What families should know to hire a foreign housekeeper in France: work authorisation, CESU and languages.

Hiring an International Housekeeper in France

Hiring a foreign-national housekeeper in France: work authorisation, declaration and good practice.

Quick answer: an EU/EEA citizen can work freely in France; a non-EU national needs a residence permit that allows work. Either way, the job is declared via CESU and follows the same rules (SMIC, contract, contributions). Check the right to work before hiring.

Many expat families and French households employ help from abroad. Here's what to know.

Right to work

  • EU / EEA / Switzerland: no specific authorisation needed.
  • Non-EU: a residence permit allowing work is required; check its validity.
  • Keep a copy of the documents you verified.

The same obligations

Whatever the nationality, declared employment follows the ordinary rules: SMIC / collective minimum, written contract, CESU declaration and contributions. The 50% tax credit applies in the same way.

Practical tips

  • Clarify the working language and instructions.
  • Check references, as for any hire.
  • Put everything in the contract.

Official sources

Conclusion

Check the right to work, then apply the usual rules: employing a declared worker from abroad is simple and secure.

See also

FAQ

Must I check the right to work?

Yes: for non-EU nationals, make sure they hold a residence permit that allows work. This is the employer's responsibility.

Does the declaration change?

No: the CESU declaration and contract are the same as for any home worker.