Official French sites you'll actually use
Bookmark these. Half of settling in France is knowing which government site owns your problem, and typing the right URL instead of a lookalike ad.
Updated July 12, 2026
The essentials
The encyclopedia of French administration: every procedure, explained officially. When in doubt, start here.
The official visa portal where your application starts, with the wizard that tells you which visa you need.
The foreigners-in-France portal: validate your VLS-TS here after arrival, then renew titres de séjour online.
The health insurance system: your account, your carte Vitale, your reimbursements.
Family and housing benefits, including the APL rent assistance many renters qualify for.
Taxes: the annual declaration, your numéro fiscal, and payments.
Driver's licenses and vehicle registration, including exchanging a US license.