Moving to France as a digital nomad

Become a digital nomad in France
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Updated 2019-08-14 15:29

As the most visited country in the world, France remains a popular destination all year round. Charismatic, chic and captivating, it is a destination on every nomad's bucket list. If you are planning your next move to France, learn about the various things digital nomads can take advantage of. 

Why France?

France offers a variety of different landscapes for every taste. You have the elegant, fashionable and urban Paris, the glamorous French Riviera, luxury ski resorts in the French Alps, tough Celtic Brittany, historically-rich Normandy, and much more. As a digital nomad in France, you will be living in several countries at once.

However, wherever one chooses to settle, the need for a stable internet connection and the availability of creative working spots remains constant. Famous for its enviable work-life balance, France is a welcoming destination for digital nomads, offering a sophisticated setting and some of the world's best food and wine to keep you fuelled!

The best French cities to work from

Paris remains top of many people's list, of course. Who wouldn't like to work with a regular glimpse of the Eiffel Tower? Sitting down with a laptop in an authentic Parisian café is an experience in itself. But working in Paris is not just about aesthetics ' the city offers a convenient infrastructure for freelancers through an abundance of coworking spaces, a relaxed café culture and a burgeoning startup scene.

If you are looking for an idyllic escape away from the buzz of the big cities, Nice offers the perfect coastal setting. The city enjoys all the productivity of a big city while revelling in its seaside location, throwing all-year sunshine into the mix. Despite Nice's holiday atmosphere, you will find a good selection of coworking spaces. The only thing to watch out for is the relatively high cost of living ' with prices rising even more throughout the high season.

Toulouse is the fourth largest city in France, located in its south-west and home to a thriving tech and startup scene. High-speed internet in almost all of the city's cafes and coffee shops, a plethora of coworking spaces and a productive startup atmosphere have made Toulouse one of the most popular digital nomad destinations - there is also the benefit of a large https://www.expat.community for those looking to network.

Internet and coworking spaces in France

Typical mobile data connection in France is estimated at 13.43 Mbps, and broadband download speeds reach up to 33 Mbps. Free Wi-Fi hotspots are typically available in most cities, but you may need to register with your email, phone number, or other information.

Coworking spaces are gaining serious traction in France ' and that is on top of the already large number of coffee shops, which offer a comfortable work setting with gourmet snacks and speedy Wi-Fi.

Coworking spaces in Paris

AntiCafe, Various Locations

Craft 24 rue Vinaigriers

Le Laptop, 6 Rue Arthur Rozier

COWORKSHOP, 29-, 32 Rue des Vinaigriers

MOZAIK Coworking, 41 Rue de la Chaussée d'Antin

Hubsy, 41 Rue Réaumur

WeWork, Various locations

Coworking spaces in Nice

Le Labo Coworking 6 Rue du Congrès

La Verrier, 4 Bd de Cimiez

Coworking spaces in Toulouse

TAU Coworking Space, 18 Place de la Daurade

Etincelle Coworking, 2 Rue d'Austerlitz

HarryCow Coworking, 13 Rue Sainte-Ursule

After work in France

While historically French colleagues have not been as social outside of the workplace, young workers are now growing into the habit of 'Afterworks' already enjoyed by American and British professionals. As a digital nomad, you don't need to miss out on this growing trend! Be sure to connect with your fellow digital nomads via coworking spaces, social networking or professional networking and build on your connections by taking advantage of the fantastic café and bar culture of France - taking a drink en terrasse after work is the perfect opportunity!

Things to know before arriving in France

France is a member state of the Schengen Zone and, thus, a country that is relatively easy to visit and work from. If you are a resident of a member state of the Schengen Zone, you can travel with your National Identity Card. Alternatively, you can apply for a Schengen Visa before your trip, which will also give you access to other countries in the region. Read more information on working visas to find out what you need to do to work and stay in France.

Being self-employed in France

If you are looking to register as self-employed in France and pay French taxes accordingly, you will need to register for Self-Employed Status, known as Micro-Enterprise Status in France (formerly known as auto-entrepreneur). The application process has been simplified online, meaning you can receive your status relatively quickly. This will mean you are able to invoice French companies, receive payment into a French bank account, and pay your social security and income tax in France.

Good to know:

While most people in France speak English, making an effort in French is often seen as a sign of respect and appreciation for the local culture. It is a good idea to pick up a few everyday phrases before arriving.

Useful links:

France Tourism
Map of free Wi-Fi hotspots in France

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