Guide to finding a job and working in France

The great thing about the Working Holiday Visa is that it grants work authorization, which allows you to flexibly fund your adventures. But looking for a job in a culture and language that is different from one’s own can be a challenge. Where does one even start?

This guide will walk you through the most important resources and information to be aware of.

Employers generally prioritize experienced candidates who already know their domain well. In France especially, years of experience and quality of educational background are both very important. Because undergraduate degrees in France last only three years, it is more common for employers to require a masters degree. So depending on the specific field, candidates may need to practice patience, market themselves, and write rock solid cover letters.

If you are looking for positions that don’t require any specific formal qualifications, the search will be easier. The restaurant industry, for example, recruits massively. Below are the top 10 positions that are most in demand. For more employment statistics (in French), consult the official labour report by France Travail.

What if I’m not fluent in French?

All of the resources and explanations in this guide still apply to you. Your options will be less numerous than those available to French-speaking or bilingual candidates, but opportunities certainly exist! It is important to manage your expectations and be open to opportunities that are outside the field of your previous experiences. After all, you are moving to a new country with a different language and culture; don’t expect your first job to be a perfect extension of what you were doing back home.

For more specific tips, read Do I need to know French to live in France?.