France
Residence procedure: No mandatory residence registration for EU citizens (optional attestation at prefecture)
Official government websiteYour 7-step relocation checklist
- Step 1
EU Free Movement confirmed
As an EU citizen, you have the right to live and work in France with no visa. Bring a valid passport or national ID card.
- Step 2
Find accommodation
A local address is required for most other steps (registration, bank, tax number). Check housing costs before you move.
Cost of living in France - Step 3
Register your residence — No mandatory residence registration for EU citizens (optional attestation at prefecture)
Deadline: Within 3 months of arrival. This is the local residence registration procedure required under EU Directive 2004/38/EC after your first 3 months.
Official government portal - Step 4
Get your Numéro fiscal (SPI) / NIR for social security
You need a Numéro fiscal (SPI) / NIR for social security to work, get paid, or open a bank account in France.
Apply for Numéro fiscal (SPI) / NIR for social security - Step 5
Register with Assurance Maladie (CPAM) – PUMa
Once resident and working, register with Assurance Maladie (CPAM) – PUMa. In the meantime your EHIC covers necessary care.
Assurance Maladie (CPAM) – PUMa portal - Step 6
Open a local bank account
Most France employers pay salary into a local EUR account. Bring your ID, proof of address and Numéro fiscal (SPI) / NIR for social security.
- Step 7
Calculate your expected net salary
See what you'll actually take home in France after tax and social security.
Open net salary calculator
FAQ — Moving to France
Information verified for 2026 from official France government sources. This guide applies to EU citizens under EU Directive 2004/38/EC.