Moving to France is a dream for many, but misconceptions often cloud the reality of what life is truly like in the country. Whether you imagine sipping wine in a Parisian café, living in a countryside château, or enjoying year-round sunshine on the Côte d’Azur, you might be surprised by some of the biggest myths about relocating to France. In this article, we’ll debunk common misconceptions and provide a clearer picture of what to expect when making the move.
Myth 1: Everyone Speaks English in France
One of the most persistent myths about France is that you can get by just fine without speaking French because “everyone speaks English.” While it's true that English is widely spoken in major tourist areas and among younger generations, many French people, especially in rural areas, are not fluent in English. If you're planning to move to France, learning the language—even just the basics—will make your daily life much easier. From handling administrative tasks to forming relationships with locals, speaking French will enrich your experience and help you integrate into the community.
Myth 2: Life in France Is Always Like a Holiday
Life in France is about baguette and wine on sunny terraces—and sometimes, it really is. But in reality, you need a clear timeline and roadmap to navigate the practical side of moving. For example, many expats assume that setting up healthcare (la Sécu) is automatic, but we’ve seen clients who, after a year in France, still aren’t enrolled—or worse, never even applied. This is a massive red flag when applying for a carte de séjour (residency permit). Each checkbox on a French form matters!
Myth 3: The French Are Rude and Unfriendly
This stereotype has been around for years, but the truth is far from it. The French are generally warm, welcoming, and willing to help—especially if you make an effort to respect their customs. Many expats who take the time to understand French etiquette and culture find that their French neighbours and colleagues are friendly and supportive. A simple Bonjour when entering a shop or greeting a stranger goes a long way in making positive connections.
Myth 4: Buying Property in France Is Complicated and Expensive
While the French property market has its fair share of legal procedures, it is not necessarily complicated or overly expensive—especially when compared to markets like the UK or US. Many expats find that purchasing property in France is straightforward when they work with a knowledgeable real estate agent and a notaire (a legal official who handles property transactions). In rural areas, it’s even possible to find charming homes at very reasonable prices. However, be prepared for some paperwork, but rest assured that thousands of expats successfully navigate the process every year.
Myth 5: Healthcare in France Is Only for French Citizens
One of the most common concerns among expats is access to healthcare. Fortunately, France has one of the best healthcare systems in the world, and it is available to residents—not just citizens. If you live and work in France, you will contribute to the public healthcare system through social security payments, granting you access to state-funded healthcare. Retirees from certain countries, including the UK, may also qualify for coverage through agreements like the S1 form. Even if you don’t qualify for the public system immediately, private health insurance is widely available and often more affordable than in other countries. Having a mutuelle (top-up insurance) is also common, as it covers additional healthcare costs not reimbursed by the state.
Myth 6: France Is Too Expensive to Live In
France has a reputation for being expensive, but this largely depends on where you choose to live and your lifestyle choices. While cities like Paris and Nice have high living costs, rural areas and smaller cities offer much more affordable living expenses. For example, renting or buying property in parts of Normandy, Brittany, or the Dordogne can be significantly cheaper than in major cities. Groceries, wine, and dining out are also relatively affordable, especially if you shop at local markets and eat at traditional French restaurants instead of tourist spots. If you plan wisely, France can be surprisingly budget-friendly, offering a great quality of life without breaking the bank.
Myth 7: French Bureaucracy Is Impossible to Navigate
French bureaucracy has a reputation for being complex, and while it does involve paperwork and patience, it is far from impossible to navigate. The key to dealing with French bureaucracy is preparation and organisation. Having all the necessary documents, using professional services (such as relocation experts), and being patient will help smooth the process. Many expats find that once they understand how things work, administrative tasks become manageable.
It’s also important to remember that bureaucracy exists in every country—France is just more structured in how it processes things like residency, healthcare, and taxes.
Final Thoughts: The Reality of Moving to France
Moving to France is an exciting adventure, but it’s important to separate fact from fiction. While there are challenges—such as learning the language and dealing with paperwork—France offers a fantastic quality of life, excellent healthcare, and rich cultural experiences.
If you're considering making the move, approach it with realistic expectations and an open mind. Do your research, embrace the local culture, and prepare for a rewarding journey in one of the most beautiful and diverse countries in the world.
At Fab Expat, we make the process of moving to France as simple as Frenchly possible! Watch our video below with Fabien himself.