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Whether you’re a new arrival in France or a longtime expat, navigating life here involves far more than sampling croissants and strolling along cobblestone streets. There’s a lot to unpack, from navigating income tax and understanding your rights as a remote worker to making sense of property laws and even the peculiar spelling of world leaders’ names in French.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the top legal, financial, and cultural essentials that every foreign resident or aspiring one should know about life in France in 2025.
1. Remote Working in France: Rules, Residency, and Taxation
If you plan to live in France while working for an employer in another country, you’re not alone. The rise of remote work has led many expats to base themselves in France while remaining employed abroad. But there are a few key things to consider:
- Residency Status: If you live in France more than 183 days per year, you’re generally considered a tax resident, regardless of where your employer is.
- Social Security Contributions: You may need to register with URSSAF and pay into the French system or prove you’re covered elsewhere.
- Self-Employed or Contractor Status: Freelancers must declare their status (micro-entrepreneur or otherwise), register a business, and fulfill regular reporting obligations.
Tip: A proper visa or work permit is still essential if you’re a non-EU citizen, even working “remotely.”
2. Correcting Tax Declaration Mistakes in France
The French tax system can be confusing, especially if unfamiliar with the forms or language. Common mistakes include:
- Missing the filing deadline
- Forgetting to declare foreign bank accounts
- Entering incorrect income data
The good news? The French tax office (impôts) can be made online for up to three years. If you’ve already submitted your return, log into your online account and amend your declaration before the autumn deadline. If you missed declaring foreign accounts (e.g., in the US or UK), submit form 3916 to avoid penalties.
3. France and the 100% Property Tax on Non-EU Buyers—Will It Happen?
Following Spain’s announcement of a 100% tax on property purchases by non-EU citizens in high-pressure markets, many ask whether France might follow suit.
So far, France has not implemented such a policy. Still, growing political calls, especially in tourist-saturated regions, pose hefty purchase taxes on foreign buyers to ease the housing crisis.
While nothing is official, real estate investors and future homeowners should monitor this closely, particularly in hotspots like Paris, the Côte d’Azur, and Lyon.
4. Crit’Air Zones: Are France’s Low-Emission Rules Ending?
France’s low-emission zones, known as Zones à Faibles Émissions (ZFEs), have caused controversy due to vehicle restrictions based on pollution ratings. Recent parliamentary votes suggest the end of mandatory ZFEs, but the reality is more nuanced.
- Local authorities may continue enforcement at their discretion.
- Cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille will likely maintain or strengthen restrictions.
- Foreign-plated cars may need to register and display a Crit’Air sticker to avoid fines.
For now, ZFEs are not dead, but evolving. Travelers and residents alike should stay informed on local policies.
5. Obesity in France: Changing the Narrative
Despite stereotypes that “French people don’t get fat,” obesity is a growing concern in France, especially among youth and lower-income populations. The government has launched a national campaign focused on:
- Nutrition education in schools
- Restrictions on advertising junk food to children
- Expanding access to recreational facilities
France is looking to tackle the issue proactively, citing the health and economic consequences of an increasingly inactive population.
6. Why the French Spell “Putin” as “Poutine”
One of the quirkiest things you’ll notice in French newspapers is that Vladimir Putin’s name is a Quebecois dish of fries and gravy.
It’s a linguistic convention French phonetics would pronounce “Putin” as “pu-tahn,” which closely resembles a vulgar French word. To avoid this unfortunate homophone, the media and officials have written “Poutine.”
Fun fact: The word is also used for food in Quebec, and French speakers are aware of the confusion, but the context always helps!
7. New in 2025: Work-from-France Visa Pilot Program
In a new move to attract global talent, the French government is piloting a remote worker visa for tech professionals, creatives, and consultants.
- Applicants must prove stable income, remote employment, and valid insurance.
- It offers a simplified tax regime for the first year.
- The visa may convert to long-term residency.
This program reflects France’s growing ambition to become a hub for digital nomads and remote-first companies.
Conclusion
Life in France may be full of romance, food, and wine, but it also involves legal paperwork, tax rules, and cultural decoding for those working, investing, or settling down here. Whether you’re dodging Crit’Air fines, fixing a tax return, or learning why French news calls Putin “Poutine,” staying informed is essential.
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