Living in France.
12 practical guides for Americans living in France, grouped by topic. Each one lists the official sources it is based on.
Documents and ID
Getting a French tax number (numero fiscal) as an American
How US citizens in France get the 13-digit numero fiscal, why the first income return must go on paper, and how to open the online tax space afterwards.
Your first three months in France: validating the VLS-TS and OFII
The steps US citizens take after landing in France on a long-stay visa: online VLS-TS validation, the fee, the foreigner number, OFII calls and renewal timing.
Health
Health insurance requirements for a residence permit in France
What health cover a US citizen needs for a French visitor visa and residence card, when the French public system (PUMa) can take over, and what to keep on file.
How French healthcare works for Americans who move there
A guide for US citizens to French public health insurance: PUMa eligibility, the family doctor system, reimbursement rates, the 2 euro charge and top-up cover.
Money
Cost of living in France for Americans: the official benchmarks
Use France's own figures to budget a move: the minimum wage, visa resource floors, inflation, Paris transit passes, regulated power prices and rent caps.
Opening a French bank account as a US citizen
What French banks ask Americans for, why FATCA makes some hesitate, and how the Banque de France right-to-an-account procedure works if you are refused.
US taxes and admin
US Social Security and French pensions: the US-France agreement
How the US-France totalization agreement prevents double social security taxes, which certificate you need, and how US and French credits combine for a pension.
When France treats you as a tax resident
The three tests in Article 4 B of the French tax code, how the US France treaty breaks a tie, and what being a French tax resident means for an American.
US taxes while living in France: FBAR, FEIE and tax credits
How US citizens in France handle US filing: the FBAR, Form 8938, the foreign earned income exclusion, the foreign tax credit and the US France tax treaty.
