Jobs For Americans In France

You are thinking of getting a job in France, how excitingly adventurous of you. But do yourself a favor by remembering that getting new jobs even on your own home turf is always challenging because of the need to deal with the new and the unknown. Getting jobs in foreign countries is even more challenging but, of course, doable if one prepares oneself to meet the hurdles well equipped.

First and foremost, there may be the issue of needing to learn a new language that must be considered and French is not an easy language to learn. If, however, the local language is not completely new to you, you will certainly need to acquaint yourself with the local colloquialisms. For the most part, French employers will not hire anyone who speaks a broken French or with a very heavy accent.

It is important to be aware that French employers are conservative and so is the entire business culture. Think hard and long whether or not you will fit into this kind of rigidity.
 
The next step to making your plan a success is assessing your own qualifications and preferences against the French job market as a whole and then more specifically against the regional markets. It has been reported in July 2007 that the overall unemployment rate in France is over 8 percent.

If you still want to proceed with your plans, I am here to tell you that looking for a job in France is just like looking anywhere else.  Newspapers and websites are loaded with listings and good solid networking may be the answer. There are also many employment agencies and various organizations that may be of assistance.

You must get a work permit which is not easy, but if you get caught working illegally the punishment is immediate deportation plus a five-year ban on visiting most Western Europe. I would advise you not to risk it.

If you are seeking short-term work The Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) at www.ciee.org will help you get a non-renewable three-month work permit. The Association for International Practical Training (AIPT) at www.aipt.org and the Franco-American Chamber of Commerce (FACC) at www.faccparisfrance.com/index.php can get you a six-month work permit that can be renewed twice for a maximum of 18 months. None of these will find you jobs and they have a list of qualification you will need to meet.

Do not overlook the fact that you may need a visa and for specific information pertaining to your particular circumstances, visit
www.ambafrance-us.org/visitingfrance/usvisas.asp#1.

If you already have a career at home and your company operates a branch in France, you have it made. Just ask to be transferred and they will do all the foot work on your behalf. If you are a high-tech genius or an entertainer, you may find a French company that would be willing to bring you over and handle all the details.

Teaching, if you have an affinity for it, is always in demand in foreign countries and France is no exception. You will, however, need to get some formal certification and the Oxford Seminars at www.oxfordseminars.com/Pages/ESL/esl_about.htm  are great resources to look into. Also, keep in mind that teaching positions are not always the most stable.

So, as you can see, it will not be easy but with some willpower, a whole lot of patience, and a bit of ingenuity, you can do it.

Posted in France Vacation Guide