Settling in France as a European doctor or physiotherapist involves several steps, one of the most important being finding accommodation. The French real estate market can vary widely depending on the region, prices, required documents, and property availability. Here is a quick, clear, and practical guide to ease your arrival.
1. Understanding the types of accommodation in France
In France, most newcomers opt for renting. Accommodations can be furnished (equipped) or unfurnished, and the differences primarily concern the lease duration and the security deposit. Highly sought-after cities like Paris, Lyon, Bordeaux, or Nice have a more competitive market, while medically underserved areas often offer more availability and lower rents.
To better anticipate your needs according to the region, you can check the job offers and analyze the areas where you will work.
2. Essential documents for renting accommodation
French landlords generally require a complete application before approving a rental. Here are the most common documents:
- ✔ Valid ID (passport or identity card)
- ✔ Employment contract or job offer
- ✔ Proof of income (pay slips or salary contract)
- ✔ Bank statement or RIB
- ✔ Proof of residence in France or abroad
For European doctors and physiotherapists, a job offer from a hospital or clinic is often sufficient to secure accommodation, even before arriving in France.
3. Choosing your region based on your professional project
Your future workplace will directly influence your housing search. Rural or underserved areas, often very attractive to healthcare professionals, generally offer more affordable rents and a better quality of life. In large cities, demand is higher, but hospital or clinic offerings are also more varied.
To compare regions according to your needs, Euromotion offers several useful tools, including the salary and charge simulators.
4. Budget: what to expect
In France, the cost of rent often represents the largest monthly expense. On average:
- 🏙 Large cities: higher rents and strong demand
- 🏡 Medium-sized cities and rural areas: more affordable rents
- 📌 Security deposit: 1 month's rent (unfurnished) or 2 months (furnished)
- 💡 Possible additional charges: electricity, gas, water, internet
Also consider installation costs: mandatory home insurance, opening accounts or purchasing equipment if the accommodation is unfurnished.
5. Resources to ease your installation
Euromotion provides several resources to European doctors and physiotherapists to help you successfully settle:
- 🏡 Comprehensive housing guide: how to find accommodation in France
- 🎓 Information on schools and French courses: access resources
- 📘 All Euromotion practical guides: guides & useful tools
A well-prepared move will allow you to quickly focus on your professional procedures, including the authorization to practice with the DREETS and registration with the Order corresponding to your profession.
In summary: suitable accommodation, successful installation
Finding accommodation in France is simpler when you know the required documents, the regions suited to your future job, and the right resources. As a European doctor or physiotherapist, specialized support will save you time and facilitate every step of your installation.
🚀 Ready to settle in France?
Euromotion Medical supports you from the first contact to your arrival on site:
- 🔎 Discover the medical job offers
- 📘 Consult our practical guides & tools
- 💼 Find your position on Mediirect
- 📩 Contact us: nicetomeetyou@euromotion.care
- 📲 Follow Euromotion: Instagram • Facebook • X • LinkedIn
