France

France is a top destination for immigration, education, and tourism, welcoming over 90 million tourists yearly. Renowned universities like Sorbonne and HEC attract international students. The cost of living for students ranges from 700 to 1200 euros per month, affordable compared to other Western European countries. France offers cultural diversity, a modern transportation system, and good security, making it ideal for immigrants.

This article covers residency, study conditions, and social laws in France. For expert advice regarding immigration to France, contact Malekpour Immigration Institute.

 

 

Population of France

With a population of approximately 68 million (by 2025), France is one of the most populated countries in the European Union. More than 80% of the people in France live in urban areas, and several large cities account for a significant part of the population.

City	Approximate Population (2025)	Description
Paris	2,140,000	The capital and most populous city of France; the economic, cultural, and political center of the country.
Marseille	870,000	The largest port city in southern France with high cultural diversity.
Lyon	530,000	An important financial and university center in eastern France.
Toulouse	500,000	A major hub for aerospace and advanced industries in southwestern France.
Nice	345,000	A tourist city on the Mediterranean coast with a mild climate.
Nantes	320,000	An industrial and university city in western France.
Strasbourg	290,000	Headquarters of the European Parliament and a cultural bridge between France and Germany.
Montpellier	290,000	A young, rapidly growing university city.
Bordeaux	260,000	Famous for wine production, located in southwestern France.
Lille	235,000	A transportation and industrial center in northern France.

Geographical Location of France

France, located in Western Europe, is one of the continent’s most geographically diverse countries. It borders Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Andorra, and Spain, with coastlines along the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, adding to its varied climate.

France has approximately 2,700 km of land borders and 5,500 km of coastline. Key natural features include the Alps, Pyrenees, Jura, and Vosges mountains. Major rivers like the Seine, Loire, Rhône, and Garonne are vital for transportation, agriculture, and the economy.

Dynamic Economy of France

France is considered one of the largest economies in the world and is ranked seventh in terms of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2025. The economy of this country is a combination of advanced industry, services, and agriculture.

• The service sector accounts for about 70% of the economy, particularly in the areas of finance, tourism, insurance and transport.
• The automotive industry, with brands such as Peugeot, Renault and Citroën, is one of France’s manufacturing bases.
• The aerospace industry also plays a key role, with companies such as Airbus.
• France is the second largest exporter of agricultural products in the European Union after Germany.
• The country is the world’s largest wine producer and has significant food exports.
• Tourism is a large part of the economy, with more than 80 million tourists annually.
• The unemployment rate in 2025 is reported to be around 7.5%, a slight decrease from previous years.

 

 

Predominant Religion in France

Christianity, mainly Roman Catholicism, is the predominant religion in France and was the official religion until 1905. Since then, France has been a secular state, separating religion from government. About 47% of the population identify as Catholic, though regular religious practice is low.

Muslims make up around 10%, mostly migrants or descendants from North Africa. Smaller communities include Protestants, Jews, and Buddhists. Notably, about 30% of French people identify as non-religious, one of the highest rates in Europe.

 

Government Structure of France

Government Element	Description
Type of Government	Semi-Presidential Republic
President	Highest authority, elected by direct popular vote for a 5-year term; responsible for major foreign and defense policies
Prime Minister	Appointed by the President; manages the government and is responsible for domestic and economic policies
Parliament	Bicameral: National Assembly (Assemblée nationale) and Senate (Sénat)
National Assembly	577 members elected by direct vote for 5 years; main legislative body
Senate	348 senators elected by local councils for 6 years; advisory role and law review
Judiciary	Independent from the government; High Judicial Council oversees judges
Constitutional Court	Reviews laws for constitutionality; members appointed by the President, parliamentary leaders, and jurists

the houses, and legal experts.

Official Language and Local Dialects of France

• The official language of France is French (Français), which is used throughout the country in education, media, government, and courts.
• It is one of the six official languages ​​of the United Nations and one of the most important international languages.
• Although French is the main language, regional dialects and languages ​​also exist in different regions of the country.
• Basque is spoken in southwestern France, near the Spanish border.
• Occitan is still spoken in southern France, especially in the Provence region.
• Alsatian, a dialect of Germanic origin, is spoken in eastern France, especially in the Alsace region.
• Corsican, a language of Italian origin, is spoken on the island of Corsica.
• The French government officially recognizes only French, but culturally, regional languages ​​are taught in some schools and media.

 

Traditional and Popular Food of France

Traditional French cuisine is world-famous for its fresh ingredients, precise techniques, and balanced flavors. Popular dishes include Coq au Vin (chicken cooked in red wine), Ratatouille (a vegetable stew from southern France), and iconic breads like croissants and baguettes.

Famous French desserts include soufflé, éclair, and crème brûlée. Each French region offers unique dishes reflecting local ingredients and climate, making French food diverse and rich in tradition.

 

Best Cities in France for Immigrants to Live

City	Approximate Population	Description
Paris	2,140,000	Capital of France offering excellent opportunities in education, culture, and employment. It is the top destination for migrants due to its cultural diversity and job prospects.
Marseille	870,000	France’s second-largest city, known for its port and cultural diversity, creating a welcoming environment for migrants.
Lyon	530,000	A dynamic economy, excellent education system, and high quality of life make Lyon very attractive for migrants.
Nantes	320,000	An industrial and university center with a high quality of life, making it a popular choice for migrants.
Toulouse	500,000	The aerospace hub of France, ideal for professionals specialized in this industry.
Strasbourg	290,000	Located on the German border and home to the European Parliament, attracting migrants from various countries.
Nice	345,000	Situated on the Mediterranean coast, suitable especially for migrants from tropical and temperate regions.
Montpellier	290,000	A student city known for its prestigious universities and youthful atmosphere.
Bordeaux	260,000	Famous for its wine industry and cultural environment, offering diverse economic opportunities for migrants.

 

Most Affordable Cities in France for Living

Living in France can be costly, especially in Paris, where expenses are high. However, many other cities—often in the south, west, or farther from the capital—offer a more affordable lifestyle with lower living costs, according to 2025 reports.

City	Population	Monthly Living Cost (€)	Description
Nantes	320,000	1,150	Lower living costs, especially rent, compared to Paris.
Lyon	530,000	1,250	Offers many facilities with reasonable living expenses.
Marseille	870,000	1,200	Rent is cheaper than in Paris and other major cities.
Montpellier	290,000	1,100	Student city with low living costs and good amenities for families.
Bordeaux	260,000	1,300	Living costs are reasonable compared to other southern French cities.
Toulouse	500,000	1,200	Known for aerospace industry and universities, with affordable living expenses.
Nice	150,000	1,000	Quiet city with lower costs compared to larger French cities.
Rouen	110,000	1,050	Historic city with reasonable living costs, ideal for those seeking a calmer environment.
Arras	43,000	950	One of the most affordable cities in northern France with below-average living costs.

Ideal Cities in France for Artists

• Paris: The capital of art and culture in the world, with many prestigious galleries, museums and art schools. With a history full of prominent artists, this city is the best place for artists in all disciplines.
• Arles: The city where Vincent Van Gogh lived and inspired his works. The art studios and peaceful atmosphere of this city are a perfect place for painters.
• Nice: With its beautiful Mediterranean beaches and unique light, this city is popular with painters and photographers. It also hosts numerous art festivals.
• Montpellier: A city that is especially attractive to young artists, as it has prestigious art universities and a dynamic environment.
• Bordeaux: With its classical architecture and rich cultural atmosphere, this city is a great option for artists, architects, painters and sculptors.
• Lyon: In addition to its artistic history, this city is known as a center for graphics and industrial design and provides a suitable space for digital artists and graphic designers.
• Strasbourg: With its cultural influences from Germany and France, this city is attractive to artists looking to combine different traditions and arts.

 

Most Popular Tourist Destination in France

France is a top global tourist destination, attracting millions yearly. Paris features iconic sites like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre Dame Cathedral. The Mediterranean coast—including Nice, Cannes, and Monaco—is popular for its beaches and sunny weather.

The Alps, especially Chamonix, draw skiing and mountaineering fans. Bordeaux is famous for wine lovers, while Strasbourg offers a unique French-German cultural blend. Provence captivates visitors with its lavender fields and romantic charm.

 

 

High-demand Cities in France for Employment

Thanks to its diverse job market and opportunities across multiple sectors, France attracts many people seeking employment.

City	Population	Unemployment Rate	Key Industries and Job Opportunities
Paris	2,140,000	~7.0%	Economic and commercial capital; strong demand in tech, fashion, tourism, finance; home to many multinational companies.
Lyon	530,000	~6.5%	Economic hub known for IT, healthcare, and food industries.
Marseille	870,000	~8.1%	Major port city with jobs in transportation, international trade, oil & gas industries.
Toulouse	500,000	~7.0%	Aerospace and technology center; high demand in engineering and R&D.
Bordeaux	260,000	~6.3%	Wine production, agriculture, technology, and construction sectors.
Nantes	320,000	~6.4%	Innovative industries, technology, and agriculture provide many job opportunities.
Lille	235,000	~7.0%	Commercial and industrial center; demand in sales, engineering, and IT fields.

 

For more information about work in France and investment in France, please refer to the related articles.

 

Conditions for Acquiring French Citizenship

Under French law, citizenship (French passport) can be acquired through birth, marriage, long-term residency, or investment.

• By Birth: Being born in France doesn’t guarantee nationality unless parents are French or permanent residents.
• By Residence: Requires 5 years of living in France, reduced to 2 years if you graduate from a French university.
• By Marriage: After 4 years of living with a French spouse and proving French language proficiency, you can apply.
• By Investment: Significant financial investment may lead to naturalization, though the process is complex and lengthy.
• By Application: Submit a formal request to the Ministry of the Interior, demonstrating linguistic, cultural, and economic integration.

 

Gift-Giving Culture in France

Gift-giving in France is a key social tradition expressing respect and affection. Gifts are exchanged on occasions like birthdays, Christmas, and national holidays, with an emphasis on thoughtful, personalized choices. During formal visits, bringing wine or flowers is common. Elegant and stylish gift wrapping is also valued, reflecting the French focus on quality and attention to detail rather than the gift’s price.

 

Business Principles in France

Business principles in France focus on precision, transparency, and strict adherence to laws, especially in taxation and contracts. The workplace culture is formal, valuing politeness, respect, and hierarchical structure. Successful business dealings require careful planning, long-term strategies, and formal negotiations. Using French in business communications is essential, reflecting respect for local culture and professionalism.

 

Dining Etiquette in France

Dining etiquette in France is an important part of the social culture of this country and its observance is a sign of respect for the host and others.

1. Start the meal by saying “Bon appétit”: Before the meal begins, the host or one of the guests usually says this phrase, which means “enjoy your meal”.
2. Hands should be on the table, not under it: but elbows should not be placed on the table. This is one of the most important dining etiquette in France.
3. Bread is placed next to the plate: Bread is an integral part of every meal and is usually placed on the table, not in the plate.
4. Use cutlery until the end of the meal: It is not customary to eat with your hands in France (except in special cases such as fast food).
5. You should not talk while eating with your mouth full: this is considered impolite behavior and contradicts formal French culture.
6. Drinks are served in order: for example, drinking wine with food is done in a certain order, especially at dinner.
7. End the meal by thanking the host: Saying phrases like “C’était délicieux” (that was delicious) is part of dining etiquette in both friendly and formal settings.

 

Ethnic Diversity in France

According to official statistics, immigrants make up about 10% of France’s population—approximately 7 million people—from diverse continents. This ethnic diversity significantly influences the country’s social, cultural, and economic landscape, playing a vital role in shaping modern French society.

Nationality	Approximate Population	Percentage of Total French Population	Description
Algerian	1.7 million	2.5%	Large and active community due to historical and colonial ties.
Moroccan	1.3 million	1.9%	Migration from Morocco increased especially in the 1970s and 1980s.
Portuguese	600,000	0.9%	One of the largest European communities in France.
Tunisian	500,000	0.7%	Active in the service sector and small businesses.
Turkish	300,000	0.4%	Mainly residing in industrial areas of France.
Italian	250,000	0.35%	Mostly settled in southern France.
Chinese	230,000	0.33%	Active in trade and restaurant businesses, especially in Paris.
Other Nationalities (European, African, Asian)	Over 2 million	3%	Includes migrants from Eastern Europe, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Asia.

Capital of France and Its Important Cities

The capital of France, Paris, is home to over 2.1 million people and serves as the country’s political, cultural, economic, and artistic hub, featuring iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum.

• Marseille: The second largest city in France with a population of about 870,000, an important port in the south of the country and the center of maritime trade and Mediterranean culture.
• Lyon: With a population of about 530,000, an industrial and historical city in eastern France, famous for its textile and food industries.
• Toulouse: With a population of more than 500,000, a center for aerospace and advanced technologies, located in the southwest of the country.
• Nice: A tourist city on the Mediterranean coast with a population of 340,000, popular with tourists, especially in the summer.
• Nantes: With a population of more than 320,000, a cultural and economic center in western France, with maritime and shipbuilding industries.
• Strasbourg: With a population of about 280,000, a city on the border with Germany and host to some European Union institutions.
• Lille: With a population of 230,000, a city in northern France, famous for its universities and scientific centers.

 

Marriage Laws in France

Marriage laws in France apply to all individuals—both French citizens and foreigners—who wish to marry legally. These laws require meeting conditions such as the legal age, mutual consent, and official registration at the town hall.

Topic	Detailed Description
Legal Age for Marriage	The minimum age for marriage in France is 18 years. Marriage under 18 is only possible with a court order and parental consent.
Civil Marriage	Only civil marriage is legally recognized in France and must be registered at the local town hall (Mairie).
Religious Marriage	Can be conducted after the civil marriage but has no legal status unless the civil marriage has been performed first.
Required Documents for Foreigners	Passport, birth certificate, certificate of single status, official translations of documents, and proof of residence in France are required.
Residency After Marriage	A foreign spouse can apply for a residence permit and eventually French citizenship after marrying a French citizen.
Same-Sex Marriage	Legal since 2013, with conditions similar to those of opposite-sex marriages.
Waiting Period and Public Announcement	Marriage must be publicly announced at the town hall at least 10 days before the ceremony.
Divorce and Annulment	Divorce is allowed under French law and can be consensual, unilateral, or based on fault.

 

Marriage laws in France are based on civil order and aim to protect the rights of both parties, with official registration being a fundamental requirement for a valid marriage.

 

 

Divorce Laws in France

Type of Divorce	Description
Divorce by mutual consent	Most common type; no court involvement; finalized by lawyers’ contract within a few weeks.
Divorce due to fault	Initiated by one party due to reasons like infidelity or domestic violence; court intervenes and reviews evidence.
Divorce due to long-term separation	If spouses have lived apart for at least 1 year, either can file for divorce.
Property division	Depends on the marriage contract; if none exists, assets are not equally divided.
Child custody	Usually agreed upon by parents; if disputed, court decides based on the child’s best interests.
Alimony and financial support	Court may order payments to spouse or children based on both parties’ income.
Example timeline	Divorce after 3 years separation with child disagreement may take 6 months to 1 year to finalize.

History of France

The history of France is regarded as one of the richest and most influential in both Europe and the world. Its origins trace back to ancient times and the Roman Empire, when the region known as Gaul was inhabited by Gallic tribes. Following the fall of Rome, the Kingdom of the Franks emerged in the 5th century AD and was later transformed into a powerful empire by Charlemagne in the 8th century.

During the Middle Ages, France experienced significant historical events, including the Hundred Years’ War with England. The French Revolution of 1789 marked a turning point, leading to the fall of the absolute monarchy and the establishment of the Republic. In the 19th century, the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte expanded France’s influence across Europe.

In the 20th century, France played a major role in both World Wars and later became one of the founding members of the European Union. Today, it is a democratic republic with a deep historical legacy, a vibrant culture, and a prominent position in international affairs.

 

 

Tourist Attractions in France

• Eiffel Tower: The main symbol of France in Paris, with a height of 330 meters, which has more than 7 million visitors annually.
• Château de Versailles: Located near Paris, one of the most important historical monuments related to the reign of Louis XIV, with very famous gardens.
• Louvre Museum: The largest art museum in the world, hosting works such as the Mona Lisa; about 10 million people visit it annually.
• Mont Saint-Michel: A medieval monastery on a small island in Normandy, a combination of historical architecture and natural landscape.
• Nice Beach: In the south of France and on the Mediterranean coast, popular among European tourists, especially in summer.
• Champagne Region: A historical region with many vineyards, where the most famous French drink is produced.
• Avignon: A historic city with medieval walls, known for its “Palace of the Popes” and international cultural festivals.

 

Lifestyle and Culture of the French People

The lifestyle and culture of the French people are centered on maintaining a balance between work, personal life, and savoring everyday moments. The French highly value quality of life, mealtimes, and social connections. Meals in France are typically longer and more formal than in many other countries, with lunch or dinner often shared with family or friends.

French culture is deeply enriched by its contributions to art, literature, fashion, and cinema, and people actively participate in cultural events, exhibitions, and galleries. The French dress style is simple yet elegant, and maintaining a polished appearance is seen as a sign of respect both for oneself and for others.

Summer vacations (vacances d’été) are particularly important for families, who often spend several weeks traveling and relaxing. Moreover, open dialogue and the exchange of opinions are integral to social interactions in France, where expressing one’s personal views is considered a natural and valued part of conversation.

 

Public and Social Laws in France

France has a precise and well-structured legal system, where public and social laws are designed to uphold order, protect individual freedoms, and promote mutual respect. These laws encompass a wide range of areas, including dress codes, freedom of expression, the use of public spaces, civic behavior, and everyday social conduct. Adherence to these regulations is not only legally required but also plays a key role in social integration and acceptance—particularly for immigrants seeking to adapt to French society.

Legal Area	Detailed Description
Freedom of Speech and Religion	Guaranteed by the Constitution; however, racial insults, hate speech, and Holocaust denial are considered criminal offenses.
Dress Code in Public Places	Wearing a full-face veil or burqa has been banned in public places since 2010 and is subject to a monetary fine.
Smoking in Public Places	Prohibited in restaurants, cafés, stations, and public transport; fines start from €68.
Alcohol Consumption in Public	Prohibited in some urban areas (especially at night) and may result in warnings or fines.
Nighttime Quiet Hours	Silence must be observed from 10 PM to 7 AM; excessive noise can lead to complaints from neighbors.
Littering and Urban Cleanliness Laws	Throwing garbage on the street can lead to fines of up to €135; waste sorting is mandatory in most cities.
Equal Rights for All Citizens	Discrimination based on race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation is prohibited; violations may result in criminal penalties.
Use of Public Transportation	Ticket payment is mandatory; fare evasion can result in fines ranging from €50 to €150.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Where is France located and what is the official language of France?

It is located in Western Europe; it shares land borders with Germany, Italy, Spain, Belgium and Switzerland and has access to the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.
The official language is French. This language is used in all administrative, educational and legal institutions.

 

• What are the requirements for obtaining a study visa in France?

Admission to a French university, presentation of a language certificate (B1 or B2), proof of financial means of around 700 euros per month and health insurance are required.

 

• How much does it cost to live in France?

The average cost of living for a student varies between 700 and 1200 euros per month depending on the city.

 

• What is the health care system like in France?

It is one of the best in the world with universal coverage; about 70% of medical costs are covered by the government.

 

• What are the conditions for studying in France?

Studying at public universities is cheaper (300 to 4000 euros per year), and most programs are offered in French.

 

• What is the employment situation like in France?

The unemployment rate is around 7.5%; there are more job opportunities in technology, healthcare and tourism.

 

• How do you get permanent residency in France?

After 5 years of legal residence (or 2 years for French graduates), you can apply for permanent residency.

 

Final Thoughts

France, with its 68 million population, strong economy, top-tier education, and high quality of life, is one of Europe’s most popular destinations for immigration and study. From affordable living costs to visa rules, job opportunities, and vibrant cities like Paris and Lyon, France offers a modern and secure lifestyle. With efficient transport, rich culture, and favorable immigration laws, it’s ideal for building a better future.

For expert guidance, contact Malekpour Immigration Institute for a free consultation.