Finance

Master your finances in France: from banking and French insurance to retirement planning and taxes, empower your financial future.

#

Banking

Ease your financial transition when moving to France by learning everything you need to know about local banking, accounts, payments, and cards.

#

Best way to receive money from abroad in France 

If someone is about to send you a payment from overseas, you need a safe and cost-effective way to receive your money. This guide will compare the best methods to receive money from abroad in France, focusing on safety, cost, and ease of use, to help expats and foreigners in France make the right choice […]

Read more

#

Best Business Bank Account in France

Opening a business account in a foreign country can be a challenge, with unfamiliar providers, account features and fees. If you’re looking for the best business bank account in France, this guide is here to help.  We’ll cover both how to open an account and which banks are best for expats and non-residents. Plus, because […]

Read more

#

Best bank accounts for non-residents in France

Need a French bank account or IBAN before you move, or to manage bills and payments in France from abroad? This guide explains eligibility, required documents, non‑resident account rules, typical fees, and how to compare online and traditional banks for SEPA transfers. This guide is for general information only and isn’t financial advice. Features, availability, […]

Read more

#

What is a RIB in France?

A RIB (relevé d’identité bancaire) is the document used in France to share bank account details. Employers, landlords, utility providers, insurers, and public bodies may ask for one to pay you, reimburse you, or arrange a direct debit. This guide explains what a French RIB contains, how it differs from an IBAN and BIC, where […]

Read more

#

How to write a French cheque

Writing a French cheque can feel unfamiliar because the amount in words comes before the payee, while local number and date formats differ from those used in many other countries. This guide explains how to complete each field, write amounts and dates correctly, avoid invalid or risky entries, and decide when another payment method may […]

Read more

#

Getting paid by a foreign company in France

Living in France while being paid by a company abroad can be straightforward, but the right setup depends on whether you are an employee or an independent contractor. Receiving the money is only part of the process, as French payroll, tax residency, social contributions, registration, and payment details may also matter. This guide explains the […]

Read more

#

Banking in France for expats (2026)

This guide to banking in France helps expats understand how the French banking system works, what is available to them, and how to choose a bank.

Read more

#

How to open a bank account in France in 2026

This guide explains how to open a French bank account as a resident, what options there are, and what is required when opening a bank account in France.

Read more

#

Mobile banking apps in France

There has been a shift towards mobile banking in France in recent years, with many residents using online payment apps to pay bills, transfer money, and even pay for their groceries.

Read more

Insurance

Protect yourself, your family, and your belongings thanks to our essential information about mandatory and optional insurance coverage in France.

#

Travel insurance for visitors in France

France’s travel insurance needs vary by nationality and entry status, and some travellers must show cover or documents. GHIC/EHIC may help with necessary public healthcare, but won’t cover all risks. This guide explains requirements, key cover, exclusions, and activities. Official France entry and healthcare pages were reviewed on September 2026. This guide is general information […]

Read more

#

Civil liability insurance in France

Renters, property owners, students, interns, and club members may be asked for different certificates, and the cover is often bundled into home insurance rather than sold separately. This guide explains when cover is required, what it usually includes and excludes, how to check an attestation, and what to do after an incident. Key takeaways Situation […]

Read more

#

Insurance in France

Compulsory insurance reaches across many sectors in France. Here’s an essential guide to make sure you’re properly insured while living in France.

Read more

#

Guide to getting health insurance in France in 2026

Health insurance in France is split between public and private coverage. Find out who needs which, what they cover, how to register, and the costs.

Read more

#

Car insurance in France

Planning to get behind the wheel in France? Make sure you’re covered with our complete guide to car insurance in France.

Read more

#

Home insurance in France: property, contents, and liability

Whether you’re in Paris or Provence, protect your property and treasured possessions with home insurance in France.

Read more

#

Life insurance in France

‘Assurance vie’ can be a beneficial French insurance to protect against inheritance tax, especially if your French property will go to a non-blood relative.

Read more

#

Healthcare and health insurance for seniors in France

Explore options for senior healthcare and health insurance in France, including specialists, treatments, and assisted living.

Read more

Money Management

Manage your money in France like a pro: find out how to transfer funds internationally, where to borrow and invest, and how to plan your estate.

#

Best credit cards in France: complete guide 2026

Compare credit cards in France for expats in 2025. See fees, perks and travel benefits, plus an alternative to credit cards. Finding the right credit card can make a real difference when settling into life in France. With plenty of cards on offer, from simple no-fee options to premium products with rewards and travel perks, […]

Read more

#

How to invest in real estate stocks in France

Explore French real estate stocks without buying a flat or house in France. This guide is for expats living in France, moving to France, or managing cross-border money who want property exposure through the stock market. You will see how these options differ, where a PEA or compte-titres ordinaire may fit, what taxes and fees […]

Read more

#

How to use the Wise card in France

Managing money between currencies can feel complicated when you live or travel abroad, but the Wise debit card helps make it simpler. The Wise card connects to your Wise account so you can spend, withdraw, and convert money at the mid-market exchange rate with clear, low fees. For expats and frequent travellers in France, it […]

Read more

#

How to invest in bonds in France

Bonds are loans to governments or companies. For expats in France, the key is balancing income, diversification, liquidity, tax, and currency risk. This article covers how bonds fit in your portfolio, which types to choose (government vs corporate; individual vs funds), French account and tax points. This guide is for general information only, not financial, […]

Read more

#

Wise review France

Struggling to keep your finances under control while living abroad? This Wise review shows how Wise helps manage money across borders with transparent fees and multi-currency tools for expats in France. Living abroad often means juggling more than one currency. From receiving payments from other countries to sending money to family or paying daily bills, […]

Read more

#

Best EUR accounts in France for foreigners

If you’re living in France but leading an international lifestyle, a EUR account with international features can be a good way to manage your day to day finances – and cut the overall costs of transacting across currencies. If you’re a foreigner living in France for work or to study, you’ll need a handy EUR […]

Read more

#

Saving money in France as an expat

France is an exciting place for expats, but managing costs wisely is key to enjoying life here. This guide offers practical advice to help you save money and make your budget go further. Living in France as an expat comes with both exciting opportunities and financial challenges. From everyday expenses like housing, groceries, and transport […]

Read more

#

How to use Wise in France as an expat ?

If you’re moving to France from abroad, you’ll likely need to manage money in more than one currency—getting paid from one country, paying French expenses, and possibly sending money back home. This guide shows how to use Wise in France to hold, spend, and transfer money across borders with less hassle and lower fees. Wise […]

Read more

#

Best Multi‑Currency Accounts in France

Managing money in euros and other currencies can get expensive fast—especially if you’re paid abroad, travel often, or send money internationally. This guide compares the best multi‑currency accounts in France, breaking down fees, FX rates, cards, and IBAN options Quick overview: Best multi-currency accounts in France Here is a quick overview of some of the […]

Read more

#

Bringing money to France from abroad

Moving to France often means bringing money from abroad—and the method you choose affects cost, speed, and paperwork. This guide compares SEPA/SWIFT transfers, online services, multi‑currency accounts, and cash, how to check fees and FX rates, plus key tax reporting rules and the €10,000 cash declaration. Quick summary: Bringing money from abroad to France How […]

Read more

#

How to pay in France: cards, cash and SEPA

Settling in France means navigating how people actually pay day to day. This guide explains the main payment options—cards (CB/Visa/Mastercard), cash, SEPA bank transfers, direct debits, cheques, and mobile wallets—plus practical tips to avoid fees and failed payments. Quick answer – the best ways to pay in France Currency and prices in France (EUR basics) […]

Read more

#

How to invest in index funds in France

This guide explains how to invest in index funds in France, from understanding what an index fund is to choosing the right account (PEA vs compte‑titres ordinaire). It walks you through screening a UCITS ETF, placing your first order, reviewing the main risks and tax considerations—without getting lost in French jargon. Key takeaways Goal Best […]

Read more

#

How to Invest in Sustainable Funds?

This guide explains how to invest in sustainable funds in France, using the same basics as any investment—then adding sustainability checks. You’ll learn how to read Article 8/9 disclosures, check Label ISR and Greenfin, compare platforms and verify the key documents before you invest. Key takeaways The fastest way to avoid mistakes is to check […]

Read more

#

Selling property in France: Complete guide for residents and non-residents 2025

Selling a home can be one of life’s biggest financial decisions that can often feel complex, stressful, and overwhelming, with many hidden costs and legal requirements. Selling a home in a different country can be even trickier as you’ll need to navigate a different legal and practical process. Whether you’re selling property in France as […]

Read more

#

How to Invest for Passive Income in France

This guide is for expats and internationally mobile residents who want a clear, step-by-step way to build passive income in France. It focuses on choosing the right French investment wrapper, understanding the tax rules, and matching your plan to your timeline—rather than chasing the highest headline yield. Passive income from investing is never fully effortless, […]

Read more

#

Best way to receive money from abroad in France 

If someone is about to send you a payment from overseas, you need a safe and cost-effective way to receive your money. This guide will compare the best methods to receive money from abroad in France, focusing on safety, cost, and ease of use, to help expats and foreigners in France make the right choice […]

Read more

#

How to Invest in Precious Metals in France

Investing in precious metals in France depends on whether you buy physical bullion, use exchange-traded products, or invest via funds and mining shares. For expats and international residents, it’s crucial to understand the options, risks, and French tax rules. This guide covers how gold, silver, platinum, and palladium investing works in France, and what to […]

Read more

#

USD accounts in France

Managing money in more than one currency is much easier when you have the right account. If you earn, spend, or save in US dollars while living in France, a USD account could help you keep control of your finances. For many expats, having a USD account in France is about convenience and peace of […]

Read more

#

How to invest in art in France

Buying art in France can bring enjoyment and potential long-term value, but it’s illiquid and ownership costs add up. This guide helps expats compare buying options, assess risks, budget extra costs, verify provenance, and navigate French tax, import, resale, and cross-border payment issues. Key takeaways Start here for the main risks, costs, and checks to […]

Read more

#

GBP accounts in France

Living in France but earning or spending in British pounds? A GBP account can make managing your money easier, whether you’re an expat, a frequent traveller, or connected to the UK for work or family. Opening a GBP account in France lets you hold and use British pounds alongside euros and is helpful if you […]

Read more

#

Fine wine investment in France

Explore fine wine investment in France with an expat-focused guide to regions, risks, storage, taxes, and cross-border payments. This guide explains what makes wine investment-grade, how buying and storage work, the costs and risks involved. This article is for general information only and is not financial, legal, or tax advice. Key takeaways How fine wine […]

Read more

#

Best Business Bank Account in France

Opening a business account in a foreign country can be a challenge, with unfamiliar providers, account features and fees. If you’re looking for the best business bank account in France, this guide is here to help.  We’ll cover both how to open an account and which banks are best for expats and non-residents. Plus, because […]

Read more

#

How to invest in startups in France as an expat

Learn how to invest in startups in France, from regulated crowdfunding to angel deals and pooled funds. This guide shows you the checks to make before sending money, plus the France-specific tax, paperwork, and risk points that matter most for expats. French startup investing can be accessible, but it is not simple or low risk. […]

Read more

#

Investing in France

Looking to invest in France? Find out the different ways to make your money grow, from simple savings accounts to funding a startup business.

Read more

#

International money transfers in France

Here’s all you need to know about sending and receiving money in France, whether you’re transferring within Europe or beyond.

Read more

#

Mortgages in France: interest rates in 2026

From finding a broker to making repayments, here’s how to get a mortgage in France in 2026 and finance your dream home.

Read more

#

The minimum wage and average salary in France in 2026

Learn all about the minimum wage in France in 2026 as well as the average salary you might expect to earn as an expat working in the country.

Read more

#

Wills and estate planning in France

Are you an expat living in France? Make sure you’ve protected yourself and your assets against every eventuality with our guide to planning wills and estates in France.

Read more

#

The cost of living in France in 2026

How much do the French spend on living costs? Find out if the cost of living in France is affordable for you and your family.

Read more

Retirement

Plan your dream retirement in France: get insights on French pensions, savings, healthcare, and finding the best spot to live your golden years.

Taxes

Demystify taxes in France and learn to navigate the fiscal system with clarity whether you’re an employee, a freelancer, or a business owner.

#

Taxes for freelancers and self-employed workers in France in 2026

If you freelance or work as an independent contractor, discover how much tax you’ll need to pay with our expert guide to taxes for freelancers and self-employed workers in France.

Read more

#

VAT refund in France (détaxe): how to claim

You may be eligible to claim a VAT refund in France on certain goods purchased in France and taken out of the EU (often called détaxe / “tax‑free shopping”). You must meet certain eligibility requirements and then have everything validated by Customs at your point of departure. This guide to tax free shopping in France covers all you need to know. […]

Read more

#

France-USA Tax Treaty for Expats in France

The France–US tax treaty can help reduce double taxation, but it doesn’t replace either country’s tax rules or remove filing obligations. If you live in France and have US ties, start by confirming your residency and income type. This guide outlines key checks, common forms, and the records you may need to prepare. Key takeaways […]

Read more

#

Guide to French taxes in 2026

Here’s a brief overview of taxes in France, including how they work, which types you’ll come across, what’s new in 2026, and where to get advice.

Read more

#

ID numbers in France: TIN, national registration, and more

Whether you need to pay your taxes or apply for social security, read on for more on tax identification numbers (TIN) and other ID in France.

Read more

#

How to file your income taxes in France in 2026

Discover how to file your French income tax return in 2026, including the latest rates, deadlines, and which expenses you can deduct.

Read more

#

Corporate tax rates in France

If you start a business in France, you may be required to pay corporate tax rather than personal income tax on your profits. What are the corporate tax rates in France, anyway?

Read more

#

Inheritance and estate taxes in France

If you own property, reside or are retired in France, you need to consider if French inheritance law and French succession laws apply to your assets.

Read more

Expat tools

Make your expat journey easier with our handy tools

expat tool

Relocator tool

Get a personalised checklist for moving to France by answering a few questions about your relocation

Read more

expat tool

Directory

Find a service provider for your finances, education, and everything in between

Read more

expat tool

Job search

Looking for work? Search our job postings to discover a position suited to your talents

Read more

expat tool

Health insurance

Get the best health insurance quotes for expats when moving to France

Read more