France has an extensive and well-developed telecommunications network. The country hosts numerous telephone and Internet service providers that offer packages combining TV, landlines, Wi-Fi, and mobile phones.
Choosing the right package in France
While comprehensive solutions are appealing for families relocating to France, solo travelers can choose from various individual offers at competitive rates.
If you plan to stay in touch with loved ones back home, inquire about packages that include international calls. Alternatively, you can use Skype, WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Facebook, leveraging France's excellent and fast Internet speeds.
If you're from a European Union country, it's worth noting that roaming charges no longer apply within the EU zone. This means you can temporarily use your European SIM card in France without worrying about unexpected charges on your next bill!
Connecting to the telephone and Internet network in France
Orange, formerly France Télécom, remains France's leading service provider despite fierce market competition. Orange may be a good place to start if you need a fixed line or Internet connection. Although it remains the leading provider of fixed-line services, other companies also offer packages at attractive rates. The main providers in France are:
- SFR;
- Red by SFR (low-cost operator from SFR);
- Sosh (low-cost operator from Orange);
- Free;
- Bouygues Telecom;
- Coriolis (Mobile Virtual Network Operator – MVNO, acquired by SFR in 2021).
If your home in France has a fixed-line connection when you arrive, you must reactivate it. Ask your landlord for the provider's name and contact customer service.
For reactivation or subscription, you'll need the following documents:
- a passport or identity card recognized by the French authorities;
- date of move-in;
- proof of address (lease or electricity bill);
- building and door number if you live in an apartment;
- a contact number (so that the technician can call you on the day of installation or reactivation);
- your RIB (bank details) if you prefer to pay your bills by direct debit (a safe and widespread practice in France).
Good to know:
To get a new fixed line or reactivate one that has been disconnected for over 6 months, anticipate a bill ranging from 20 to 100 euros, depending on the service provider.
In France, telephone bills are issued every month or every 2 months. To monitor your usage, feel free to request an itemized bill.
As mentioned earlier, most subscribers prefer to pay their telephone bills via direct debit. Some service providers exclusively accept payment through direct debit.
Internet in France
France has a widespread Internet network that includes ADSL and fiber options. Most providers offer appealing packages at competitive prices. You can visit one of their stores or website to sign up.
Most mobile phone providers (listed below) also provide Internet subscriptions. You can opt for a mobile plan with unlimited data and share your connection to create a Wi-Fi hotspot. Since most French households have Internet access at home, Internet cafés are scarce in France, except in major cities. However, public libraries often offer self-service computers.
The following documents are required to subscribe to an Internet package:
- a passport or identity card (recognized by the French authorities);
- proof of address (lease or utility bill);
- your RIB (bank account number) if you prefer direct debit.
Good to know:
Notably, the rollout of 5G and fiber optic networks varies across regions, and rural or less populated areas may have more limited access to these technologies. Coverage is expected to increase gradually as operators invest further in expanding these networks.
If you're interested in 5G in France, it's recommended to visit operator websites for the most up-to-date information on 5G availability in your area.
Mobile telephony in France
In this category, it's best to take your time when choosing from the many offers available from providers. The most popular providers include:
- Orange;
- SFR;
- Bouygues Telecom;
- Red by SFR;
- JOi Telecom (MVNO);
- Lycamobile;
- Free;
- Coriolis;
- Sosh;
- Simplus (MVNO);
- La Poste Mobile.
All providers offer a variety of packages, with or without contracts, for you to choose from based on your needs and preferences. Before deciding, feel free to visit the providers' stores to gather more information.
You can choose a contract with monthly billing or a prepaid account to be topped up according to your consumption. Packages are generally cheaper unless you exceed your usage, in which case operators charge the maximum per minute.
The following documents are required to obtain a mobile line in France:
- a passport or identity card (recognized by the French authorities);
- proof of address (lease or utility bill);
- your RIB (bank account number) if you prefer direct debit.
If you're not used to telephone packages, be sure to read your contract carefully before signing it to avoid any surprises, especially in the event of termination. As a general rule, it is possible to cancel a contract with a commitment before its end date, subject to payment of compensation. Most operators offer cancellation if you leave the country permanently.
If you're new to telephone packages, it's important to thoroughly review your contract before signing to avoid surprises, particularly concerning termination conditions. Generally, you can terminate a contract with a commitment before its end date by paying a termination fee. Additionally, most operators offer cancellation options if you relocate permanently out of the country.
Good to know:
If you encounter a dispute, you can seek assistance from various associations, including the Direction générale de la concurrence, de la consommation et de la répression des fraudes (DGCCRF), which has offices in every French department.
Useful links:
Quechoisir: Internet service provider comparator
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