Work and salary in France
Modern migration legislation provides for several ways of immigration to the country for foreigners:
- to conclude a marriage or an agreement on cohabitation with a citizen (Coy) of France;
- become a member of the special Au Pair program;
- apply for a job in a company that is a resident of France;
- open your own business in France;
- undergo a naturalization procedure;
- apply for political asylum;
- ask the authorities to provide an opportunity to reunite with the family.
The specific choice of one method depends on a person’s desire and plans for future life. If you approach this issue competently, then France (and the entire European Union) will become a second home. And it must be remembered that mistakes in this matter can lead to the fact that life in France will be no better than in your home country.
French companies have the right to hire foreigners, provided that they can prove that there are no candidates among local ones. A foreign specialist will not be able to permanently live in the country without a work permit. There are several types of such permissions:
- for people with rare professions;
- for seasonal workers;
- for talented specialists of a very high level.
Many vacancies require documentary confirmation of the profession (diploma).
For high-level specialists, there is a Blue Card form – this is a work permit that automatically gives the right to reside in the country. It is issued for up to 3 years with the possibility of renewal. Prerequisites are higher education and at least 5 years of work experience in the profession.
Labor legislation in France is considered one of the most stringent in the world. It is aimed, first of all, at protecting the labor interests of its employees. The minimum wage in this country is almost 1.5 thousand euros per month, the average is 3 thousand. The working week is 35-40 hours. Most companies pay workers a 13th salary. Income tax is up to 49%.
Even though salaries are high, it is not so easy to live on this money. Renting housing in cities is quite expensive – from 500 euros, not counting utilities, for which you have to pay at least 200 euros. Food is also expensive.
The pros of living in France
Let’s take a look at the positive and negative aspects of living in France.
Climate
People in France feel comfortable at any time of the year. In summer, the air temperature rises to 27 degrees, while there is no exhausting heat. In winter, it is most often warm – rarely when there are frosts below 5 degrees.
National cuisine
The French are known throughout the world for their culinary and gastronomic passions. They do not like to eat in a hurry, preferring to spend time in good restaurants and cafes. It was in France that the most prestigious award in this area was approved.
Legislation
Ordinary citizens feel protected. Any violation of rights and freedoms is strictly suppressed. . It turns out that a citizen of any EU country can live in France on equal terms with the French. For example, many residents of Ukraine receive a Romanian passport and then easily move to France for permanent residence.
Leisure opportunities
Anyone here all year round can find opportunities to have a good time. Beautiful nature, sea, beaches, museums, parks, attractions – all this is available for both locals and tourists.
The general way of life
It is believed that France has a special atmosphere, very comfortable psychological conditions. Life here is calm and measured.
Culture
France is one of the world’s major cultural centers. Theaters, museums, numerous festivals, and other events – all this attracts thousands of tourists from different countries.
Education
Education in schools is free. In universities it is paid, but very cheap.
Cons of living in France
Every country has its drawbacks. In France, these include:
- the reluctance of residents to speak English;
- difficulties with the purchase of many drugs – they are dispensed only by prescription;
- a small number of vacancies for foreigners;
- bureaucracy – it takes a lot of time to collect all the required documents;
- low availability of quality medical services;
- high taxes;
- high prices.
- Moreover, a huge disadvantage is the high level of domestic crime.