Asaël Häzaq

Lille, the capital of French Flanders in the Hauts-de-France region of northern France, has a rich history rooted in manufacturing and textiles. As a thriving student city, Lille attracts numerous expatriates annually. Together with 95 other municipalities, it constitutes the European Metropolis of Lille (MEL). Moving to Lille offers a vibrant, multicultural atmosphere and diverse professional prospects.

France has a rich cultural heritage and has long welcomed people from all over the world. This diversity is both a strength and a challenge for the country. If you're a foreigner, you might be wondering how hard it is to fit in when moving to France. In this article, we'll give you some tips and advice on integrating into French society.

In France, the labor market and business environment are tightly regulated and structured. For foreigners unfamiliar with bureaucracy or stringent procedures, France might seem like a country that discourages starting businesses. However, nearly a million new businesses are established every year in France, demonstrating that with patience and determination, anything is achievable.

As the capital of the Midi-Pyrénées region, Toulouse, affectionately called "la Ville Rose" due to its red terracotta roofs, is France's fourth-largest city. Each year, it attracts numerous expatriates because of its pleasant climate, high quality of life, and proximity to both the Mediterranean Sea and the Pyrenees Mountains.

Marseille boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage. Its port and maritime activities have made it a vibrant, diverse hub, home to a blend of cultures. During your stay in Marseille, you'll witness the intense rivalry between the city's soccer team, Olympique de Marseille (OM for insiders), and Paris Saint-Germain. Between matches, here are some leisure activities to help you truly experience Marseille.

When you think of Bordeaux, you often think of wine. While wine is a significant part of this historic city, Bordeaux offers a wide range of leisure activities to suit everyone. From its ancient cathedrals to its stunning architecture, Bordeaux is home to a variety of attractions. Interestingly, almost half of the city is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Taking advantage of a world-renowned education system, exploring a country brimming with history, art, and culture, or working in a multinational corporation are just a few of the numerous benefits of undertaking an internship in France. Where should you begin in your quest to find the internship of your dreams? This article will guide you through the process!

Marseille, also referred to as "la Cité Phocéenne", is situated on the southeastern coast of France. This culturally rich city is currently experiencing significant changes, with substantial investments being made to upgrade its infrastructure. Additionally, for soccer enthusiasts, Marseille is the home of Olympique de Marseille, commonly known as OM among its supporters.

For several years, France has been grappling with high unemployment rates. This issue not only impacts the country's economic health but also limits job prospects for foreigners unless they are from the European Union (EU) or possess the required work authorization for France. Finding employment in low-skilled or semi-skilled sectors can be quite challenging. However, opportunities are more abundant for highly qualified individuals and foreign staff proficient in multiple languages.

France is a top travel destination for many international visitors, thanks to its extensive road system and picturesque rural landscapes. Driving in France can be an incredibly rewarding experience. However, it's crucial for foreign drivers to familiarize themselves with the country's specific rules and regulations for operating a vehicle.

France is the world's top tourist spot in 2023, and it's easy to see why — the country is a dream destination year-round for many people, digital nomads included, with its captivating charm and chic style.

Located in southwestern France, in the Occitanie region, Toulouse is known as "la Ville Rose" (the Pink City). It's also close to the west coast of France and just a couple hours' drive from the Atlantic coast. Toulouse is also a city of gastronomy and sport. Rugby is king here, and the locals are proud of their rugby heritage. It's also a diverse city, home to the aerospace industry, a vibrant cultural scene, and lots of university students.

The greater Toulouse area features a well-developed transport network managed by the Tisséo transport company, including buses, metro, and streetcars. Given its sizable student population and vibrant nightlife, the city also offers an efficient night bus system. This ensures that you can easily navigate Toulouse day and night.

As an expatriate in Nice, you'll find it easy to navigate the city daily, thanks to its well-established transport network managed by Lignes d'Azur, the public transport service of the Nice Côte d'Azur metropolitan area.

Marseille, the second most densely populated city in France, has its transport services managed by the Régie des transports métropolitains (RTM), covering buses, metros, streetcars, bicycles, and shuttle boats. Marseille is also an ideal city for those looking to combine their travels with outdoor activities.

Lyon is readily accessible from Paris via the TGV, France's high-speed train network. Once in the city, you can take advantage of a robust public transport network that includes buses, trams, metros, and trolleybuses. For those unfamiliar, a trolleybus operates using overhead cables for power.

Situated in the heart of France's northeastern rail network, Lille is well-connected by rail to London, Brussels, and Amsterdam. It only takes one hour for a TGV to travel from Lille to Paris!

Located along the Garonne River, Bordeaux is a dynamic and vibrant city with excellent connections to the rest of France and Europe through its extensive rail network and airport. The city has established a diverse transportation system utilizing the river for efficient passenger transport, including tramways, buses, and river shuttles.

The jewel of the Côte d'Azur and a historic vacation destination for three centuries, Nice features an idyllic coastal location, a Mediterranean climate, and a rich cultural history. Known for its sunny beaches, Nice offers much more than just sun and sea.

Lyon is a prominent city in France, renowned as the country's gastronomic capital with a number of highly acclaimed and renowned chefs, including the late Paul Bocuse. The city also features a rich historical, architectural, and cultural heritage, offering a wide array of leisure activities. Additionally, Lyon's proximity to the mountains, Switzerland, and Italy makes it an ideal location for those seeking adventure.

Lille is a multifaceted city buzzing with culture. For a long time, it was an industrial heavyweight, which contributed to the development of a rich cultural and historical heritage that is still in evidence today. Whether you love museums, music, opera, or sports, Lille has something to offer.

Opening a bank account in France is fairly simple and straightforward. The competition between different banks is so intense that, in many cases, banks will even offer monetary gifts as well as privileges such as premium bank cards (gold cards) in order to attract new customers. Online banks are also becoming increasingly popular in France, with many of these banks being subsidiaries of reputable and established institutions. Be sure to consider the online options as well. It might also be possible for you to initiate the process of opening an account from abroad.

Flexible or non-flexible work, remote or in-person, after-work gatherings or solo meals... The corporate world is unique. That being said, expatriates need time to integrate into the business culture of the foreign country and establish their work rhythm.

Are we witnessing a flexwork boom around the world? From Singapore to the United Kingdom, via Spain, Iceland, Finland, and New Zealand, flexibility is being redefined and expanded internationally. This is a boon for expatriates and prospective expats.

Yes, it is indeed possible to work abroad with a disability, and yes, there are obstacles, whether the disability is visible or not. However, these barriers do not jeopardize the expatriation plan—far from it. Here are some practical tips for moving abroad with a disability.

After spending several years dedicated to full-time parenting, the time has come to re-enter the workforce. How do you approach this transition and prepare to impress recruiters? Additionally, are there particular countries that facilitate the process of returning to work after a parental break?

You've got a job, but it's not always in one location. Your idea of a fulfilling career involves working both in your home country and abroad. Now, the challenge is finding a company that aligns with your work philosophy. The question is, how do you balance your search for a local job with your aspirations to relocate in the near future? More importantly, how do you identify companies receptive to remote work?

Are you keen on getting back to work after a long career break? Things might not be as easy as they seem to be, especially for expat women. Where do you begin? Here are some tips to help you get back on track.

For some time, we were in the midst of a remote working revolution, where the traditional office setting was being replaced by the freedom to work from anywhere. However, the reality is different due to factors like security, practicality, and the need for social interaction. Which professions are most adaptable to remote work, and which require a physical presence in the workplace?

What will the work organization of the future look like? Amidst the options of 100% in-person and 100% remote work, alternative work forms are gaining popularity. Many employees advocate for increased flexibility but seek flexibility that ensures their protection. But what about expats?

Has Canada lost its appeal in the eyes of foreigners? Although the country significantly relies on immigration for its growth, a recent study has sparked concerns as more immigrants choose to leave the country for better prospects. Let's explore the different reasons. 

Remote working has been on the rise for the past few years. Since the Covid pandemic, most of us have spent a few days a week away from the office. While we've heard of working remotely in the next town or region, remote working from abroad is gaining ground. Large companies are even offering turnkey packages to their employees. But what are the risks, and how do you make sure you're covered at all times?  

Labor shortages are at an all-time high in many countries, such as Canada, Japan, Australia, the UK, France, Israel, Indonesia, Spain, Germany, etc. These ever-increasing needs open up opportunities for those considering a career abroad. But how do you stand out from thousands of job applicants in a foreign country? Here are our tips.

What makes France truly special and magical is certainly its fabulous cultural and tourist heritage. Its exceptional mosaic of landscapes between small traditional villages and large modern cities, its traditions, and its unique lifestyle will not fail to seduce you! Not to mention its 35 world heritage sites, the possibilities of natural and historical discoveries and the vast star-studded gastronomy that make France one of the leading destinations for tourists and expats from around the world. But did you know that it is possible for Canadians to work while enjoying a holiday in France? 

A true love affair has developed between Australians and France. The reasons for this are numerous but often include the star-studded gastronomy, the country's rich history, the unique architecture, the mythical monuments (do we really need to mention the Eiffel Tower?), the diverse French culture and, of course, the romantic atmosphere. But did you know that it is possible to go to France on an extended holiday (which would allow you to immerse yourself in the local life) while taking a small job to earn your living during your stay? Yes, the WHV in France is available for Australians!

France can certainly be considered the pearl of Europe with its rich centuries-long history, fabulous and exquisite cuisine known worldwide, world-class art, artists and museums, and vast and peaceful countryside, its modern and trendy urban areas, etc. Yes, there must be a thousand and one reasons why New Zealanders are enamored with France.  

The working holiday agreement between Argentina and France, signed in February 2011 in Paris, allows Argentine citizens to come to France for an extended holiday which can also be financed locally by working. 

Signed in Hong Kong in May 2013, the Working Holiday Visa agreement with France officially came into force in July 2013. This agreement allows Hong Kongers to come on an extended holiday to discover all the wonderful aspects of France while having the opportunity to take a small job to help finance their holiday. 

Are you Japanese, and have you always dreamed of exploring the length and breadth of France for several months with the opportunity to get a job to make ends meet during your stay? Well, thanks to an agreement between France and Japan signed in January 1999, the Japanese can make this dream come true.

Thanks to the agreement signed between France and South Korea in October 2008 and officially in force since January 2009, South Korean nationals will be able to go to France for longer holidays, which will allow them to immerse themselves in local life and culture while earning a living. 

One barely has to introduce Paris. The city is famous for its unparalleled historical and architectural heritage. Paris is visited by millions of visitors each year, and expatriates privileged enough to call this city their own will have the opportunity to better appreciate the city's laid-back lifestyle.

Looking for a job in Paris? Although the Parisian job market may seem daunting, there are plenty of resources available to those looking to work in this dynamic city. Make the most of them and with a little perseverance, you, too, could be part of the Parisian vibrant professional scene.

Being the new girl or the new guy can be pretty intimidating. But with little preparation can save you from faux-pas and embarrassment! Document yourself on the Parisian workplace etiquette, from dress codes to social and cultural codes.

With a population of over 2 million, it won't come as a surprise to you that Paris can get real busy! Where do you go if you want to escape the hustle-bustle of the city? Nature lovers have plenty to enjoy in Paris. With more than 400 municipal parks, you'll never be too far from a green space, while the Seine and the famous Canal Saint Martin offer beautiful spots to hang out at.

Paris is a unique city with dazzling architecture, upscale restaurants, and a rich history that welcomes residents and tourists alike with open arms. Whether you're heading to the City of Light for a short trip or a longer stay, make sure you spend enough time choosing the neighborhood you want to live in.

Before starting to build your professional network in Paris, you will need to familiarize yourself with the cultural and professional expectations. In order to make a good impression and create a solid foundation for a potential business relationship, be sure to consider the following points as you take your first steps into the networking world.

The 2.1 million Parisians make the French capital city a vibrant center for socializing, from cafés or “terraces” as they are commonly called in French filled with people enjoying afterwork drinks with friends or colleagues or a morning coffee, to an eventful nightlife…

While the price of real estate has skyrocketed in Paris (almost €15,000 per square meter), the market remains one of the most attractive in the world. After all, it is Paris and an investment here means you will never run out of options for renting or reselling your property. Of course, this also means that competition is fierce and the market is rapidly evolving. Here are some key points to keep in mind if you want to become a homeowner in Paris.

Paris is a shining beacon in the world of literature, arts, politics and culture. It is a true center of learning. If you are considering studying in France and are ready to move to Paris, here are the essentials you need to know to prepare for your stay.

“It's not what you know, it's who you know" is of particular relevance when you live in Paris. Networking is important in the Parisian labor market and is useful for getting a job or making new and relevant connections in your field.