You do not need a visa to move to France as an EU citizen. However, you must apply for a residence permit when you arrive in the country. As long as you have a valid EU passport, you can live, study, and work in the country with the residence permit given upon arrival.

Opening a bank account is relatively easy in France. However, French banks close in the middle of the day, so it might take time to finish the process. Depending on why you are in France, you can open an account as a student who came to study, a non-resident who came to work, or a permanent resident if you are going there to live permanently. Creating a bank account is essential as soon as possible because it will be used to get a permanent house address.

Here are some of the things you need to open a bank account in France:

• A valid identification, which can be your passport or EU ID card, will be used to verify your identity.
• Proof of employment, such as your recent pay slip or employment contract.
• Statement from your current bank, although online registration may not require this.
• Provide proof of address where you stay in France using your utility bill or rental agreement.

It is essential you do proper research to know the type of banks available, especially if you want to open an account with no fees. You can do a broad search and narrow them down to the one you want based on your criteria before moving from Finland to France. 

It is cheaper to live in France than in some other countries. However, the city's capital, Paris, is one of the most expensive cities to live in the world. Living there costs a lot, but staying in other cities apart from the capital is cheaper. Generally, household utilities and property running costs in France are not expensive, and they usually range from €1,500-€3,000 in a month, depending on your lifestyle and location.

France's healthcare is financed by the government's national health insurance, making it one of the countries that provides the best healthcare in the world. The government refunds patients about 70 percent of the healthcare costs incurred throughout their stay in the hospital. If an individual struggles with a long-term ailment, the government will refund all the money spent. 

Interestingly, the insurance covers everyone in the country regardless of residency status. However, the type of insurance differs. For example, free insurance coverage is for people whose household income falls below a specific range. If you are still waiting for your application for legal residence approval, you are eligible for the state medical assistance type of insurance.

You can get accommodation in France by either renting or buying a house. Renting a home can be your best option, especially if you stay short. If you are staying in a major city, it might be difficult for you to find accommodation because houses there are expensive. However, getting accommodation is easy if you stay in less favored places. 

Before you consider international moving from Finland to France, you should research websites that offer different accommodations for people coming into the country. If you plan to use an agency, they will ask you to list the neighborhood you are interested in to know what you want and the cost. It is essential you are sure about your accommodation before moving from Finland to France to avoid being stranded in the new country.

France is known for its rich culture, making it essential to learn their official language while considering moving from Finland. The ability to speak and understand French is necessary for all the activities you plan to do in the country. You need it when ordering food, asking for directions, or making new friends. Learning the language allows you to enjoy your stay in the country as you can communicate effectively with the residents. 

Learning the language is even more critical if you are going to study in France. Although they use English to communicate in class, most of their academic resources are written in French. Also, speaking French helps foster collaboration between fellow students and professors since that is their local language. It also demonstrates your willingness to embrace their culture and integrate yourself into their society.

France is known for its rich culture and global influence, which makes ex-pats come to the country to enjoy the beauty and serenity. Moving from Finland to France can be challenging, but you will thrive well in your new country with proper preparation. The information above makes it easy to feel at home and enjoy every benefit the new country offers.

At Moovick, we connect you with international movers and real-time professionals for handyman services to help you hone your transition to France. Let Moovick take care of your move from start to finish while you focus on starting a new life in France.