Expat Resources for France: Official Services and Practical Guides
The official services, communities and resources we recommend to families in France — from settling in to household help.
Settling into France means assembling several pieces: a residence permit, housing, healthcare, schools, then running the household. Here are the resources we recommend.
Communities and directories
- Expat.com — France — international network, housing and admin.
- InterNations France — events and local groups (Paris, Lyon, Marseille…).
- Expatica France — guides on admin, banking and healthcare.
Official admin
- service-public.fr — the official government portal.
- CESU (URSSAF) — to declare a home worker.
- Ameli (health insurance) — carte Vitale and reimbursements.
Housing
The main portals: SeLoger, PAP (owner-to-tenant) and Leboncoin. Prepare a file (proof of income, a guarantor) — demand is high in big cities.
Employing someone at home
Household employment runs through CESU, with a 50% tax credit. Start with hiring legally, size the budget with the cost calculator, and download the contract template. If you'd rather delegate the admin, mandataire agencies (Shiva, Petits-fils, Family Sphere) handle it while you stay the employer.
Finding household help
Domestyca connects families directly with housekeepers across France, without an agency in the middle. Browsing profiles is free.
FAQ
How do I declare home help in France?
Via CESU (cesu.urssaf.fr): you declare hours and net pay each month and get a 50% tax credit.
Can I find English-speaking help?
Yes: profiles show the languages spoken — useful in Paris, Lyon or the Riviera where international communities are large.