check online listings via SeLoger, PAP, or LeBonCoin.
Note: Apartments may be smaller than in Ireland and often unfurnished, meaning no appliances.
Crèches (nurseries) are available but can have long waitlists – register early.
Assistantes maternelles (certified childminders) are a common option.
After-school care (“garderie” or “centre de loisirs”) is also widely available.
Consider enrolling in local integration or French language courses, especially if one partner is not working.
Joining local expat groups, especially Irish or English-speaking networks, can ease the transition.
