Moving to France? Do These 8 Things in the Right Order (or Risk a Bureaucratic Headache)
So you’ve decided to make the leap - whether it’s for the lifestyle, the landscape, or the cheese. But before you pop the champagne, there’s a hidden art to settling in France smoothly. From utilities to tax numbers, timing is everything.
Here’s your step-by-step guide to moving and buying in France without falling into the classic traps.
1️⃣ Secure Your Long-Term Address First
Whether you're renting or buying, you need a proof of address (justificatif de domicile) to do almost anything in France.
If buying, wait until the compromis de vente (pre-sale agreement) is signed before making other moves.
If renting, get a signed lease and utility bill in your name.
Why it matters: You’ll need this for your bank account, tax number, and even your mobile phone.
2️⃣ Open a French Bank Account
Don’t wait until you need it - open your account early.
Required for property purchases, utility setup, and insurance
Most banks ask for: passport, proof of address, visa/residency status, and sometimes a French phone number
Tip: Online banks like Hello Bank, Boursorama, or Fortuneo are faster, but traditional banks may be better for mortgages.
3️⃣ Get a French Mobile Number 📱
This step is often overlooked - but it’s absolutely essential. A French mobile number is used for:
Two-factor authentication for banking, government portals, and online purchases
Verifying your identity when signing up for utilities, insurance, or health services
Receiving SMS alerts from your bank, tax office, or even your mairie
Booking appointments (doctors, vaccinations, visa renewals) via SMS confirmation
Communicating with local professionals - many prefer texting over email
Without a French number, you may find:
Your bank account setup is delayed
You can’t access your online tax portal
You miss important notifications or appointment confirmations
Tip: Get a prepaid SIM card from Orange, SFR, Bouygues, or Free Mobile as soon as you arrive. You can upgrade to a contract later once you have proof of residence.
4️⃣ Apply for Your Numéro Fiscal (Tax Number)
This is your French tax ID, and it’s essential for:
Registering property
Filing taxes
Accessing government services
🧾 When and How to Apply
It’s best to wait until you’ve moved into your French property - whether it’s a résidence principale or résidence secondaire. Why? Because you’ll need:
A valid French address
A utility bill or notaire document proving ownership or residence
A copy of your passport
A completed form 2043-SD or a written request to your local Centre des Finances Publiques
You can apply by post or in person. Once processed, you’ll receive your Numéro Fiscal by mail, which unlocks access to your online tax account and other services.
🏠 Primary vs. Secondary Residence
Résidence Principale: You’ll be expected to file annual income tax returns (even if you have no income in France), and you may qualify for tax exemptions on property gains or local taxes.
Résidence Secondaire: You won’t file income tax unless you earn rental income, but you’ll still pay property tax (taxe foncière) and second home tax (taxe d’habitation) in some communes.
5️⃣ Set Up Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet)
Once you have your address and bank account, it’s time to turn on the lights - literally.
Electricity: EDF or Engie are the main providers
Water: Usually managed by SAUR or local mairie
Internet/Phone: Orange, Free, SFR, Bouygues
Important: You’ll need your bank RIB, French mobile number, and sometimes your tax number to open accounts.
6️⃣ Register for Health Insurance (Sécurité Sociale or Private)
If you're working or retired in France, register with CPAM for public health coverage. If you're not eligible yet, consider private insurance until you're fully integrated.
Documents needed: Passport, proof of residence, birth certificate, and tax number.
7️⃣ Update Your Residency Status (If Applicable)
If you're from outside the EU, make sure your visa or residency permit is valid and updated. For UK citizens post-Brexit, this means applying for a Carte de Séjour.
8️⃣ Register Your Vehicle (If Bringing One)
If you’re importing a car, you’ll need:
Proof of residence
French insurance
Contrôle Technique
Tax number
Carte Grise application
Warning: This process can take weeks - start early.
🧀 Final Thoughts from Le Bistro
Moving to France is a dream - but dreams require paperwork. Doing things in the right order avoids delays, fines, and frustration. Think of it like assembling a cheese board: you need the plate before the brie.
And don’t underestimate the power of a French mobile number - it’s your digital key to life here. From banking to bureaucracy, it’s the thread that ties everything together.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider working with a bilingual consultant and fill out the contact form; ask Annabelle who knows the ropes. A little help upfront can save you months of confusion.
