✨ New Year, New Beginnings: Your Guide to Moving to France in 2026

A deeper look at what the past year taught us, what’s ahead, and how to prepare for a successful life in France.

As we welcome 2026, many people are dreaming of a fresh start — a new home, a new lifestyle, and a new chapter in France. Whether you’re seeking a slower pace, a safer environment, a cultural adventure, or simply a place that feels more aligned with your values, France continues to be one of the most appealing destinations for expats from the UK, the US, and beyond.

For me, as a relocation specialist, the past year has been filled with stories of courage, resilience, and transformation. Every dossier, every appointment, every moment of stress or celebration has taught us something valuable about what it really means to move to France.

Let’s take a deeper look at what 2025 brought us — and what 2026 has in store for anyone preparing to make France their new home.

Looking Back: What 2025 Taught Us

1. French paperwork remains… French paperwork

If 2025 taught us anything, it’s that French administration has a personality of its own. It is thorough, structured, and deeply rooted in tradition. That means:

• Multiple documents for a single application

• Requests for proof of proof

• Occasional system changes without warning

• Long waits for appointments in certain regions

This isn’t inefficiency — it’s cultural. France values precision, fairness, and documentation. Once you understand that, the process becomes far less intimidating.

2. Community matters more than ever

Expats who integrated successfully in 2025 were those who embraced community life:

• Joining local associations

• Attending village events

• Saying bonjour to neighbours

• Shopping at local markets

• Asking questions and accepting help

France is built on community connection. The more you participate, the more France opens its doors to you.

3. Preparation is everything

The smoothest relocations last year were the ones where clients:

• Started paperwork early

• Organised documents in advance

• Understood the timeline

• Budgeted realistically

• Asked for guidance before problems appeared

Moving to France rewards those who plan ahead — and punishes those who leave things to the last minute.

🔮 What Stays the Same in 2026

1. Administrative processes remain thorough

Expect detailed forms, supporting documents, and occasional requests for additional proof. This is normal — and predictable.

2. Appointments still need to be booked early

Préfectures, healthcare offices, and banks continue to operate with limited availability. Some regions book out weeks or months in advance.

3. Patience is still your best friend

There will be delays. There will be closed offices. There will be moments of frustration. But there will also be approvals, breakthroughs, and relief.

What May Change in 2026

1. Continued digitalisation

More administrative services are moving online, including:

• Residency renewals

• Driving licence exchanges

• Healthcare registrations

• Tax declarations

This is great news — but it requires organisation and digital confidence.

2. Housing competition remains high

France continues to attract newcomers seeking stability, affordability, and a better quality of life. Regions like Normandy, Brittany, Occitanie, and the Dordogne remain especially popular.

Planning early is essential.

3. Mobility trends are shifting

Remote work, early retirement, and lifestyle changes are driving more people to France. Expect continued demand from the US and UK.

🌍 Events to Watch in 2026

🇺🇸 United States

• Economic and political shifts may influence Americans seeking stability abroad

• Visa and tax updates may affect dual‑nationals or remote workers

• Cultural and tech events often inspire lifestyle changes

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

• Post‑Brexit rules continue to evolve

• Travel and residency updates may affect second‑home owners

• Economic changes may influence retirement planning

🇫🇷 France

• Administrative calendars (tax season, school enrolment, healthcare renewals)

• Local elections or policy updates

• Cultural events — ideal for new arrivals wanting to integrate

• Housing market trends, especially in rural areas

Preparing Your Move to France in 2026

1. Start your paperwork early

Some documents take months to obtain — especially from abroad. Starting early avoids stress and delays.

2. Organise your documents

Keep both digital and physical copies. France loves paper, but online portals love PDFs.

3. Understand the real cost of living

France isn’t always cheaper — it depends on the region. But it is more stable and predictable.

4. Learn the basics of French admin culture

It’s not chaotic — it’s methodical. Once you understand the rhythm, everything becomes easier.

5. Be realistic

France is beautiful, but it’s not a movie. There will be:

• Rainy days

• Closed offices

• Cultural misunderstandings

• Administrative delays

But there will also be:

• Fresh bread in the morning

• Friendly neighbours

• Stunning landscapes

• A slower, richer way of living

🏡 Settling Into France as an Expat

Once you arrive, the real journey begins:

• Opening a bank account

• Registering for healthcare

• Setting up utilities

• Understanding taxes

• Navigating schools

• Learning local etiquette

• Building a social network

This is where many people feel overwhelmed — and where having support makes all the difference.

🤝 How Normandy Consultancy Can Help

This is where I come in.

I offer:

• Clear, step‑by‑step guidance

• Bilingual support

• Document preparation

• Appointment assistance

• Cultural explanations

• Realistic expectations

• Emotional support during stressful moments

I don’t just help with paperwork — I help you build a life.

My goal is simple: To make your transition to France smoother, clearer, and far less stressful.

❤️ Why France Remains One of the Best Choices

Despite its quirks, France offers:

• Excellent healthcare

• Strong social protections

• Beautiful landscapes

• A slower pace of life

• Rich culture and history

• A sense of stability

• A focus on quality of life

It’s not perfect — no country is — but for many, it’s the place where life finally feels right.

✨ Here’s to 2026

A year of new beginnings, new challenges, and new adventures. If France is calling your name, I’m here to help you answer with confidence and clarity.

Whenever you’re ready, Normandy Consultancy is here to walk the journey with you.