France is a highly attractive destination for foreigners seeking employment. With its rich cultural heritage, strong economy, and world-renowned cuisine, it offers numerous opportunities across various industries. Whether you are an English teacher, a hospitality worker, or a highly skilled professional, there are diverse job options available.
This article explores the different types of jobs available to foreigners in France, the best ways to find work, and details on programmes that hire foreign teachers.
Types of Jobs Available to Foreigners in France
1. Teaching English
Teaching English is one of the most accessible jobs for foreigners in France. The demand for English teachers remains high, particularly in schools, language institutes, and private tutoring.
Common Teaching Jobs:
- Language Assistants – Work in public schools assisting French teachers.
- Private Language Schools – Teach adults or children in structured courses.
- Business English Trainers – Provide language training to corporate clients.
- Private Tutoring – Teach individuals or small groups, often for exam preparation.
Salary Range:
- Language Assistants: $900 – $1,200 per month
- Private Language Schools: $1,300 – $2,000 per month
- Business English Trainers: $2,000 – $3,000 per month
- Private Tutoring: $20 – $50 per hour (depending on experience and location)
2. Hospitality and Tourism
Given France’s status as a top tourist destination, there are ample opportunities in the hospitality and tourism sectors, particularly in cities like Paris, Nice, and Lyon.
Common Jobs:
- Hotel receptionist
- Tour guide
- Bartender or waiter
- Hostel staff
- Resort worker
Salary Range:
- Hotel Receptionist: $1,500 – $2,500 per month
- Tour Guide: $2,000 – $3,500 per month (seasonal)
- Waiter/Bartender: $1,800 – $2,500 per month (including tips)
3. Au Pair and Childcare
Working as an au pair is an excellent option for young foreigners looking to experience French culture while earning money. Au pairs live with a French family and take care of children in exchange for a stipend, accommodation, and meals.
Salary and Benefits:
- Monthly stipend: $400 – $800
- Free accommodation and meals
- Language courses included in some cases
4. Information Technology (IT) and Engineering
France has a growing tech industry, particularly in cities like Paris, Lyon, and Toulouse. Skilled professionals in IT and engineering are in demand, with many companies hiring international talent.
Common Jobs:
- Software developer
- Data analyst
- Cybersecurity specialist
- Mechanical engineer
- Civil engineer
Salary Range:
- Software Developer: $3,000 – $6,000 per month
- Data Analyst: $3,000 – $5,000 per month
- Mechanical Engineer: $3,500 – $6,500 per month
5. Healthcare
France’s healthcare system is one of the best in the world, and there is a need for foreign medical professionals, especially in rural areas. However, foreign doctors and nurses must go through a strict accreditation process.
Common Jobs:
- General practitioners
- Nurses
- Physiotherapists
- Dentists
Salary Range:
- Doctors: $5,000 – $10,000 per month
- Nurses: $3,000 – $5,000 per month
- Physiotherapists: $3,000 – $4,500 per month
6. Retail and Sales
Retail and sales jobs are widely available, especially for those who speak French. Positions in clothing stores, supermarkets, and customer service can be a good option for foreigners.
Salary Range:
- Retail Assistant: $1,500 – $2,500 per month
- Customer Service Representative: $2,000 – $3,500 per month
Finding a Job in France
1. Online Job Portals
Some of the best websites for finding work in France include:
- Pôle Emploi (French national employment service)
- Indeed France
- Welcome to the Jungle
- Glassdoor France
2. Recruitment Agencies
Several recruitment agencies specialise in helping foreigners find work in France, such as:
- Approach People Recruitment
- Manpower France
- Michael Page France
3. Networking
Networking is crucial in France, as many jobs are filled through personal connections. Attending industry events, joining expat groups, and connecting with professionals on LinkedIn can be beneficial.
Programmes That Hire Foreign Teachers in France
1. Teaching Assistant Program in France (TAPIF)
TAPIF is one of the most popular programmes for English speakers looking to teach in France. It is run by the French Ministry of Education and allows young foreigners to work as English teaching assistants in public schools.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Be a native or near-native English speaker
- Hold a bachelor’s degree (or be currently enrolled in university)
- Be between 20 and 35 years old
Benefits:
- Monthly stipend of around $1,000
- Health insurance
- Teaching experience in a French school
2. British Council Language Assistants Programme
This programme places UK citizens in French schools as language assistants. It is similar to TAPIF but specifically for British applicants.
Benefits:
- Monthly stipend of around $900 – $1,200
- Experience in the French education system
- The opportunity to improve French language skills
3. Private Language Schools
Many private institutions, such as Wall Street English and Berlitz, hire foreign English teachers. They offer structured language courses for students of all ages.
Benefits:
- More flexible work schedules
- Competitive salaries
- Opportunities to teach business professionals
4. International Schools
France has many international schools that teach in English. These schools often seek qualified teachers with a teaching degree or TEFL certification.
Benefits:
- Higher salaries than language assistant positions
- International work environment
- Potential for long-term contracts
Work Visa Requirements for Foreigners
For EU Citizens:
EU citizens do not need a work visa to work in France. They can move freely and seek employment without restrictions.
For Non-EU Citizens:
Non-EU citizens must obtain a work visa. The most common types are:
- Talent Passport (Passeport Talent): For highly skilled workers, researchers, and entrepreneurs.
- Work Permit (Autorisation de Travail): Required for regular employment.
- Student Visa with Work Rights: Allows part-time work while studying in France.
Employers usually sponsor work visas, but some programmes (such as TAPIF) assist with visa applications.
France offers a variety of job opportunities for foreigners, ranging from teaching and hospitality to IT and healthcare. While EU citizens have an easier time finding work, non-EU citizens can still secure jobs through visa sponsorships and international programmes.
For those interested in teaching English, TAPIF, the British Council Programme, and private language schools provide excellent opportunities. Meanwhile, other industries like hospitality, IT, and engineering also welcome foreign workers with the right qualifications.
If you are looking for work in France, leveraging job portals, networking, and recruitment agencies will significantly improve your chances of success.
