Taxes, digital ID, and Easter: 6 essential articles for life in France
, with the online portal now open for online declarations, while paper forms are also being sent out to those who have requested them.
This year, there are some changes to French taxes that you will want to be aware of when filling out your declaration, in part thanks to France's new 2025 budget which was adopted in February.
The changes you need to know about the 2025 French tax declaration
If you are looking to move to France and you do not hold EU citizenship, then you will first need a visa.
For several types of visas, including the 'Visiteur' status – common amongst retirees and second-home owners – it is necessary to show that you have health coverage for the duration of your stay. We explain the level of cover you need and how to pick a policy.
How to find health insurance for your French visa
French citizens, including dual nationals, now have an easier time accessing France's digital ID platform, France Identité. If you are eligible but still have the old version of the French ID card, you can now sign up for both at the same time. Here's what you need to know.
France rolls out process to renew ID card and activate digital ID simultaneously
Speaking of which, Interior Minister and likely wannabe 2027 presidential candidate Bruno Retailleau says he wants to toughen up
conditions for foreigners to acquire French citizenship
– because, he says, living in France is 'a favour' for non-citizens.
He did not specify whether he was referring to people who get citizenship through residency, marriage or other family ties or through the '
droit du sol
' by which children born in France to foreign parents can gain citizenship once they reach the age of 13. But MPs have recently tightened up
birthright citizenship rules on the island of Mayotte
.
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Children born in metropolitan France to foreign parents still have the right to citizenship through '
droit du sol
'. But this doesn't mean that they are French from birth. Instead it involves a long delay, some pretty strict rules, a file of paperwork and an application to your local authority. Here's how to do it.
Guide: How to request French nationality for your child
French schools' staggered two-week Spring holidays began for pupils in Zone B on April 5th. Children at schools in Zone C broke up at the end of classes on April 11th, while those in Zone A have to wait until April 19th (sorry).
Like many other historically Catholic countries, France is a big fan of Easter. All around the country, you'll see shopfronts and bakeries decorated with chocolate rabbits, chickens, bells, and other signs of spring.
Many other traditions and festivals mark the spring holiday season in France – and here are a few suggestions if you want to join in the fun…
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The best Easter activities in France for families
France equals gastronomy. But what are the most 'best' dishes in France? A big survey has come up with a list, so here are France's favourite traditional dishes, culinary regions, to taste and visit, plus some tips on finding a reliable restaurant.
Which French foods do French people love the most?
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