Citizens of the European Union benefit from the freedom of movement for workers, allowing them to work in France without a visa or residence permit.
What does this mean in practice?
- Free access to employment
- No work permit required
- French social, tax and administrative rules apply from the beginning of the employment
However, this freedom of movement does not exempt you from the administrative procedures required for anyone planning to settle in France on a long-term basis.
To understand your rights and obligations as a European resident looking for work, consult the official guide “EU citizen: how to look for work in France” on Service-Public.fr.
Anticipating administrative procedures before arriving in France
Before moving to France, several steps should be prepared in order to ensure a smooth start to your assignment or employment contract.
How can you prepare effectively?
- Identify the documents required for employment
- Prepare both digital and paper copies
- Anticipate administrative processing times
- Keep all documents together in an easily accessible format
Documents generally required:
- Valid identity card or passport
- Birth certificate (often required for social security registration)
- Diplomas or professional certifications
These documents form the basis of many procedures, including social security registration, access to social rights and the employment contract process.
To find out more about the EHIC and the rights it provides, see the details about health insurance in France for European citizens.
Accessing employment in France: organisation and strategy
Finding a job in France can be done before or after arrival, depending on the candidate’s situation and the sector of activity.
How can you optimise your job search?
- Target sectors that are actively recruiting: industry, logistics, construction and transport
- Contact specialised temporary employment agencies, such as MULTIPÔLE, in advance
Finding accommodation in France to work there: a key step in settling in
Finding accommodation is often one of the main challenges when moving to France, particularly when you do not have local references or a guarantor.
How can you approach this step with peace of mind?
- Consider temporary accommodation when you first arrive (residence, shared accommodation or furnished rental)
- Use this address to start your administrative procedures
- Prepare a clear and well-organised rental application
Proof of address is frequently required to:
- open a bank account in France,
- submit a social security application,
- access certain essential services.
Successfully completing your administrative set-up in France
Registering with the French social security system
A French social security number is essential to:
- access healthcare,
- work legally,
- access social benefits and rights.
It is an essential prerequisite for any professional activity in France.
How can you obtain one?
- After signing an employment contract
- By submitting an application to the CPAM
A temporary number is generally issued initially, before the permanent number is assigned. You can apply for health insurance coverage using the Cerfa S1106 form on ameli.fr.
Opening a bank account in France
When starting a new job, opening a French bank account is essential for managing everyday financial matters.
A bank account allows you to:
- receive your salary,
- manage housing and everyday expenses.
When opening an account in France, banks generally require:
- proof of identity,
- proof of address,
- a valid employment contract or an employer’s certificate.
Getting support with your relocation project
Moving to and working in another country involves coordinating numerous administrative procedures, which can be complex when you are unfamiliar with the local system or do not speak French.
Specialised European temporary employment agencies, such as MULTIPÔLE, support candidates well beyond recruitment, particularly with:
- administrative preparation,
- access to employment,
- settling in and follow-up in France.
This support aims to make the process more secure, facilitate integration and encourage sustainable professional projects, whether candidates are moving alone or with their families.
With MULTIPÔLE, support can be provided in the candidate’s native language, making the procedures and understanding of the French system easier.