Connect with French Expats Worldwide

Around 2.5 million French citizens live outside of l’hexagone and DOM-TOM territories across the world. The average French expat is between 25 and 60 years old, looking, above all else, to enhance their career with a move overseas. From switching out camembert rôti au four for Swiss cheese fondue, to getting used to an absence of joie de vivre in the American workplace, there are a lot of big changes that come with life as a French expat. But what does taking the step and moving abroad really feel like?

One thing is certain, and that is that there really is no one way to feel. A change as big as this brings nervousness and excitement, often in equal measure. You may find yourself looking forward to exploring your new city, while also wondering how you will adjust to spending your lunch break at your desk rather than in a restaurant with friends. As you embrace your new life and surroundings, spending time with people who remind you of home can be a great way to stay positive.

How to Meet Other French Expats

Meeting up with other people who are making the same adjustments to their lives and routines as you are can be helpful as you begin your adventure in a new country. That’s why getting to know fellow French expats is so important when you move abroad. Established in 2007, InterNations is the largest expat network with over 4 million members. It’s a trusted community offering a range of experiences that bring global minds together, and French people are one of the largest nationalities!

Attending InterNations events is a great way to connect with fellow French people abroad. Whatever interests or hobbies you may have brought with you from home, there will almost certainly be an opportunity for you to develop them further as part of the InterNations community — and make new friends as you do so! We have a huge range of online and in person events on offer, perfect for learning more about the culture and history of your new city, or getting tips on expat life there.

A Few Facts about French Expats

InterNations conducts an annual survey of expats worldwide called Expat Insider, looking at questions like why they moved abroad, how long they plan to stay, and how happy they are.

Here’s what French expats shared about their experiences:

• The most common reasons for French people to move abroad were professional (either due to being recruited internationally, being sent abroad by an employer, or finding a job abroad independently).
• 73% of French people feel at home in their destination, compared to the global average of 67%.
• 66% of French people are happy with their social lives in their destination, compared to the global average of 59%.
• 72% of French expats have either a PhD or postgraduate degree, compared to the global average of 48%.