Living in France after relocation – looking for French jobs

If you are planning on living in France and need to work to support yourself you should be aware that French jobs are hard to come by in some regions and sectors. There is work to be found but it is something you should attempt to sort out before relocation. France has a persistently high unemployment rate so you should be under no illusions about walking into French jobs.

I am living in France, can I work here?

EU citizens are entitled to fill French jobs without a work permit. However, you must register if you intend staying longer than three months. This is done at your local town hall (mairie) or gendarmerie (police station). Anyone working in a French job must pay social security contributions following relocation.

How do I find out about French jobs?

You can write off to companies or apply for French jobs advertised in the press or online. When you are living in France there are various agencies, recruitment centres and employment services to help you find work. After relocation to France you should contact the Agence Nationale Pour l’Emploi (ANPE), which has links to companies in all sectors. Their website, lists vacancies and is updated daily.

However, if you are planning on relocating to France then it is always best to find French jobs before relocation. You will be able to view details of vacancies throughout the EU at your nearest Jobcentre Plus office. This information is supplied by the EURES network, an organisation which supports free movement of workers within Europe.

Speaking the language greatly assists you in finding French jobs

Whilst a lack of language skills prohibits you from working in most French jobs, there are some sectors where it need not necessarily be a problem. You are not required to speak French in many manual jobs and work is plentiful in tourist areas during the holiday season.

Teaching English as a foreign language is a popular option for many and your ability to make contacts is the biggest advantage you can have when looking for French jobs following relocation to France.

There was a thriving black market of babysitters, gardeners, part time builders and handymen living and working in France until recently. However, the government has cracked down on this industry and heavy penalties for illegal hiring means few employers are willing to take the risk. Working illegally means you will not be eligible for unemployment benefits, healthcare or a pension.

Being unemployed after relocation to France

If you are unemployed in the UK and plan on living in France you may be able to continue receiving Jobseekers Allowance for up to three months following relocation. Those moving to France do not automatically receive French unemployment benefit.

When you begin living in France and working in a French job then your employers should register you with the social security system and begin making payments. If you become unemployed after relocation to France then you will be entitled to benefits provided you have made at least six months contributions during the previous 22 months.