Country Report - Teach English in France

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Teach English in France - ESL Teaching Jobs, Hiring Season, Work Visas, Summer Job Opportunities

Minimum Educational Requirements:	Bachelor Degree and Oxford Seminars' TESOL/TESL/TEFL Certificate; experience preferred
Typical Length of Contract:	Nine month to one year
Peak Hiring Season:	September, January
Teaching Hours per Week:	15-30
Monthly Salary:	500-2,000 EUR
End of Contract Bonus:	13th month bonus sometimes awarded
Exchange Rate:	As of 07-29-2010 1.00 CAD = 0.74 EUR 1.00 EUR = 1.34 CAD
Income Tax:	5-40%
Cost of Living per Month:	Cost of a Big Mac = 3.31 EUR
Accommodations Provided:	Not included
Airfare Provided:	Usually not included
Health Care Provided:	Sometimes included
Paid Holidays:	Usually paid
Typical Holidays:	11 national holidays and five weeks paid
Visa:	Difficult for non-EU citizens; employer must be willing to sponsor a work visa.
Types of Teaching Jobs:	Private Language Teacher, In-Company English Teacher, Live-in Instructor, Freelance Tutor
Largest Chain of Schools:	Berlitz (seven locations)
Canadian Embassy Address:	35, avenue Montague 75008 Paris Phone: 33 1 4443 290 Fax: 33 1 4443 2999
Canadian Consulates:	Six consulates located in Lille, Lyon, Monaco, Nice, Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon, and Toulouse

Why Teach in France

France is full of culture, history, renowned cuisine, and a need to learn the English language. From the "romance and fashion" capital of Paris to the breathtaking Loire Valley, France attracts millions of visitors each year. Bordered by some of Europe's major cities and surrounded by famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame de Paris, it is difficult not to 'tomber en amour' with France. Hundreds of famous artists were inspired by the country, including Claude Monet and Henri Matisse, and although born in the Netherlands, Van Gogh also produced the majority of his impressionist paintings in France. Brilliant writers like Victor Hugo, Charles Baudelaire, Voltaire, and Alexandré Dumas have their roots in France. With its rich culture, magnificent landscape, and delicious food, France is a popular destination for ESL teachers and is bound to inspire every imagination.

France is a country in which many ESL teachers envision themselves teaching in France. Although France appears to be the ideal teaching location, due to its inclusion in the European Union, obtaining a work visa can be difficult for non-EU citizens as the process is quite lengthy. English teachers that are able to find a position in France can expect to make around €1,400 to €2,000 per month and spend around 20-25 hours per week in the classroom. The desire to teach English in France is popular, which means the competition is strong. It is important that those looking for teaching positions have the proper qualifications and are willing to be patient in their job searching. Despite the limitations and difficulties in obtaining a working visa, those willing to undergo this process and attempt to secure a teaching position in France will have much to look forward to as the country has an abundance to offer.

What to Know About Teaching English in France

Housing

Due to its high popularity, finding a place to live in France can be very expensive and time-consuming. Very rarely will an employer provide accommodations, so it is up to English teachers to find their own living quarters. In addition, landlords tend to avoid renting to tenants they have not met in person; therefore, one option may be to hire an apartment rental service, although it can become expensive. As is the case with many European countries, cost and availability of housing depends greatly on the location of the apartment. Accommodations within the main cities will be tough to find and expensive to rent whereas rural areas will be more affordable. It is best to consider the location of the school, along with transportation options, to ensure the teacher will find housing that is suitable to their needs. Most rental contracts are for at least one year; however, a tenant can leave whenever they want as long as they give sufficient notice of normally three months. When securing an apartment, most landlords will ask for a two-month deposit. It is also common for them to ask for additional guarantors (usually parents) if a tenant's salary is less than three times the monthly rent.

In France, another important part of the rental contract is called 'un état des lieux' (initial and final inventory), which details the state of the rental and its contents when first moving in, as well as when leaving. Upon signing the agreement, the tenant must make sure that all damages and defects are noted in the inventory summary. Otherwise, they may be held responsible for them and lose part or all of a deposit.

Expected Apartment Costs

A small one bedroom apartment, located within or near Paris, can start at €1,500 per month and work its way up. On the other hand, an apartment just outside the city can cost as low as €300-€500 per month.

Utility costs are sometimes included in the rent, but not always. It is important that ESL teachers looking for an apartment keep this in mind. Typical utilities for a French apartment include heat, electricity, water, and possibly other services.

Airfare

Like accommodations, the vast majority of employers will not provide airfare to their ESL teachers. Those wishing to teach English in France will be expected to arrange their own air travel to Europe. Setting aside some time to do research can ultimately turn into a great way to save money.

Health Benefits

The French are renowned for having one of the most successful and efficient public health systems in the world. The World Health Organization (WHO) ranked the healthcare in France the best in the world in 2000, and every legal resident of France has access under the law of universal coverage, 'la couverture maladie universelle'.

EU citizens working in France are automatically included into the free basic healthcare and are given a European Health Insurance Card. Non-EU citizens residing temporarily in France will need to check with their insurance company to determine whether a bilateral agreement will cover teaching English in France. Typically, it is recommended that ESL teachers purchase additional insurance that will cover any health, prescription, dental, and any other medical expense which could occur while teaching English in France, or in any other ESL destinations.

Retirement Age

French workers are eligible to receive their pensions at the age of 60, regardless of gender or profession. Citizens of France can determine at what age they wish to retire at. There is no mandatory retirement age in France. Since the turn of the century, statistics have shown that many of the French people are deciding to retire before they are of a pension-ready age, generally in their early 50's.

Technology and Advancement

North American ESL teachers will have no need to 'rough it' while teaching English in France. Like in America, the French have incorporated the use of high-speed Internet, cell phones, digital television and video players, and other modern conveniences into the daily routine, both at home and at work.

Usually North American cell phones work while in France, but the rates are typically quite expensive. ESL teachers will most likely want to reserve their cell phone time for emergencies only, or to purchase a French mobile phone and a matching plan (plans usually start at €15/monthly). Some of the more popular cell phone providers in France include Orange, SFR, and Bouygues. Going to a French electronics store is a good place to find a cell phone.

ESL teachers should be aware that any electronics brought from America will need a power adaptor in order to be plugged in. French homes are furnished with Type E wall outlets, which feature a circular wall plug with a pin sticking out of the outlet to serve as a ground. The same power outlets can be found in Belgium, Poland, the Czech Republic, and a handful of other European nations.

Transportation in France

Commuters in France have a lot of travel options for both long and short distances. The French transportation system allows for ESL teachers to easily plan a long-distance trip throughout the French countryside, or to simply get around town and to work with city transit. The combination of roadway, rail, metro, and bus access makes France an easy place to explore, regardless of location.

Public Transportation

Taxi
There are many French taxi drivers that speak English, but be sure to write down in French any destination before getting into a cab just to be on the safe side. Taxi rates vary depending on what time of the day it is: rates in the day (7:00 am to 7:00 pm) tend to be less expensive than those at night (7:00 pm to 7:00 am). There are extra fees when a taxi takes a customer to the airport. Taxi rates also increase if a customer calls the cab company directly, and the extra cost varies depending on how far the car needs to travel to get to the pick-up location. The most affordable way to hire a taxi is to simply wave one down, or to find a taxi stand (usually located at a busy shopping area).
Train and Subway
With France's central location in Europe, the French rail system is not only a great way to get around France, it is also an excellent way to travel to other European nations. Commuters on the French railway are able to travel to Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, and Spain. With the completion of the Chunnel in 1994, ESL teachers can now use the Eurorail service to travel from France to England without the hassle of transferring.

In addition to having 31,840 km of railroad, the nation's urban dwellers are able to ride one of the seven French metro systems. There are subway systems in the following French cities: Paris, Laon, Lille, Lyon, Marseilles, Rennes, and Toulouse. Since 1900, the Paris Métro has been transporting the citizens of Paris throughout the city. Today, the Paris Métro is one of the busiest metro systems in Europe, with only the Moscow Metro experiencing more daily European traffic.

There are plenty of subway stations in Paris. On average, commuters can find a station every 500 metres. There are nearly 300 metro stations located in Paris alone.
Bus
Although not as comfortable as the other options, the bus is an affordable alternative of transportation in France. The bus systems can be somewhat confusing, as each region and town has its own network. For ease of use, asking employers ahead of time for the addresses of the major stations near the school will help in acquiring maps and transit schedules once in country.

The Paris bus system operates from 5:30 am to 8:30 pm; main routes usually stay open until 12:30 am. A ticket to ride the bus is roughly €1.50. Many Paris commuters prefer to take the metro, or a hybrid of both when traveling.

Other Modes of Transportation

Other modes of transportation that are available for ESL teachers include:

Bicycle
The idea of riding a bicycle around the countryside of France is a popular notion for some foreigners. In addition to being a way to take in the French scenery, a bicycle is a cheap and excellent way to get around a French city. Bicycles can be either purchased or rented.
Motor Vehicles
European drivers are generally known for striking fear into those expatriates who decide get behind the wheel, and French drivers are no different. Driving in France will take some practice, but eventually most people find that they grow accustomed to fast speeds and bumper-to-bumper traffic jams.

Drivers are able to drive for up to one year with their American driver's license, but once an ESL teacher has been in France for 365 days, they may only drive with a French driver's license. ESL teachers from the following states, Connecticut, Illinois, Kansas, Michigan, New Hampshire, South Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Kentucky, can simply trade their state-issued license for a French version. Residents of other states will need to go through a testing process before being issued a French driver's license. For more information, please visit the American Embassy's website at http://www.ambafrance-us.org/.

The Chunnel

In addition to linking France with the United Kingdom, the Channel Tunnel ("Chunnel") is considered to be one of the world's finest manmade creations. The idea for an underground tunnel linking France and Britain had been in discussion since the late 19th Century, but was stalled due to political concerns and the World Wars. After six years of construction, the Chunnel, which spans over 31 km, was opened to the public in 1994. The Chunnel allows those teaching English in France the ability to travel to the UK with relative ease. Because of the Chunnel, many Brits have made their way to France to teach English. With an EU passport they have a much easier time finding jobs than those without an EU passport.

Banking in France

Setting up a French bank account can make the life of a French expat much more convenient. With a French bank account, ESL teachers can pay their bills (rent, utilities, Internet, etc.), have their paycheque cashed, and perform other routine tasks. Every French bank requires different documentation from ESL teachers hoping to start up an account, so it is best to call the bank before arriving to both arrange for an appointment and find out what paperwork and identification are needed. Typically, ESL teachers will need to provide a valid photo ID, start money, and possibly a letter stating why they are opening a bank account. A French bank account generally includes the use of a debit card and a chequebook. It is often difficult for North Americans to get French credit cards, due to the fact that banks typically do not offer credit to foreign citizens.

Peak ESL Hiring Season in France

The French school system follows a similar schedule as in North America; therefore, the peak hiring season for an English-teaching position in France is usually around September. Another time of the year when ESL teaching positions become available is following the Christmas break. Often teachers may choose to leave their contract during this time due to homesickness or other reasons, making it a favorable time for ESL teachers to apply for a job.

There are rarely summer teaching positions in France, as most students use the summer months for other activities.

Public and Private School System

The French public school system is divided into three sections: enseignement primaire (primary), enseignement secondaire (secondary), and enseignement supérieur (higher education). Parents have an option to send their children to Catholic or non-denominational schools.

Education in the English language is part of a child's course load in a French public school, but the classes are usually delivered by native French-speaking teachers. There is less of a preference for hiring English teachers solely based on being a native English speaker. Preference is given to those whom are qualified teachers, whom have previous teaching experience, and those with knowledge of the French language. With an EU passport in hand, ESL teachers with the above qualifications will have a much greater chance of finding a teaching job at a public school in France.

Private Language Schools

Teaching at a private language school is an option that many future ESL teachers consider. There are a wide range of students attending private language schools. Teachers working at these schools could teach classes for school-age children who need some extra help with their English, or working on English telephone conversation with French CEOs. Many French companies often devote large amounts of money towards the English education of their employees.

Universities and Colleges

Since finding a job teaching English in France is not an easy task for non-EU citizens, finding work teaching at a French university or college is understandably more difficult. A university degree, work/teaching experience, and excellent communication skills in French are "must haves" for those interested in finding work at a post-secondary institution in France. Typically, schools are more likely to hire an American or Canadian with education and experience in a niche high-tech or business profession.

Private Tutoring

Another option for English teachers hoping to make a living for themselves in France is offering private lessons. Unfortunately, North Americans working as freelance ESL teachers will still need to obtain a French visa before earning money. Those of whom choose to offer private lessons tend to find that popular TESOL markets, such as Paris, have too much competition and work can be scarce. Teaching English in smaller cities and rural regions can be a way to gain more students and bank more money from the decreased cost of living.

How to Find Jobs Teaching English in France

Although finding a position in another country can be overwhelming, there are many resources to aid in the search for an ESL position. Experience with the French language may help with a job search. However, there are numerous English sources available online as well.

It is much harder to find an ESL teaching job while not living in France. Therefore, it is highly recommended that those interested in teaching English in France travel to Europe to perform a job search.

Our Global ESL Schools Directory, is the most comprehensive online database of ESL and International schools in France.

Largest Chain Schools in France

There are a number of international English chain schools which operate throughout France. Finding work at one of these schools can be a little less challenging than finding a job within the French public education system. The same visa obstacles will exist regardless of whether or not an ESL teacher is teaching in a public school or a chain school.

IFG Langues - Being one of the largest international chain schools in France makes IFG Langues a popular spot for aspiring ESL teachers. There are over one hundred ESL teachers employed by the chain school in four locations throughout France. Teachers will need at least a Bachelors Degree and TESOL certification. Interviews and testing for IFG Langues is done in Paris.
http://www.ifglangues.net/
Inlingua - Inlingua is one of the largest international English chain schools in the world and with their presence in France, they catch the interest of many ESL teachers. Inlingua is based out of Paris, but has locations scattered throughout France. The chain school requires that anyone interested in working for the company be 25 years or older.
www.inlingua-paris.com

Other Jobs Teaching English in France

North Americans attempting to get a French visa are likely to have a difficult experience. Learning the French language is a competency that is very important for those wishing to teach English in France as most schools make it a basic requirement for employment. Many employers also require a university degree and relevant teaching experience.

Jobs Teaching English in the Summer in France

France’s school system is similar to North America in that school starts in September, ends in June, and vacations last two months of summer. Be aware that August is typically a bad time to accomplish anything in France. Most of the French take the month of August off as an entire month of vacation.

Preparing to Teach English in France

Many recent TESOL graduates find that researching France is an excellent way to learn and grow familiar with their teaching destination before even stepping onto a plane. There are plenty of online resources that offer information about living in France and its many attractions, and provide guidance concerning finding an English-teaching job that fits. In addition to providing factual information, the Internet is a great resource for reading about experiences other ESL teachers have had teaching English abroad in France - there may even be options to interact with those already teaching in the country.

Take a look at the websites listed below: these links are ESL teaching resources that we believe to be useful.

Oxford Seminars' ESL Teaching Resources
Teach Abroad - http://www.teachabroad.com
French Government's Tourist Page - http://us.franceguide.com/
The Connexion - http://www.connexionfrance.com/
Dave's ESL Café - http://www.eslcafe.com/
Transition Abroad - http://www.transitionsabroad.com/

Language in France

French may be a language not that foreign to most, since many have taken at least one class in the language during their schooling. Brushing up on or learning the following day-to-day phrases will be of great help while in France. Many ESL jobs require that the applicant have some understanding of the French language:

My name is______.
Mon nom est __.
How are you?
Comment allez-vous?
I am from _____ .
Je suis de ____.
Thank you/You're welcome.
Merci/De rien.
Where is the bathroom?
Où sont les toilettes?
How much?
Combien?
I am hungry.
J'ai faim.
Can we go there by bus?
Pouvons-nous y aller en bus?
I am sorry, I don't speak French.
Je regrettes, je ne parle pas français.
Please help me.
Veuillez m'aider.

These are just some of the basic French phrases that English teachers may wish to practice before arriving to France. Many areas in France will speak English; however, as part of the experience it is worth learning the language.

Eating in France

French Cuisine

French food will most certainly be one of the many fond experiences English teachers will have in France. There are a wide variety of familiar dishes to choose from, as well as some that may seem quite peculiar. The French have a great passion for food and it is best to take advantage of the experience and try the local dish. To get a better idea of what restaurants and bistros are worth going to for dinner, it is best to ask the locals what their recommendations are. Some of the most popular dishes among foreigners are listed below:

Bouillabaisse - Fish cooked with saffron. This dish can be quite expensive when ordered in a restaurant.
Confit de Canard - "Duck confit" is made from the legs and wings of a duck cooked in grease.
Foie gras - The cooked liver of a duck or goose.

French Wine

When it comes to fine dining experiences, French wine must certainly come to mind. The French are famous for their many varieties of wine. There are seven to eight billion bottles of wine produced each year in France, and is enjoyed both within the borders of France and in wine cellars around the globe. In some areas of France, it can be easier and cheaper to purchase wine than water.

Food Costs

Aldi, Cora, Lidl, Metro, and SPAR are some of the supermarket options located within France. There is an emphasis on having fresh ingredients in French cooking. Many French shoppers lean toward the traditional method of purchasing their produce from the outdoor farmer's market, meat from the butcher, baked goods from the baker, milk from the dairy, and cheese from the cheese shop.

Below are some examples of typical French food prices.

1.5L bottle of Coca Cola
€0.72
1 kg of fresh peaches
€2.00
1.5L of Evian bottled water
€1.76
Box of Kellogg's Corn Flakes
€1.36
200g can of Nescafe coffee
€3.25

Climate in France

Metropolitan (mainland) France has an area that is smaller than the size of Texas, but it is the largest country in the European Union. There are four seasons in France, and these seasons vary from region to region. Heavy rainfall and milder weather occur in the western area of France due to weather coming from the ocean. France’s coldest weather is typically found in the Alps. The mountain range and popular skiing destination is situated on the border France shares with Italy.

Natural Disasters

The risk of ESL teachers being exposed to a serious natural disaster while teaching in France is slim compared to other parts of the world. Like many European nations, the 2003 European heat wave devastated France. The death toll in France was much higher than any other nation with 14,802 people losing their lives due to the heat. Many experts claim that the French population were not accustomed to such heat and do not have the experience of how to cope with it. The heat wave was especially harsh to the elderly population, as it was reported that many victims of the disaster were dehydrated and many French homes and retirement facilities have no form of air conditioning. Since the disaster, many more homes and residences are equipped with air conditioning.

Holidays in France

On these dates, banks, government offices, schools, and shops will be closed. Labour Day is the only French holiday which is a paid day off. Other paid holidays are negotiated between a employee and employer.

January 1st - New Year's Day (Jour de l'an) - Like in North America, New Year's Day is a celebration of the first day of the calendar year.
Held on a Sunday between March 22 and April 25 - Easter Sunday (Pâques) - A Christian-based holiday celebrated in similar fashion to North America.
The Monday following Easter Sunday - Easter Monday (Lundi de Pâques) - Easter Monday is the conclusion of the Easter weekend.
May 1st - Labour Day (Fête du travail) - A day to celebrate the accomplishments of French workers.
May 8th - WWII Victory Day (Fête de la Victoire 1945, Fête du huitième mai) - Also called VE-DAY (Victory in Europe Day), it is celebrated with great passion all over Europe.
Forty days after Easter - Ascension Day (Ascension) - A movable holiday based within the Christian faith.
49 days after Easter - Pentecost (Pentecôte) - Also known as Whit Sunday, it is customary to blow trumpets to recall the sound of the wind which accompanied the Descent of the Holy Spirit.
Monday after Penecost - Whit Monday (Lundi de Pentecôte) - Part of the Pentecost holiday (see above).
July 14th - Bastille Day (Fête Nationale) - Celebrated in commemoration of the anniversary of the storming of the Bastille, a symbolic act of revolution that triggered the complete overthrow of the French monarchy.
August 15th - Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Assomption) - A religious holiday centered on celebrating the Virgin Mary.
November 1st - All Saint's Day (La Touissant) - A day to pay tribute to all Saints of the church collectively, it is also the day when many people in France visit the graves of loved ones with flowers and small gifts.
November 11th - Armistice Day (Jour d'armistice) - A day marking the end of the First World War.
December 25th - Christmas Day (Noël) - A French Christmas is very much like in the United States and Canada.

Along with the national holidays listed, France also has French school holidays which occur four times a year. The schools in France are divided into three separate zones, entitled A, B, and C, which celebrate their holidays on different weeks to avoid an influx of tourists and travel in the country. Regardless of the region, English teachers will have an autumn break in October, two weeks off over Christmas, a break in February, and a break in the spring. English teachers should note that tourist sites and transportation methods will be quite busy during these periods.

Tips for ESL Teachers in France

Most English teaching jobs in France require applicants to have a good understanding of the French language. It may be worthwhile to take some time and enrolll in French lessons before applying to teach English in France.
A citizen from outside the European Union will have a difficult time getting a French visa. It is recommended to work with outside advisors such as a lawyer or travel agents specializing in French visas to help with the process of the visa application.
The ESL job market in France offers an advantage for those travelling to France to do an ESL job search as opposed to those who apply from their home country.
There is more competition for ESL jobs in Paris. Working in a smaller city or rural area of France will increase the odds of finding an English-teaching job and living in a more remote area of France usually provides a much lower cost of living.
France has a prominent role in the worldwide fashion scene. The way one dresses in France holds great importance to the way someone is judged.

Teaching Requirements for Canadians in France

North American travellers are to have a tourist visa which lasts for 90 days, and this temporary visa allows its holder to explore France. Foreigners with tourist visas are not permitted to work in France. After staying in France for 90 days, a foreigner is no longer considered a tourist and will be required to have a proper French visa to stay in the country. ESL teachers typically apply for the visa while in France. As mentioned before, it is very hard for North Americans to qualify for a French visa.

Anyone from outside the EU wishing to teach English in France will have a few things against them.

France has a concerning unemployment rate of 7.5 percent (2007) and the idea of granting work permits to outside citizens is a touchy subject for government officials.
Being a member of the EU allows French schools the ability to hire native English speakers from the neighbouring United Kingdom with little paperwork.
With English being the international language of business, there are many French citizens with an excellent understanding of the language.
In order for an American or Canadian ESL teacher to get a visa they would need to prove that they can offer skills that no applicant from France or the EU can offer to a position. Therefore, people who have been educated, taught, or worked in a specialty field typically have a slightly better chance of gaining a French visa.
During the visa review process, French officials will take into account the applicants' understanding of the French language, unique competencies that could help with the teaching position, and the applicants' education and work experience.

French Work Permit/Visa Requirements

French officials will prefer to hire a citizen of France for any position including teaching English. The next preference would be given to a European Union passport holder. If no one qualifies they would consider granting a visa to a citizen of a non-EU nation. After finding a job, the company will fill out the paperwork needed to gain a French work permit. If accepted, this application would provide the ESL teacher with a 'visa de long séjour' (long-stay visa) and the ability to live in France, but not work. Those whom have been granted a 'visa de long séjour' can apply for a carte de séjour (residence). There are few French companies willing to endorse a North American English teacher for a teaching job; without an application filed by a French school, an North American can not even apply for a French visa. A TESOL graduate must prove that they posses unique skills no other ESL teacher in Europe would typically have that would be of value to a French company.

Students whom have managed to have a French company fill out a 'visa de long séjour' application will need to bring the following documentation to their local French embassy or consulate (see below for French embassy and consulate locations):

Three photocopies of a valid passport.
Four copies of a French 'visa de long séjour' application that have all been signed in ink.
Five passport-size photographs, one attached to each of the signed applications (leaving one extra picture).
A proof of savings (bank statement or official letter from the bank). The French Government has not outlined the exact amount an applicant must have access to, but it will at least need to be enough to survive in France without any income until a 'carte de séjour' is approved.
Three copies of a letter from an insurance company stating that the applicant has insurance valid in France (make sure this is outlined in the letter) for at least $37,000.
Bring three copies of a clean criminal record check from a local police station.
ESL teachers need to prepare a hand-written letter stating that they will not engage in any paid work while living in France with a 'visa de long' séjour. This letter must also be signed and dated.
All visa applications fees must be paid in full. It is best to call a local embassy or consulate office in advance to find out the exact fees and the acceptable methods of payment.

Be aware that the application process for getting a French visa is not a fast one, so expect to wait a couple of months to hear if it has been accepted or denied. If the 'visa de long séjour' (long-stay visa) is accepted, it is recommended that ESL teachers apply for a 'carte de séjour' (residence permit) immediately upon arriving to France. The 'carte de séjour' application process is also known for taking a long time, but this document is needed to legally work in France. Applicants of a 'carte de séjour' are typically asked to have a French medical assessment, an interview (sometimes used to test an applicant's understanding of French), and pay initial taxes if approved.

For more information about teaching English in France and receiving a French visa, visit http://www.ambafrance-us.org/.

Requirements for EU Citizens to Teach English in France

France is a member of the European Union, and therefore, permits citizens from other EU nations an opportunity to work within the borders of France with little red tape. There is a preference towards hiring native French citizens to be ESL teachers, but people from other EU nations will still have good prospects of finding work teaching English in France. With the highly accessible English-speaking workforce either in France or within the EU, there is little chance of a non-EU citizen finding a job teaching English and even less likelihood of them being accepted for a French visa.

Embassy and Consulate Information for France

Canadian Embassy and Consulates Offices in France

Canadian Embassy in Paris
Ambassade du Canada
35, avenue Montague
75008 Paris
City:Paris
Phone: 33 1 4443 29000
Fax: 33 1 4443 2999
Website: http://www.amb-canada.fr
Normal Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to noon, 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm

Consulate of Canada in Lille
36, avenue Emile Zola
59800 Lille
City:Lille
Phone: 33 3 2014 0578
Fax: 33 3 2014 3696
Email: consulat.canada-lille@amb-canada.fr
Normal Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to noon

Consulate of Canada in Lyon
17, rue Bourgelat
69002 Lyon
City: Lyon
Phone: 33 4 7277 6407
Fax: 33 4 7277 6509
Email: consulat.canada-lyon@amb-canada.fr
Normal Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30 am to 12:30 pm

Consulate of Canada in Monaco
Consulat du Canada
Palais de la Scala
1, avenue Henry Dunant - Bureau 1178
MC 9800 Monaco
City: Monaco
Phone: 377 9770 6242
Fax: 377 9770 6252
Email: consulat.canada-monaco@amb-canada.fr
Normal Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 12:30 pm

Consulate of Canada in Nice
2, Place Franklin
06000 Nice
City: Nice
Phone: 33 4 9392 9322
Fax: 33 4 9392 5551
Email: consulat.canada-nice@amb-canada.fr
Normal Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 11:30 am

Consulate of Canada in St Pierre et Miquelone
Canadian Consulate
B.P. 4370
97500 St Pierre et Miquelon
City: St Pierre et Miquelon
Phone: 508 415510
Fax: 508 415510
Email: consulat.canada-st_pierreetmiquelon@amb-canada.fr
Normal Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 11:30 am

Consulate of Canada in Toulouse
Canadian Consulate
10 rue Jules de Resseguier
31000 Toulouse
City: Toulouse
Phone: 33 56152 1906
Fax: 33 56155 4032
Email: consulat.canada-toulouse@amb-canada.fr
Normal Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to noon

American Embassy and Consulates Offices in France

American Embassy in Paris
2, avenue Gabriel
75382 Paris, Cedex 08
City: Paris
Phone: 33 1 4312 2222
Fax: 33 1 4266 9783
Email: citizeninfo@state.gov
Website: http://france.usembassy.gov/
Normal Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to noon

Bordeaux (American Presence Post)
10, place de la Bourse, B.P. 77,
33076 Bordeaux
City: Bordeaux
Phone: 33 5 5648 6380
Fax: 33 5 5651 6197
Email: usabordeaux@state.gov
Website: http://france.usembassy.gov/bordeaux.html

Lyon (American Presence Post)
1, quai Jules Courmont
69002 Lyon
City: Lyon
Phone: 33 4 7838 3303
Fax: 33 4 7241 7181
Email: usalyon@state.gov
Website: http://france.usembassy.gov/lyon.html

Rennes (American Presence Post)
30, quai Duguay-Trouin
35000 Rennes
City: Rennes
Phone: 33 2 2344 0960
Fax: 33 2 9935 0092
Email: usarennes@state.gov
Website: http://france.usembassy.gov/rennes.html

Toulouse (American Presence Post)
25, Allée Jean-Jaurès
31000 Toulouse
City: Toulouse
Phone: 33 5 3441 3650
Fax: 33 5 3441 1619
Email: usatoulouse@state.gov
Website: http://france.usembassy.gov/toulouse.html

Consulate of America in Nice (Consular agency)
7 avenue Gustave V, 3rd floor
06000 Nice
City: Nice
Phone: 33 4 9388 8955
Fax: 33 4 9387 0738
Email: citizeninfomarseille@state.gov
Website: http://france.usembassy.gov/nice.html

Consulate of America in Strasbourg
15, avenue d'Alsace
67082 Strasbourg
City: Strasbourg
Phone: 33 3 8835 3104
Fax: 33 3 8824 0695
Website: http://france.usembassy.gov/strasbourg.html

Consulate of America in Lille
VPP Lille
American Embassy
2, avenue Gabriel
75008 Paris
City: Lille
Email: usalille@state.gov

Australian Embassy in France

Australian Embassy in Paris
4, rue Jean Rey
75724 Paris
City: Paris
Phone: 33 1 4059 3300
Fax: 33 1 4059 3310
Email: Info.Paris@dfat.gov.au
Website: http://www.france.embassy.gov.au/
Normal Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

British Embassy and Consulates Offices in France

British Embassy in Paris
British Embassy, Paris, France
British Embassy
35, rue du Faubourg St Honoré
75363 Paris Cedex 08 Paris
City: Paris
Phone: 33 0144 513100
Fax: 33 0144 513127
Email: public.paris@fco.gov.uk
Website: http://ukinfrance.fco.gov.uk/en/

British Consulate in Bordeaux
353 Boulevard du President Wilson
33073 Bordeaux Cedex
City: Bordeaux
Phone: 33 5 5722 2110
Fax: 33 5 5608 3312
Email: postmaster.bordeaux@fco.gov.uk
Normal Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30 am to noon, 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm

British Consulate in Lille
11 Square Dutilleul
59000 Lille
City: Lille
Phone: 33 3 2012 8272
Fax: 33 3 2054 8816
Email: postmaster.lille@fco.gov.uk
Normal Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30 am to noon, 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm

British Consulate in Lyon
24 rue Childebert,
69002 Lyon
City: Lyon
Phone: 33 4 7277 8170
Fax: 33 4 7277 8179
Normal Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30 am to noon, 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm

British Consulate in Marseilles
British Consulate
24 Avenue de Prado
13006 Marseille
City: Marseilles
Phone: 33 4 9115 7210
Fax: 33 4 9137 4706
Email: MarseilleConsular.marseille@fco.gov.uk
Normal Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to noon, 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm

Irish Embassy and Consulates Offices in France

Irish Embassy in Paris
12 avenue Foch
75116 Paris
City: Paris
Phone: 33 1 4417 6700
Fax: 33 1 4417 6750
Email: public.paris@fco.gov.uk
Website: http://www.embassyofireland.fr/
Normal Hours:Monday to Friday, 9:30am to noon

Irish Consulate in Cherbourg
Gare Maritime Sud
50100 Cherbourg
City: Cherbourg
Phone: 33 2 3323 4444
Fax: 33 2 3323 4440
Email: public.paris@fco.gov.uk
Normal Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30 am to noon

Irish Consulate in Cannes
St. Michel
69 Avenue Roi Albert
La Californie
City: Cannes
Phone: 33 6 7769 1436
Normal Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30 am to noon

Irish Consulate in Monaco
Le Prince de Galles
5, Avenue des Citronniers
98000 Monaco
City: Monaco
Phone: 377 9315 7000
Fax: 377 9315 9516
Normal Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30 am to noon

New Zealand's Embassy in France

New Zealand Embassy in Paris
7ter, rue Léonard de Vinci
75116 Paris
City: Paris
Phone: 33 1 4501 4343
Fax: 33 1 4501 4344
Email: nzembassy.paris@fr.oleane.com
Website: http://www.nzembassy.com/
Normal Hours: Monday to Thursday, 9:00am to 1:00 pm, 2:00 pm to 5.30pm; Friday, 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm; except July and August

Embassy and Consulate Information Outside France

French Embassy and Consulate Offices in Canada

Embassy of France in Canada
42 Sussex Drive
Ottawa, ON K2P 0T8
City: Ottawa
Phone: 1 613 789 1795
Fax:1 613 562 3735
Email: info@ambafrance-us.org
Website: http://www.ambafrance-ca.org/
Normal Hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 12:30 pm

Consulate general offices are located in major cities and offer full services including consular services. Honourary consulates offer a limited range of services including consular services. A full list of French consulates in Canada can be found at: http://www.ambafrance-ca.org/.

French Embassy and Consulate Offices in America

Embassy of France in America
4101 Reservoir Road NW
Washington, DC 20007
City: Washington, DC
Phone: 1 202 944 6000
Fax: 1 404 495 1661
Email: info@ambafrance-us.org
Website: http://www.ambafrance-us.org/

Consulate general offices are located in major cities and offer full services including consular services. Honourary consulates offer a limited range of services including consular services. A full list of French consulates in the US can be found at: http://www.ambafrance-us.org/.

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