Moving to France
From the Netherlands to la Douce France
France has been a popular destination for Dutch expats for years. Whether you choose Provence, the Cote d'Azur or Parisian life: good preparation makes the difference. In this guide you'll find everything you need to know.
Cost of Moving to France
Costs depend on volume, distance and extra services. Below is an estimate for an average household:
| Destination | Price |
|---|---|
| Northern France (Lille, Paris) | €2,000 - €4,500 |
| Central France (Lyon, Dordogne) | €3,000 - €5,500 |
| Southern France (Provence, Cote d'Azur) | €3,500 - €7,000 |
| Southwest (Bordeaux, Toulouse) | €3,000 - €6,000 |
Extra services
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Packing service | €300 - €800 |
| Storage container (per month) | €100 - €250 |
| Furniture assembly/disassembly | €150 - €400 |
| Cleaning old home | €200 - €500 |
Prices are indicative for 30-50 m³ and depend on season. Summer (June-August) is busier and more expensive.
Route & Transport
The route from the Netherlands to France almost always goes through Belgium. These are your options:
Via Belgium (A2/E25 toward Liege)
The standard route for Central and Southern France. Via Liege to Luxembourg and then into France. Well-maintained highways, affordable toll costs.
- Fastest route to Lyon and beyond
- Well-maintained roads
- Gas stations with LPG
Via Belgium (A1/E19 toward Paris)
The direct route to Paris and Northern France. Via Brussels and Valenciennes. Note: going around Paris via the peripherique takes time.
- Fastest route to Paris
- Many gas stations
- Good signage
Coastal route via Calais
For destinations in Normandy and Brittany. Via Antwerp and Calais along the coast. Longer route but scenic.
- Beautiful scenery
- Few mountains
- Suitable for heavy loads
Transport tips
- Budget for tolls: France charges per section, expect €50-€150 for a moving truck
- Refuel in Belgium or Luxembourg - fuel is cheaper there than in France
- Avoid the Paris ring road (peripherique) with a large moving truck
- Account for driving times: maximum 9 hours behind the wheel per day
EU Customs & Documents
France is an EU member state, so you benefit from the free movement of goods. Still, there are things to keep in mind:
- No import duties on personal belongings within the EU
- Bring an inventory list (inventaire) for the mover
- No customs documents needed for personal items
- Newly purchased goods for resale fall under different rules
- Vehicle registration: apply for a carte grise within 1 month
- Register at the mairie (town hall) of your new residence
Popular Regions
These are the regions where Dutch expats most often relocate to:
Provence
Lavender fields, hilltop villages and 300 days of sunshine per year. Popular with retirees and remote workers. Aix-en-Provence and Avignon are the main cities.
- Beautiful climate
- Rich culture and cuisine
- Good flight connections
Cote d'Azur
From Nice to Saint-Tropez: luxury on the Mediterranean. More expensive than other regions but with a unique lifestyle. Many international schools.
- Beach and mountains
- International community
- Nice airport
Dordogne
The green heart of France. Affordable housing, space and tranquility. Loved by families seeking a quieter life. Bergerac and Sarlat are the best-known towns.
- Affordable housing
- Nature and peace
- Strong expat community
Paris and surroundings
For those who prefer city life. High rents but excellent amenities, culture and career opportunities. Good trains to the Netherlands (Thalys/Eurostar).
- Career opportunities
- Culture and nightlife
- 3 hours by train to NL
Taxes & Finances
The transition to the French tax system requires preparation:
Income Tax
France uses progressive rates from 0% to 45%. The family quotient (quotient familial) distributes income across family members, which can be advantageous for families.
Tax Treaty NL-FR
The Netherlands and France have a tax treaty to prevent double taxation. Pensions from the Netherlands are taxed in France (with the exception of AOW state pension).
Property Tax
In France you pay two local taxes: taxe fonciere (owner) and taxe d'habitation (occupant, abolished for primary residences). The amount varies greatly per municipality.
Healthcare Costs
After registering with CPAM (Caisse Primaire d'Assurance Maladie) you have access to the French healthcare system. A supplementary mutuelle is recommended for full coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa for France?
No, as an EU citizen you don't need a visa. You can freely live and work in France. You do need to register at the mairie and apply for a residence certificate if you stay longer than 3 months.
How long does moving to Southern France take?
Transport takes 1-2 days. The total lead time from survey to delivery is usually 2-3 weeks, depending on volume and scheduling.
Can I bring my Dutch car?
Yes, you can bring your car. You must apply for a carte grise (French registration) within 1 month and have your car re-inspected if required. We can advise you on the procedure.
What are the biggest cultural differences?
Lunch is sacred in France (12-2pm), many shops are closed on Sundays, and appointments at government offices take more time than in the Netherlands. Invest in your French - it makes a big difference.
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Moving to France? We Know the Way
From the Randstad to the Riviera, from Utrecht to the Dordogne. With experience in dozens of moves to France, we know exactly what's involved.
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