Before You Start

Moving to Paris involves several administrative steps, such as registering your residence, securing health insurance, and obtaining a tax number. Language barriers and navigating bureaucracy can be challenging, so it’s advised to prepare documents in advance, make appointments online where possible, and be patient with processing times.

Administrative Registration

In Paris, as a newcomer, you’ll likely have to register your residence at your local mairie (town hall) or Préfecture, especially if you are a non-EU citizen. Some processes can be initiated online, but in-person visits with appointments are often required. Registration is typically completed soon after arrival and may require proof of address and identity.

• Paris Mairie
• French Public Service Portal

Healthcare Registration

Healthcare in France is mainly public and highly rated. Registration with the public health insurance system (PUMA) is required, generally after three months’ residence. Applications are usually submitted via Assurance Maladie, and supplementary private insurance (mutuelle) is common. Bring required paperwork such as proof of residence, ID, and employment contract or university enrolment if applicable.

• Ameli (Assurance Maladie)
• Ministry of Health France

Social Security

Social security registration in France is often linked to your job, studies, or residence status. Employees are enrolled by their employer, while self-employed or unemployed need to apply themselves. Registration grants access to health insurance, pensions, and other welfare benefits.

Tax Number

To work or declare income in Paris, you need a numéro fiscal (tax identification number). This is automatically assigned after your first tax return, but you can also request one from the local tax office (Service des Impôts) if needed earlier. Bring identification and proof of address.

• Service des Impôts
• French Tax Office (FAQ)

Required Documents

• Passport or national ID
• Visa or residence permit (if required)
• Proof of address (e.g. lease, utility bill)
• Job contract or university enrollment
• Health insurance certificate

Helpful Local Services

Key local services include the mairie (town hall) for registration, Préfecture for immigration matters, Caisse Primaire d’Assurance Maladie (CPAM) for healthcare, URSSAF for self-employed social security, and Service des Impôts for tax matters. Most have user-friendly online portals.