The Art of Moving to Paris

From securing your visa to hanging the chandelier in your Paris home

The 6 Phases of Moving to France

Relocating to Paris is both a logistical undertaking and a cultural transition. Maison Firestone approaches each move with structural clarity and cultural insight, guiding clients through the sourcing and acquisition of a home while equipping them to understand, navigate, and integrate into Parisian life.

While each situation is unique, most international clients moving to Paris experience a process that unfolds in several key phases.

The foundation of life in Paris begins with discernment and trusted introductions. Before the process begins, Anya Firestone works with clients to clarify the structure of the move—outlining the steps involved in establishing residency, purchasing property, and identifying neighborhoods aligned with each client’s lifestyle and sensibility.
Clients are introduced to carefully vetted immigration attorneys, notaries, and other trusted advisors who help structure the practical framework of the move. Whether planning a full relocation or establishing a pied-à-terre, key questions are addressed with clarity: determining the appropriate visa, opening a French bank account, and navigating the administrative considerations of relocating to France, including moving with family and children when relevant.
Paris is a city of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own rhythm and character. Clients explore different areas of the city in order to determine which environment best aligns with their lifestyle and long-term plans.
Once neighborhoods have been defined, Anya Firestone begins the process of identifying properties aligned with the client’s lifestyle and priorities. Apartments are carefully reviewed and visited on the client’s behalf, with attention to the nuances that distinguish Parisian buildings—from Haussmannian residences to earlier historic structures and later architectural styles. Elements such as light, layout, building governance, and long-term value are assessed so that each opportunity can be evaluated with clarity before moving forward with acquisition.
Relocating successfully involves more than administrative steps. Clients learn to navigate the rhythms of Parisian life, from understanding local institutions and daily systems to becoming comfortable within the city’s cultural landscape and traditions.
Through intimate dinners, private salons, and curated group Cou-Tours, Anya convenes a thoughtful circle of French residents and international newcomers alike. Alongside these gatherings, clients are introduced to the cultural foundations of the city, including the traditions of the French salon and the history, art, and intellectual life that continue to shape Paris today. These encounters create natural opportunities for connection and belonging within the cultural life of the city.

Showcasing how to live with art through the art of living.

Beyond securing a residence, Maison Firestone advises on the thoughtful composition of a home — from art and furniture to the nuances of entertaining and daily life in Paris.

Discuss your goals for a full‑time or part‑time life in Paris.
Discover how we source exceptional homes and off‑market properties, and collaborate closely with expert architects, artisans, and trusted legal consultants.
Receive a bespoke proposal detailing how Maison Firestone can realise your Parisian ambitions.
Learn about Anya’s bespoke French integration services, including curated history lessons, cultural salons, intimate dinner parties, and exclusive social gatherings.

Reserve a Consultation

Request a Consultation

FAQ

Relocating to Paris raises many practical questions—from visas and property to navigating the systems of daily life. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive from international clients considering a move to Paris.

What are the first steps in getting a visa for France?

The first step is determining the appropriate visa category based on your intended lifestyle in France—whether that is a long-stay visitor visa, talent visa, entrepreneur visa, or another residency pathway. Each category has different financial, professional, and residency requirements. Most applications begin through the French consulate in your home country and must be prepared carefully in advance. We often help clients understand the landscape before they begin the formal process with immigration counsel.

How do I know which visa is right for me?

The right visa depends on how you intend to live in France: whether you plan to work, retire, invest, or divide your time between countries. Factors such as income structure, business activities, and long-term residency goals all play a role. We help clients clarify their objectives first, then connect them with the appropriate legal experts to structure the best pathway.

Can Americans buy property in France?

Yes. There are no restrictions preventing Americans from purchasing property in France. Many international buyers acquire apartments in Paris either as primary residences, secondary homes, or long-term investments. The process is structured around the French notary system and differs significantly from real estate transactions in the United States.

How do I begin the process of moving to Paris?

The first step is usually a consultation where we discuss your goals, timeline, and the practical steps required to establish yourself in Paris. From there, we outline the process and introduce the right professionals to support each stage.

Do I need to speak French to live in Paris?

While it is possible to manage daily life in English, learning some French greatly improves the experience of living in Paris. Even a basic level of the language helps with administrative processes, local services, and integrating into the rhythm of the city. If you will eventually seek naturalization, you will require mastering a level of French for your exams.

Do you only work with clients who plan to live in Paris full-time?

Not at all. Some clients move to Paris permanently, while others establish a second residence and divide their time between countries. We help clients structure their move in a way that supports the lifestyle they envision.

Can Americans obtain mortgages or loans in France?

In some cases, yes. French banks may lend to foreign buyers, though the process is more conservative than in the U.S. Banks typically require significant documentation and often expect buyers to contribute a substantial portion of the purchase price. Some clients choose to finance through French banks, while others purchase in cash or leverage financing in their home country.

How long does it take to buy an apartment in Paris?

Once an offer is accepted, the purchase process typically takes around two to three months before the final deed is signed at the notary’s office. During this period, legal checks are conducted, the notary prepares the deed, and financing (if applicable) is finalized. Understanding the timeline and documentation requirements early makes the process significantly smoother.

Do you provide relocation services?

Maison Firestone is not a traditional relocation agency. We specialize in helping clients establish themselves in Paris with clarity and cultural insight. This may include guidance around property acquisition, introductions to trusted legal and financial professionals, and helping clients understand how to navigate daily life in Paris—from neighborhoods and schools to art, design, and hosting.

Can you help after I purchase a home in Paris?

Yes. Many clients continue working with us after acquiring a property. We assist with settling in—from furnishing and sourcing art to understanding how to entertain, shop, and participate in Parisian cultural life. The goal is not simply to own a home in Paris, but to feel fully at ease living here.

How long can Americans stay in France without a visa?

Americans can stay in France and the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa. Anyone wishing to remain longer must apply for a long-stay visa before arriving in France.