Finding jobs in France: A Guide for Job Seeking Expats

If you are thinking of getting a job in France, then the first thing you need to do is learn to speak French. Without knowing fluent French, it usually becomes difficult to adjust to the country.

There are certain things you need to know before you’re applying for jobs in France. First, we’ll discuss a little about what you need to know to find employment in France easily. After that, we’ll figure out the tips to find jobs in France. This Guide will make pursuing a career in France easy. Read on.

Things you need to know to Work in France

To work in France, you need to make sure that you know the job market, culture, vacancies, companies, and salaries. 

Job Market in France

Unemployment in France is a little more than the Eurozone averages. According to the Institut National de la Statistique et des Études Économiques – INSEE, the unemployment rate in France is nearly 7.1%. Similar to the other European countries, the unemployment rate in France is higher in younger people (those under 25). 

However, the good news for the migrants is that the French government recently announced different plans to introduce quotas for controlling the workforce in specific industries. Several companies, including automotive, industrial machinery, electronics, finance, food and beverage, and tourism, have opened up specific job positions for migrants.

Vacancies in France

As per the statistics of June 2020, almost 212,000 vacancies opened up in France in various sectors. Shortage occupations include STEM professionals, vets, medical professionals, ICT professionals, construction workers, and carpenters. Moreover, you can also find jobs in retail, advertising, and tourism. 

Job Salaries in France

The minimum wages are revised by the French government every year. In the year 2020, the salaries rose to €10.15 from €10.03 per hour. However, the wages often vary across different sectors and skills. 

How to Find Jobs in France?

In this Guide to find jobs in France, you can quickly figure out whether you can adjust to a foreign country like France or not. Have a look.

Expatica Jobs

You can easily find jobs of different levels on the Expatica webpage all over the country. Finding the perfect one might take some time, but you’ll find it eventually. 

EURES Jobs

If you belong from EFTA/EU, searching for a job through EURES is quite convenient. This portal is expressly set up for the European Commission to provide free movement within the zone. You can also upload your CV while searching for jobs to get advice on administrative and legal issues you might face while working in France. 

Public French Job Websites

You can check the jobs on public websites and the French national employment agency Pôle Emploi, where numerous jobs are posted regularly. You can find unskilled, manual, and casual work.

Networking

Yes, tons of jobs are advertised in France, but there are a few which you can get through personal contacts. Therefore, personal networking is critical. You can connect with people through networking sites like Viadeo or LinkedIn or ask around. You can also connect with different people in various fields through meet-up groups or networking groups. 

Embassies and Foreign Organizations

You can look for job options at the consulates and embassies in Paris or other cities. Most of these often expect fluency and command in spoken and written French. 

Self-employment in France

If you are facing difficulties finding the perfect job in France, then freelancing is also an option. You can set up your own business or work as a freelancer with other companies. Almost 11.7% of the workforce in France is self-employed. Thus, as an immigrant, you need to get a French residency permit to set up your business.

Conclusion

Job probationary periods can be somewhat between 2-4 months, depending on what job you’ve applied for. During this time, the notice for ceasing the contract is usually shorter.  

Once you begin working, your employer enrolls you for the social security benefits and French health insurance. Shortly after, you will receive your INSEE number as well. Thus, you are covered for any illness or injury (work-related) through this French employer’s insurance. 

To find more details about moving to foreign countries for jobs or study, stay connected. We’ll provide the perfect guides for you.