Moving to Toulouse from Abroad: Rigorous Organization Is the Key
An international move is one of the most complex undertakings a family or individual can embark on. Between logistics, administrative formalities, managing cultural differences, and the emotional aspect, there is a lot to handle. This complete checklist has been designed by We Care Conciergerie to help you organize your move to Toulouse step by step.
6 to 3 Months Before the Move
The advance preparation phase is crucial. Do a pre-move visit to Toulouse if possible: come to visit the city, the neighborhoods that interest you, potential schools for your children. This preparatory visit will allow you to make informed decisions. Start your housing search: contact real estate agencies in Toulouse, define your budget and priority criteria (neighborhood, size, type of lease). Check your administrative situation: do you need a visa or residence permit to live in France? Check with the French consulate in your home country. Inventory your belongings: decide what you are taking, selling, or donating. A detailed inventory will be needed for customs declaration and insurance during transport.
3 to 1 Month Before the Move
At this stage, preparations intensify. Sign your lease or purchase deed in Toulouse. If you have not yet found permanent housing, consider temporary accommodation (furnished apartment, hotel residence) for the first few weeks. Choose your international removal company: get at least 3 quotes from companies specializing in international moves. Check the insurance offered and the company’s reputation. Inform administrations of your departure: your current employer (if not continuing with the same company), your bank, insurances, subscriptions (phone, internet, water, electricity), and home country administrations (taxes, social security, etc.). Start the school enrollment process for your children: contact chosen schools in Toulouse to find out about enrollment procedures and deadlines.
The Month Before the Move
The final stretch requires meticulous organization. Progressively pack your belongings, starting with what you do not immediately need. Label each box with its contents and destination room. Prepare your important documents in a folder you will carry with you (do not entrust to the removers): passports and IDs, birth and marriage certificates, diplomas, employment contracts, medical documents, insurances, etc. Arrange transport for your pets if you have any: check France’s entry regulations (vaccinations, pet passport, etc.).
Upon Your Arrival in Toulouse
Arrival marks the start of a new phase, equally full of steps. Take possession of your housing and carefully complete the move-in inventory. Complete priority administrative steps: town hall registration if necessary, opening a French bank account, registering with CPAM (social security), enrolling your children in school. Subscribe to energy contracts: EDF or an alternative supplier for electricity, Engie or other for gas if applicable. Set up your French phone and internet subscription: Orange, SFR, Bouygues, and Free offer competitive packages. Explore your neighborhood and locate essential shops (supermarket, pharmacy, doctor) within reasonable distance of your new home.
In the First Months in Toulouse
After settling comes integration. Register with CAF to receive family benefits and housing aid you are entitled to. File your French tax return if applicable. Join local associations and groups to build your social network: expat associations, sports clubs, neighborhood associations. Sign up for French classes if necessary to facilitate your professional and social integration.
We Care Conciergerie: Your Moving Partner
We Care Conciergerie offers a complete international relocation support service to Toulouse. We coordinate all the steps on your behalf: housing search, managing contacts with service providers, following up on administrative procedures, assisting with the move-in inventory, and supporting you in the first weeks of settling in. Our goal is to make your arrival in Toulouse as smooth and pleasant as possible.