Working in Paris

Despite France’s position as one of the foremost economies in Europe, finding a job in Paris isn’t easy. Most people relocate to Paris as a result of an intercity transfer through their company. While it’s possible to find a job through your own efforts, it’s beneficial to do some networking and make use of personal contacts in Paris.

Job market in Paris

The job market in Paris offers diverse opportunities across several thriving sectors. As one of the most visited destinations in the world, skills in the tourism industry remain in high demand. If you have experience in the hospitality and service industries, you’ll likely encounter many job opportunities.

Paris is also the corporate centre of France and is home to the headquarters of many top international firms. Beyond tourism, the Paris job market is strong in technology, healthcare, finance, and luxury goods. Emerging sectors like green energy and biotech are also gaining ground. If you wish to move to Paris, search for international organisations from your home country that may be interested in employing foreign nationals in France.

The average working day in France is from 9am to 6pm, but this can vary between industries. The legal workweek is 35 hours, although many professionals work longer. If you work in the tourism industry, your hours might differ, and you may even be subject to shift work. When working on a contract, you can expect a fair amount of leave (minimum 5 weeks) and two extra cheques a year. Expect approximately 25 percent of your income to be deducted for tax purposes.

Finding a job in Paris

Finding a job in Paris can be difficult. A degree of fluency in French is necessary to fill even the most basic entry-level position in most companies, with a B1 or B2 level typically required for professional roles. That being said, there are a number of jobs you can do until you have a better grasp of the French language. As an English language teacher or au pair, you can make enough money to live off until your French becomes sufficient for you to enter the mainstream working environment.

Most people find employment through networking and alumni organisations, as well as through classified listings on the internet. France Travail (formerly Pôle Emploi), LinkedIn, and APEC for management positions are the most effective platforms for jobseekers.

Sending a CV is usually the first step in applying for a job in France, followed by an interview. The French expect persistence, so it can be useful to follow up on your application with a number of calls inquiring as to when an interview will be arranged.

Visas And Residence Permits in France
Work Permits in France

Useful links

• France Travail: National Employment Agency
• Welcome to the Jungle: Job Listings
• LinkedIn France
• APEC: Professional Employment Association
• Cadremploi: Executive Job Portal

Work culture in Paris

The work culture in Paris is rather formal and hierarchical, although startup environments tend to be more relaxed. Parisians typically place great value on physical appearances and professional dress, with business attire being more formal than in many other cities. While locals tend to see deadlines and meeting times as being flexible, you should nonetheless try to be punctual, especially in northern Paris where punctuality is more strictly observed.

The high level of bureaucracy in France can also have an impact on your working life in Paris. French businesspeople enjoy spirited debates and can at times come across as hot-headed. That said, they usually see value in arguments that are based on sound logic.

Work-life balance is strongly valued, with a clear separation between work and personal time. Remote and hybrid work arrangements have become increasingly common since 2020, with about one-third of French employees now working remotely at least once a week. This flexibility varies significantly by industry, with tech companies and multinationals typically offering more flexible working options.

Doing Business in France