To change working conditions, financial status and social status, workers seek vacancies about working in France. The country can be called the financial and economic locomotive of the European Union, whose treasury is regularly replenished by the influx of tourists and production facilities.

However, the unemployment rate in the country is almost 10%, with 3 people applying for one vacancy. The migration crisis over the past few years has worsened the situation, as employers now have a better chance of obtaining cheap labor in the form of refugees from the Middle East.

The process of getting a job legally in France in 2018:

• find an employer, confirm your qualifications and experience (recommendations from previous jobs, successfully passed the test), conclude a contract;
• wait for a response from the Ministry of Labor (the employer applies);
• after approval, the documents are sent to the representative office in the employee’s country;
• after moving, register OFII;
• in 3 months good luck employment in France submit documents for a residence permit.

The state has established several types of permits and visas for immigrants who are looking for work in France without intermediaries and from direct employers:

• permanent and temporary workers (issued if the specialist can prove that there are no suitable candidates in the domestic market and his experience will be useful);
• Blue card (required: contract for a period of more than 1 year, salary exceeding the average in the country, it is necessary to work for 2 years in the field specified in the permit);
• employees in scarce vacancies (mainly technical vacancies, in each region the list of such places is different, depending on the season);
• scientists and researchers (a residence permit is issued for 1 year with the right to extend for another 3 years. You must have a degree of at least a master's degree);
• employees for the agricultural sector (permit is issued for 3-12 months, since the work is usually seasonal, residence permit - for 3 years with the right to extend for the same period);
• Aupair ( work in France for women or students: babysitting for children, elderly people, help around the house. A contract with one of the French families and language courses are required).

Minimum salary for labor exchange in France- almost 1,500 euros, average earnings - 3,000 euros excluding taxes. By the way, in the country, taxes are paid by the employees themselves. For official vacancies in France, it is customary to pay bonuses in the form of the 13th salary, not only in winter, but also in summer.

Remuneration depends on the importance of the specialist, the market situation, and the duration of work:

• doctor - up to 7,000 euros;
• IT specialists - up to 4,000 euros;
• engineers - up to 3,500 euros;
• builders - up to 3,200 euros;
• economists - up to 2,500 euros;
• managers - up to 2,000 euros;
• HoReCa sphere and sellers - up to 1800 euros.

Seasonal work in France for Ukrainians, Russians and Belarusians will allow you to earn up to 2,000 euros per month. No spoken French or qualifications are required for the job. But you have to work hard. Season - from May to November. In the tourism sector, you can find permanent work at resorts with a salary of up to 3,000 euros. But it is important to know the language.

France is gaining momentum, both in terms of foreign investment and tourism. In 2017, the level of foreign investment, thanks to the efforts of Emmanuel Macron, increased - the highest level in the last 10 years. And, according to UN data, last year the country still held the “crown”: in 2017, 89 million people visited it. Its closest rival, Spain, is as much as seven million behind!

But, despite the fact that the country is one of the ten most developed countries in the world, the labor market here is not in the best condition. The unemployment rate as of February 2018 was 8.9%. In addition, the country is one of the most: the birth rate among local residents is declining, and the population is growing due to visitors, which further increases competition in the labor market.

On average, there are 2.5 applicants for each vacancy. The easiest way to find a place is in Paris, Lyon, Bordeaux, Strasbourg. It’s more difficult in Lille, Montpellier, Nancy. However, the developing economy, effective tax system, transparent business conditions, and high social standards inspire us to make efforts to find work and stay here.

Are we needed in France?

If you are interested in working in the food industry, it is worth knowing that in France there are several large chains that are constantly hiring: Bistro Romain, Oh!.. Poivrier, Pomme de Pain, Pizza Hut. Therefore, if you come to France in person, don’t forget to look here. You can also go to the websites of these institutions and look for current vacancies there. And if you want to have fun and communicate with children, go to the website of the French park Asterix.

Internship

An internship in France is an excellent option to see life in the country “from the inside”: get to know the people, the local way of life, the peculiarities of working in companies, practice and improve your language. But only the following categories of people can go there:

• Students of French universities: for them this is a mandatory stage of their studies.
• Foreign students who study in the field of tourism services (hotel and restaurant business, tourism, etc.).
• Specialists whose internship has been agreed upon by the employer.

In case of a positive decision to accept you for an internship, a Convention de stage contract is concluded, which is certified by D.I.R.E.C.C.T.E (local labor inspectorate). If you fall into one of the above categories, there are usually no problems with certification.

Student programs of this type provide a monthly stipend of €500, as well as accommodation and meals at the expense of the host. The internship lasts at least three months. If you are preparing documents and looking for a company that is ready to hire you through an agency, keep in mind that the cost of such services is around €1,700-2,000 (without air tickets).

If you are studying in another field, you can look for internship programs in France, for example, on the GoAbroad website.

Requirements for a foreign employee

1. Knowledge of the language. Proficiency in French is a must if you want to find a well-paid job. Even knowledge of English will not help here: yes, you can get a job in an international company this way, but there are 4-5% of such vacancies on the local market. The only professions that do not require a good command of French are harvesters (the season lasts from May to October), cleaners and other workers whose activities do not necessarily require communication with the locals.
2. Diploma confirmation. Certain types of professions (mostly those requiring higher education, involving work with people, the local legal system, etc.) require confirmation. More detailed information on this topic can be found on the website of the French Ministry of Education.
3. Meticulousness and patience. Very important components when looking for a job. After all, the French are people of strict rules, so even a resume must be formatted correctly: 1-2 pages in length, a high-quality photo without “flashy” makeup or foreign objects, purely business communication at the interview.

Please note that finding a job in the country takes a lot of time. And the best option before turning to online resources is to go to the city you are interested in and methodically walk around the local establishments where you would like to work: look into the HR department, contact the manager and administrator, leaving your resume and contacts. This approach often saves months of fruitless online searches.

Statement

First of all, you need to find a suitable vacancy, successfully pass an interview and sign an employment contract. There are two types of contracts in France:

• CDD – concluded for a period of several months to a year. A temporary option that does not guarantee long-term employment in the country.
• CDI does not have an expiration date, and it is very difficult to fire an employee under it. As a rule, CDD is concluded first, and CDI is concluded 6-12 months later.

After this, the contract is sent to the local Ministry of Labor and the OFII Directorate for Immigration and Integration. If approval is received from these organizations, the documents are sent to the French Consulate of your country to issue a work visa.

If everything went smoothly, you were approved by the local authorities and you received a visa, after moving you need to register with OFII and if the length of stay exceeds three months, obtain a residence permit. One of the conditions for issuance is a signed CAI admission and integration agreement, which involves taking special courses in the French language and local values.

Visas for work in France

Visas that allow you to work in France can be short-term (up to 90 days) or long-term (national, but with the right to travel within the European Union).

Long-term visa

There are different types - the specific one is chosen depending on the conditions and the position for which you are applying. A complete list of visa options is described on the website of the Consulate General of France in Moscow. But not all of the listed visas give the right to work. Only the following:

1. Working OFII. Term – one year with the right to extend. To obtain one, you will need a contract with an employer (for at least three months) and a work permit.
2. Under the Au Pair program. Issued for 6-18 months, cannot be extended. To receive it, you need a contract concluded with the host family, confirmation of enrollment in French language courses, as well as a document stating that you are a student or an employee.
3. Student. Validity period: from 6 months. After completing your studies, you can apply for a visa for six months to look for work. A mandatory document is confirmation that you have entered a French university. But keep in mind that on this visa you can work no more than 24 hours a week (up to 60% of the officially established working hours per year).
4. For scientific workers (protocole d'accueil). Validity period is one year, with the possibility of extension. To obtain one, you will need a contract with an employer who is accredited as a research or educational organization.
5. For talents (competences et talents). Duration: up to three years, can be extended. One of the two types of long-term visas, which does not give the right to a residence permit, allows only temporary stay. Issued for the implementation of a creative, scientific project and allows you to work only within its framework. To obtain it, you will need to confirm the appropriate qualifications and prove that you have property in your homeland.
6. For work during vacations (vacances-travail). Issued only once for four months, but can be extended up to a year in case of employment. This is the second option for a long-term visa, which does not issue a permanent residence permit - only a temporary one can be issued. Mandatory requirement is age 18-30 years. Allows you to look for work in the country, study and work for any company. But the quota for issuing such visas, for example, for Russia, is only 500 per year.
7. Blue Card. Validity period – 1 – 3 years, can be extended. But for the first two years it is obligatory to work for the employer specified in the contract. Requirements: contract with the company for a period of at least one year, in-demand specialty (higher education or work experience of at least 5 years), guaranteed salary - 1.5 times higher than the average.

“See Paris... and find a job here,” thinks everyone who has decided to conquer the capital of France, having received a long-awaited residence permit. What difficulties may foreigners encounter in their searches and how to avoid mistakes? We asked immigrants from the CIS how they managed to get a job in their specialty in another country

Hocine Hamitouche, entrepreneur, Parisian, has been running his business for 3 years

About employment in Paris

First of all, I would like to note that the labor market in France is now extensive and developed, but it is becoming increasingly closed. Selection for government positions has become stricter, and the requirements for candidates have become stricter. Even to get a job at McDonald's, you need a CV, motivation and recommendations. It's no secret that today the number of emigrants in France (and especially in Paris) exceeds the norm. Therefore, if you are a foreigner and want to work here, you will have to make a lot of effort: there are many applicants for your place.

Today, to have a good chance of finding a job in the capital, you need:

Excellent knowledge of the language and have a diploma certified by Campus France (minimum B2);

Have good knowledge in your specialty;

Present yourself in an original way: no one will look in your direction if your resume is no different from others;

Know the culture, traditions and mentality of the French: this makes it easier to find a common language with the employer.

Olga Kozak, freelance journalist, student, in Paris for 1.5 years

Finding a job in Paris is difficult. I am lucky that I have experience as a journalist, so I can write texts for various Ukrainian-language or Russian-language publications or websites on a remote basis. Additionally, I receive orders as a copywriter/translator. Frankly, I do this mostly for my own pleasure, since the proceeds, when converted into euros, are not enough to live in Paris. Therefore, having settled here a little, I immediately found an internship in an online designer clothing store in order to simultaneously gain experience working in a French company. Getting an internship is also not so easy, however, as practice shows, it is possible. The main thing is to be a student, because when applying for a job you sign a special document: an agreement between the employer and the university. Without him - nothing!

Previously, when I had more free time, I received about 300–500 euros per month for freelancing. Now - a maximum of 200. Of course, the exchange rate played a significant role, because in most cases, remote work is paid in money from the country from which the order came.

Irina Beloglazova, photographer, in Paris for a year and 9 months

I moved here after marrying a Frenchman. Now I work as a freelance photographer. To be honest, it is difficult for a foreigner to find a good place here. At first, the language barrier gets in the way. Yes, you can first get a job in a store or cafe, but without a vocabulary there is nothing to count on. In addition, if you want to work officially (with a diploma), you need to complete your studies to confirm your education. It won’t be possible to turn around like you did in your homeland (for example, in Russia I worked as a secretary, although I have a degree in economics). Here I do children's and family photo sessions. The advantage of freelancing is that I have a free schedule and do not need to provide diplomas or certificates. The main thing is my professional portfolio.

Umar Arabov, lawyer, in Paris for 15 years

I moved to Paris in 2000 when I started graduate school at EHESS (Ecole des Hautes Etudes en Sciences Sociales). But I left my native Dushanbe back in 1992, long before I moved to France. Before Paris, I lived in Switzerland, England and other cities in France (Bordeaux, Nice, Aix-en-Provence).

While studying at the university, I, like many students, worked part-time. I found a job in my specialty immediately after graduating from the EFB (Ecole de Formation du Barreau) law school - the company where I did my internship offered me to stay with them. And six months later I opened my office, where I still work.

Basically, in my area the job search is no different from others. Mostly it's sending out resumes by email, but internships still play a significant role. Diligence, a sense of responsibility and trusting relationships help trainees find a place in the future.

The profession of a lawyer is strictly regulated. To work as one in France, you must be a member of one of the bar associations. You can get there after graduating from law school, which is not easy to get into. A foreign lawyer from outside the EU can also become a member of the chamber and practice in France, but to do this they must pass a qualifying exam. EU citizens are subject to different, simplified rules.

The profession of a lawyer is remarkable because it gives a person freedom. When relationships don’t work out, you lose a contract, you want to be your own boss, you can open your own office (or team up with one of your colleagues) and set off on your own.

As for the salary, a beginner specialist working in a bar association receives about 3,000 euros. Of this, approximately half goes to taxes and various social contributions.

Ekaterina Shchelokova, general practitioner, in Paris for 4 years

My plan to move began with an internship, but I wanted to go to Paris because, firstly, the city was attractive, and secondly, I read good things about Pasteur University and I immediately wanted to go there.

To enter the internship, it was necessary to pass a competitive selection. Students can only participate in the competition twice. The selection consisted of a test of 200 questions on theory, 150 clinical situations and questions, as well as an analysis of the medical history with diagnosis and treatment.

As a result, I passed the exams and received a diploma in special education - a certificate of completion of the internship. Now I can continue my studies in a narrower specialty at any time. That's what I plan to do. Hospital recruitment takes place through extremely difficult competitive selection processes. Access to this labor market is limited for doctors from other countries, including Ukraine, since diplomas from our medical universities are not recognized in France. This is a completely different level, different approaches. On average, a doctor in France earns from 2,000 to 10,000 euros per month.

Anastasia Perova, tutor, art critic, in Paris for 3 years

I have a unique diploma in contemporary art - the only one in all of France. From my hometown, I first moved to Montpellier, and then to Paris. I started my career by looking for an internship. But I will say that thanks to the diploma, all roads in my environment are open! I found galleries for internships through friends. In addition, I was writing a scientific paper on two galleries, so I was able to establish contacts in advance. Documents required were certificates from the university, and in the journalistic field, a visa allowing to work at least some hours. I was fed by both tutoring skills and recommendations. There were no problems with freelancing! I tried to find students and orders on social networks and through friends.

France is one of the economic and political locomotives not only of Europe, but also of the world. The country has enormous influence and is an active participant in many international organizations, ranging from cooperation in trade to the military sphere.

Working in France for Russians, Ukrainians, Belarusians and citizens of other CIS countries in 2019 is not only a decent salary and a way to immigrate to Europe, but also an opportunity to come into contact with the ancient culture and traditions of the Old World. According to statistics, more than 80 million foreigners from different countries visit French lands every year, and state income from tourism is one of the highest in the world.

However, finding a job in France is not at all easy. The country's unemployment rate exceeds 9%. On average, 2.5 people apply for each vacancy. The greatest chances of finding a job are in cities such as Paris, Bordeaux, Lyon and Strasbourg. It is more difficult to work in Montpellier, Lille and Nancy.

In addition, the situation is complicated by the migration crisis of recent years, in the form of an influx of refugees from the Middle East. Today, every tenth resident of France is an immigrant. In 2019, this figure will only grow. You also need to take into account that employment in France attracts not only citizens of non-CIS countries, but also residents of the European Union.

France has a stable economy, an efficient tax system and high social standards. The country provides free higher education and creates transparent conditions for doing business. We will talk further in the article about how to find a job in France for Russians, Ukrainians, Belarusians and other foreigners in 2019, as well as about the level of French salaries and available vacancies.

In France, there are a number of procedures and requirements for foreigners wishing to live and work on French territory. Basically the conditions are quite tough. For some types of professions, you will need to confirm your qualifications. This can be done on a special website.

Sometimes the requirements, on the contrary, are simplified. For example, family members of a highly qualified specialist with a work permit in France can find employment without any restrictions.

The process of hiring foreigners in France depends on the following factors:

• The situation on the labor market.
• Qualification and education of a specialist.
• Salary level.
• Duration of work.

The above categories will have crucial when obtaining a work permit in France, which is a mandatory condition for labor migrants from countries outside the European Union. That is, citizens of Russia, Ukraine and other CIS countries, first of all, must find a suitable vacancy and sign an employment contract with a French company.

After this, the employer sends information ( contract) on the employment of a foreigner for approval by the local Ministry of Labor and the French Office of Immigration and Integration OFII. If the employment contract is approved, the documents are sent to the French Consulate in the employee’s country to obtain a work visa.

After moving, the foreigner is registered in OFII and in case of employment for a period of more than 3 months receives a residence permit. One of the conditions is the signing of the so-called CAI acceptance and integration agreements.

This means taking special courses to learn the French language and the core values ​​of France. Since January 1, 2007, the procedure is mandatory for all migrants who want to live permanently in this country.

Employment options and types of work permits in France

Permanent and temporary workers. A common procedure for European countries, and at the same time one of the most difficult for applicants. The employer must prove to local authorities that there is no suitable candidate for the vacancy among the French and Europeans. Accordingly, a foreigner needs to have high qualifications, experience and unique skills.

EU Blue Card (EU Blue Card). Work permit in France for highly qualified foreigners with a minimum of 3 years of higher education or more than 5 years of professional experience.

A prerequisite is the existence of an employment contract for a period of at least 1 year and a salary that is at least 1.5 times higher than the national average. In 2019, this is at least 4.5 thousand euros per month before taxes.

During the first two years, you must work strictly in the area specified in the contract. After this, the area of ​​activity can be changed. The card is issued for 1–3 years with the right to extend up to 5 years and subsequent obtaining permanent residence in France. In the future, you can apply for French citizenship.

Shortage workers. Certain regions of France are experiencing a shortage of specialists in specific professions. This vacuum is partially filled with the help of foreign workers. The list has not changed since 2008 and consists of 30 items. These are mainly technical professions.

Scientists and researchers. Specialists with a scientific degree of at least a master's degree can obtain a temporary residence permit in France for up to one year, with the right to extend up to 4 years. To do this, it is necessary to conclude an agreement on training or research with one of the French universities or accredited institutes.

Seasonal work in France. This is a short-term employment option, usually in agriculture, for a period of 3 to 12 months. A temporary residence permit is issued for three years with the right of subsequent extension for a similar period. However, you are allowed to work in France for no more than 6 months within one year.

Au pair. Young people aged 17 to 30 years old can enter into a contract with one of the French families. The job involves looking after children and helping with housework. A prerequisite is to attend language courses at least 10 hours a week.

These were the most popular ways to obtain a work permit in France. Talented specialists in the field of sports, culture and science, foreign students of French universities, and employees of international companies also have good chances of finding employment.

How to find work in France. Search for vacancies without intermediaries.

For a successful job search in France, especially on your own, using a wide range of sources is of great importance. First of all, it is the Internet. Let us designate the most effective resources.

French national employment agencies:

Specialized resources:

The next step in finding a job in France is to look at advertisements in famous French newspapers. Here are some of them:

Alternatively, you can use the help of recruitment agencies or contact the company directly. The resource pagesjaunes.fr will help you find an institution.

Language skills. Working in France without knowing the language is unlikely to bring satisfaction to an immigrant. This will mainly be unskilled and low-paid labor, for which there are enough applicants from other European countries. Proficiency in English can bring results when applying for a job in a foreign company in France. However, according to statistics on the French market there are no more than 4-5% of such jobs.

A well-written and concise resume (CV). The text volume should not exceed 1-2 pages; the photograph should be of high quality, without bright makeup or foreign objects. During the interview, you should not talk informally, make inappropriate jokes, or pat the employer on the shoulder.

Flexibility and patience. It is very important to use as much information as possible at the same time. In addition to the main ways of finding a job, it is advisable to visit France on a tourist visa and try to come into contact with local residents and migrant workers. Very often, a five-minute conversation in a French cafe or bar can replace months of fruitless search for a job on the Internet.

Vacancies and salaries in France in 2019

The official minimum wage in France as of January 1, 2019 is - 1521.22 euros per month. The average salary is slightly more than 2950 euros before taxes. About 2225 euros net. This is one of the highest rates in the European Union.

The level of remuneration for foreign workers is usually set for a year and is fixed in the employment contract. In addition, in France it is customary to make additional payments, the so-called 13th salary, and not only on the eve of the New Year, but also in the summer.

An interesting fact is that, unlike many countries, French employers do not pay income tax for their employees. You need to do this yourself by filing a tax return. Officially, the working week in France consists of 35 hours, but in practice, work in private companies is extended to the standard 40 hours.

Average salaries in France in 2019 by profession (euro/month):

• Practitioners - 6000–7000
• Engineers and builders - 3300–3500
• IT sphere - 3000–3300
• Economists, managers - 2000–2500
• Waiters, salespeople, bartenders - 1600–1800

Popular vacancies in France for foreigners, in particular Russians and Ukrainians, in 2019 are, first of all, seasonal employment and the tourism sector.

Seasonal work in France. The most popular type of income among labor migrants, which does not require special qualifications or deep knowledge of the French language. As a rule, this is hard, exhausting work collecting grapes and crops.

According to statistics, every year more than 100 thousand foreigners visit France to participate in seasonal work. Many of them enter the country illegally. The grapes are harvested in September - October, other types of fruits from May to November. You can earn money up to 2000 euros per month.

Work in France in the tourism sector. In this industry, French employers offer a fairly large number of jobs for foreigners, both in summer and winter. This is work in bars, cafes, restaurants, hotels, campsites, ski resorts and so on.

The main vacancies are waiter, cleaner, loader, maid, assistant cook, cashier. Here, of course, knowledge of the language is more important than in seasonal employment. Salary from 1500 to 3000 euros per month.

To move to France for the purpose of employment, citizens of CIS countries must obtain a work visa. The document is drawn up at the French Consulate, after an affirmative decision to issue a work permit. Documents are submitted by the applicant in person.

Documents for a work visa to France

1. Two visa applications completed in English or French.
2. Three color photographs of the standard established by the French Consulate.
3. Completed form from the OFII official website.
4. Foreign and civil passport, plus copies.
5. Consular fee (99 euros).

The period for issuing a work visa to France ranges from several days to two months. If necessary, Consulate staff may require additional information.

Today we’ll look a little at how French reality formats Russian-speaking migrants and distributes them among social strata.

We'll talk about who do Russians work in France?

After I wrote the article, many commentators (mostly outside of this blog, where reposts were made) began to get personal and talk about the topic in the vein that, they say, “a loser tells others how bad it is” and so on spirit.

I will answer everyone en masse: my dears, it doesn’t even occur to many that there are people who may not be satisfied with the scenario of a well-fed life written for them, who may not be satisfied with a job that does not bring moral satisfaction, that there are values ​​in life that cannot be expressed by standard “I bought a house and two cars, what else do you need?” You and I are from different worlds.

______________________________________

I dedicate this post to those hotheads who are accustomed to the stereotype “it’s still better there than here.”

__________________________

✔ I’ll tell you right away about the exception to the emigrant rules

These are narrow specialists in their field who came to France with a signed contract in hand, a work visa, and a decent salary.

At first, such people are helped to adapt, rented good housing, provided with medical insurance and other documents. In short, they create conditions, just work and bring profit to the company.

Deprived of many bureaucratic and everyday hassles, such professionals, often unclaimed in their homeland, end up like cheese in butter - doing what they love, earning good money and living in a comfortable country.

But for France, the percentage of such migrants from the former USSR tends to zero. It is noteworthy that such Russians very quickly dissolve in the French environment, are in contact with their colleagues, have a decent French circle of acquaintances and have virtually no contact with former compatriots. A thing in itself.

✔ Now let’s see what happens to the rest of the migrants who arrived at random, who stayed after studies, courses and internships, as well as “refugees”

These people collide very quickly , they find themselves in the whirlpool of life and, without having time to really understand anything, they enter into a game according to someone else’s rules, where all the roles have long been written out.

Work for the first time

But you and I know that there is nothing more permanent than temporary;)

✔ At first, if newcomers do not know the language, there is only dirty and dangerous work for them: laborers, security guards, cleaners, nannies, nurses, maids, waiters, etc. .

This bypasses those who have a means of subsistence for the first time or a rich husband who does not send them to work (at least right away).

I personally know those who in the first period simply wandered around dosshouses, stole and slept on the street. Unfortunately, such heartbreaking stories are not uncommon and often befall failed foreign legionnaires.

Further, the following metamorphoses occur with those who did not return to their homeland or did not move to a country where they are more loyal to migrants. Our compatriots, having learned the language and looked around, begin to look for themselves. Or they don't start. First, about the latter.

About those who are already doing well

There is a category of unassuming fellow citizens who are satisfied with tedious low-paid work, social housing in unattractive neighborhoods, benefits and handouts from the state, and food from a nearby discounter.

People found their quiet happiness. To confirm their new beautiful life, such characters post batches of photos on social networks against the backdrop of exotic landscapes, other people’s cars, inexpensive restaurants and the foyers of expensive hotels.

About those who claim more

Now about those who claim more. About those who received a higher education in their homeland, worked as a head, or were a private entrepreneur.

✔ What kind of work awaits such emigrants in France?

Very often, in 9 cases out of 10, such people are carried into the following areas:

• reception and service of Russian-speaking tourists or nouveau riche
• tourism, translations/tour guides
• luxury segment (sellers of expensive real estate, sellers in expensive luxury boutiques, staff of expensive hotels, etc.)
• concierge service, transfers and other services “for the rich”
• builders (including finishing work, again “for the rich”)

That is, our people are again tied to the flow of rich compatriots who come to France to spend money and buy real estate. And as soon as it dries up, there is a high probability that many Russians will pull back (like me).

✔ Therefore, today, the biggest trump card for a Russian emigrant in France is knowledge of the Russian language. And not at all any specific skills, abilities and education. (I wrote about exceptions above).

This leads to such an interesting point as the concentration of the bulk of post-Soviet migrants and.

Many sources and articles on the topic explain this by the fact that this happened historically and the first waves of refugees from the USSR after the revolution settled in these regions. And then it supposedly became fashionable. But in fact, everything is simple - people accumulate where the main tourist flows lead or where the post-Soviet nouveau riche are concentrated.

And where the oligarchs are in the villas, there are also line service personnel: maids, nannies, security, gardeners, drivers, majordomos, cooks (“My Syomochka cannot live without semolina.”)

But many cherish the dream that sooner or later the oligarchs will notice them, allow them to work as concierges, managers of property and real estate, take them into circulation or assign them to a major business.

Entire businesses are growing up around the oligarchs—recruitment firms, repair and construction companies, transport companies, real estate management agencies, tourism agencies, organizing holidays, and so on.

I will also note that I have met very few Russian-speaking migrants who have no contact with the huge tourist flow or serving the nouveau riche in their work, but they certainly exist.

✔ And why go far, take me for example

I started my professional career in France as a musician, trained as a vocalist and pianist. There are much fewer Russian musicians in France than there are Russian translators. And yet, almost all of my performances were tied to the performance of Russian songs. A kind of highlight that had to be speculated upon.

(You can read about my musical career and the life of musicians in France in general )

And although, as a pianist, I also managed to succeed: my “track record” includes performances at a reception with the Prince of Monaco, and participation in the theater festival in Avignon, and a contract as an accompanist at the Nice Conservatory, nevertheless, the greatest income came from performances in as a singer at evenings hosted by Russian oligarchs, or at themed parties where “Russian folklore” was required.

Instead of a conclusion

In this article, I did not set out to provide accurate statistics on what jobs our people work in France.

I just wanted to draw the reader’s attention to the fact that France is not the best country for emigration unless you connect your work activity with tourism and serving your compatriots.

Russians themselves are not interesting to the French, and even dangerous, since they are direct competitors for a place in the sun.

Cordialement,

Galina Shevaler.

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Comments 75 “ What do Russians do in France?”

• Galina

  May 24, 2013 at 3:51 pm

  Thank you for the wonderful illustrations Olga! She herself also has a lot of similar examples, but there is not enough time to describe them all. It’s nice that besides me, there are people who speak out against the prevailing stereotypes.

• Olga

  May 24, 2013 at 3:59 pm

  The stereotypes are understandable: the opinion of people who fled at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, for obvious reasons, differs greatly from the opinion of those who arrived, say, after 2005. The first ones are not at all aware of life in Russia, their heads are stuck in coups and food stamps. And the latter say exactly the same as you and I. A sufficient number of people are satisfied with the way they are settled in France, precisely because they did not have any special prospects in their own country. For people from the capital or just a large city, in my opinion, going here is like wasting time, opportunities and position. For those who did come and have been diving for more than 5 years, it’s already scary to go back and try to start all over again. Get used to what is. Everyone can understand: it is not an easy matter to make a decision about moving between countries, especially if you already have children.

Sergey

May 25, 2013 at 8:23 pm

I have read similar articles many, many times. Across different countries and continents. Nothing new, just warnings based on my own experience. You would think that someone smart would unpack their suitcases after reading it. I doubt! We learn best from the mistakes of others.

Elena

May 26, 2013 at 4:22 pm

No Galina, don’t close this topic, the topic is interesting and very relevant, I personally get a lot of information from your articles. The thing is that I am precisely from that category - those who want to change the country to live, and my choice fell on France. I love this country very much, with all its shortcomings! It so happened that it was too late for me to marry a rich foreigner, my two higher educations would not be useful there, so I am actively studying the language and improving my skills - I am a florist designer. And information is very necessary, if only to make it easier to get around those stones that people like me will have to face. So please write! Thank you!

Regarding the comment that this article spoils the idea of ​​a beautiful life in France. That's how it should be. Many people live by stereotypes that it is better abroad, but this is not true. And let them find out the truth from the article and see it from their own experience.
And for those who are still confident of success, such an article will not be a hindrance; they will do it their own way.
And in general, the blog was created to express the personal opinion of the author. And we can agree or not.

Madame Bovary

May 30, 2013 at 10:58 am

A good article, reflects the real situation and dispels myths. This is what I thought after reading it... And in our own country, with a good education, with potential, do we always find use for our talents? Does the state always evaluate our education and our work properly? Does our country need us? The questions are rhetorical. We all know very well the situation in the post-Soviet space with teachers and doctors. I will describe my personal experience. Having a classical academic music education, a diploma with honors and an appointment to graduate school (which I had to refuse for financial reasons), I was forced to combine my favorite job at the center of early aesthetic education (this is my passion, my conscious choice) with all imaginable and inconceivable part-time jobs. Giving private lessons in piano, singing, general development, even treating stuttering))) Work as a governess and part-time work in a kindergarten as a music worker. In principle, I haven’t had a day off for many years)) And not because I’m such an incurable workaholic. I raised my son myself and I just had to survive. Moreover, my case is not an isolated one. In my circle, all the musicians, choreographers and psychologists (such a social circle was due to their profession) combined several jobs and part-time jobs. How many teachers went into trade, changed their profession to a more down-to-earth and practical one? And this is in my own country. At least I’m not offended here. I give private piano lessons and get a decent fee for it. I don't ask for more. But I have big claims against my state. Although, I repeat, I agree with everything stated in this article. Everyone is looking for their place in the sun, and has the right to it.

Madame Bovary

May 30, 2013 at 11:28 am

Yes, you definitely need to try to take off your rose-colored glasses as soon as possible if you are going to France “how to earn” a lot of money) Here, even if you managed to get a job with an average!, that is, higher than SMIK, salary - you try to “how to live on it!” ))) But there are always specific people and specific cases)

Sergey

August 9, 2013 at 8:33 pm

Yes, because, Alexey, “after OUR RUSSIA, we won’t be better anywhere…” These are not my words. These are the words of Denikin’s niece, with whom fate brought my family together in Argentina, where we also went for permanent residence. Back in 1994. And We also understood one simple thing there: every people, in their own country, bakes their own loaf for themselves and their children. And every visitor who lingers longer than a tourist on someone else’s loaf evokes a certain hostility, or even hatred. Now I For now, I feel hostility towards those Central Asians who, after the collapse of the Union, having become completely free from oppression by the Russian empire, for some reason, again, voluntarily, voluntarily go to this very empire for low-paid jobs and terrible living conditions. And they breed. And they multiply. And they are not going to change their mentality and their culture to suit our mentality and culture. And the feeling of hostility is exactly what a local resident of ANY country will feel towards migrants, no matter where they come from and what diplomas they bring .And this local resident has every right to do so. THIS IS HIS HOMELAND AND HE IS THE OWNER OF IT! AND THIS IS THEIR LOAF! Remember the time when the French went to Russia to teach children French and where the word “doorman” came from in Russian. Much will become clear. No one will leave a strong, highly moral state that thinks about its own and, first of all, its citizens. Because in this state everything will be in order with all social services, as well as with work for ITS citizens. And that means their future. And the future of their children. Otherwise, people, desperate, do not see a way out in terms of life in the existing country, where neither they nor their children are needed - they decide to try to change the situation (country) around them. And they leave to another country. And they become migrants there. The circle is closed. Were they waiting for you there? Tajiks and Uzbeks are better off in Russia than at home. They don’t want to change the situation at home; it’s easier to come to Russia. They leave Russia for France, Spain, etc. They don’t want to change the situation at home; it’s easier to come to a foreign country. Yes one nation that God has scattered around the world. And she is trying to do something UNITED at home. And we???….

Alexiya

December 31, 2013 at 12:22 pm

Hello , daje tu, kotoraya po dushe, prosto nado iskat'. Ochen’ mnogo zdes’ stradaushih frantsuzskih jen, kotorie ne mogut nayti sebe primenenie, no eto potomu chto jit’ na pomosh’ proshe, chem vstavat’ kajdoe utro i ehat’ na rabotu. Glavnoe dlya uspeha- eto znat’ yazik i bit’ stressoustoychivim, togda vse budet horowo. Ne vse i daleko ne u vseh tak sad'no skladivaetsya, hotya i grustnih istoriy mnogo, no esli vi decided pereehat' i vas ne pugaut administrativnie slojnosti, to daje moskvicham zdes' budet neploho))) A voobwe, jizn' vezde odinakovaya, so svoimi plusami i minusami, no kak-to uverennee sebya oshushaesh', kogda est' sotsial'naya strahovka, pust' daje i na sluchay “a vdrug...”, hotya est' i nalogi, i pereselentsi i ochen' mnogo svoih minusov. Period adaptatsii, rabota i vse ostal’noe zavisit ot cheloveka.

Catherine

April 9, 2014 at 3:47 pm

Maria

June 24, 2014 at 1:31 pm

My parents and circle of Russian acquaintances are more likely from the first category (but more likely in scientific and teaching activities than in business), so I saw this whole thing differently when we moved here. But those who have an unclaimed specialty will have problems, it doesn’t matter whether they are Russian or French - I have a lot of French friends who also live on benefits and work in the service sector with their master’s degree in humanities. The main difference is that a Frenchman does not need to obtain a right to work, so it is faster for an employer to hire a non-problematic Frenchman.

Well, who is stopping enterprising people from working in the same way in their own country? You haven't yet mentioned prices, taxes in France, and the minimum wage. It doesn’t look so very beautiful afterwards.

Galina, you are just great! Very informative. My family and I have been living in the Czech Republic for seven years. We work in the tourism sector. Our daughter is finishing high school in Prague, but after studying she wants to enter the Sorbonne to study medicine. Is it really possible for a foreign doctor to find a job later? Best regards, Tatyana.

Peter

October 30, 2014 at 6:01 pm

France recognizes diplomas obtained in the European Union and is ready to accept specialists, in particular doctors, for whom many villages are ready to provide them with good material conditions. Knowledge of the language is an important factor. But in many economic sectors, in the labor market, there is great competitiveness!

Alina

November 14, 2014 at 12:29 pm

Hello! Very interesting article and comments to it. It made me think about something I hadn’t thought about before...and just in time! But I still have some confusion.
So you say that moving to France is not the best decision if you don’t have thousands and thousands in your account.
And at the same time, write that it’s easier not to move yourself, but to send your children there..
I am writing from the perspective of a child. So what? What's better? After all, children don’t have the same thousands in their accounts.. So you say, having a European education, it’s easier to find a job, even though the salary may let you down..
I am graduating from a university in St. Petersburg and am thinking about a master's degree in France... the education is naturally humanitarian - we are not looking for easy ways. So does a year or two of a master's degree count as European education? Are there really no business opportunities other than the above areas (tourism, etc.)?
Thank you!

Alinka

December 14, 2014 at 10:39 pm

I personally know several of our immigrants: a Belarusian woman is the owner of a store of Russian souvenirs and products; a Moldovan man opened his garage (up to his neck in work, because he is conscientious), a Moldovan woman opened a tailoring and fitting shop; the Moldovans opened a restaurant. What I mean is that you don’t have to look up to your “uncle”, you can open your own business.
Personally, I achieved something I couldn’t even dream of. Apparently, appearance, charm and simple luck play a larger role in life than having a higher education diploma. At first I worked for the government. institution. Tired of the tyrant director, she went to the private sector. There, working hours were, in fact, not limited by the framework of French legislation. So I took full advantage of it. I worked from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., without days off or holidays. I made very good money. I bought the house we were renting on the Atlantic coast, a resort town. Then my friends began to constantly advise me to open my own business. They even gave me a loan from my wife to get started. I opened it. The money just poured in. But I worked a lot - from 10 o’clock until 11 o’clock with one day off on Saturday. Six days a week at the gym (2 hours or more), otherwise I simply would not have been able to withstand such a load. Extra money invested in another business, then another. There was a lot of cash in hand, this attracted “adventurers.” The last attempt took away half of my health. But it allowed me to stop, take a breath and reassess my values. I decided not to work anymore, but to rejoice living for my own pleasure, sitting at home, although I am not yet at retirement age. Three children studied at the best universities, I provided each of them with their own home. I myself live alone in a house of 300 square meters, I have closed almost all my businesses, the money is dripping slowly, but that’s enough.
And in Russia I was left alone with three children. I worked in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, was on maternity leave and tried to survive. I had very useful contacts with foreigners, they brought lots of very good clothes (not Chinese). I distributed them to commercial stores. She flew off instantly. One translator friend offered to help me open my own store, lent me money. Just before I even had time to open, “two from the casket, identical in appearance,” rolled up, shaven-headed, in black leather jackets, in jeans. They asked them to “lend” them $2,000. Shit! And I just received an invitation to France, I started applying for a visa. I gave up on everything and left. I thought it would be for 3 months, but it turned out that it would be for the rest of my life. I never went to Russia. At first I didn’t have time, but now I can’t wait any longer. :smile: :smile:

Steph

September 20, 2015 at 6:34 pm

Oui, ben, bof. Je suis resté sur ma fin après la lecture de cet exposé très amateur.
Il s’agit bien sûr d’une tentative de classitication des différentes strates de la population russophone en France appartenant visibility à la 4e vague, c’est à dire celle de années 2000.
En réalité, tout est bcp plus nuancé y compris concernant ceux qui sont restés sur le sol français après la fin de leurs études.
Enfin bref, disons que c’est un regard parmi d’autres fondé sur un certain vécu.
En revanche, il y a de la littérature spécialisée à ce sujet.

Anton

October 6, 2015 at 11:06 pm

Good afternoon
I’m not too familiar with the peculiarities of French migration legislation, but it’s quite difficult for me (with experience of living and working in Germany) to understand such things as “received higher education in France and found a job as a salesperson in exchange rate” or “stayed after courses and internships”! Explain how this is?! If they are illegal immigrants, then there are no questions. Or, if you married a citizen, then an unlimited work permit comes as an application. Otherwise, a work permit is given exclusively within the framework of the acquired specialty (if you studied to become a programmer, then no one will give you a permanent residence permit or a work visa to work as a salesperson or a tour guide). Staying after the internship is also a focus - the purpose of staying is the internship, not finding a job. Only an educational residence permit can be converted into a working one (with the exception of unique cases). The same goes for working “for yourself” and not for your uncle. Buying a store or opening a restaurant does not guarantee obtaining a residence permit for this business with subsequent permanent residence. That’s why many people prefer to work for their “uncle.” Or is everything completely different in France and your migration norms are completely different from those in Germany? Thanks in advance for your answer!

Olga

April 13, 2016 at 10:40 pm

A rather gloomy description of the prospects for Russians in France. Doesn't correspond to reality. 90% of my Russian friends and acquaintances (this is more than 20 people) live and work IN THEIR SPECIALTY. These are graduates of Moscow State University and St. Petersburg universities who came by invitation to various French and international organizations located in France. Yes, for the first years they worked under a contract, periodically you get nervous that the contract will not be renewed. However, all of them received citizenship within 10 years, some even faster. And these are not narrow and super-talented specialists. Ordinary programmers, mathematicians, even artists. It’s more difficult with doctors, but we just need to learn French well and prepare for tests in our profession. Pass the exam and you can work. I have never heard of a doctor who confirmed his certificate in France being refused work. Yes, among my “Russian French” there are practically no people who came at random. But guys, let's be objective, such people will have a hard time everywhere. If you are ready to study, work, adapt to a foreign country, and finally change your mentality, then everything will be fine. And if you want everything at once and without effort, then this is fantasy in any country.

Dayana

October 16, 2016 at 4:22 pm

Good afternoon I’ve been reading your articles for a long time, everything is accessible and understandable.
Please answer the questions about higher education in France: is it possible to get two higher education degrees for free? If suddenly there is no job, will it be possible to get another education, economic or legal? Will it be free or inexpensive? And are there any problems with entering another specialization?
I graduated from a university in Ukraine several years ago, but never worked in my specialty. I plan to study in France in another technical specialty from the first year (mine is quite specific, now even in Ukraine there are few jobs in it, I choose something related to study).
Thanks in advance for your answer!

Tatiana

February 27, 2017 at 5:59 pm

Thank you, Galina, for your informative article in this section. Even for me, who worked in France with my diploma and education. it was interesting to read. Not all, not all Russian-speaking people work as technicians, janitors, and loaders. In my Russian-speaking environment (I am now in Russia) I had friends and acquaintances: a family of Russian scientists, and doctors with good practice, and an Armenian who has a large garage that repairs and sells cars, and musicians. That is, I want to say , that you need to confirm your diplomas, retrain, and you can find a job even if you are unemployed in France.