Worth knowing for your nationality
- The visa waiver for tourist stays under 90 days does not apply to a multi-month study or internship stay: the VLS-TS is still required beyond that.
- US citizens still need to validate their VLS-TS on ANEF within three months of arrival, exactly like every other non-EU nationality.
- US double-taxation and reporting obligations abroad (FBAR, FATCA) are a separate topic from this guide: look into them separately once you open a French bank account.
The order that unlocks housing, your bank, insurance and CAF
No housing without a bank account, no bank account without housing, and insurance and CAF wait on both. The order that breaks the loop:
- 1
Aim for a furnished flat
No French bank account or guarantor needed.
- 2
Open your bank account
Your lease is your proof of address.
- 3
Get home insurance
At the same address.
- 4
Apply for CAF housing benefit
With your signed lease.
Last updated: 14 August 2026
This guide is provided for informational purposes only and is not an official document. Procedures, deadlines and fees can change: always verify with the linked official source for each step.