What Should You Take When Moving to France?

Preparing to move to France means thinking beyond the packing itself, bringing together foresight, structure, and clarity over every document and possession to ensure your arrival unfolds seamlessly. France’s systems, while efficient, depend on precision. Every form, receipt, and certificate plays a part in establishing your new life.

At Williams & Yates, our role is to simplify the complex. This guide details all the essentials, outside of your possessions, that you should take when moving to France, from vital documentation to practical items that ease your arrival.

Essential Personal Documents

Documents form the foundation of your relocation. France’s administrative procedures rely heavily on official paperwork, and it is far easier to carry the originals with translated copies than to chase replacements later.

Keep the following to hand rather than packed away:

• Passports with at least six months’ validity.
• Original and translated birth certificates.
• Marriage or civil partnership certificates, and divorce decrees where applicable.
• UK driving licence and, if staying long-term, an International Driving Permit.
• Academic qualifications, degree certificates, and professional licences.
• Medical and vaccination records for all family members.
• Bank statements from the last three to six months.
• Recent tax documentation from the UK.
• Proof of address for both the UK and France.

These documents are frequently required when registering for utilities, enrolling in healthcare, or applying for residency. Keep physical copies organised and digital backups securely stored.

Visa and Residency Requirements

Anyone staying in France for more than 90 days must apply for a long-stay visa and, in most cases, a residence permit. Preparation prevents costly delays.

Carry:

• Visa application records and supporting materials.
• Proof of financial independence, such as income or savings statements.
• Health insurance certificates covering your time in France.
• Employment contracts or evidence of self-employment registration.
• Proof of accommodation, whether a lease or property purchase.
• Criminal record check documentation, if required by your visa category.

Having these ready allows you to complete residence applications quickly after arrival.

Vehicle Documentation

If you are taking your car to France, you will need:

• Vehicle registration and proof of ownership.
• MOT certificates and insurance records.
• The V5C registration certificate.
• A European Certificate of Conformity confirming the car meets EU standards.
• Customs declaration forms for importation.

You have a maximum of one month from the date of establishing residence to register your car in France.

Furniture and Large Items

Transporting furniture across borders requires planning. While your Williams & Yates move coordinator will create a detailed inventory of everything being moved, we always recommend making a note of serial numbers and keeping those to hand.

For high-value or antique furniture, maintain proof of ownership and valuation certificates. Customs may require declarations for items over 50 years old. Find out more about moving fine art and antiques to France.

For items not being transported, plan disposal or storage early. Williams & Yates offers storage both in the UK and in France.

Clothing and Personal Effects

Pack with the French climate in mind. France’s regions vary significantly, from the mild Atlantic coast to the Mediterranean warmth and the colder mountain zones. Keeping seasonal clothing suited to the local weather to hand means you’re prepared.

These other items can then be packed away and moved with the rest of your possessions.

• Professional attire appropriate for French workplace culture.
• Special occasion wear for formal events.
• Practical footwear for walking, rural living, or city commutes.
• Toiletries and hygiene items for the first few weeks.
• Sentimental possessions such as photographs or keepsakes.
• Jewellery or watches, ideally with valuation certificates for insurance.

Williams & Yates always recommend a separate suitcase containing essentials for the first few days. It ensures comfort and continuity before your shipment arrives.

Electronics and Appliances

Compatibility and Preparation

France uses the European style Type E plugs, different from the UK’s three pin Type G plug. While travel adapters can be used, having an electrician either in France or the UK re-terminate your appliance with a Type E plug ensures a permanent solution that’s better suited to everyday use.

Carry:

• Adapters and voltage converters for UK-specific devices.
• Spare cables, chargers, and extension cords.

Key Electronics to Bring

• Laptops and work devices with accessories.
• Unlocked mobile phones for French SIM cards.
• Compact kitchen appliances that fit French outlets.
• Entertainment systems such as TVs or gaming consoles.
• Specialist work equipment if relocating for employment.

At Williams & Yates, your Moving Coordinator keeps you well informed throughout the process, helping you avoid avoidable costs and last-minute surprises.

Restricted and Regulated Items

Customs controls protect French health and safety standards. Certain goods are limited or prohibited.

• Alcohol: up to 90 litres of wine and 10 litres of spirits per adult.
• Tobacco: limited quantities allowed; check latest regulations before travel.
• Medication: prescription drugs must be accompanied by a doctor’s letter.
• Firearms: heavily restricted and require prior authorisation.
• Antiques or artworks: must include valuation and provenance documents.
• Plants, seeds, and soil: importation is limited to prevent pest contamination.
• Food: animal products, dairy, and raw meat cannot cross borders without approval.

Your Moving Coordinator will update you on any regulatory changes ahead of your move, ensuring everything remains compliant and clears customs without delay.

Pets and Animals

Relocating with pets requires careful preparation. Each animal must have:

• A microchip and rabies vaccination at least 21 days before travel.
• An Animal Health Certificate (AHC) issued within 10 days before departure.
• Updated pet passport (for EU or Northern Ireland-issued documents).
• Approved carriers for transport.

Upon arrival, pets must be registered with French authorities and certain breeds are restricted. You can learn more in our article on moving to France with your pet.

Healthcare Items

Carry essential medical documentation and supplies:

• Prescription medications with doctor’s letters and French translations.
• EHIC or GHIC cards for initial healthcare access.
• Private health insurance proof.
• Medical devices and usage instructions.
• Contact details for UK doctors.
• A small first aid kit for immediate needs.

Although it may be bulky, keep all medicines in the original packaging with labels intact for customs verification.

Financial and Practical Items

Managing finances effectively supports a smooth transition.

Bring:

• Initial cash in euros for immediate expenses.
• UK and French bank cards for flexibility.
• Tax records for both countries.
• Property purchase or lease agreements.
• Insurance policies and certificates (preferably translated).
• Receipts for newly purchased high-value items.

Williams & Yates partners with Global Reach, which offers exchange rates far superior to standard retail banks when exchanging large values.