{"id":59878,"date":"2025-06-02T03:19:06","date_gmt":"2025-06-02T02:19:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/?p=59878"},"modified":"2026-05-07T10:08:27","modified_gmt":"2026-05-07T09:08:27","slug":"living-in-france-long-term-5-year-visa-plan","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/en\/blog\/living-in-france-long-term-5-year-visa-plan\/","title":{"rendered":"A 5-year visa plan for living in France long-term"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Living in France long term takes more than just a dream\u2014it requires planning, persistence, and the right steps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This 5-year guide will help you navigate language learning, education, and employment so you can build a stable and rewarding life in France.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>First things first: Is France really for you?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Moving abroad for the long term is a big decision. Start by asking yourself: <em>Is France the right country for me?<\/em> If possible, visit France first as a tourist to get a feel for the culture, lifestyle, and environment. Many nationalities can enter visa-free for up to 90 days. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Living in France day-to-day is very different from a short visit. Think about why you want to live in France and whether you can realistically see yourself settling there. Ask yourself:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Why do I want to live in France?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Can I adapt to the language and culture?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What challenges might I face in daily life?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you need more insight, check out our article on the differences between living in France and traveling there: <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/blog\/living-or-travelling-to-france\/\">https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/blog\/living-or-travelling-to-france\/<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you want to test out language lessons at the same time, consider enrolling in a short-term French course through one of our partner language schools. This allows you to experience daily life while working toward your language goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"798\" height=\"436\" src=\"https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/GGF-blog-photo-watermarking-3-7.png\" alt=\"living in france\" class=\"wp-image-59901\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/GGF-blog-photo-watermarking-3-7.png 798w, https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/GGF-blog-photo-watermarking-3-7-300x164.png 300w, https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/GGF-blog-photo-watermarking-3-7-768x420.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 798px) 100vw, 798px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Year 1-2: Learn French<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Learning French is essential for long-term life in France, especially if you want to work or study further. Most employers expect at least B2-level French (upper intermediate), and many universities require similar proficiency for admission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Starting as a beginner, you can expect to reach B2 level in about 12 to 18 months of full-time study at a French language school. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read our guide about how long it takes to learn French: <a href=\"https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/en\/blog\/how-long-to-learn-french\/\">https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/en\/blog\/how-long-to-learn-french\/<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can obtain a long-stay student visa for language studies. This visa is valid for 1 year and can be extended if necessary. With this visa, you can travel freely within the Schengen Area, work part-time (approximately 20 hours per week), and access French health insurance for free.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>For more details, check out our guide on the student visa: <a href=\"https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/en\/blog\/how-we-make-it-easier-to-apply-for-a-visa\/\">https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/en\/blog\/how-we-make-it-easier-to-apply-for-a-visa\/<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"798\" height=\"436\" src=\"https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/GGF-blog-photo-watermarking-2-9.png\" alt=\"living in france\" class=\"wp-image-59898\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/GGF-blog-photo-watermarking-2-9.png 798w, https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/GGF-blog-photo-watermarking-2-9-300x164.png 300w, https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/GGF-blog-photo-watermarking-2-9-768x420.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 798px) 100vw, 798px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Years 3-4 or 5: Pursue higher education<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For those without a degree that allows them to work in France, or those who want to study more in France, the next few years after language school will be focused on further education.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You may choose to enroll in a university or vocational school. French universities offer Bachelor\u2019s and Master\u2019s programs, while vocational schools offer short programs granting technical degrees. Bachelor\u2019s degrees generally take 3 years, Master\u2019s degrees usually last 2 years, and vocational diplomas such as the BTS (Brevet de Technicien Sup\u00e9rieur) typically require 2 years of study.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Admission typically requires proof of language proficiency (DELF B2 or higher). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"798\" height=\"436\" src=\"https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/GGF-blog-photo-watermarking-5-4.png\" alt=\"living in France\" class=\"wp-image-59911\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/GGF-blog-photo-watermarking-5-4.png 798w, https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/GGF-blog-photo-watermarking-5-4-300x164.png 300w, https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/GGF-blog-photo-watermarking-5-4-768x420.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 798px) 100vw, 798px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Years 3-5: Find work<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you already have a degree or relevant work experience, your next step after language studies might be to look for a job in France.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can search on job platforms such as LinkedIn and contact <a href=\"https:\/\/www.francetravail.fr\/accueil\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">France Travail<\/a> (formerly known as P\u00f4le Emploi), the French government agency that helps people find employment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Job applications and interview processes in France may differ from those in your home country, so it\u2019s important to familiarize yourself with local customs\u2014such as writing a French-style CV and following proper interview etiquette.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Read our guides to learn more about what\u2019s expected in France:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Resume: <a href=\"https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/en\/blog\/how-to-write-a-french-resume\/\">https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/en\/blog\/how-to-write-a-french-resume\/<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cover letter: <a href=\"https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/en\/blog\/how-to-write-a-french-cover-letter\/\">https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/en\/blog\/how-to-write-a-french-cover-letter\/<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Interview: <a href=\"https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/en\/blog\/job-interview-in-french\/\">https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/en\/blog\/job-interview-in-french\/<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are two main types of work contracts in France: fixed-term contracts (CDD) and permanent contracts (CDI). In most cases, you\u2019ll be offered one of these with at least a three-month trial period. Once you&#8217;ve signed your contract, your employer\u2019s HR department will typically help you apply for your work permit and change your residence status from student to worker.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The type of contract you hold will affect the kind of visa you receive. Employees on a full-time permanent contract (CDI) are usually granted a long-stay visa marked \u201csalari\u00e9\u201d (employee), while those on a fixed-term contract (CDD) typically receive a visa marked \u201ctravailleur temporaire\u201d (temporary worker).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"798\" height=\"436\" src=\"https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/GGF-blog-photo-watermarking-4-5.png\" alt=\"living in france\" class=\"wp-image-59904\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/GGF-blog-photo-watermarking-4-5.png 798w, https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/GGF-blog-photo-watermarking-4-5-300x164.png 300w, https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/GGF-blog-photo-watermarking-4-5-768x420.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 798px) 100vw, 798px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Ready to begin your journey?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Building a life in France takes time, effort, and planning\u2014but you don\u2019t have to do it alone. Whether you&#8217;re just starting to explore the idea or you&#8217;re ready to dive into language studies, we\u2019re here to help guide you every step of the way. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Learning French is your first big step\u2014and the sooner you start, the sooner your dream becomes reality. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/en\/contact\/\">Contact us<\/a> today<\/strong> to find the right language school, get support with your visa, and take the first confident step toward your future in France.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Living in France long term takes more than just a dream\u2014it requires planning, persistence, and the right steps. This 5-year guide will help you navigate language learning, education, and employment so you can build a stable and rewarding life in France. First things first: Is France really for you? Moving abroad for the long term [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":123,"featured_media":59907,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","_members_access_role":[],"_members_access_error":""},"categories":[1638],"tags":[1545],"class_list":["post-59878","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-french-visas","tag-visas"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/59878","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/123"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=59878"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/59878\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":87654,"href":"https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/59878\/revisions\/87654"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/59907"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=59878"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=59878"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gogofrance.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=59878"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}