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Work & jobs in France
Work rules in France depend on your nationality and residence status. EU/EEA citizens can usually work freely; non-EU citizens should confirm that their permit allows the job before signing.
Employment offices in France
Pôle emploi / France Travail: Job search, unemployment. Phone: 3949. OFII language training providers: Free 100–600 h French courses.
Job-search and permit steps
Housing & APL: Renting requires a guarantor — Visale (free state guarantee) works for newcomers. Get Visale guarantee — Apply at visale.fr — covers unpaid rent for landlords, free for tenants under 30 or salaried newcomers. Apply for APL — On caf.fr once you have a lease. Pays part of your rent based on income — can be 100–300 €/month. Social housing (HLM) — Register a Numéro Unique on demande-logement-social.gouv.fr. Wait times: 6 months – 5 years depending on city.
Contracts and worker rights
Ask for a written contract before the first shift. It should show working hours, salary, probation, holiday, sick leave and notice period. Keep payslips and messages from the employer in case you need help from a union or labour office.
Diplomas and regulated professions
Doctors, nurses, teachers, drivers, electricians and other regulated workers usually need formal recognition before working independently. Start recognition early because it can take months.
Frequently asked questions
Where do newcomers look for jobs in France?
Start with Pôle emploi / France Travail, recognised employers, local job portals and municipal integration offices.
Which office should I contact first in France?
Start with Pôle emploi / France Travail. For broader newcomer help, also check OFII (Office Français de l'Immigration), Préfecture, OFPRA.
What language will offices use in France?
The main administrative language is French. Larger offices often offer English or interpreters, but bring translated documents when possible.
Do I need to speak the local language to work?
Not always — many international employers work in English. But for public-sector roles and most customer-facing jobs, local language is expected.
What is the minimum wage?
It varies widely across the EU. Your national employment authority publishes current rates.