Student Relocation Support in France

Moving to a new country like France to start your studies is an exciting opportunity, but the process of settling in—known as relocation—can feel overwhelming. From the moment you land, there is a checklist of essential tasks to complete, from finding accommodation to navigating local bureaucracy.

This comprehensive guide is designed specifically for international students, offering a practical walkthrough of the initial steps required to successfully settle in France. We cover everything from immediate tasks upon arrival to official registration, helping you transition smoothly from new arrival to confident resident.

1) What ‘Settlement Support’ Means for Students

For an international student, settlement support encompasses the practical, logistical, and administrative assistance needed to establish a stable life in a new host country. It goes beyond the initial visa and enrollment, focusing on day-to-day necessities and legal compliance after you arrive.

Key Areas of Student Settlement:

• Documentation: Officially registering your presence, sorting out residency permits (like the Titre de Séjour), and obtaining critical identification numbers. To ensure you have all your papers in order before and after arrival, review our guide on Documentation Support in France.
• Financial Integration: Opening a local French bank account to manage your funds, pay rent, and receive allowances.
• Connectivity: Securing a local SIM card and internet access to stay connected with family, friends, and your university.
• Housing: Finalizing your accommodation, conducting the required check-in (état des lieux), and understanding tenant rights. If you haven’t yet secured your housing, read our guide on Accommodation in France for International Students.
• Health: Registering for the French social security and health system.

Effective settlement minimizes stress and allows you to focus on your education and enjoying French culture.

2) First 7 Days Checklist: Landing and Immediate Priorities

The first week in France is crucial for tackling the most time-sensitive tasks. Use this checklist as your priority guide:

Day 1–2: Arrival and Basic Comfort

• Secure airport pickup in France and travel safely to your accommodation.
• Check into your secured housing and rest.
• Purchase a temporary French SIM card or activate an international plan (if possible).
• Locate the nearest grocery store and familiarize yourself with your neighborhood.

Day 3–7: Administrative Essentials

• Begin the process of opening a French bank account (this can take time).
• Contact your university’s international office for guidance on student registration and residency permits.
• If necessary, schedule an appointment for your OFII validation (required after visa validation).
• Start gathering required documents for official registration (e.g., passport copies, proof of address, birth certificate).
• Complete the accommodation inventory (état des lieux) with your landlord or residence manager.

Relocating to a new country involves many logistical challenges, and having expert help can make the process seamless. If you need dedicated, end-to-end support throughout your move, consider working with a relocation service like Luxe Settle. We manage everything from pre-arrival planning to post-arrival support, ensuring you’re set up for success from day one. student relocation support in Europe. We understand the specific administrative hurdles in France and offer targeted assistance to ensure your transition is smooth, safe, and fully compliant.

Our Core Services in France Include:

• Pre-Arrival Planning: Detailed checklists and one-on-one consultation regarding required documents, financial readiness, and timelines.
• Essential Registrations: Dedicated support for setting up your French bank account, assisting with appointments, and guiding you through the VLS-TS validation process.
• Accommodation Finalization: We help coordinate the check-in process, review the rental contract, and guide you through the critical état des lieux to protect your deposit.
• SIM Card and Connectivity: Advice and setup assistance for your local French phone number.

We act as your local expert on the ground, handling the complex logistics so you can step off the plane ready to begin your academic career without the stress of bureaucracy.

Need help with accommodation or airport pickup?