Eiffel Tower, Paris
Since the creation of the European Union, living and working in France has become a lot more difficult for Americans. Because of visa laws, French employers often prefer to hire European workers, which means you will have to work a lot harder to make your dream a reality. If you still have your heart set on it, however, there are things you can do to get things started on the right track.
Instructions
1. Consider getting a student visa if your French language skills are high enough for it. Foreign students can work up to 20 hours a week while living in France. You will still need to prove that you have the financial means to support yourself in order to get the visa in the first place.
2. Talk to the company you currently work for to see if they have international branches or connections. Many large organizations offer their employees international transfers, either temporarily or permanently. This may be the easiest way to find a job in France.
3. Make sure you have enough funds to support yourself until you start working. Even with a job offer, you may be asked to show proof of “settlement funds,” or money to help you support yourself until your first paycheck.
4. Contact the local French embassy to get a list of specific requirements for the different types of visa. These may vary depending on whether you have a job offer, your nationality, profession and even age.
5. Search for a job before you leave home. To work legally in France, you will need a carte de sejour (work permit), which can only be obtained with the help of an employer. If you have no connections in France, you can look for a job by searching companies such as Monster.com, where you can search posted opportunities or upload your resume to allow employers to contact you (see Resources below).
