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Leaving EuropeDeparture conditions/formalitiesFrance

Departure Checklist

Description

 

Are you thinking of moving abroad to advance your career in research ? Follow our checklist before leaving France.

 

 

  • Notify your employer of your departure and ask for your end-of-contract paperwork.
  • If you are registered with Pôle emploi, notify Pôle emploi.
  • Ask for any work, internship or studies certificates and recommendation letters.
 

 

Documents to keep :

The list below is not exhaustive and is provided for informational purposes. For the French government’s official document regarding which documents to keep and for how long, click here.

Original and scanned copies should be kept for most documents.

Documents to keep permanently :

  • Residence permit(s) (copies)
  • Naturalisation paperwork if applicable: certificate of French nationality and naturalisation decree (ampliation)
  • Birth certificates(s)
  • Marriage certificate
  • Judgment of divorce certificate
  • Diplomas and qualifications as well as grades records
  • School certificates of attendance
  • Employment contract(s)
  • Payslips
  • All pension-related documents
  • Medical records (vaccination documents, x-rays, medical test results)
  • Scanned copies of bank records

 

Documents to keep for 5 years:

  • Rental agreement(s)
  • Rent receipts
  • End of tenancy inspection report (état des lieux)
  • Utility bills (electricity, gas and water)
  • Workplace accident report(s)

 

Other documents to keep:
  • Income tax returns - 3 years
  • Insurance contracts, renewal notices and termination of contract letter(s) - 2 years
  • Receipt issued by internet provider confirming return of modem router (box internet) – 2 years

 

Do not hesitate to ask your EURAXESS Centre for advice or a personal meeting with someone who can help before you leave.