Move to France – KOCH Moving Logistics
Moving to France
Welcome to France
France – the land of savoir-vivre, culinary excellence and breathtaking diversity – fascinates with a unique blend of Mediterranean lifestyle, rich cultural heritage and economic strength. Whether you dream of the vibrant metropolis of Paris with its world-famous monuments, the sunny lavender fields of Provence, the picturesque villages of Normandy or the glamorous Côte d'Azur – moving to France opens up new perspectives in one of the most liveable and culturally richest countries in Europe.
EXPERT EMPLOYEES
Our expert team pack and unpack everything for you. We professionally dismantle, assemble and configure your office furniture. With the help of our trusted partners we can also assist you with setting up your network and cables for your workstations.
FULL SERVICE MOVING
We offer you all services in one place – advice, planning and coordination. We always pay attention to a good price-quality ratio. When moving a company, our experts pay attention to the safety of your information and data.
STRONG CONNECTION
Originally founded as a relocation department of KOCH International we became an independent moving company in 2010. Despite the split-off, we believe in strong cooperation and solidarity with the international logistics company.
QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR MOVE TO FRANCE?
MOVING TO FRANCE
Daily life
Living and working in France combines one of the highest qualities of life in Europe with an excellent work-life balance. France ranks among the largest economies in the world and offers attractive career opportunities in sectors such as aerospace, luxury goods, technology, tourism, agriculture and renewable energies. The statutory 35-hour working week enables an excellent balance between career and family. KOCH Moving Logistics reliably accompanies you on your path to this traditional and forward-looking country.
ENTRY INTO FRANCE
Residence regulations
Entry into France is extremely straightforward for German citizens. Thanks to EU freedom of movement, you can enter visa‑free with a valid identity card or passport and stay in the country for up to three months without further formalities. For a longer stay (more than three months), you must register with the prefecture of your place of residence. As German citizens, you need neither a work permit nor a residence permit. KOCH Moving Logistics reliably accompanies you on your path to this successful and culturally rich country.
LIVING IN FRANCE
Real estate market
The French property market offers a wide range of housing options, from elegant Parisian apartments to sun‑drenched villas on the Côte d'Azur to rural estates in Provence or Normandy. Rental prices vary greatly depending on the region – Paris and the Côte d'Azur are the most expensive, while cities such as Nantes, Lyon or Bordeaux as well as rural regions offer significantly more affordable housing. KOCH Moving Logistics helps you find suitable accommodation and supports you in navigating the French rental market.
WORKING IN FRANCE
Job opportunities for Germans
Working in France means becoming part of a dynamic work culture that values creativity, initiative and team spirit. German skilled professionals are in demand in many sectors – especially in engineering, IT, healthcare, tourism as well as research and development. Thanks to EU freedom of movement, you do not need a separate work permit. The 35‑hour working week and the statutory minimum wage (SMIC) of €12.02 per hour (2026) make France attractive for employees. KOCH Moving Logistics helps you discover the right job opportunities for expats, freelancers and entrepreneurs.
EDUCATION IN FRANCE
Schools for expats
In France, expats have access to an excellent education system with public schools, private schools as well as international schools and German overseas schools. The French school system includes pre‑school (école maternelle, from age 3), primary school (école élémentaire, up to age 11) and secondary school (collège and lycée), which concludes with the national baccalaureate (baccalauréat). For international families, Paris, Lyon, Nice and other major cities offer numerous international schools as well as the German Schools in Paris and Toulouse. KOCH Moving Logistics helps you find the best options for your children.
IMPORTANT ASPECTS – FRANCE
Healthcare system
The French healthcare system (Sécurité Sociale) is considered by the WHO to be one of the best in the world and is based on the principle of solidarity. Anyone who works in France is automatically insured for health. After registering with the CPAM, you will receive your health insurance card (carte vitale), with which treatment costs are reimbursed – usually 70% of doctor's fees. For the remaining 30%, many French people take out private supplementary insurance (mutuelle). KOCH Moving Logistics helps you find your way around the French healthcare system.
FINANCES
Tax system in France
The French tax system is progressive (income tax rates 2026 between 0% and 45%) and is calculated at household level – your total family income is added together and the tax burden is divided by the number of "parts". Since 2019, income tax is deducted monthly at source (prélèvement à la source) from salary. A special feature for international skilled professionals is the impatriate regime with tax exemption of up to 50% for eight years. KOCH Moving Logistics provides valuable assistance for your financial planning.
FRENCH CULTURE
Cultural characteristics
France delights with a fascinating cultural diversity strongly shaped by its eventful history, its language and its central role in Europe. From the world‑famous wine festivals to the Carnival of Nice to medieval festivals – savoir‑vivre and centuries‑old customs meet here. French cuisine (baguette, croissant, foie gras, cheese, wine) is a UNESCO World Heritage site, as are the numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Mont‑Saint‑Michel, the banks of the Seine in Paris and the vineyards of Champagne. KOCH Moving Logistics helps you discover these special features.
EMIGRATING TO FRANCE
Leisure and recreation
France is a paradise for nature and culture lovers. In winter, the Alps and Pyrenees attract skiers; in spring, the lavender fields of Provence; in summer, the beaches of the Côte d'Azur; and in autumn, the vineyards of Bordeaux. The most popular destinations include Paris (Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Notre‑Dame), the Loire châteaux, Mont‑Saint‑Michel, the Calanques near Marseille, the futuristic Futuroscope and Disneyland Paris. Numerous thermal spas (Vichy, Evian) invite you to relax. KOCH Moving Logistics supports you in settling in quickly.
Contact person
Vitalij Habiger